Convenience stores (C-stores) are no longer just gas stations stocked with shelves of chips, candy, and soft drinks. Their landscape is rapidly evolving, with foodservice taking center stage. To cater to the increasingly sophisticated palates and changing demands of on-the-go customers, C-store operators have responded with innovative preparation methods and updated menus. In this article, we look at the culinary trends and equipment fueling this exciting foodservice revolution.
Why C-Stores Are Becoming Serious Players in Foodservice
C-stores are upgrading their foodservice programs due to several factors. First, consumers are becoming more adventurous and health-conscious, seeking satisfying flavors and options that fit their dietary profile. Second, demand for convenience continues to increase, especially when it comes to nourishing grab-and-go options. Third, C-stores are facing competition from grocery stores, QSRs, and even food delivery services.
Next, we’ll look at what’s trending in C-stores, and the equipment needed to satisfy consumer demand.
Global Inspiration & Bold Spices in C-Stores
Bland flavors are out and bold flavor explosions are in. Consumers are craving something “different”, exciting, and global. In response, C-stores are upgrading their menus. Now, customers can find items similar to, for example, Korean BBQ burritos, jerk chicken wraps, and Moroccan-spiced salads.
To support their menu upgrade, C-stores are turning to sous vide immersion circulators. With this equipment, operators cook meats and vegetables at low temperatures, locking in moisture and intensifying flavor profiles. By the same token, commercial blenders and food processors are also pulling their weight, whipping up chimichurri, pesto, and salsa for consumers serious about flavor.
Freshness Reigns Supreme
Consumers are increasingly demanding fresh, healthy, and customizable options, which have been a great opportunity for C-stores to garner new fans and have responded in kind by upgrading their equipment for improved efficiency and sanitation. For instance, grab-and-go options like salads, wraps, and bowls are full of fresh ingredients and showcased in cold food merchandisers that guarantee optimal temperatures.
For a restaurant-quality touch, some C-stores have invested in grills and panini presses, producing sandwiches, grilled vegetables, and burritos; comfort food with mindful ingredients that are always a hit. They’ve also upgraded their salad bar stations, taking advantage of the innovative sanitation features ushered in by the pandemic. Consumers feel safer buying fresh food from a C-store, when they know safety and sanitation are at the forefront, and their food is safe from the hands and noses of other people.
Plant-Powered Choices in C-Stores
All in all, vegetarian and vegan options are no longer niche. C-stores are expanding their plant-based offerings using air fryers, food warmers, and hot food bars to offer satisfying plant-based choices like vegan chili, veggie patties, and stir-fries.
Choosing equipment like food warmers—which operate for a large part of the day—is easier now that manufacturers are prioritizing energy efficient models that offer significant ROIs and save companies money.
Technology-Driven Efficiency
C-stores, like all other sectors of the foodservice industry, are adapting technology to streamline operations and enhance the customer experience. One popular item is self-service kiosks that allow customers to customize orders. Additionally, many C-stores now offer online ordering and delivery. Partnering with delivery services extends their reach and caters to their ever-growing fan base who are craving their favorite items.
What’s Next for the C-store Evolution?
The future of C-store cuisine is bright. By serving bold flavors, catering to health trends, and utilizing innovative equipment, C-stores are attracting new customers and boosting loyalty among existing ones. So, the next time you’re in a C-store, consider forgoing the boxes of Little Debbie and gallons of Mountain Dew—explore the culinary possibilities and discover a world of convenience waiting to be savored.
