Customer demand for hot drinks, particularly premium and speciality coffee, has grown significantly over the past year and is a huge differentiation option for convenience stores compared to the multiples, Delice De France have revealed.

Speaking to Better Retailing, Delice de France chief executive Thierry Cacaly explained that the addition of speciality coffee into convenience stores enables retailers to not only differentiate their offering, but the hot beverages category can bring in high-margins and high-footfall.

“Over the past year, reflecting a broader consumer shift toward a better-quality cup. Consumers now expect bean-to-cup and barista-style experiences even in convenience settings,” says Cacaly. “There’s been a notable rise in the popularity of cold brew and iced coffee options, as well as increasing demand for sustainable, traceable, and ethically sourced coffee. Plant-based milks, seasonal flavours, and innovation in functional drinks are also gaining traction.”

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Cacaly adds that coffee rarely travels alone in a c-store setting, and retailers can generate additional sales by offering complementary treats. “Pairing hot drinks with bakery items such as croissants, muffins, or pastries enhances the offering. Meal deals like “coffee and pastry for £4” are effective in driving spend. Strategically placing freshly baked goods near the coffee machine can tap into sensory appeal. Cross-merchandising and bundling not only increase the average transaction value but also help create a mini café experience within the store.”

Delice de France three coffee tips for retailers

• Investment- Invest in quality by moving away from generic coffee and choosing speciality or premium beans that elevate your store’s image.
• Visibility- Make the coffee offer visible and easy to access, with machines placed strategically and supported by clear signage and promotions.
• Environment- Think like a café — aim to create an environment that encourages customers to pause, indulge, and return. Even within the limited space of a convenience store, there’s a unique opportunity to transform the coffee-to-go moment into a premium experience and drive higher margins in the process.

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