OAKBROOK TERRACE, Ill. — According to CSPnet.com, paying close attention to overall convenience store cleanliness is a proven way to “stand out, and to capture a larger share of wallet.”

The 2013 Convenience Store Survey by the Boston Consulting Group found that cleanliness in c-stores is the highest rated differentiator, stated the article.

Although this may be a highly valued component for consumers, the article continued, the survey also showed that overall cleanliness for c-stores is uncommon.

Handwashing for Life conducted a study in 2013 which included collecting swap samples from some of the most frequently touched areas in 24 c-stores and truck and travel centers under eight retail brands, added the article.

The article reported that the “germiest” hot spots determined by these swap samples included: refrigerator door handles, gas-pump keypads, squeegee handles, restroom door latch/handles and store entrance door handles.

“It is important to remember that a clean store is more than just an uncluttered store,” the article noted. “One way to ensure you are standing out among the competition is by offering the right hand-hygiene products at the right locations throughout your store.”

You can find the article here.