Recent Datassential insights highlight seven foodservice segments driving growth across c-stores right now. What connects them? Each one translates seamlessly into high-quality, craveable, operationally reliable grab-and-go formats. Here’s how operators can tap into the momentum:
𝟭. 𝗛𝗮𝗻𝗱𝗵𝗲𝗹𝗱 𝗙𝗹𝗮𝘃𝗼𝗿 𝗕𝘂𝗶𝗹𝗱𝗲𝗿𝘀
Burritos continue to dominate, with 83% of consumers expressing strong interest. They deliver portability, value, and customization.
Try: Offer tightly wrapped, consistent builds that hold up in hot or cold cases. Keep a reliable protein core and rotate bold sauces or global flavors seasonally to add excitement without operational strain.
𝟮. 𝗙𝗿𝗲𝘀𝗵-𝗕𝗮𝗸𝗲𝗱 𝗘𝘀𝘀𝗲𝗻𝘁𝗶𝗮𝗹𝘀
Bakery remains a powerful traffic driver, from indulgent pastries to everyday staples.
Try: Lean into single-serve packaging to boost visual impact. Cross-merchandise with coffee or breakfast sandwiches to increase average ticket.
𝟯. 𝗘𝘃𝗲𝗿𝘆𝗱𝗮𝘆 𝗖𝗵𝗶𝗰𝗸𝗲𝗻 𝗙𝗮𝘃𝗼𝗿𝗶𝘁𝗲𝘀
Chicken hits the sweet spot between value and craveability.
Try: Boxed tender meals or snackable protein packs provide all-day versatility. Highlight freshness and quality on packaging to stand out.
𝟰. 𝗖𝗼𝗳𝗳𝗲𝗲 𝗢𝗻-𝘁𝗵𝗲-𝗠𝗼𝘃𝗲
Coffee continues to rebound as a dependable daypart anchor.
Try: Simplify the self-serve flow so food and coffee can be grabbed in one path. Rotate seasonal flavors to drive repeat visits.
𝟱. 𝗣𝗲𝗿𝘀𝗼𝗻𝗮𝗹 𝗣𝗶𝘇𝘇𝗮 𝗦𝗼𝗹𝘂𝘁𝗶𝗼𝗻𝘀
Consumers want better crust, elevated toppings, and true convenience.
Try: Personal-size pizzas in vented hot-hold packaging to maintain quality. Introduce monthly specialty builds to create differentiation.
𝟲. 𝗛𝗼𝘁-𝗖𝗮𝘀𝗲 𝗖𝗹𝗮𝘀𝘀𝗶𝗰𝘀 𝘄𝗶𝘁𝗵 𝗮 𝗧𝘄𝗶𝘀𝘁
Roller grill innovation is bringing new energy to familiar formats.
Try: Pre-wrapped signature builds to improve portability and cleanliness. Keep the hot case full, fresh, and visually appealing to build trust.
𝟳. 𝗛𝗲𝗮𝘁-𝗗𝗿𝗶𝘃𝗲𝗻 𝗦𝗮𝗻𝗱𝘄𝗶𝗰𝗵 𝗙𝗮𝘃𝗼𝗿𝗶𝘁𝗲𝘀
Spicy continues to trend across dayparts.
Try: Hot-honey chicken, chipotle turkey, or jalapeño breakfast builds. Offer multiple heat levels balanced with cooling sauces for broad appeal.
At OLM Food Solutions, we help operators bring these categories to life with craveable, scalable programs, product development to branded design and operational support.
If you’re planning your 2026 food strategy, let’s connect.
