What's Happening?
The 2025 NACS Show, held at McCormick Place in Chicago, showcased significant trends in the convenience store industry, focusing on retail media and protein products. Retail media emerged as a strategic
priority, with technology providers exploring new advertising touchpoints such as self-checkout stations and food-ordering kiosks. Companies like Brinks and Altaine are integrating digital displays into ATMs and foodservice software, respectively, to monetize store spaces. Additionally, the show highlighted a rise in non-combustible nicotine products, with nicotine pouches gaining popularity as smoking rates decline. The bakery sector also saw innovation with portable, single-serve items, while protein products were prominently featured, including new offerings like Bucked Up protein drinks and Kind Protein Max bars.
Why It's Important?
The developments at the NACS Show reflect broader shifts in consumer preferences and technological advancements within the convenience store sector. The emphasis on retail media indicates a growing trend towards digital transformation, allowing stores to enhance customer engagement and increase revenue through targeted advertising. The rise of nicotine pouches suggests a shift in consumer habits away from traditional smoking, presenting new opportunities for tobacco companies to diversify their product lines. The focus on protein products aligns with increasing consumer demand for health-conscious options, driven in part by the popularity of weight loss drugs. These trends could significantly impact convenience store operations, influencing product offerings and marketing strategies.
What's Next?
As these trends continue to evolve, convenience stores may increasingly adopt digital advertising solutions to capitalize on retail media opportunities. The growing popularity of nicotine pouches could lead to further product innovation and expansion in the non-combustible tobacco market. Additionally, the demand for protein-rich products is likely to drive continued product development and diversification, catering to health-conscious consumers. Retailers may need to adapt their inventory and marketing strategies to align with these emerging consumer preferences and technological advancements.
