Foodservice hordes millions of customers each day, and convenience stores are no exception. As the convenience store industry continues to evolve and adapt with the times, it’s important for operators to understand the new menu trends in order to remain competitive and improve growth. To help, we’ve identified the ten most important factors operators should consider when determining the convenience store menu of the future.
Convenience stores occupy a peculiar place in the foodservice industry. On one hand, they’re driven by convenience, offering customers a convenient way to grab food quickly. On the other, convenience stores offer customers more than convenience: they also offer a variety of different menu options. This is something that other foodservice establishments may not have access to, giving convenience stores a competitive edge in the market.
But as consumer tastes and preferences evolve, so too must the menus of convenience stores. Operators need to keep up with the times and think more strategically when considering menu trends.
To that end, here are the top ten things to consider when analyzing convenience store menu trends.
1. Knowing Your Customers
Determining convenience store menu trends begins with understanding who your customers are and what they’re looking for. Analyzing customer demographics, psychographics, and food preferences will help you identify any existing gaps in the menu that can be filled and help you decide what items should or shouldn’t be included.
2. Refreshing Your Menu
To keep your customers engaged, it’s important to periodically refresh your menu with newer, tastier, and more appealing items. In addition to altering the mix of existing items, consider adding a few of the latest food trends to surprise and delight customers.
3. Healthier Options
The health food industry has seen explosive growth in recent years, and customers increasingly demand healthier options when dining out. As such, convenience stores should offer a variety of healthy menu items, such as salads, sandwiches made with whole wheat bread, and an assortment of snacks and sides to create healthier meal combinations.
4. Safety and Hygiene Practices
Given the current situation, safety and hygiene have become paramount. Operators should invest in sanitary equipment and enforce strict safety protocols in order to ensure food is handling safely and hygienically. Such practices not only protect customers but also help build their trust in the convenience store.
5. Utilizing New Technologies
As technology advances, the convenience store industry should take advantage of it in order to stay competitive. This includes innovations such as self-checkout, mobile order-ahead, virtual kitchens, and delivery services. Taking advantage of these technologies can help convenience stores stay ahead of the curve and maximize growth.
6. Optimizing the Shopping Experience
At the heart of any convenience store menu trend is optimizing the overall customer experience. This includes the quality and appearance of products on shelf, implementing better signage to guide customers, and providing an easy way for customers to pay. Doing so can help operators increase sales and improve the overall convenience store experience.
7. Catering to Regional Cuisine
It’s no secret that different regions of the world have their own unique cuisine. Many convenience stores take advantage of this by offering regional staples such as tacos, burritos, or dumplings in order to cater to the local tastes and preferences.
8. Location-Oriented Offerings
Different locations have different needs and preferences. Operators should consider the nuances of each individual store and offer appropriate local products and services. Such offerings can include custom breakfast items, late-night snack options, or make-your-own options for the lunch crowd.
9. Leveraging Special Occasions
There are certain occasions and seasonal holidays that call for special menu items. For example, For example, Easter might call for a special menu of sweet treats, while Christmas could involve a special hot chocolate or cookies. Creating custom menus for special occasions can be a great way to bring customers into the store.
10. Analyzing Food Trends
Finally, understanding and recognizing the latest food trends can be a great way to stay ahead of the game. Currently, trends such as plant-based proteins, several different types of street food, and all-day breakfast are becoming increasingly popular. Knowing what’s hot in the industry will help operators create menus that will keep customers coming in.
