While c-stores are still known as a one-stop-shop for snacks and drinks, more and more consumers are using them for flowers and salads.
According to CNBC, American c-store sales of fruit and vegetables has grown to roughly the same size as popcorn and pretzel sales.
National Association of Convenience Stores (NACS) VP of strategic industry initiatives Jeff Lenard said: “The value of convenience has never been higher”.
CNBC said there was data released by NACS that showed c-stores experienced a 16th straight year of record in-store sales in 2018. Total sales surged 8.9% to $654.3 billion.
Millennials are keeping few food items in their panty and instead are eating more prepared foods, CNBC said.
According to CNBC, convenience shopping still has a focus on efficiency, where each shop is intended for immediate consumption.
Mr Lenard said average time spent in a Wawa, Sheetz or Cumberland Farms (American c-store chains) is less than six minutes, and 83% of the items sold are consumed within the hour, while 65% are consumed immediately.
“With all the competition for convenience, including the internet, what convenience stores provide is they have it now,” said Mr Lenard. “It’s not for tomorrow, it’s for today.”