According to the National Coffee Association, approximately 67% of American adults reported drinking coffee every day in 2024. With daily coffee consumption at a two-decade high, it isn’t surprising that more folks are looking for alternatives to save a bit on their morning cup of Joe.
Convenience stores have become an increasingly popular option over coffee shop stops during the past decade – particularly among morning commuters. C-stores have been busy upping their coffee game in recent years with freshly brewed, high-quality options, bean-to-cup machines and specialty coffee offerings, such as lattes, cappuccinos and espressos.
Coffee is a high-margin item and a frequent purchase that drives repeat traffic. C-stores can capitalize on this growing market opportunity by offering:
- High-quality, premium and specialty coffee options, such as Boyd’s Coffee and Sum>One Coffee Roasters, as well as cold brews and ready-to-drink menu items, which Farmer Brothers offers.
- Cold and frozen coffee beverages are the fastest growing C-store menu items, according to the first quarter of 2025 Technomic Operator Market Brief.
- Machines which allow for easy customization and quick in-and-out service.
- Robust self-serve bars with a wide variety of superior creamer, sweetener and syrup options.
- According to that same Technomic Operator market brief, vanilla and caramel remain the top flavor pairings for coffee.
- Seasonal flavors, such as pumpkin spice or peppermint, and rotating blends.
- Loyalty programs or refillable mug discounts to provide additional savings and opportunities to try the latest coffee offerings.
Looking to grow your coffee program with premium brews and high-tech equipment? See what Farmer Brothers and its family of brands can do for you!