What’s Trending in the Convenience Food Industry for 2025

As consumer preferences continue to evolve, the convenience store industry is seeing exciting trends emerge, particularly in foodservice. From seasonal flavors to operational innovations, retailers are adapting to meet shifting demands. Based on insights from Datassential’s Spring Trends 2025 Report and C-Store Dive’s industry analysis, here are some key trends helping to shape the landscape this year.

1. The Rise of Spring Limited-Time Offers (LTOs)

Spring 2024 witnessed an unprecedented 27% increase in limited-time seasonal menu items, marking a shift in consumer behavior. May has overtaken April as the prime month for spring LTOs, indicating a growing enthusiasm for seasonal flavors and promotions. C-stores can capitalize on this trend by introducing seasonal sandwiches and snacks featuring trending flavors such as corned beef, beer cheese, and honey mustard.

2. Trending Flavors & Ingredients

Flavor innovation remains a driving force in foodservice, with both savory and sweet profiles gaining traction.

• Savory favorites: Reuben sandwiches, salami, and honey mustard are leading the way.
• Sweet indulgences: Blueberry, white chocolate macadamia, and lavender are dominating desserts.
• Beverage boom: Lemonade has shifted from a summer staple to a springtime essential, making appearances in 83 LTOs. C-stores can take advantage of this trend by offering lemonade-based beverages and seasonal dessert pairings.

3. Capitalizing on Seasonal & Event-Based Promotions

Spring holidays such as Easter, St. Patrick’s Day, and Cinco de Mayo present excellent opportunities for promotions. While March Madness and Derby Day remain underutilized in foodservice, they hold strong potential for consumer engagement. With sports events driving foot traffic, c-stores can introduce game-day bundles or themed menu items to attract customers.

4. Consumer Preferences & Dining Behaviors

Consumers are more open than ever to trying seasonal items, especially when tied to specific occasions. Breakfast and brunch, in particular, continue to be high-performing categories, with dishes like French toast and blueberry-inspired items seeing significant demand. C-stores can differentiate themselves by expanding their morning menus and highlighting limited-time offerings to capture consumer interest.

5. The Evolution of C-Store Foodservice

The convenience store industry is undergoing a transformation, with an increased focus on foodservice quality and variety.

• Hybrid Foodservice Programs: The balance between made-to-order and grab-and-go options is becoming a priority, allowing c-stores to cater to a wider range of customers.
• Operational Enhancements: Leading brands such as 7-Eleven, Casey’s, WaWa, and Sheetz are optimizing their food offerings and store formats to attract more customers. Smaller retailers must leverage community connections to remain competitive.

6. Leveraging Technology & Data for Growth

Technology is playing a growing role in optimizing convenience store operations. AI is gradually being integrated into various aspects of the business, from inventory management to scheduling, helping retailers streamline their operations. Additionally, first-party data is becoming an invaluable asset, with retailers leveraging loyalty programs and online ordering insights to personalize customer experiences and drive sales. By embracing these technological advancements, c-stores can enhance efficiency and build stronger connections with their customers.

For c-stores and foodservice providers, staying ahead means embracing these emerging trends. Whether through innovative seasonal offerings, improved food quality, or data-driven customer insights, the industry is poised for continued evolution. By aligning with these key trends, retailers can enhance their offerings and drive customer engagement in 2025.

Sources:

• Datassential Spring Trends 2025 Report
• C-Store Dive, “9 Trends for C-Stores to Watch in 2025”