Want to build a loyal customer base? Think coffee.

EIQ Research Solutions and Convenience Store News Canada recently surveyed more than 2,000 convenience shoppers across the country to better understand Canada’s ever-evolving convenience and gas landscape. The end results are good news for anyone who loves a great cup of coffee in the morning.

Here are our five top takeaways from the report:

1. Shoppers are loyal to their convenience store

Shoppers are loyal. In fact, 69% of shoppers consistently and repeatedly visit the same convenience store. That translates into a stable customer base that can form the backbone of a great coffee program.  

2. Almost half of shoppers pop into their c-store once a week

Almost half (47 percent) of shoppers visit a c-store at least once a week. Those regular visits represent a frequent touchpoint and opportunity to engage with customers. A consistent, quality coffee offering could help turn these weekly visits into an even more frequent habit.

3. There’s room for an enhanced coffee experience

Drinks and beverages top the list of new products that shoppers are willing to try, and nearly a quarter of all beverage purchases are hot drinks. When polled, shoppers said they saw coffee programs as a way convenience stores could enhance their experience.

4. C-store stops are about more than just purchasing fuel

A quarter of respondents indicated that they turn to a c-store for an afternoon pick-me-up. With 75% of trips lasting fewer than five minutes, people are looking for convenient options on-the-go – so speed and convenience are essential. A quick and quality coffee experience is one way to turn these brief visits into consistent, habitual stops.

5. Hot beverages have perceived value in loyalty programs

Along with cash-back rebates and discounts on prepared food, free or discounted beverages rank among the top three perks people find valuable in a loyalty program.

So, the numbers are in. Great coffee is one way convenience stores can create customer satisfaction, engagement and community building. And, best of all, it’s where consumer expectations are going in coffee. It’s a great way to build on existing customer loyalty, gain new customers, and achieve frequent visits.

Convenience Store News Canada & OCTANE