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Convenience stores have become increasingly popular food service providers, sometimes outpacing fast food restaurants among hungry consumers. At a LinkedIn livestream event hosted by flexible packaging company TC Transcontinental Packaging on Tuesday, speakers said packaging companies have an opportunity to design convenient and attractive packaging formats to meet this demand.
C-store foodservice snack purchases increased from about 20% in 2018 to 44% in 2023, according to Varchasvi Singh, principal analyst at market research firm Mintel. “These big changes over five years speak volumes about how consumers now view convenience stores.”
“Approximately one-third of Gen Z snackers eat every day and regularly replace meals with snacks,” Singh said. “What’s driving this behavior is a strong focus on convenience, affordability and flexibility, which of course is where convenience stores excel.”
In some cases, consumers view c-store food offerings as a budget-friendly alternative to quick-service restaurants. “Given how negatively consumers feel about menu price increases, these kinds of value comparisons may actually work in convenience stores’ favor,” Singh said.
Catalysts for continued c-store food growth also include apps for digital ordering and loyalty programs. Consumers are demanding newer options, which presents both challenges and opportunities for c-stores and their packaging partners.
“70% of consumers say they expect convenience stores to have fresher and healthier options, but only about 25% say they trust the hygiene standards of convenience store food service,” Singh said.
This is where packaging partners can step up. “This gap highlights why packaging cues and innovation really matter today,” said Singh.
TC Transcontinental’s Andrew Bowen (bottom left), Diana Courtepate (top left) and Jessica Lanter (top right) discuss convenience store food trends with Mintel’s Varchasvi Singh (bottom right) during a LinkedIn live stream event on November 18, 2025.
Jessica Lanter, senior director of business development at TC Transcontinental Packaging, said one way to innovate is to show, not just tell. Example: “Clear bags, bags with windows, allow customers to see the product and immediately feel confident in its freshness.”
The TC Transcontinental speaker pointed out that packaging appearance is also important.
“We developed snack packaging that fits into a cup holder to make it easy to eat on the go,” he said. Lanter. “We also developed a dual-compartment bag that allows you to store proteins and fruits or vegetables separately.” Other examples of “anytime, anywhere” portable formats available from c-stores include: Charcuterie Snack pack or electrolyte stick pack.
Packaging innovations also apply to hot, ready-to-eat foods like chicken tenders and tamales.
“These items are more popular than ever,” Lanter said, referring to TC’s “Hot and Convenient” carry pouches designed to keep food warm and crispy.
