Every year industries change and adopt new trends and innovative ideas to further their businesses. Adapting to the ever-changing world around us, it is important to know and understand the budding trends within the c-store space. Key changes reflect the expectations of our customers, and the opportunity to improve daily operations. This coming year, we are expecting to see several different trends, but the buzzword in the c-store industry is technology.
Valuable Technology Advancements
The goal of enhancing the customer experience and ultimate convenience relies heavily on advancements in technology. From smartphone apps to AI (artificial intelligence) elevation, plan on investing in these trends in 2024:
- POS integrated software. Upgrading POS (Point of Sale) systems to support technology trends such as mobile and digital pay and tap, loyalty apps with personalized pricing and coupons, order ahead features on apps or websites, and delivery services. Additionally, integrating software to help run operations by reducing complications and streamlining processes for their employees will provide more efficiency behind the counter.
- AI tools for data and analytics. AI advancements in the retail sector work with inventory management by forecasting purchase needs with supply and demand, helping reduce shrink, and cut ordering time significantly. When using these tools and Quantum Services to perform inventory counts, employees need minimal help with the continuing labor challenges impacting the c-store industry.
- Self-Checkout Stations. Self-checkout stations are no longer just a feature of the local grocery store. Popping up in c-stores across the globe, customers appreciate the ability to check out quicker and minimize contact. Whether they are in a particular hurry or are focused on reducing the chance of passing germs, having this option enhances the customer experience. Additionally, these stations serve to capture purchase information used to customize and personalize future shopping experiences.
- Smart Phone Apps. Investing in a smartphone app for your store checks several boxes in one investment. Loyalty programs, product availability, product sales, personalized pricing for returning customers, and order ahead/delivery options can all be available for review and use in one smartphone app, adding to the convenience for the customer.
- EV Availability. The transformation to EV (Electric Vehicle) has grown over the past year so having EV charging capabilities at your c-store is a trend that needs to be followed. Going together with offering EV charging stations, making your store a comfortable place to sit and grab some made-to-order food is a 2024 trend. Creating an inviting, clean, and stocked store draws the EV customers there knowing there is a place to relax, eat, and drink while waiting for their vehicle to charge.
- Information Protection. With the use of technology comes the challenge of the security of you and your customers’ personal information. Protect sensitive data by investing in a cyber security monitoring system that fights against breaches and attacks.
Other Trends in 2024
The c-store industry has consistently improved its foodservice options each consecutive year and 2024 will be no different. With a focus on reducing food waste and assuring food freshness, here are some foodservice trends to be aware of in 2024:
- Provide high-quality, fresh, made-to-order food options.
- Invest in equipment and refrigerating options that prolong freshness and reduce food waste.
- Healthy options are a must-have.
- Expanding healthy grab-and-go items for customers on the move.
- Housing a variety of coffee drinks to satisfy every caffeine craving.
- Well-stocked beer caves with domestic and craft varieties.
- Offering a larger selection of wine.
- Creating a comfortable and aesthetically pleasing dine-in area within your c-store.
In 2024, we are saying goodbye to punch cards, paper coupons, premade and unfresh food, and product and food waste. We are welcoming the idea of c-stores becoming a destination instead of a place to just fill up your gas tank and grab a candy bar. With all of these promising trends, the underlying goal is to increase convenience and profitability within your c-store. Quantum Services inventory auditing teams can accurately count your stores with customized reporting that directly affects introducing these exciting changes. Our data can work with your new technology to ensure stocked shelves, less waste, and overall efficient operations.
Any inventory service company can count your stock, but only Quantum Services has developed proprietary systems and reporting that keep c-stores coming back for decades. Our proven processes guarantee accuracy, instill confidence, build rapport, provide impartial insights into operations, and support a long-term partnership. In 2024, let us help you grow your business and help to implement the new trends that will make your c-store stand out from the rest. Contact us today to get started!