The Latest Trends in Beverage Technology for Gas Stations’ convention stores

March, 2 2023

Fueling Up for the Future: The Latest Trends in Beverage Technology for Gas Stations’ convention stores

As the demand for convenience continues to drive consumer shopping habits, the convenience store (c-store) industry must constantly innovate to remain competitive.

In fact, c-stores are increasingly competing with quick-service restaurants (QSRs), as more capital is invested in food service industries that cater to convenience.

Additionally, with consumers returning to their daily commutes for work and outside-the-home activities, traffic at convenience stores is increasing. C-stores rely on impulse decisions, and higher vehicle and pedestrian traffic can drive these decisions.

To stay ahead of the curve, c-store operators must implement new initiatives that incentivize consumers and drive increased revenue. One example is food and beverage subscription programs. For instance, 7-Eleven is ramping up its 7NOW online delivery app with the introduction of the 7NOW Gold Pass, which waives delivery fees for members. Additionally, offering tailored services like prepared food and a more robust on-the-go selection can be key to the future success and evolution of gas stations with convenience stores.

According to EnsembleIQ, 67% of shoppers visit a c-store once a week or more. Buc-ee's is another brand that has proven popular for long-haul travelers. These giant roadside retailers combine convenience stores and gas stations to offer a one-stop shop for fueling up and purchasing necessities, as well as snacks, drinks, hot foods, and a gift shop that sells everything from kitchen serving platters to hunting knives and pet accessories. Consumers who drive non-electric vehicles and extended distances will always need to stop to refuel or recharge, so c-stores that offer a wide range of items and unique product additions will turn impulse buyers into repeat customers. Building a recognizable brand with recognizable colors, logos, or products can also help increase sales and customer loyalty.

 

Here are three ways to reinvent the gas station experience and make your convenience store a destination

 

  1. Make your store a destination stop, not a "pit stop". When your convenience store is clean, has a great food and beverage selection, and provides excellent customer service, it can become a destination stop. Streamlining your in-store process and focusing on your stock and what customers are looking for can be a game-changer that encourages customers to return.

  2. Offer a unified and personalized shopping experience by adopting technology across the customer journey. This can include better point-of-sale (POS) systems, kiosks, self-checkout stations, and mobile commerce. Easy and secure payment options at gas pumps and dispensers can also create a better shopping experience for customers. Despite the challenges of EMV regulations, improving security measures can make your location a positive customer experience.

  3. Gas stations that provide additional services can see their foot traffic increase exponentially. Adding services such as car washes, air, water, movie kiosks, food courts, post offices, and more can get people to stop and spend more than just filling up.

Reinventing the way gas stations and convenience stores operate can lead to an increase in sales, a transformed reputation, and operating efficiency. By providing customers with an engaging experience, convenience stores can encourage them to spend more, stay longer, and come back more often.

 

To succeed in the beverage technology sector, convenience stores must offer convenience and create an engaging experience for their customers. Implementing new initiatives, providing a wide range of products and services, and adopting digital technologies are crucial to staying ahead of the competition. By doing so, convenience stores can turn impulse buyers into loyal customers, increase revenue, and create a better shopping experience.

 

Learn more about how Drinkotec can help your venue today. Contact us!

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