With strategic collaboration between CPG brands and convenience retailers on the rise, brands should be seeking out every competitive advantage possible. But do you have the right combination of experience, expertise, and data-driven insights to get closer to your c-store retail partners?

Extracting valuable insights from data can reveal new ways to make a bigger splash in the convenience channel. Whether your goal is to speed up your decision-making, optimize your marketing strategy, or grow your revenue, data-driven insights are key to your success.

Start with these five steps to leverage data about consumer behaviors, industry trends, and market gaps to gain a competitive advantage in the convenience channel.

1. Get to know c-store customers better

C-store shoppers are unique from consumers across different retail channels. Getting to know their preferences and behaviors helps you create more personalized offers and services.

• Drill down into consumer behaviors: C-store shoppers prioritize convenience. Think fast grab-and-go purchases like beverages, snacks, and quick meals. Use data analytics tools to track foot traffic patterns and daypart activity to identify peak shopping times—then customize your promotions with your top impulse purchase products.
• Pinpoint individual preferences: Go deeper to determine who is buying which products at what times—and how varying your offers can impact purchasing frequency and sales. For example, are you seeing trends that could lead to potential product gaps, expansions, or growth areas?

2. Optimize your marketing campaigns

The more you know what c-store customers want and how they behave, you can engage with them much more effectively.

• Get hyper-personal: Data analytics and metrics help you track campaign performance, right down to individual promotions so you can reach shoppers with the right offers at the right time. Track what content and channels resonate with key audiences, then create highly targeted messages that boost engagement for greater impact.
• Refine your product mix: Use data-driven insights to help identify the right product mix for individual stores based on local demand, optimizing product placement for maximum visibility. Continually watch for new market trends, changing behaviors, and unmet needs to drive product innovation.

3. Enhance your operational efficiency

Beyond customer analysis and marketing campaigns, you can also use data-driven insights to optimize your operations and reduce costs.

• Peer into the future: Leverage data analytics to better anticipate demand, so you can avoid stockouts and overstocking. Modern predictive analytics based on historical data and machine learning analysis are great for honing your forecasts to help manage inventory.
• Tighten supply chain management: Do you have access to data that can help you identify bottlenecks in your distribution channels or gaps in inventory management? Understanding price elasticity, seasonal patterns, and shifting regional demands can also help you optimize your operations.

4. Boost your profitability

When the goal of business is to make money, increasing your profitability should always be a top priority. This is yet another area where reliable, real-time data can help ensure sustainable financial success.

• Create new revenue streams: Deeper analysis of key market trends can reveal new opportunities to differentiate your products and campaigns. Use this analysis to segment more effectively, optimize pricing, improve conversion rates, and boost overall sales performance.
• Maximize profitability: Do you have access to competitive data? If so, you can closely track your competitors, benchmark your performance, and adjust your product pricing strategies to increase profitability, even when facing a wide range of dynamic market conditions.

5. Strengthen your convenience retail partnerships

If you can accomplish steps 1-4, you’ll be well on your way to building stronger relationships with your c-store partners. But there are additional ways to collaborate for mutual benefit.

• Hone your retail strategy: Share your data-backed insights with your convenience retail partners to reveal the value of your products and brand. Provide trustworthy data that convinces them to elevate your products with priority placement and promotion.
• Get the complete picture: Using location data helps you work more strategically with c-stores to align your merchandizing efforts and promotions based on a common understanding of shopper behavior and preferences. And don’t forget about data from independent operators, which can give you a much more comprehensive view of the entire convenience channel.

Get started today

Make sure you’re maximizing the full value of your data-driven insights in the convenience retail market. If you need an experienced partner to help you collaborate with top retailers, PDI experts can help you get there faster. Contact us.

Want a fast way to catch up on the latest trends and news from across the fuel and convenience industry? Watch the May Connections Live Quarterly webinar! 

Three of PDI’s top industry experts shared their insights and answered participants’ questions in the latest installment of our quarterly live event. Here’s a summary of what they covered. 

Convenience industry snapshot 

PDI CMO Bethany Allee highlighted some fascinating statistics and evolving consumer behaviors from the 2025 “Pulse of Convenience” report. 

She covered areas such as how the price of fuel impacts both fuel and in-store trips, and she explained why prepared foodservice is such a powerful growth opportunity for operators. 

Bethany also noted that with 58% of c-store operators bullish on their business outlook for 2025, continued investment in digital transformation remains a business imperative for growth and differentiation. 

Lastly, Bethany addressed the top business concerns for both chains and independent operators: staffing challenges and labor costs. To learn more about these workforce trends, download our latest guide, “Staffing Success: The C-Store Workforce Guide.”  

Be sure to follow Bethany (@CStoreCMO) on X. 

GasBuddy travel forecast and other news 

In the second segment of the webinar, Patrick De Haan , VP and Head of Petroleum Analysis at GasBuddy, shared the latest updates from GasBuddy and previewed the 2025 travel season. 

With GasBuddy celebrating its 25^th anniversary as one of the most trusted platforms for consumers looking for the best gas prices, c-store reviews, and offers, Patrick highlighted findings from the GasBuddy 2025 Summer Travel Survey. 

Predictions for the summer season include lower average US gas prices in 2025 ($3.08) compared to 2024 ($3.58). In fact, the forecast cited the lowest inflation-adjusted summer gas prices since 2003. Check out the survey details here. 

You can watch more of Patrick on “What’s up at the pump?” or follow him (@gasbuddyguy) on X. 

Retail threat landscape 

In the third segment of the webinar, Dan Hoban, EVP, Field Services, covered the broader cybersecurity threat landscape with insights from the PDI Q1 2025 Threat Landscape Report. 

One key item to note for c-stores is that retail jumped from the eighth-most targeted sector to the fourth-most targeted industry sector between 2024 and 2025. Much of that rise was driven by a sudden surge in ransomware attacks—up by nearly 75% from Q4 2024. 

To help address the spike in ransomware, Dan noted the increasing value of ongoing security awareness training to keep all employees prepared, a method shown to help reduce phishing clicks by up to 50%. 

You can hear more from Dan on the recent “SOCaaS and AI: The Power Duo for Predictive Cybersecurity” webinar. 

Register now for Connections Live 2025!

Don’t miss the industry’s premier training and networking event—join us for all the action in Denver, CO from August 24-27.

Register Today

Picture this: a customer walks into your store at 7 AM, coffee-deprived and running late, but instead of grabbing a sugary energy drink, they’re scanning your shelves for something that will fuel their body and their goals. Welcome to the new era of convenience retail, where “grab-and-go” is getting a serious wellness makeover.

The health and wellness opportunity—and challenge

Sure, you’re still competing with that c-store across the street and the big-box retailer down the road. But your biggest competition might actually be your customers’ own health aspirations. And guess what? That creates a big opportunity if you’re ready to embrace the change.

The numbers don’t lie—Americans are seriously committed to leveling up their wellness game. According to CapitalOne Shopping Research, 85% of consumers are actually reading nutritional labels, and 77% want to eat healthier. Even more telling? 68% are motivated by the promise of feeling better and having more energy. We’re talking about consumers who want to make better choices—they just need you to make it easier for them.

So, what’s the catch? Sixty percent of consumers say they’d eat healthier if nutritious foods weren’t so expensive, and 54% are desperately seeking easier access to affordable healthy options. That means there’s a massive gap in the market just waiting for the right c-store to fill it.

Your new favorite customers: Millennials and Gen Zers

Here’s where the generational demographics get interesting. The Millennials and Gen Zers walking through your doors? They’re not just buying snacks—they’re investing in their wellness.

Despite making up only 36% of the adult population in the US, they’re driving over 41% of annual wellness spending. Meanwhile, older consumers (age 58+) represent 35% of the population but only 28% of wellness spending.

For c-stores, this is like finding a treasure map with a giant “X” marking your demographic sweet spot (only it’s not Generation X). These younger consumers want fast, convenient access to health-conscious brands, and they’re willing to pay for it.

The wellness landscape: it’s personal

As consumers move beyond one-size-fits-all approaches, they’re focusing on holistic well-being that encompasses their mental, physical, and emotional health. They want solutions that fit their unique lifestyles, and that’s where your store can shine.

With prepared foodservice purchases at c-stores rising 16.3% in 2024, it’s clear that customers see convenience stores as legitimate food destinations. Here’s how to capitalize on that momentum:

• Expand your foodservice game: Move beyond the hot dog roller and the microwave. Fresh fruits, pre-cut produce, grab-and-go salads, yogurt parfaits, and fresh meal kits are what healthy consumers want.
• Offer smarter snacks: Stock up on protein-packed, fiber-rich snacks with healthy fats so your customers can feel better about their impulse purchases.
• Go plant-based: Even carnivores are curious about new plant-based alternatives, so give them some new options to explore.
• Make wellness more affordable: Don’t let price be the barrier to good health. Offer budget-friendly “health food” products that prove that wellness doesn’t have to break the bank.
• Champion gut health: Probiotic drinks, prebiotic snacks, and high-fiber options are having a moment—and shoppers are devouring them.

Your 3-step action plan

Ready to transform your store into a wellness destination? Here’s a roadmap to get you started:

1. Collaborate with purpose: Team up with health-focused CPG brands that understand the natural and organic market. These partnerships give you access to high-quality products and the expertise to market them effectively. Sweeten the deal with discounts and bundles that encourage customers to try new healthy options.
2. Promote “better-for-you” products: Strategic merchandising is your secret weapon. Smart shelf labeling, eye-catching signage, and flexible product placement can turn browsers into buyers. Educate your shoppers about health benefits—they’ll appreciate the guidance.
3. Create a more inviting environment: Your store should feel as healthy as the products you’re selling. Clean, well-maintained spaces with attractive displays make healthy choices more appealing. Remember, environment greatly influences purchasing behavior.

The bottom line

The wellness revolution isn’t coming—it’s already here and it’s happening at convenience stores. Your health-conscious customers are ready to make your store their go-to destination for convenient wellness solutions.

By embracing this trend and personalizing your approach to health-conscious consumers, you can meet the demand while building loyalty, driving profitability, and positioning your store as an essential part of your customers’ wellness journey.

Sources:

• CapitalOne Shopping Research
• McKinsey & Company

One of the most common questions I get about PDI Connections Live is why it makes sense to send multiple people from one company. I admit that’s a good question to ask, especially when budgets are tight. 

My typical response is that the focus on in-depth training for this conference makes it unique in our industry. When you invest in PDI solutions, you clearly want to maximize your investment. The best way to do that is to become as proficient with those solutions as possible. 

Our goal at Connections Live 2025 is to deliver the deep technical training your organization needs to thrive. This year, that includes: 

• 160+ classes 

• 86 advanced-level classes 

• 26 hands-on classes 

• 24-hour networking labs 

• Almost unlimited peer networking opportunities 

A proven history of team training 

That covers why someone would want to attend. To answer why anyone would send multiple people, I lean on the feedback we’ve received from previous attendees. In the early years of the conference, we discovered that team training became a force multiplier for many organizations. 

Instead of attendees overlapping with each other and diminishing the overall training experience, we kept hearing how organizations were seeing even greater value by sending a full team. By working in groups, attendees can apply their shared knowledge and learn from each other’s diverse experiences as they: 

• Build practical, real-world technical skills 

• Collaborate more effectively 

• Exchange best practices 

• Learn directly from PDI product experts 

• Cross-train across roles for greater versatility 

In addition, we offer multiple full role-based tracks for attendees. If you want to send different employees focused on wholesale, technology, accounting, pricebook, loyalty, or security, there’s a unique track for each attendee. 

Big savings with Group Discount Bundles 

Team training is so important that we offer a Group Discount for any organization or parent company that sends multiple attendees to Connections Live 2025. Here’s how much you can save: 

You can get all the details about Group Discount Bundles here. 

Please note that you must purchase your bundle by June 15. 

Savings for individual attendees 

If you want to attend Connections Live 2025 but aren’t part of a group, you can still save big: 

• Use the Early-Bird Discount to save $400 off the standard conference rate 

• Register ASAP, because this discount ends on June 30 

If you have any questions about Group Discount Bundles or Connections Live in general, just let us know at: connectionslive@pditechnologies.com. 

We can’t wait to see you this August in Denver! 

Check out what your peers think 

Sign up today

Register now for Connections Live 2025!

What: PDI Connections Live 2025
When: August 24-27
Where: Gaylord Rockies Resort in Denver, CO

Your convenience store isn’t just competing with the shop down the street anymore—it’s competing with mobile ordering, delivery apps, and any retail site that considers itself part of the ever-changing face of convenience. 

In this crowded landscape, throwing marketing dollars around won’t necessarily grow your business and it doesn’t make financial sense. What does? Laser-focused targeted marketing that delivers an impressive, verifiable ROI. 

The magic number: understanding marketing ROI 

Marketing ROI tells you how much money you’re making or losing due to your marketing efforts. It effectively shows you whether your marketing tactics are working. The industry benchmark for decent ROI ratio is between 5:1 and 9:1, depending on the channel ($X earned for every $Y spent), while marketing superstars hit 10:1 or higher. If your current efforts aren’t approaching these numbers, it’s time for a strategy makeover.  

The ingredients for targeted marketing success 

Think of targeted marketing like a gourmet meal from a personal chef rather than fast food for the masses. When properly prepared, these ingredients create something irresistible: 

• Loyalty programs that actually work: Your repeat customers aren’t just familiar faces—they’re spending machines who buy 29% more on average than first-timers. A well-crafted loyalty program helps transform occasional shoppers into daily devotees. 

• High-margin items: Not all products are created equal in the profit department. Targeted marketing subtly guides customers toward items that pad your bottom line the most. 

• Engagement that goes beyond transactions: When your marketing feels personally crafted for each customer, they notice. You’re not just collecting data—you’re building relationships that translate into revenue gains. 

• Data as your secret weapon: Your POS system shouldn’t just process payments when it’s sitting on a potential gold mine of customer insights. When you harness this information correctly, you won’t have to guess what works—you’ll already know. 

What to avoid: potholes on the road to ROI success 

Even the best marketing plans can hit some bumps: 

• The startup investment reality: Yes, good targeted marketing requires upfront investment in technology and training. But think of it as buying a fishing rod instead of a single fish—the long-term returns make the initial pain worthwhile. 

• The “wing it” approach: Launching campaigns without proper planning is like baking without measuring ingredients—sometimes you end up with something edible but rarely delicious. Take the time to develop your campaigns with purpose. 

• The unpredictable external world: Consumer trends shift faster than ever. External factors will always disrupt your best-planned campaigns, making flexibility critical. 

• Navigating without metrics: If you can’t measure it, you can’t improve it. Without proper tracking tools, you’re essentially wearing a blindfold while trying to hit a bullseye. 

What to do: your 5-step ROI optimization roadmap 

1. Get to know your customers: Identify distinct customer segments and treat them like the unique shoppers they are. The person buying energy drinks at 7 AM needs different messaging than the late-night ice cream emergency shopper. Then segment and continue to refine segmentation. 

2. Set goals with teeth: Vague aspirations get vague results. Set specific, measurable targets that leave no doubt about success or failure. 

3. Budget like you mean it: Align your spending with realistic expectations. Remember that underfunding great ideas is just as problematic as overfunding mediocre ones. 

4. Choose your channels wisely: Whether it’s mobile apps, email, in-store signage, or social media—select platforms where your customers already engage. 

5. Monitor, adjust, repeat: Treat your targeted marketing initiatives like a living organism that needs regular check-ups and TLC to stay healthy. 

How to spot ROI success 

You can find the proof of targeted marketing in these concrete results: 

• Revenue jumps: McKinsey wasn’t just making small talk when they found personalization can boost revenue by up to 15%. Those are real dollars in your real bank account. 

• Marketing efficiency: Watch your marketing dollars work smarter, not harder, as you replace scattershot approaches with precision targeting. 

• Customer loyalty: When customers feel seen and understood, they don’t just come back—they bring their friends and family with them. 

• Lower customer acquisition costs: Keeping existing customers happy can slash acquisition costs by up to 50%. That’s not just savings—it’s transformation. 

In a world where convenience is everywhere, targeted marketing isn’t just smart—it’s survival against your strongest competition. By focusing your efforts, measuring what matters, and continuously refining your approach, you can turn targeted marketing into one of your store’s most profitable investments. 

Connecting Convenience

Watch the May Connections Live Quarterly webinar, a free 60-minute webinar for PDI customers and other professionals in the energy and convenience ecosystem.  

In this recording, PDI industry experts discuss: 

• Industry trends and insights from our recent “Pulse of Convenience Report”
• News on GasBuddy’s 25th Anniversary
• Current security threat vectors targeting specific industries and organizations across the US
• Open registration for Connections Live 2025 in Denver, CO this August

Did you miss the March webinar? Watch it now.

Meet the Presenters

Bethany Allee

CMO, PDI Technologies

Patrick De Haan

VP, Head of Petroleum Analysis, GasBuddy

Dan Hoban

EVP, Field Services, PDI Technologies 

Are you ready for another year of the industry’s premier training and networking event? That’s right. We’re already in full preparation mode for PDI Connections Live 2025.

This year, we’re returning to one of our most popular destinations—the Gaylord Rockies Resort in Denver, Colorado. If you’ve been there previously, you won’t believe the amazing upgrades they’ve made. And, if you’ve never stayed at the resort, you’re in for a treat.

At last year’s conference in Washington, DC, we hosted over 1000 attendees representing the full spectrum of roles from across the fuel and convenience ecosystem. This year we’re ramping up the training with even more classes, including exactly what you’ve asked for: more hands-on and advanced training.

If you’re looking to build your technical skills, expand your knowledge, and make valuable industry connections, this info-packed event is right up your alley.

What to expect (for new attendees)

If you haven’t attended one of our previous conferences—or you attended way back in the pre-COVID years—our focus is on delivering an immersive 4-day learning experience with:

• Classes and tracks for different roles and levels of experience
• Hands-on training to match your specific needs
• Networking to get 1:1 assistance from PDI technical experts
• Industry leadership tips and best practices

And that’s just for the training element of the conference. The other key focus area is helping you make impactful connections with:

• Speed networking sessions where you can get to know other attendees with similar interests
• An Expo area where you can mix with PDI experts and industry vendors
• Casual networking events like the Welcome Reception, Game Night, and Big Night Out (our customer appreciation party)

What’s new for 2025

We love all your feedback and recommendations for making Connections Live as valuable as possible. After all, this customer-driven conference depends on your active participation. Based on what you’ve requested, this year’s conference will include:

• Additional advanced-level classes
• More hands-on training opportunities
• New ways to influence the PDI product strategy
• A greater focus on loyalty and CPG brand/retailer collaboration

How to get the best conference rate

If you plan to join us in Denver, be sure to get the best rate. Here are two ways to save big:

• Individuals: Use the Super Early-Bird Discount  to save $600 off the standard conference rate. This discount ends on May 31, so register soon!
• Groups: If your company sends 5 to 9 attendees, you can save $700 per person. If you send 10 or more, you can save $800 per person. You must purchase your Group Discount Bundle by June 15.

Find more PDI resources

In addition to our annual Connections Live conference, we’ve recently broadened the overall PDI Connections experience with:

• Support resources, forums, and knowledge exchange on the PDI Connections online platform
• Live training courses, on-demand videos, user group conversations, and thought leadership resources on PDI University (an All-Access Pass unlocks nearly limitless opportunities for your entire organization)
• Connections Live Quarterly events to keep you up to speed on the latest news and industry trends

I hope to see you in Denver!

Sign up today

Register now for Connections Live 2025!

What: PDI Connections Live 2025
When: August 24-27
Where: Gaylord Rockies Resort in Denver, CO

Interested in becoming a sponsor for Connections Live 2025?
A few remaining sponsorship spots are available. Please reach out to us if you’d like to explore a conference sponsorship opportunity.

In today’s rapidly evolving retail landscape, convenience stores have been a fairly remarkable success story. As the fastest-growing retail channel in the US with 1.5% year-over-year growth between 2023 and 2024, c-stores continue to demonstrate strong resilience and adaptability.

Whether you’re a c-store operator, CPG-focused brand manager, or an advertiser, our recent “Pulse of Convenience” report offers an in-depth look at the trends, challenges, and opportunities shaping the convenience retail industry for 2025 and beyond.

Industry strength amid economic pressures

The c-store sector maintains an impressive retail footprint with over 150,000 locations across the US alone, serving approximately 1,100 shoppers per day at each site. While sales experienced some declines in 2024 compared to 2023, profitability remained strong thanks to a 4.1% rise in average unit prices.

One surprising development is how closely consumer behavior now correlates with fuel prices, with PDI data revealing a strong positive correlation between gas prices and both fuel and in-store trips.

A shift in customer expectations

Also notable is how an increasing number of c-store shoppers are seeking more than just fuel and basic necessities. Foodservice has emerged as a major growth opportunity for c-stores, with prepared meals showing an impressive 16.3% increase in 2024.

This shift toward foodservice is already transforming c-stores into destination points rather than just quick stops, especially as they invest in mobile technologies for ordering, payments, and even deliveries, essentially following more of a restaurant model.

The growing technology imperative

Behind the scenes, digital transformation continues to reshape the c-store customer experience. From AI-powered inventory management to personalized loyalty programs, technology adoption has become a critical differentiator in the market.

The report highlights several growth opportunities, including frictionless checkout systems, enhanced loyalty programs, alternative revenue streams, and improved cybersecurity measures—all crucial considerations for operators looking to stay competitive.

Consumer insights worth noting

Peering into the consumer mindset, data reveals that 67% of all US shoppers visit a c-store once a week or more, with 38% visiting more than twice a week. So, what’s driving these consumers to make such frequent visits?

Beyond the foundational level of convenience, the following perceived benefits are driving the most c-store visits:

• Loyalty programs (37%)
• Ease of payment (36%)
• Food options (27%)

Payment preferences continue to evolve as well, with debit cards leading both in usage and preference, followed by credit cards and cash. Surprisingly, digital wallets like Apple Pay and Google Pay account for only 5% of transactions, indicating significant room for growth in this area.

Looking forward

With 58% of convenience store operators feeling optimistic about their business for 2025, the industry outlook remains positive despite lingering challenges like staffing concerns (cited by 46% of operators as their top business challenge) and economic uncertainties such as inflation and potential tariffs.

For a comprehensive analysis of the convenience retail landscape and actionable insights you can use to propel your business forward, download your own copy of this free report.

Download the Report

Register now for Connections Live 2025!

Don’t miss the industry’s premier training and networking event—join us for all the action in Denver, CO from August 24-27.

Register Today

The stereotype of convenience stores being little more than a pit stop for questionable hot dogs and stale coffee is long gone. Sure, you might occasionally experience a c-store that’s seen better days, but many have transformed themselves from once-humble establishments into full-blown lifestyle destinations.

Why? Competition. In addition to competing against their peers, today’s c-stores are going up against groceries, quick service restaurants, and other specialty retailers. That intensified competition is like iron sharpening iron—it’s forcing c-stores to bring their “A” games and redefine how the world defines “convenience.”

Forward-thinking convenience stores aren’t just selling products these days. They’re selling experiences, lifestyles, and maybe even a little bit of magic.

In turn, a robust and thriving convenience channel is great news for Consumer Packaged Goods (CPG) brands looking for ways to better understand modern consumers, trial new products, and collaborate more effectively for greater profitability.

Here are six areas where c-store evolution is already benefitting CPG brands.

1. Healthier options

Remember when “healthy” at a convenience store meant choosing the banana over the candy? Well, health-conscious choices are now front and center. We’re talking kombucha on tap, fresh-pressed juices, and protein bowls that would make your gym trainer weep with joy. Imagine if someone dropped a Whole Foods into your local 7-Eleven and hit the blend button!

2. Digital transformation

Integrating the digital experience has turned your smartphone into a convenience store magic wand. Loyalty apps are dishing out offers faster than you can say “BOGO energy drinks.” It’s like having a tiny, highly caffeinated personal shopper right in the palm of your hand. And let’s not forget about those self-checkout kiosks, because nothing says “convenience” like being able to avoid small talk at 2 AM.

3. Compelling experiences

Now, brace yourself for this bombshell: convenience stores are becoming…wait for it…experiential. I get it. “Experiential” in the context of c-stores used to mean avoiding a sketchy bathroom. But we’re talking next-level experiences now. Think in-store cafes, wine tastings, and even live music.

4. Sustainability everywhere

And for all you eco-warriors, sustainability is no longer just a buzzword—it’s the new normal. Biodegradable packaging, locally sourced products, and enough reusable bags to make sea turtles applaud. The attitude is far beyond green—it’s downright emerald.

5. Truly convenient services

Here’s where things get really wild. Convenience is being redefined faster than you can say “contactless payment.” Delivery services and curbside pickup have turned your local QuikTrip into a drive-thru for, well, basically everything. Did you forget to pick up milk, diapers, and a phone charger? No problem—they’ll be at your doorstep before you can finish your latest binge-watch on Netflix.

6. Personalization

Last but not least, we can’t forget about personalization. Today’s c-stores are getting to know you better than your own mother. Tailored offers, real-time promotions, and customized recommendations—it might feel as if they’ve got a crystal ball powered by your purchase history. “Why, yes, I do want to add a protein bar to my usual 3 PM coffee run. Are you psychic?”

Big opportunities for CPG brands

For CPG brands, this is your wake-up call. The convenience game has changed, and it’s time to level up. If you can ride this wave of transformation—health-conscious options, digital integration, compelling experiences, and personalization—you’ll be laughing all the way to the bank.

Yes, the humble convenience store has undergone a metamorphosis. It’s no longer just a stop on the way to somewhere else—it’s become the destination.

So, the next time you walk into your local c-store, take a moment to appreciate the miracle of a modern retail evolution happening right before your eyes. And maybe grab a cold-pressed juice while you’re at it.

Download “2025 Pulse of Convenience Report” 

Convenience stores were the fastest-growing retail channel in the US from 2023 to 2024.

Despite this success, industry challenges remain. Inflation continues to be a concern, along with the potential impact of tariffs, supply chain disruptions, and other macro-economic factors. 

Inside c-stores consumers are increasingly seeking healthier choices and expanded foodservice, and younger generations are prioritizing digital payments over credit cards and cash. 

These challenges make it clear that convenience stores need to continually evolve. The question is, how? 

In our new report, we provide insights on the state of the convenience retail industry to help you understand: 

Key c-store facts

Current consumer trends

Opportunities for growth

Download the report, then connect with PDI experts to learn how to maximize your technology investment.