MEDIA, Pa. -- Fifty-nine percent of the respondents to a new survey reported that they shop at a convenience store more than once a week, with that number increasing to more than 70% among 18- to 44-year-olds. And 25% of the consumers surveyed reported that they shop in a c-store more or as frequently as they shop at the supermarket or grocery store.
Social Science Research Solutions (SSRS) conducted the survey of 1,000 men and women across the United States and asked them how often they shop in a c-store.
“Virtually every consumer today shops at a convenience store, with only 6% of the respondents stating that they never shop there,” said Marla Kott, CEO of Imprint Plus, Media, Pa., a manufacturer of customized, reusable, magnetic name badge and signage systems that commissioned the study.
Most of the c-store shoppers are married (48%) and employed (63%), with most (80%) living in metropolitan areas.
Among the top purchases at convenience stores are drinks such as soda, bottled water or juice (29%), or snacks and candy (21%). Other purchases included gas (12%), milk or dairy products (11%) and cigarettes (10%).
One third of all respondents (33%) stated that it was important for a convenience store to carry ethnic branded products, such as Indian, Chinese or Spanish foods. The number rose to 41% among 18- to 34-year-olds.
In addition, 42% of consumers think it is important for employees to be fluent in a language other than English, reflecting on the global shopping experience. This number jumps to 51% among 18- to 34-year-olds.
When shopping in a convenience store, 35% reported that it is important to know a person by name when doing business. The percentage increases to 39% among those consumers in the 35- to 44-year-old age demographic.
Members help make our journalism possible. Become a CSP member today and unlock exclusive benefits, including unlimited access to all of our content. Sign up here.