Foodservice remains central to the convenience-store industry’s growth and profitability.
That’s according to Ryan Malkowski, senior director of foodservice at Core-Mark, a Performance Food Group (PFG) company. Speaking with CSP Wednesday at the Core-Mark Midwest Expo in Indianapolis, Malkowski said the convenience industry relies on the dollars generated from foodservice.
“There’s something there for everyone—whether you’re at the beginning of your food journey or to those that are more advanced,” he said, adding that “we as a distributor partner think that we have a solution for everyone.”
Core-Mark aims to provide solutions across the spectrum, from products to full programs designed to help retailers drive both traffic and bottom-line profits, he said.
Global flavor expansion
Building on previous branded program launches such as Amazin’ Asian, Core-Mark is continuing to expand its globally inspired offerings.
The approach to some of the company’s branded programs, he said, is leaning further into multiethnic menu platforms, reflecting growing consumer demand for diverse flavors.
One of the latest launches is Zebec Mediterranean Café, a Mediterranean component program that features items such as shawarma, gyros, hummus, falafel (sampling pictured above) and desserts like baklava.
“These are all items that are easy to execute in a convenience space,” Malkowski said.
The items include Mediterranean flavor profiles—oregano, citrus and those authentic, fresh flavors that consumers are looking for with that type of cuisine, he said.
Protein remains king
Health trends, particularly the emphasis on protein, are also shaping menu innovation.
“Protein is king,” Malkowski said. “It’s a major focus for us.”
He noted that protein’s connection to GLP-1 consumers is also influencing choices. By centering menus around protein, retailers can create more substantial, satisfying offerings that resonate with today’s c-store shoppers, he said.
Customization and elevation
Consumers are also now showing more reception to new flavors and elevated takes on familiar favorites, he said, which can include adding premium proteins or layering bold sauces.
“Sauces and seasonings are definitely the ticket,” Malkowski said.
Driving visibility
Beyond menu innovation, Malkowski emphasized the importance of visibility for food programs. Whether in a made-to-order concept or a grab-and-go environment, retailers must clearly communicate their foodservice offerings.
Malkowski said it’s about highlighting that the food prepared within a convenience store is restaurant-quality food.
Core-Mark is based in Westlake, Texas. It offers a full range of products, marketing programs and technology solutions to customers in the United States and Canada. Richmond, Virginia-based Performance Food Group is one of the largest food and foodservice distribution companies in North America with more than 150 locations. PFG and its family of companies market and deliver food and related products to more than 300,000 locations.
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