Boost Customer Appeal with the Perfect Foodservice Partner
Convenience stores are rapidly evolving as a key player in the foodservice industry. According to the NACS State of the Industry Report® for 2024, foodservice accounts for 27.7% of in-store sales and 38.6% of gross margin for these retailers. This growing trend highlights the importance of effective partnerships in enhancing customer appeal.
Convenience Store Foodservice Growth
As competition intensifies between convenience stores (c-stores) and quick-service restaurants (QSRs), foodservice offerings have become essential. Alice Crowder, chief marketing officer of Krispy Krunchy Chicken, notes that about 50% of QSR customers now consider c-stores for hot prepared food options. This shift marks a significant increase in consumer expectations.
Attracting Customers with Foodservice
Foodservice serves as an effective strategy for convenience retailers to boost sales. By collaborating with third-party foodservice providers, operators can leverage brand recognition and offer products tailored to customer preferences. This approach simplifies the process while enhancing consumer attraction.
- Convenience stores must provide high-quality, freshly made foods.
- Developing a viable foodservice program requires thoughtful menu planning.
- Proper pricing and merchandising are crucial for success.
Crowder emphasizes that integrating a turnkey program like Krispy Krunchy Chicken can facilitate this transition. Their model helps retailers deliver quality food that meets customer expectations efficiently.
Key Factors for Customer Appeal
Research indicates that customers choose Krispy Krunchy Chicken based on three primary factors:
- High quality
- Strong value
- Overall craveability
These elements not only entice customers to visit stores but also influence their willingness to travel past competitors for this chicken. This strategy demonstrates that convenience stores can significantly enhance their customer appeal through strategic foodservice partnerships.
For more insights on foodservice solutions and convenience store trends, refer to the upcoming October 2025 issue of El-Balad Magazine.
