Family Express Corp.

Family Express is a regional chain of foodservice-focused c-stores with an upscale positioning. The chain is dedicated to offering fresh food and beverages at value prices in a convenient, friendly, clean and safe environment.

In early 2021, Valparaiso, Ind.-based Family Express, which made CSP’s list of 20 Great Coffee Programs for 2021, acquired six Freedom Express c-stores from Freedom Oil LLC in Kosciusko and Marshall Counties in Indiana. It also acquired a three-acre site in McCordsville, Ind., that has been redeveloped into a Family Express site. Together, the deals increased the chain’s store count 10%.

Family Express also conducted chainwide implementation of NCR Optic technology for security and frictionless payment at the pump. Its car wash redemption and marketing technology offers options for payment, subscription and mobile-wallet engagement.

The chain differentiates itself by having fresh milk and other products delivered daily to its stores. It's known for its private-label concepts and products, including Cravin's Market baked goods and deli items; Java Wave coffees; Squeeze Freeze frozen beverages; Buzzed Energy beverages; Family Express brand milk, water and ice; and Family Express fuels, including E15.

Privately held Family Express has an employee-centric culture. It offers benefits such as 401(k) matching, fitness-center access and stable scheduling.

For benchmarking purposes, store counts are as of Jan. 1, 2022.