Intouch Insight’s 2025 Convenience Store Trends Report Maps the Next-Gen Playbook for Operations & CX Leaders

Made-to-order (MTO) goes mainstream

85% of U.S. shoppers have tried made-to-order food at a convenience store, and hot-meal purchases climbed from 29% in 2024 to 35% in 2025

Foodservice growth raises customer expectations to QSR-levels; Execution benchmarks need to change to capture market share.

Value parity with QSRs

72% now view c-stores as a viable alternative to quick-service restaurants, up from 56% a year ago

Cross-industry competitive meal bundles and pricing analytics are table stakes to protect share-of-stomach.

Loyalty as an engine—if executed

72% of shoppers are in a c-store loyalty program and 85% would join if rewards are personalized, yet cashiers failed to mention loyalty 65% of the time during audits

In-store coaching and prompts can unlock digital engagement, increased loyalty and incremental spend.

Retail media turns screens into salespeople

47% of shoppers noticed digital ads on-site—almost double last year’s 27%—and more than one-third bought because of them

Coordinating content, placement, and measurement converts eye-share into high-margin ad revenue.

EV charging drives incremental visits

20% of consumers choose a store specifically for its EV chargers; Millennials 25-34 over-index at 45%

Longer dwell times create an opportunity for bigger baskets if amenities like food, seating, and Wi-Fi, and service standards meet expectations.

Clean stores, trusted food

70% say overall cleanliness influences whether they believe food is fresh

Consistent standards and audit routines build confidence, repeat visits, and positive reviews.