Fresh & Healthy
“Better for you” and even “better for the planet” are selling points that resonate with consumers. Locally raised, natural, GMO-free, hormone-free and sustainable are among the buzzwords that many guests are seeking. A sandwich or pizza that is made to order is not only fresher, but it can also be customized to suit a guest’s dietary desires, or lack thereof.
Spice It Up
Consumers are seeking more extreme flavors, and that includes hotter and spicier. According to Technomic's MenuMonitor, incidence of the term “spicy” grew by 14% on convenience-store menus last year. Retailers are rolling out new dishes with Sriracha, as well as habaneros, ghost peppers, harissa and sambal. Expect to see layers of flavor, such as sweet and spicy, or hot and sour.
Continuous Improvement
As competition from restaurants, foodservice operators and even online retailers heats up, c-stores and other retailers aim to continually improve the quality, taste, freshness and healthfulness of their food and beverages. Millennials and Gen Z are especially enthusiastic about not only better-for-you options but also unique, craveable fare, which requires constant innovation and flexibility.
Continue: C-Stores See an Increase in Foodservice Guests
C-Stores See an Increase in Foodservice Guests
Foodservice has become a key area of opportunity for convenience stores across the country. As more retailers focus on providing a wider variety of fresh, high-quality food offerings, competition is heating up within the market as stores strive to gain a greater share of stomach and compete with restaurants with what Technomic calls “retailer meal solutions,” or RMS.
Many retailers are ramping up the guest experience inside the store with new concepts and store revamps to better position themselves for continuing growth in the foodservice category, as well as increased competition.
Have You Ever Purchased an RMS From:
| Chain | 2010 | 2012 | 2015 |
|---|---|---|---|
| Traditional supermarkets | 88% | 92% | 90% |
| Mass merchandisers | 77% | 77% | 72% |
| C-stores | 52% | 57% | 62% |
| Warehouse clubs | 58% | 58% | 57% |
| Specialty food stores | 36% | 37% | 43% |
| Upscale/fresh-format supermarkets | 29% | 28% | 33% |
| Drug stores | N/A | N/A | 19% |
Continued: C-Store Menus Get Bigger and Bolder
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