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Hey everyone, it’s great to be back with another round-up of the top news that should be front and center for us convenience store folks. This past Friday, July 18th, brought some really interesting developments that I think could have a significant impact on the convenience store industry. As someone who’s been around the food and retail industries for a good while, and who now keeps a close eye on the c-store landscape, I’ve sifted through the headlines to bring you the 5 things that really jumped out at me, why they should matter to you, and most importantly, what you might want to consider doing about them. Let’s dive in!

1. Reading the Tea Leaves: What Couche-Tard and Seven & i’s Numbers Mean for You

First up, C-Store Dive’s “3 Big Numbers End Couche-Tard, Seven & i” gave us a snapshot of the performance of some of the biggest players in the game. While the specific numbers themselves might fluctuate, the article highlights key trends in their financials and strategies. Paying attention to what the major players are doing can give us valuable insights into where the industry is heading. For example, discussions around same-store sales growth, acquisition strategies, and expansion plans can signal broader market trends that will eventually impact all of us, regardless of the size of our operation.

Why You Should Be Interested: Understanding the strategies and results of industry leaders can help you benchmark your own performance and identify potential areas for growth or competitive threats. It’s like seeing where the big ships are sailing so you can navigate your own course more effectively.

What You Should Be Doing:

• Keep an eye on industry news and financial reports: Even if you don’t run hundreds of stores, understanding the direction of the market is crucial. Publications like C-Store Dive, CSP Magazine, and Convenience Store News offer valuable insights.
• Analyze your own key performance indicators (KPIs): Compare your sales growth, customer traffic, and average transaction value to industry averages and the performance of larger chains in your region (if that data is available).
• Consider how broader economic trends and large-scale industry moves might affect your local market: Are there any lessons you can learn or opportunities you can seize based on the strategies of the big players?

More Information: CStore Dive.

2. Unlocking C-Store Growth: The Power Trio of Food, Technology, and Digital Engagement

Next up, Mass Market Retailers, had an article titled “C-stores in 2025: Food, tech and media drive a convenience revolution.” This piece really underscores something I’ve been seeing anecdotally: the lines between convenience, food service, and even entertainment are blurring faster than ever. The article highlights how consumer expectations are evolving, and they’re looking for more than just a quick fill-up or a candy bar when they step into our stores. They want quality food options, seamless technology integration, and even engaging media experiences. Think about it, people are used to ordering food on their phones, paying with a tap, and even watching videos while they eat. Our stores need to adapt to these habits.

Why You Should Be Interested: This isn’t just a trend; it’s a fundamental shift in consumer behavior. If we don’t evolve, we risk being left behind by retailers who are meeting these new expectations head-on. The good news is this also presents a massive opportunity to become more than just a pit stop, we can become a destination.

What You Should Be Doing:

• Evaluate your current food offerings: Are they fresh, appealing, and catering to a wider range of tastes? Consider expanding your grab-and-go options with healthier choices (more on that in point #3).
• Assess your technology infrastructure: Are you offering mobile payment options? Is your Wi-Fi reliable? Could you integrate digital ordering kiosks or loyalty programs?
• Think about the in-store experience: Can you incorporate digital signage with engaging content or promotions? How can you make the time customers spend in your store more enjoyable?

More Information:  Mass Market Retailers.

3. Healthy & Hungry: Why ‘Better-For-You’ Grab-n-Go is a Must for C-Stores

The FoodNavigator-USA article, “Better-for-you foods in convenience channels,” really hit home for me. As someone who’s personally made significant dietary changes, I can tell you firsthand that consumers are increasingly health-conscious, and this extends to their convenience store purchases. Gone are the days when the only grab-and-go options were limited to chips and processed snacks. People are looking for healthier alternatives, even when they’re in a hurry. This article reinforces the idea that stocking better-for-you options isn’t just a niche market; it’s becoming a core expectation.

Why You Should Be Interested: Catering to this demand can attract new customers, increase basket sizes, and improve your store’s image. Plus, with growing awareness around health and wellness, offering healthier choices can be a real differentiator.

What You Should Be Doing:

• Expand your selection of fresh and healthy grab-and-go items: Think beyond basic fruit cups. Consider pre-made salads, protein boxes, yogurt parfaits, and healthier snack bars. Given my past as a chef, I know there are countless delicious and convenient options that can be prepared efficiently.
• Clearly market your healthier options: Use prominent signage and shelf placement to highlight these choices. Consider using labels like “better-for-you,” “low-sugar,” or “high-protein.”
• Gather feedback from your customers: Ask them what kind of healthier options they would like to see in your store. You might be surprised by the demand for things like meal kits or even fresh produce.

More Information: Food Navigator USA.

4. Quench Their Thirst, Boost Your Sales: The Power of Innovative Beverages

The article from Restaurant Dive about Caribou Coffee making their lemonade and fruit refreshers permanent additions to their menu might seem more relevant to coffee shops at first glance, but I think it holds a key lesson for us in the convenience channel too: people are looking for more exciting and higher-quality beverage options beyond the standard sodas and energy drinks. Just like the trend towards better food, consumers are also seeking “better beverages” – drinks that are flavorful, refreshing, and perhaps offer a perceived health benefit or a more premium experience.

Why You Should Be Interested: Your beverage cooler is prime real estate. Offering a wider variety of appealing and higher-margin beverages can attract customers looking for something beyond the norm and boost your overall sales.

What You Should Be Doing:

• Review your current beverage selection: Are you offering enough variety beyond the usual suspects? Consider adding premium lemonades, flavored sparkling waters, iced teas with unique flavor combinations, and fruit-based refreshers.
• Look for local or regional beverage brands: Offering unique, locally sourced drinks can be a great way to stand out and appeal to customers looking for something different.
• Consider merchandising and placement: Make sure these “better beverage” options are visible and appealing in your coolers. Eye-catching displays can encourage impulse purchases.

More Information: Restaurant Dive.

5. Beyond the Brew: What Dutch Bros’ Success Teaches Us About C-Store Culture

Finally, the interview with Dutch Bros CEO Christine Barone on Nation’s Restaurant News, titled “Signature: An exclusive interview with Dutch Bros CEO Christine Barone,” offers valuable insights into building a successful and growing beverage-focused business. While Dutch Bros operates primarily as a drive-thru coffee chain, their emphasis on creating a positive customer experience, building a strong brand culture, and understanding their target demographic resonates across the entire retail and foodservice landscape, including convenience stores. Their focus on speed, friendly service, and a unique brand identity are lessons we can all take to heart.

Why You Should Be Interested: Understanding how successful brands like Dutch Bros approach customer engagement and growth can inspire us to think differently about our own operations and how we connect with our customers.

What You Should Be Doing:

• Focus on customer service: Are your employees friendly, efficient, and helpful? Small positive interactions can make a big difference in customer loyalty.
• Consider your brand identity: What makes your store unique? How can you create a more memorable and positive experience for your customers? This could be through your product selection, store layout, or employee interactions.
• Think about speed and convenience: How can you streamline the customer experience to make it as quick and easy as possible for them to get what they need?

More Information:  Nation’s Restaurant News.

The Bottom Line

So, there you have it, 5 key takeaways from the news this past Friday that I think are worth some serious consideration for all of us in the convenience store business. From the evolving consumer demands around food, tech, and media, to the importance of understanding industry trends, the growing appetite for healthier options, the opportunity in better beverages, and the lessons we can learn from successful brands like Dutch Bros, there’s a lot to think about.

The one thing that ties all of this together for me is the need to be adaptable and customer-focused. Our customers’ needs and expectations are changing rapidly, and it’s up to us to stay ahead of the curve. By paying attention to these trends and being willing to innovate, we can not only survive but thrive in this dynamic industry. Keep your eyes peeled, stay curious, and let’s keep moving forward!