What's Happening?
McLane Co. Inc., a major distributor, has introduced HiBird, a premium fried chicken program aimed at convenience stores. The program was unveiled at McLane's annual trade show in New Orleans and is designed to offer a competitive alternative to fast-food chicken chains. HiBird features Southern-style breaded chicken that can be prepared using traditional deep fryers or rapid-cook ovens, making it versatile for various store setups. The program also includes side offerings like white cheddar mac and cheese and crispy potato wedges, which are designed to maintain quality when held hot for extended periods. McLane aims to position convenience stores as viable competitors to quick-service restaurants (QSRs) by offering fresh and prepared food options.
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Why It's Important?
The introduction of HiBird represents a strategic move by McLane to capture market share from established fast-food chains. By enhancing the foodservice offerings in convenience stores, McLane is challenging the traditional perception of these stores as places for quick snacks and drinks. This initiative could lead to increased foot traffic and sales for convenience stores, potentially reshaping consumer habits and expectations. The move also highlights the growing trend of convenience stores expanding their fresh food options, which could impact the competitive landscape of the foodservice industry.
What's Next?
As HiBird rolls out, convenience stores will likely evaluate its performance against existing fast-food options. McLane's collaboration with retail partners to ensure financial success suggests that pricing strategies and marketing efforts will be crucial in attracting customers. The success of HiBird could prompt other distributors and convenience stores to innovate and expand their foodservice offerings, further intensifying competition with QSRs.
