Technomic Canadian C-Stores Must Step Up Foodservice Options To Rival Limited Service Restaurants

CHICAGO -- Consumers report that more than 75% of their convenience store foodservice occasions are either for beverages or snacks. With breakfast, lunch and dinner meal occasions making up the remaining quarter, an emphasis on quality prepared food and beverages present strong opportunities for growth, according to new research from Technomic.

According to the Chicago-based research firm's recently published "Canadian Convenience-Store Foodservice Consumer Trend Report," consumers say higher quality and healthy options could encourage them to buy more food at c-stores, while younger consumers -- a key demographic -- demand an increased level of fresh food items at c-stores.

"Another way to increase traffic is to cobrand with limited-service restaurants," said Technomic senior director of consumer insights and innovation Sara Monnette. "Partnering with an established limited-service restaurant offers a familiar and convenient foodservice platform that can lead to better quality perceptions and drive retail purchases."

Among other key findings is that Gen Zers and consumers earning less than $25,000 a year are most likely to purchase any type of food or beverage at c-stores. Nearly half (49%) of c-store foodservice purchases are unplanned and familiar chain restaurants can sway many consumers to visit one c-store over another for meal (42%) and beverage (35%) purchases.