Convenience Stores: The Rising Food Service Trend
Convenience stores are becoming the go-to choice for many hungry consumers, surpassing fast-food restaurants in popularity. To keep up with this demand, packaging companies have the opportunity to design attractive and convenient packaging formats. This was discussed in a recent LinkedIn livestream event hosted by flexible packaging company TC Transcontinental Packaging.
The growth of C-store food service snack purchases has been significant, increasing from 20% in 2018 to 44% in 2023, according to Varchasvi Singh, a senior analyst at Mintel. This shift in consumer behavior over five years reflects the changing perception of convenience stores.
Gen Z consumers, in particular, have a habit of snacking daily and often replacing meals with snacks. Convenience, affordability, and flexibility are the key drivers behind this behavior, which convenience stores excel at providing.
Some consumers see C-store food offerings as cost-effective alternatives to fast-food options, especially as menu prices continue to rise. This value proposition can work in favor of convenience stores, particularly in comparison to quick-service restaurants.
Factors contributing to the growth of C-store food service include digital ordering apps, loyalty programs, and the increasing demand for fresh options. However, there is a gap in consumer trust regarding the hygiene standards of convenience store food, presenting an opportunity for packaging partners to play a crucial role.
One strategy for packaging innovation is to focus on showing rather than just telling. Clear bags or bags with windows allow customers to see the product, instilling confidence in its freshness instantly. Packaging shapes also play a significant role in enhancing the consumer experience.
TC Transcontinental Packaging has developed innovative snack packaging that fits into cup holders for on-the-go convenience. They also offer dual-compartment bags to keep different food items separate. Other portable formats available at convenience stores include charcuterie snack packs and electrolyte stick packs, catering to the “anywhere, anytime” snacking trend.
Hot, ready-to-eat foods like chicken tenders or tamales are gaining popularity, with TC’s “hot and handy” carry pouches designed to maintain food warmth and crispiness.