The South Carolina Convenience and Petroleum Marketers Association (SCCPMA) came into existence on January 1, 2020, when the SC Association of Convenience Stores (SCACS) merged with the South Carolina Petroleum Marketers Association (SCPMA).

Prior to this merger, these two associations had a long history. SCACS was established in 1976 to “positively impact and secure the future of our industry while providing value to all members.” And, that’s exactly what they did! The first President of SCACS was Roger Henry of Caper House, followed by Irvin Cauthen of Plez-U Food Stores. Other early member-companies of SCACS were Handee Food Mart Stores, Piedmont Petroleum, Crenco Food Stores and Buck Management Corporation.

In 1919, SCPMA was established. W.J. Keenan of Columbia Petroleum Company (now Keenan Energy) and a few other pioneers in the oil business in South Carolina formed the South Carolina Oil Jobbers Association (SCOJA). Its purpose was to enable the members to buy product on better terms. Early members included Keenan, T. Wilbur Thornhill of Charleston Oil Company, Spencer R. McMaster of Winnsboro Petroleum Company and Frank Thompson of Anderson Petroleum Company.

With such rich histories and similar missions, it was just a matter of time before the two became one creating a stronger more unified voice for the convenience and petroleum industry.

Today, SCCPMA has a lobbyist with over 35 years of experience that serves as the legislative watchdog. Bills and regulations are introduced many times throughout the year. Members reap the benefits of his efforts by being kept informed avoiding hefty fines in many cases.

Not only does SCCPMA fight our members’ legislative and regulatory battles, top-notch networking opportunities are offered throughout the year, giving members plenty of time to cultivate relationships and build their businesses.

Also, there are six committees in which members can serve allowing them to have direct input on the programs and activities offered.

Advertising YOUR business is our business and is one of your exclusive member benefits as we do not allow non-members to advertise or sponsor our events. We offer four advertising options at reasonable prices.

SCCPMA believes in supporting its members at every turn including assisting them with furthering their or their children’s education. Each year, scholarships are distributed to members’ families through our Scholarship Fund. Please visit sccpma.com/scholarship for more information.

It is not uncommon to hear many members say that some of their best friends and business relationships were developed from simply being a member of this association.