Convenience stores are a major part of the retail industry, with more than 150,000 stores operating in the United States alone. Despite its size and ubiquity, the industry remains one of the least understood, with even seasoned industry professionals struggling to keep up with the latest trends. Fortunately, utilizing data from Brizo, convenience store owners and suppliers can gain a better understanding of today’s most relevant marketing, product, and operational trends.
For one thing, convenience stores are evolving in an effort to remain competitive. As supermarkets and big box stores continue to increase their selection and make the shopping experience more convenient, the challenge for convenience stores is to differentiate their offerings. To that end, many convenience stores have begun to stock items that consumers may not be able to find elsewhere. This ranges from gourmet snacks to pre-packaged meals, offering customers an experience they will not likely find in other stores.
At the same time, convenience stores are utilizing technology to offer a more seamless shopping experience. From digital loyalty programs and self-checkout kiosks to mobile ordering capabilities and web-based ordering platforms, convenience stores find new ways to keep customers coming back. For convenience store suppliers, this is a great opportunity to explore new technologies and products that can help customers save time, get more of what they need when they need it, and ensure that their stores remain competitive against larger retail establishments.
Furthermore, foodservice is becoming increasingly important to convenience stores. Many locations offer a variety of meal options, from hot and cold sandwiches to pre-made salads and side dishes. Similarly, coffee and juice bars are commonplace, allowing customers to enjoy their favorite beverages even while on the go. For suppliers, this presents a variety of opportunities to provide ingredients, equipment, and other resources to the convenience store industry. Understanding the nature of the food service offering, as well as the customers’ tastes, is a critical component of success in this area.
Research data is also necessary in order for a supplier to gain a thorough understanding of the convenience store industry. Technology solutions, such as Brizo, offer detailed insight into the industry, including information about the market size, competition, and customer needs. By understanding current market trends, a supplier can develop products and services that best align with the needs of convenience stores. Suppliers can also monitor the competition to ensure they remain competitive against other companies offering similar services and products.
In addition, robust research data can help suppliers better understand the customers who shop at convenience stores. This includes insights about their shopping habits, the items they purchase, and their satisfaction with convenience stores. A supplier can then use this information to tailor their products and services, ensuring that convenience stores remain the most appealing retail option for their customers.
Moreover, analyzing research data can help suppliers understand the dynamic restaurants industry. Restaurants offer many opportunities for convenience stores to expand their offerings, including prepared meals and gourmet snacks. By understanding restaurant trends, a supplier can better anticipate and meet the needs of their convenience store customers.
In today’s convenience store industry, deciphering data is critical to success. Technology solutions, such as Brizo, can make it easier to understand current trends and develop plans for best meeting the needs of the convenience store industry. In this way, suppliers can ensure they remain competitive and make the most of opportunities to reach new customers.
