Gone are the days when people went home for a relaxing, leisurely lunch before returning to work. These days, consumers are more likely than ever to cram down a sandwich while multitasking at their desk or rushing between meetings. In fact, according to Technomic’s September 2018 Tastes of the Times report, nearly 40% of millennial and Gen Z diners say with their busy lifestyles, they have no choice but to eat meals on the go.
With numbers like that, it’s critical that convenience store retailers know what’s hot and what consumers want midday so that they can offer options that meet their consumers’ needs while increasing the store’s commissary and foodservice sales.
The heat is on
In today’s busy world, a warm meal is something that diners often crave. Why? Even though snacking is at an all-time high, something warm can provide comfort, almost signifying that it was made just for the person who ordered or purchased it. Handheld products such as E.A. Sween’s San Luis® Burritos are a perfect option that consumers can heat up and eat while on the move—no utensils necessary. Even if they’re strapped for time and can’t commit to a sit-down meal, consumers equate warm food with having a satisfying lunch. To that end, make sure convenient lunch offerings can be easily heated on demand.
Better-for-you trends
While many busy consumers still visit a drive-thru for a burger and a side of fries, the better-for-you trend has gone mainstream. Diners are looking for something a bit lighter. Technomic’s Q32018 C-Store Marketbrief found that 34% of c-store consumers say they’d like healthier grab-and-go options. For lunch, consider stocking a variety of Market Sandwiches®, which are high in protein and a healthier option than highly caloric or fried fast food. Consumers will grab these sandwiches and wraps to stay fueled while on the go—and they’ll feel good about what they’re eating.
All-day breakfast
Don’t let time of day dictate lunch options, and don’t underestimate the craveability of breakfast food. Interestingly, Technomic’s recent Breakfast Consumer Trend Report found that 46% of consumers enjoy eating breakfast foods at nontraditional hours. For those consumers who skipped breakfast or only had a small bite, breakfast food might be just what they’re looking for to satisfy their midday hunger. Deli Express® Hot-to-Go Breakfast Sandwiches, with high-protein varieties of sausage, egg, ham and cheese, deliver threefold: They’re warm, protein-rich, and convenient to eat on the go.
By tapping into midday meal trends, such as warmth, better for you and all-day breakfast, convenience store retailers can give busy consumers exactly what they want and need: Healthier, satisfying and convenient lunch options that don’t put a crimp on their already packed schedules.
This post is sponsored by E.A. Sween