In the heart of Tipton, Pennsylvania, Rossi's Corner Store stands as a testament to the resilience of small businesses. Celebrating almost four decades of service, Catherine Rossi, the President of Rossi's Corner Store, shared her insights and experiences in an interview with Carrington Hill. The conversation shed light on the positive impact of skill games, particularly those powered by Pace-O-Matic, and how they have played a crucial role in sustaining and enhancing the business.Rossi's Corner Store, established in 1984, is more than just a convenience store; it's a community hub. With a small team of dedicated employees, including four full-time and six part-time staff members, the store offers a range of services, including a convenience store, a gas station, and a kitchen that serves homemade food. The community of Tipton is described as close-knit, with friendly faces and a relaxed pace of life.

Catherine Rossi's connection to the business runs deep. Born in Altoona but raised in Tipton, she inherited the entrepreneurial spirit from her parents. Her father, who owned the property that now houses Rossi's Corner Store, was a car dealer, while her mother served as the bookkeeper. Catherine's journey into the business began during her time at Penn State when she and her brother decided to start a small store in the 80s to support their education.

Over the years, Rossi's Corner Store faced its fair share of challenges, from economic downturns to the recent disruptions caused by the COVID-19 pandemic. However, Catherine credits the support of her parents and the close-knit community for helping her navigate through difficult times. She highlights the daily challenges of running a convenience store, from handling water leaks to ensuring the store's cleanliness and offering quality homemade food.

The business model of Rossi's Corner Store has evolved over the years. Initially an Exxon station, they later transitioned to independent gasoline to stay competitive. Catherine emphasizes the shift in focus from gas to food as the store's main draw. In a market dominated by big chains like Sheetz, Rossi's Corner Store differentiates itself through exceptional customer service and the quality of its food offerings.

In 2017, Rossi's Corner Store embraced skill games, responding to customer demand. The introduction of Pace-O-Matic's skill games proved to be a game-changer. Initially, Catherine had no expectations regarding the revenue from these games, but over time, they became a significant source of income for the store.

The skill games turned out to be a lifeline for Rossi's Corner Store during the challenging times of the COVID-19 pandemic. When the store had to close for two months, the funds generated from skill games helped Catherine retain employees, undertake building projects, and replace essential equipment. The games played a crucial role in the store's recovery during a difficult year.

Skill games have not only provided financial support but also enhanced customer engagement. Rossi's Corner Store became a place where customers stayed longer, enjoying drinks and food while playing games. The positive experience created a loyal customer base, contributing to the store's success.

As Rossi's Corner Store navigates through the slow recovery post-COVID and economic challenges, Catherine remains optimistic. However, she emphasizes a conservative approach, not relying solely on skill game revenue but using it to supplement other aspects of the business. Catherine's dedication to providing a clean environment, quality food, and exceptional customer service continues to be the store's driving force.

Rossi's Corner Store stands as a beacon of resilience in the small business landscape, showcasing the positive impact of skill games on community engagement and financial stability. Catherine Rossi's journey is a testament to the adaptability required to thrive in the ever-changing business environment. As the store celebrates its 40th anniversary in 2024, the legacy of Rossi's Corner Store continues, fueled by the positive impact of skill games and a commitment to community and service.

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