Foodservice
Sandwiches hold a significant position in convenience store foodservice, with sales reaching $6.9 billion in 2024 and projected to grow to $8.6 billion by 2029. Operators are improving freshness and appeal through streamlined SKUs, LTO launches, and optimized supply chains and packaging.
7-Eleven announced the hiring of Richard Guidry as Senior Director of Fresh Food for its convenience stores in the U.S. and Canada. Guidry brings about twenty years of leadership experience in convenience store operations and food service, having previously served as Senior Vice President of Food Service at GPM Investments, where he launched the Fas Craves food program. This appointment comes as 7-Eleven continues to invest in food-focused convenience stores.
Rich Products announced on Monday the acquisition of Great Kitchens Food Company, the largest private label bake-and-serve pizza manufacturer in North America. The deal adds Great Kitchens' fully topped pizzas, including deep-dish and handheld pizzas, to Rich's existing pizza portfolio, which primarily consists of crusts and doughs. Financial terms were not disclosed. This move is expected to help convenience store customers narrow the foodservice gap with QSRs.
Convenience stores are transitioning from the traditional 'grab-and-go' model to the 'third space.' The Paytronix 2026 trend report reveals that 85% of consumers have tried convenience store freshly prepared food, 72% believe it can replace fast food restaurants, and convenience stores with membership programs can see sales increase by over 20%.