No matter how much work you put into making your c-store a success, you’re bound to have a few questions along the way. Luckily you are not alone, as many c-store professionals are grappling with many of the same questions. Here's a look at the biggest foodservice FAQs we’re hearing from the c-store world.

How can you drive more sales through your c-store’s food offering? 
C-stores have come a long way. In fact, they’ve evolved so much that many are now competing for food sales against supermarkets, delis and quick-serve restaurants. But to capture these sales (and then some), you need to continue growing your food offering in smart and innovative ways. From fresher and more flavorful foods to ethnic menus, a stronger grocery offering, strategic pricing and more, there are plenty of ways to tweak your food offering to drive more revenue. Keep reading >

What foodservice equipment do you need for your c-store?
The exact foodservice equipment you need will depend on a lot of different factors that are unique to your operation. That said, when you’re evaluating which equipment to purchase, it’s important to think about how a solution will help you to preserve the integrity and quality of your menu items. For this reason (and many others), it’s time well spent to explore how different equipment types — including merchandisers, display cabinets, buffet warmers, specialty warmers, shelves, frost tops, and more — can keep your beautifully prepared foods at peak quality. Keep reading >

What is the right type of packaging to use for your c-store’s prepared foods?
As more and more c-stores see an uptick in demand for fresh foods, they are faced with the added challenge of determining which type of grab-n-go packaging to use. Unfortunately, there’s no one answer; plastic, paper, styrofoam, aluminum and sustainable options all have their place. To determine which packaging solution is best for your operation, you need to evaluate everything from food type to transportation method, holding equipment, budgets, priorities and more. Keep reading >

What equipment will help you deliver classic c-store foods (while leaving room for a few trending items)? 
Embracing popular c-store menu trends is important to the evolution of your operation. That said, you’re right to question if a new equipment purchase will still help you deliver on the traditional c-store foods your customers know and love. Luckily, a lot of foodservice equipment on the market today will support new menu items, as well as the hot dogs, baked goods, burgers, pizzas, and pre-made sandwiches you’ve always offered. From conveyor toasters to display warmers, merchandisers, wells, and more, there’s a whole world of versatile equipment to explore that will ensure you can deliver on all of your tried-and-true, classic c-store offerings — and then some. Keep reading >

What foodservice equipment will help you innovate your c-store’s menu without taking up a ton of space?  
As the old saying goes, “big things come in small packages.” If you want to take your c-store’s menu to the next level, you don’t necessarily need a ton of space to do so. In fact, some of the most innovation-supporting equipment types have a very conservative footprint or are versatile enough to accomplish multiple tasks within a single unit. When looking to add a little creativity to your menu, it just might be worth checking out if countertop cooking and holding solutions or hot/cold combination solutions will get you there. Keep reading >

How does Hatco meet the needs of today’s c-stores? 
For over 70 years, Hatco has manufactured foodservice equipment that helps c-stores better meet the needs of their customers. Whether you run a small gas station or a large convenience store operation, there’s a Hatco equipment solution for you. From cooktops and grills to merchandisers, display cabinets, cold holding equipment, decorative heat lamps and more — Hatco has the equipment you need to succeed. Keep reading >