The Partnership for a Healthier America (PHA) has honored the company Kwik Trip as the first convenience store to complete its commitment to expand healthier options across its outlets.

Since teaming up with PHA in 2014, the group has fulfilled its initial commitment by introducing at least four categories of fresh fruits and four categories vegetables to its stores, along with whole grain rich offerings in at least six products and implementing a Healthy Concessions Program in local schools.

"With more consumers expecting to find fresh and healthy items on the go, the convenience store industry is in the midst of a momentous shift - on that Kwik Trip has been leading for several years now," PHA CEO Lawrence A. Soler said in a release.

"Just a few years ago it was unusual to see fresh fruit in many convenience stores, but today Kwik Trip sells 400 pounds of bananas per store per day.

"In fact, after making a commitment to PHA, Kwik Trip's bulk produce sales grew 5.5% in 2015."

In addition, the chain has added a PHA-approve combo meal through its EatSmart program.

"Kwik Trip has made many advancements over the past two years to make healthier choices more convenient and accessible for our guests," said Kwik Trip registered dietician Erica Flint.

"We have enjoyed working with PHA and receiving the positive feedback from guests on the programs we have implemented. We are eager to continue our partnership with PHA and get to work on our expanded commitments."

As part of its new commitment to PHA, by June 2017 Kwik Trip plans to offer an expanded stock of healthier options, including healthier packaged foods like nuts and granola bars throughout the store, while increasing healthier options in the checkout area.

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