What's Happening?
Convenience stores are increasingly becoming popular meal destinations, according to Grubhub's 2025 Delivered Report. The report highlights a shift in consumer preferences towards hot, protein-forward,
grab-and-go foods such as taquitos, chicken rollers, and hot dogs. This trend marks a departure from 2024, where made-to-order hotdogs, bananas, and sodas were the most popular items. The report also notes that 85% of consumers have tried made-to-order food from convenience stores. Companies like 7-Eleven, Weigel's, and Casey's are enhancing their food offerings, with 7-Eleven planning to focus on food in its 1,300 new U.S. stores. The trend, termed 'foodmaxxing' by Grubhub, reflects a cultural shift towards meals and snacks designed for maximum nutritional value and aesthetic appeal.
Why It's Important?
The transformation of convenience stores into dining hubs signifies a significant shift in the food retail landscape. This change could impact traditional restaurants as consumers increasingly opt for the convenience and variety offered by these stores. The focus on protein-rich, grab-and-go foods aligns with current consumer trends towards health-conscious eating and functional foods. This shift could lead to increased competition among food retailers and drive innovation in food offerings. Additionally, the emphasis on 'foodmaxxing' highlights the growing importance of nutritional value and social media appeal in consumer food choices, potentially influencing future product development and marketing strategies.
What's Next?
As convenience stores continue to evolve into dining hubs, they may further expand their foodservice capabilities to meet consumer demand. This could involve introducing more diverse and health-oriented menu options, as well as enhancing in-store dining experiences. Retailers might also invest in technology to streamline food preparation and ordering processes. The trend could prompt traditional restaurants to adapt by offering more convenient and health-focused options to retain their customer base. Additionally, the growing popularity of 'foodmaxxing' may lead to increased collaboration between convenience stores and food manufacturers to develop innovative products that meet consumer expectations for taste, nutrition, and visual appeal.
