Ag Plus Cooperative Celebrates Grand Re-Opening of Marshall Main C-Store
On a sunny Friday afternoon, the Ag Plus Cooperative’s Marshall Main C-Store on East Main Street buzzed with excitement as local residents flocked to celebrate its grand re-opening. A much-anticipated upgrade, the C-Store has completed an extensive renovation, enhancing its fuel options and convenience offerings to better serve the community.
A Prime Location Gets a Serious Upgrade
The position of the Ag Plus C-Store, nestled conveniently on East Main Street, makes it one of the most strategic locations in Marshall. Steve Traen, the vice president of retail at Ag Plus Cooperative, emphasized the importance of the upgrade: “We wanted to do it to support the farming community.” This commitment highlights Ag Plus’s dedication not only to convenience but also to local agriculture.
The revitalization of the store included the installation of new, advanced fuel and diesel pumps that greatly expand the range of options for customers. With the introduction of more diesel dispensers and Diesel Exhaust Fluid (DEF) available at the diesel pumps, the facility is now better equipped to cater to both everyday drivers and those with commercial needs.
Modern Fueling Solutions Come to Marshall
The newly installed fuel dispensers bring a range of ethanol blends to the area, including E15, offering customers a more environmentally friendly choice. Ethanol blends not only support local farmers but also demonstrate a shift towards more sustainable fuel options. Traen noted that these blends have been well-received at other Ag Plus C-Stores, allowing them to cater to a growing demand for alternative fuels.
In addition to diesel, the new pumps offer customers straight #1 diesel, ideal for use in cold temperatures, and straight #2 diesel. This diverse range of fuel types emphasizes Ag Plus’s commitment to providing tailored solutions for their customers.
Construction Journey and Community Support
The renovation project, which kicked off in early September and wrapped up at the beginning of October, was carefully planned and executed. Traen reflected on the challenges of closing down the fuel pumps during this construction phase, describing it as “a little scary.” He acknowledged the concern of potentially losing customer loyalty during the downtime but praised the surrounding Ag Plus locations for stepping in to serve the community’s needs during the transition.
Local businesses, like Action Company, also played a vital role in this renovation, completing the necessary concrete work. This collaboration not only supports local companies but also strengthens the community ties that Ag Plus values so deeply.
Celebrating with a Purpose
The grand re-opening celebration drew a steady flow of visitors, with many stopping by to fill their tanks and take advantage of promotional activities. Ag Plus also hosted local food trucks, adding a festive atmosphere to the day. A notable aspect of the celebration was the Fuel for a Cause initiative, pledging to donate a half-cent for every gallon pumped throughout October to breast cancer research.
This charitable component reflects Ag Plus’s larger mission of community engagement, allowing customers to feel good about their purchases knowing they are contributing to a greater cause.
Embracing Technology for Enhanced Customer Experience
Beyond the aesthetic improvements, the new fuel dispensers come equipped with cutting-edge technology. Traen explained that the dispensers will be updateable remotely, similar to how other electronic devices require periodic updates. “Dispensers are like any other computer. They need updating,” he quipped, pointing out that incorporating the latest technology ensures customers enjoy a seamless fueling experience.
The enhancements at the Marshall Main C-Store signify more than just an upgrade. They represent Ag Plus Cooperative’s forward-thinking approach and commitment to supporting the local agricultural community, while also prioritizing customer satisfaction through modern conveniences. As the C-Store becomes a hub for both fueling and community engagement, it stands as a testament to the cooperative’s foundational values of service and support.