Charging Stations
It is no secret that the electric vehicle (EV) revolution is looming, and C-stores are preparing for this future boom by implementing EV charging station initiatives or creating plans to do so in the future. In early 2023, the number of EVs on the road in the U.S. reached 3 million, and this number has continued to climb. These EV drivers present a unique opportunity to draw significant amounts of revenue. While they are leading to slight decreases in gas sales in certain areas with high EV density, 80% of EV drivers shop while they charge their vehicles.
These sales stem from the fact that EVs typically have lengthy required charging times, and drivers have little to do during these road trip interruptions other than head inside of the C-store and browse. Revenues are especially high due to the demographic that most commonly purchases EVs. So far, EV adopters have primarily been established, wealthy men living in tech-savvy hot spots. This means that these drivers can spend their money with less evaluation of alternatives or risk of post-purchase dissonance.
KPS Global® is working to cater to the influx in EV charging stations by creating a shopping opportunity similar to impulse purchases in the grocery store checkout line. Our new product, the RefreshRecharge Cooler, does just this. This new product will offer an opportunity to increase the percentage of drivers who make additional purchases while charging by making merchandise even more accessible. These coolers put beverages at consumers fingertips – without forcing them to go inside the store.
Third Store Food Service
The COVID-19 pandemic and resulting influx in remote work created an enhanced need for fast and convenient food options. Implementing third store foodservice within existing C-stores has taken advantage of this market. 60% of consumers consider convenience stores to be food destinations, with 25% of people regularly stopping in for lunch. In fact, foodservice is expected to be the fastest growing sector of the C-store industry with a CAGR of 6.4%. With this impressive source of foot traffic, NACS has reported that 91% of C-stores will invest in their foodservice programs between 2023 and 2024.
Consumers who are taking advantage of these new and improved programs favor a variety of options from healthy, plant-based meals and big flavors to simple, nostalgic favorites. They also are searching for both hot food and take-home items. Generally, these purchases are made during typical lunch hours. This means that visits are often rushed as consumers value efficiency during their limited lunch breaks, so they need any C-store food offerings to be easily accessible.
To further boost the ease of purchasing C-store food, companies are integrating online ordering systems. A top C-store competitor saw a 25% boost in sales following their implementation of online orders. Systems like these not only drive revenue, but they also decrease labor costs and allow improved, efficient customer service.
KPS Global is a smart choice for walk-ins for foodservice in convenience stores. Our foodservice walk-ins are NSF approved for food safety for splash zones.
Operational Efficiency
Customer Experience and Layout Customization
C-stores are placing an increased emphasis on unique layouts to optimize customer experience. In an industry that has traditionally seen copy-and-pasted store layouts based on the largest chains, smaller companies are beginning to value layouts that play into their differentiators and region-specific customer needs.
For C-stores striving to stand out, KPS Global offers more than just standardized walk-in coolers and freezers. With KPS Global, walk-ins can be carefully customized to meet exact project specifications. From a variety of metal finishes, sizes and shapes to a wide range of components like door hardware, ramps, glass doors and lighting, any vision can be made a reality. No layout is too complex for KPS Global.
Conclusion
When working in a dynamic industry, like convenience stores, it is important to pay attention to trends that can boost profitability. KPS Global is experienced in the industry and has the knowledge to identify the correct cooler and freezer solution for your unique project needs. Contact our experts today for more information.
