How c-stores are becoming more than just gas stations
America’s National Association of Convenience Stores provides an insight into the changing c-store industry ahead of the NACS Show 2017.
Convenience stores in the U.S. sell 80% of the fuel purchased and more than 40% of all packaged drinks, but they have become multi-offering facilities where one can find fresh meals and cool new products, says the National Association of Convenience Stores (NACS).
Step inside a convenience store today—you won't be alone because half of America is, with convenience stores conducting 160 million transactions a day—and you will see that this neighbourhood retailer offers fresh meals, healthy options and a wide-range of products. With the industry's annual trade show taking place in Chicago on October 17-20, it's the perfect opportunity to share six surprising facts about this community retailer.
The NACS Show in Chicago will have more than 22,000 attendees from 50-plus countries attending four days of general sessions, 50-plus education sessions and an expo featuring more than 1,200 exhibiting companies.
"Convenience stores are commonly called 'c-stores,' but c-store means so much more than convenience. The 'C' also represents the customers we serve, the communities we support and the choices we offer—whether healthy options or more indulgent treats," says NACS President & CEO Henry Armour.
Following are six revelations about how today's convenience stores are redefining convenience, according to NACS:
1. Serve Meals. Overall, foodservice sales in U.S. convenience stores (which includes both prepared food and beverages) are $52 billion, or 22% of all in-store sales. Freshly prepared food and packaged sandwiches are $35 billion of that total.
2. Offer Healthy Options. Today one in five (20%) consumers say they've noticed that convenience stores are offering more healthy options like salads and fruits.
3. Care About the Earth. Around 70% of Americans empty the trash from their car into the convenience store bin when they fuel up. And convenience stores are also looking to play a larger role in litter management. This month, NACS announced a major partnership with Keep America Beautiful to help retailers reduce and ultimately eliminate litter in and near their stores.
4. Partner with their Communities. NACS member companies collectively contribute nearly $1 billion a year to charities, and 64% support five or more non-profits in their communities.
5. Save You Time. Whether it's fuel, food and drinks or access to cash—one third of the country's ATMs are at convenience stores—convenience stores provide speed of service to time-starved consumers. A NACS speed metrics study found that it takes customers, on average, 3 minutes and 33 seconds from the time they leave their cars until the time they get back in their cars with a purchase.
6. Sell Cool Stuff. Convenience stores are a perfect place to try new food and drink items. You don't need to buy something in bulk—just grab it and try it. And that's what most Americans do: 66% of all items purchased in a convenience store are consumed immediately. This makes convenience stores the perfect place to debut new product innovation.
