6 Ways to Target Foodservice to Your Region

CHICAGO-- Consumers use convenience-store foodservice in different ways across the United States, according to Technomic and CSP’s 2016 Consumer Study: Examining Regional Differences at C-Stores. As a result, consumers expect and demand different types of foodservice programs in these regions, as well.

From offering made-to-order food stations to roller-grill items, here are six ways c-store chains can boost foodservice sales by meeting regional demands …
 

Nearly half of consumers overall (47%) said they would visit c-stores more often for food and beverage if they offered more combo meals. Westerners are the most likely to say they would visit c-stores more often for combo meals, while Northeasterners and Midwesterners are the least likely to be motivated by this offering overall.

Over half of all consumers (56%) said they are more likely to purchase prepared foods at c-stores that offer made-to-order food stations where the customer can fully customize the menu items. Southerners express the greatest interest in made-to-order food programs, while Midwesterners show the least.

Nearly half of respondents (49%) are more likely to visit c-stores for prepared foods if they have hot or cold food bars. The presence of hot and cold food is about equally important in the South, West and Northeast, but it is not especially important to the Midwest.

Over two-fifths of consumers (45%) said they are more apt to visit a c-store for prepared foods if they have roller grills, offering items such as hot dogs and taquitos. Westerners are the most interested in roller grills and Northeasterners are the least.

About half of consumers (52%) said they would like c-stores to offer a wider variety of retail beverages. More Southerners than consumers from any other region express interest in packaged-beverage variety, followed by Midwesterners.

Nearly half of consumers (47%) said they are more likely to purchase brand-name foods such as Boar’s Head or Campbell’s than proprietary brands at c-stores. Midwesterners are the least interested in brand names overall.

• Click here for more results from Technomic and CSP’s 2016 Consumer Study: Examining Regional Differences at C-Stores.