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Convenience stores are shifting from 'selling everything' to 'food-first,' making foodvenience the new industry keyword. IDDBA points out that the key to success lies in balancing convenience and quality while addressing consumers' core needs for decision simplicity, emotional comfort, and purchase confidence.
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.
In 2026, the convenience store industry faces multiple pressures from domestic and international turmoil, rising costs, and tightened consumer spending, but technology customization, food service innovation, and rapid market expansion bring new hope. C-Store Dive, through a series of in-depth articles, analyzes the industry's key annual trends and growth points.
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.
Foodservice beverages performed strongly in 2025, with continued growth expected in 2026. Consumer demand for energy, visual appeal, and impulse drinks persists, and fast-food giants are testing new beverages. Cold drinks, premiumization, and non-alcoholic options are emerging trends, energy drink platforms are expanding, and health and functionality are both emphasized.
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%.
In late 2025, RaceTrac acquired Potbelly for $566 million, shaking up the convenience store industry. Is this move an anomaly or a trend? Industry experts are sharply divided: some believe large retailers have the capital and motivation to follow suit, while others emphasize operational complexity and brand dilution risks. This article reviews multiple perspectives, exploring the feasibility of such acquisitions, target selection, and potential challenges.
At the start of the new year, companies are reflecting on their achievements over the past year. This week's 'Three Key Numbers' column focuses on the growth highlights of Refuel Operating Company, Weigel's, and Stinker Stores in 2025, including store expansion, loyalty program performance, and employee retention improvements.
