A new year brings new trends in all sectors, and our industry is no exception. Industry operators have adapted their services and 2022 brings hope that normal life will return and that they will continue to do what they do best: thrive and adapt to be at the top of their game.
Here are some of the top trends we see taking operators forward into 2022 in a world still impacted by the pandemic:
Top Tech Trends
CONTACTLESS ORDERING & BOPIS
With understaffed stores and an increase in consumer demand, retailers are beginning to turn to a more viable solution – technology. The trend to invest in technologies that power end-to-end store management, labor automation, and alternative checkout options will grow in 2022. These technology solutions will allow employees to have better interactions with customers to enhance their in-store experience. Shoppers can also continue to enjoy their preferred shopping methods which often hinge on convenience, whether that’s in-store, contactless, buy online pickup in-store (BOPIS), or online.
VEHICLE CHARGING STATIONS
Electrification will inevitably continue and put pressure on the c-store industry. Hybrid vehicles make the most long-term sense as a transition period. With this on the foreseeable horizon, c-store operators should begin thinking about how to transition their business to support this trend.
Food Service Trends
MAKE IT SUSTAINABLE
Sustainability isn’t just a buzzword for younger customers but is a smart business choice. The foodservice industry has woken up to the realization that adopting sustainable operating procedures is an investment in their future. Resistance to this trend could have negative consequences for both the planet and the operators’ pockets. Working towards a more sustainable future in all aspects of the foodservice industry is a trend that is going to keep growing, leaving those not on board behind.
LOW ALCOHOL OR NO ALCOHOL
The pandemic and the accompanying concern for better health is likely to have accelerated an already fast-developing trend for less alcohol consumption. Foodservice operators are adding more alcohol-free options to their menus and coolers: mocktails and alcohol-free beers are set to be a popular option this coming year. Look for this to become increasingly popular in the years ahead.
FUNCTIONAL FOODS AND NUTRITION
As food and beverage manufacturers know too well, consumers are wanting more from their food. Safety is not a selling point anymore, it’s a given; consumers are beginning to choose foods based on what it does for their body rather than solely choosing what tastes best. We touched on this topic recently and research is showing that this is going to continue to be a trend. Consumers want foods and beverages that can improve their mood, boost immunity, clear their minds, help with their athletic performance, or improve their sleep. They want their food to work for them!
Retail Trends
CUSTOMER TRAFFIC DATA WITH INDOOR POSITIONING SYSTEMS (IPS)
Data on where shoppers are in the store can prove useful for improving the placement of products on shelves. Where do guests go when they enter the store? Do they prefer one location over another? These are all questions that IPS tracking can answer. These analytics could be valuable to business owners making decisions on where to place certain products and when negotiating with vendors on how much they should pay to have their product included in a particularly high-traffic area of the store.
We can help you keep up with these growing trends! An easy way to stay on top of what consumers want and need is to use our inventory services from Quantum Services. Our inventory auditors come in, count the shelves, and compile data that is shared with the C-Store that shows what is selling, and what isn’t. With the information we compile you can feel confident placing orders accordingly to make sure that you have everything on your shelves that your customers need. We offer many different services and would love to talk about the best option for your store.