The5For

Good morning, C-store champions! As always, I’m here with your latest “5 For”—five must-know insights shaping the convenience retail landscape. Today’s roundup spotlights emerging consumer habits, new legislation, and the bold moves of industry giants, all based on developments from May 20th. Let’s get straight to it!

1. QSRs Turn Up the Heat with Summer Flavors

Quick Service Restaurants (QSRs) are already making waves with their summer LTOs. Dutch Bros is dropping Mochi Berry drinks, KFC is reviving chicken and waffles, and Bojangles is debuting Watermelon Sweet Tea. These seasonal treats are designed to tap into summer cravings and drive excitement.

Why it matters: QSRs are your direct competition for food and beverage dollars. When they launch buzzworthy flavors, they set new expectations for convenience, taste, and innovation—especially in snacks and drinks. C-stores thrive on impulse buys, so riding the wave of seasonal trends can give your sales a serious boost.

What you can do:

• Roll out your own seasonal beverage LTOs—think flavored lemonades, iced coffees, or creative slushies that are easy to execute with your current setup.
• Pair up: If QSRs are spotlighting certain flavors, highlight snacks or grab-and-go items in your store that complement those trends.
• Make it easy: Keep your cold case and foodservice areas stocked with summer-friendly, grab-and-go options that appeal to busy customers on the move.

2. Retail’s Digital Makeover: Omnichannel or Bust

The retail world is going digital fast. Today’s shoppers bounce between in-store, online, social commerce, and delivery apps. Social media—especially TikTok—is now a major driver of impulse buys, particularly for candy and snacks.

Why it matters: Your customers expect a seamless experience wherever they shop. The rise of social commerce challenges the traditional in-store impulse purchase, a cornerstone of C-store sales.

What you can do:

• Get found everywhere: Make sure your store is visible on local search, social media, and delivery platforms—not just your own website.
• Watch the trends: Even if you’re not selling on TikTok, see what’s hot in your core categories. Use those insights to shape your in-store promotions and product mix.
• Simplify digital engagement: If you have an app or loyalty program, make it frictionless for ordering, promotions, and payments. Help customers move easily between online and in-store experiences.

3. Nebraska’s SNAP Soda Ban: A First for the Nation

Nebraska just became the first state to ban the purchase of soda and energy drinks with SNAP benefits, starting January 1, 2026. This USDA-approved pilot could pave the way for similar moves in other states.

Why it matters: This new rule directly impacts a key customer segment and major product categories. Expect operational headaches—think POS updates, staff training, and longer checkout times. If you’re near a state border, be ready for shifts in SNAP customer traffic.

What you can do:

• Get ahead of the curve: If you operate in Nebraska, start prepping now. Know the details, update your POS, and train your team.
• Communicate clearly: Use signage and staff training to minimize confusion for both employees and SNAP customers.
• Diversify your lineup: While you don’t need to ditch soda entirely, this is a good time to expand your SNAP-eligible beverage options—think healthier alternatives.

4. Coca-Cola Chases Gen Z with Flavor Innovation

While the latest news didn’t offer a deep dive, Coca-Cola’s push to win over Gen Z—like Sprite + Tea inspired by TikTok trends—is worth watching. Gen Z’s preferences for unique flavors, digital engagement, and authenticity are reshaping the beverage space.

Why it matters: Big beverage brands are pivoting to capture Gen Z, and their strategies can inspire your own. Gen Z’s influence on flavor trends and digital experiences will only grow.

What you can do:

• Monitor social: Keep tabs on trending drinks and flavor mashups on TikTok and Instagram.
• Expand your beverage set: Look for new products from both big brands and up-and-comers that appeal to younger, health-conscious shoppers.
• Polish your digital presence: Make sure your store’s info is up-to-date and appealing on platforms like Google and social media—Gen Z is searching for what’s new and convenient.

5. 7-Eleven’s Expansion Play: Raising the Bar for Store Development

7-Eleven just named Terri Micklin (formerly of GetGo Café + Markets) as SVP of Store Development and Facilities. She’ll lead the charge as 7-Eleven plans to open more than 1,000 new stores in the next five years—and 1,300 across North America by 2030.

Why it matters: This aggressive expansion signals confidence in the future of convenience retail. 7-Eleven’s focus on new formats and upgraded facilities could set new standards for the industry.

What you can do:

• Rethink your growth plan: Even if you’re not adding dozens of stores, consider how you can optimize your current locations or scout for new opportunities.
• Invest in experience: Cleanliness, layout, and curb appeal matter more than ever. Small upgrades can have a big impact on customer satisfaction.
• Track the competition: Stay alert to where big players are expanding. Find your niche and look for ways to differentiate.

The Bottom Line

That’s your “5 For” this week! Staying sharp on these trends is the key to thriving in today’s fast-changing C-store world. What’s your take on these shifts? Drop your thoughts in the comments—let’s keep the conversation going!