Convenience Stores Celebrate First Responders on 24/7 Day 2025

On July 24, 2025, the U.S. convenience store industry will join forces for the seventh annual 24/7 Day, a nationwide event dedicated to recognizing the hard work of first responders. This includes the brave men and women working as EMTs, police officers, firefighters, nurses, and volunteers from organizations like the American Red Cross. As part of this initiative, Yesway, one of the fastest-growing convenience store chains in the U.S., will proudly participate alongside 35,000 stores nationwide.

Throughout this day, many retailers will provide complimentary items to first responders to express gratitude for their relentless service. At Yesway and Allsup's stores, emergency personnel wearing uniforms or presenting valid identification can enjoy special offers, including a free 30.4 oz bottle of Core Hydration water and a complimentary fountain drink from July 21 to July 24. This gesture embodies the theme of this year's celebration, "We See You. We Thank You."

Tom Trkla, Chairman, President, and CEO of Yesway, stated, "Community support lies at the heart of our mission. We are honored to stand beside the NACS Foundation and our peers in celebrating 24/7 Day, acknowledging that first responders are the lifeblood of the communities we serve. This event is a meaningful way to show our appreciation for their bravery and dedication."

The 24/7 Day initiative emphasizes the vital role convenience store retailers play in supporting first responders. Convenience stores are located within a short distance for 93% of Americans, making them crucial community hubs. Nationwide, these stores conduct a staggering 160 million transactions daily and sell 80% of the country’s fuel, while donating over $1 billion to charitable causes every year.

The significance of the partnership between convenience stores and first responders has been recognized through various efforts. Stephanie Sikorski, Executive Director of the NACS Foundation, noted, "The 24/7 Day celebration arose from the understanding of the deep connection between first responders and the convenience store community. Our research indicates that many times during late-night hours, first responders collaborate with convenience stores for essential supplies, like snacks or coffee, to maintain their energy levels during shifts."

In addition to offering free items, the day serves as a platform for raising awareness about the crucial support provided by organizations like the American Red Cross. Each day, the Red Cross responds to approximately one emergency every eight minutes and assists an average of 65,000 disasters annually, with 95% of its relief workforce comprising volunteers. Nathan Measom, Director of Cause Marketing for the Red Cross, stated, "We invite everyone to join us in supporting the heroes who tirelessly serve our communities during times of need. Our ongoing partnership with the NACS Foundation highlights the often-overlooked work of first responders, and we are proud to acknowledge their dedication."

As you prepare to participate in 24/7 Day, consider visiting Yesway or Allsup's to express your appreciation for first responders. For more information on store locations, go to Yesway.com/locations or Allsups.com/allsups-locations. Share stories of gratitude for local heroes on social media using the hashtag #247Day, and stand alongside your community in honoring those who serve selflessly around the clock. Let’s make this day a resonant reminder of the indispensable role that first responders play in our lives and the commitment of convenience stores to supporting them.

About Yesway
Yesway is recognized as one of the most rapidly expanding convenience store operators across the United States, with 444 locations primarily in Texas and surrounding states. Founded in 2015, Yesway focuses on providing a diverse selection of foodservice options and high-quality grocery products. Their initiative on 24/7 Day exemplifies their commitment to community engagement and support.

About the NACS Foundation
The NACS Foundation, the charitable entity of the NACS, promotes philanthropic activities in the convenience store sector. By partnering with retail and supplier businesses, the foundation enhances community support through various charitable endeavors. Visit conveniencecares.org for more information.