Classic sandwiches, such as a club or ham and swiss, are all popular for a reason: they’re reliably tasty and familiar. But as consumers yearn for more interesting meal options, including bolder flavors and plant-based options, convenience stores are upgrading and updating their sandwich offerings, from the morning menu to lunchtime and beyond. Here are a few ways they’re elevating the classics.
Different breads
Want to make a breakfast sandwich shine? Swap the standard bread for a croissant. According to Technomic’s 2018 Sandwich report, 30% of consumers overall, and 36% of younger consumers, say they like specialty breads for their sandwiches. Second only to meat quality, bread quality is one of the most important attributes when consumers choose a sandwich.
For retailers who want to move beyond basic white or wheat, consider sandwiches stacked on pretzel buns, brioche, croissants, rye bread or even tortillas turned into a wrap.
Better-for-you proteins
Spicy chicken sandwiches and adding bacon to a club sandwich are par for the course at convenience stores, but for consumers who want something a little different, protein trends to keep an eye on include plant-forward proteins and grilled chicken. According to Technomic, 55% of convenience store foodservice customers would be likely to order hot chicken breast sandwiches for dinner, so offering these options can be key to attracting dinnertime sandwich customers.
Bolder flavors and condiments
According to Technomic’s 2018 Sandwich report, 50% of 18- to 34-year-olds say they would like restaurants to offer more sandwiches with new or unique flavors and ingredients, so it’s fair to assume they have the same desires when picking up a sandwich at a convenience store. Retailers can set their sandwiches apart by offering sandwiches with craft condiments or bold sauces, as well as flavored proteins, pickled veggies and more.
Some of the most popular flavors for sandwiches are spicy, bold and smoky, says Technomic’s Sandwich report—consider adding a buffalo sauce for the spice lovers, bold barbecue sauce or smoky chipotle mayo.
Premium toppings
Along with bolder flavors, consumers like ingredients that make a sandwich special. For instance, 27% of consumers say they like artisan cheeses for their sandwiches, according to Technomic’s Sandwich report. Retailers can add options such as gouda, muenster, provolone or feta to sandwiches to get customers interested. Other premium toppings can include applewood smoked bacon, avocado, grilled onion and more.
Convenience store retailers that want to offer customers new and exciting sandwich options without having to invest in a whole new foodservice lineup can look at options such as alternative or healthier proteins, upgraded bread, bold-flavored condiments and premium toppings. Consumers look for taste above anything else when they’re buying a sandwich, so for retailers who want to sell more sandwiches, it’s important to keep offering great tasting, on-trend foods and flavors.
This post is sponsored by Tyson Convenience