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Intouch Insight's 2025 Convenience Store Trends Report

Intouch Insight has published its annual 2025 Convenience Store Trends Report, providing an insightful look into what consumers expect from convenience stores and how leading retailers can adapt to meet these evolving demands. According to Cameron Watt, President and CEO of Intouch, this report integrates mystery shopping data with consumer surveys to accurately define current benchmarks and opportunities for improvement.

Key Findings from the Report

1. Made-to-Order Food Gains Traction

The report indicates that 85% of American shoppers have sampled made-to-order (MTO) food from convenience stores, with sales of hot meals surging from 29% in 2024 to 35% in 2025. This growth underscores rising consumer expectations, positioning c-stores as legitimate contenders against traditional quick-service restaurants (QSRs).

2. Closing the Gap with Quick-Service Restaurants

At present, 72% of respondents regard convenience stores as practical alternatives to QSRs, a significant rise from 56% the previous year. This trend emphasizes the necessity for competitive meal offerings and pricing strategies to maintain market share in an increasingly challenging landscape.

3. The Importance of Loyalty Programs

Despite 72% of shoppers being involved in a c-store loyalty program, nearly 65% of cashiers fail to mention these rewards during customer interactions. The study reveals that personalized incentives could enhance customer engagement, drive repeat visits, and stimulate higher spending. Addressing in-store coaching and communication about these programs could significantly boost participation.

4. Retail Media's Rising Influence

47% of surveyed consumers noticed digital advertising within convenience stores, nearly doubling from 27% in the prior year. Remarkably, over one-third of these shoppers made purchases prompted by these digital ads, highlighting the potential of retail media in generating additional revenue margins through strategic advertising placements.

5. EV Charging Stations at the Forefront

With 20% of consumers specifically visiting stores due to available electric vehicle (EV) chargers, the potential for growing foot traffic is evident. Engagement is particularly high among Millennials, with 45% of 25-34 year-olds selecting stores with charging facilities. This trend fosters opportunities for upselling complementary services such as food and seating.

6. Cleanliness and Trust in Food Quality

The report emphasizes that 70% of participants believe store cleanliness plays a crucial role in their perceptions of food freshness. Regular audits and consistent cleanliness standards bolster consumer trust, encouraging repeat patronage and favorable reviews.

Conclusion: Strategies for Success

Combining these insights, the report paints a picture of a modern convenience store that rivals traditional food outlets while integrating technology as a significant touchpoint for customer engagement. Retailers who can harmonize their operational execution with data-driven personalization are likely to convert visits into opportunities for strengthening brand loyalty and customer investment.

Cameron Watt succinctly encapsulates the direction for future convenience stores: "The c-store of tomorrow is equal parts kitchen, media network, and energy hub." Adaptation and innovation will be essential for operators aiming to meet and exceed consumer expectations over the coming decade.

The full report can be accessed here.

About Intouch Insight

Intouch Insight specializes in helping multi-location brands enhance their operational effectiveness and improve customer satisfaction through analytics-driven insights and mystery shopping solutions, drawing on over four decades of industry experience. With a portfolio of over 300 internationally recognized brands, Intouch continues to lead innovation in the customer experience space. For more details, visit Intouch Insight's website.