CARY, N.C. -- The Pantry Inc. is launching a pilot program with Applause TV with Outcast as its exclusive digital forecourt media solution at its convenience stores across the Southeast. The program is part of the company's continued supply agreement with Gilbarco Veeder-Root for all fuel dispenser, payment and automatic tank gauging products and services.

"We are excited to partner exclusively with Gilbarco to take advantage of the many opportunities rapidly emerging at the forecourt," said Paul Lemerise, SVP/CIO, for The Pantry. "By rolling out the Encore 700 S platform across a large part of our network, we can improve our business today while ensuring upgradeability to keep pace with rapidly evolving payment technologies tomorrow."

With Applause TV, retailers get turnkey content management through Gilbarco's partner Outcast Media. On-demand couponing capabilities are another tool to help drive fueling traffic inside the store for higher-margin purchases. Also, Gilbarco was the first in the industry to introduce forecourt EMV payment terminals. The EMV-certified Encore 700 S accommodates easy upgrades for mobile payment and other emerging technologies.

"It is clear that Gilbarco understands the significant role of forecourt media and evolving mobile payment technologies, and how to help us most effectively make the transition to EMV-certified equipment," Lemerise added.

The long-term partnership is aimed at driving increased store traffic and consumer loyalty. The Pantry, based in Cary, N.C., operates 1,589 stores in 13 states under select banners, including Kangaroo Express, its primary operating banner.

"The Pantry is a tremendous partner for us and a long-time market leader," said Michael Schulte, president, North America of Gilbarco. "We are pleased to be chosen as their partner to help them win with new technologies, and excited about the addition of more sites in the Southeast to the rapidly growing Applause TV network."