Kwik Trip convenience stores are gradually phasing out the cent

Kwik Trip customers can save this lucky money: they won’t need it at their next stop.

The La Crosse, Wis.-based chain became the first major convenience store in the country to begin phasing out the use of pennies. Instead, it will round cash purchases to the nearest 5 cents, according to a company news release.

Kwik Trip says the move has created a shortage of coins in its stores. As a result, the company plans to remain penniless until a “permanent legislative solution” is in place.

“At Kwik Trip, we are committed to making everyday transactions simple and fair,” said Scott Zietlow, CEO and president, in a written statement. “This change reflects our continued focus on the customer experience. We apologize for any confusion this may create for our customers.”

The change will affect around 17% of Kwik Trip’s 12 million weekly customers who use cash. Customers who opt for credit or debit cards can still expect to pay the exact amount shown on the invoice.

Kwik Trip is one of the Midwest’s largest convenience store chains, with approximately 900 locations in six states, including more than 200 in Minnesota.