Blurring Lines Between QSRs and C-Stores and Rising Influence of Fourth Place

Consumers are increasingly viewing convenience stores as go-to destinations for quick meals, a trend that is blurring the lines with QSRs, according to dunnhumby’s Retailer Preference Index (RPI) QSR Edition. The survey also emphasized the growing significance of the so-called fourth place for brands. 

“QSR operators' biggest threat from c-stores is in the breakfast, drink and between-meal missions,” said Erich Kahner, Head of Competitive Strategy & Insights for dunnhumby. “If they want to stall the momentum of c-stores or prevent additional ones from gaining a foothold in the QSR space, QSRs need to up their game in those missions. I think customers have always wanted less friction in fulfilling their needs.  If retailers give them more choice and options through a whole channel entering to serve the quick meal mission, customers will gladly embrace it, since it just makes getting a quick, tasty meal that much more convenient."

Kahner believes QSRs can gain inspiration…