What Buc-ee’s, Sheetz, QuikTrip, Wawa and GetGo Have in Common That You Did Not Know

 

Buc-ee’s, Sheetz, QuikTrip, Wawa, and GetGo might seem like everyday convenience stores at first glance, but behind their regional flair and loyal fan bases lies a trio of subtle, consumer-focused strategies that drive their ongoing dominance. These five chains aren't just succeeding because of clean restrooms or well-stocked shelves—they’re winning because they understand foodservice innovation, evolving consumer behavior, and the psychology of eating on the go. From the perspective of the Grocerant Guru®, here are three key things they have in common that weren’t mentioned in the Newsweek report—but are fueling their continued growth:

 

Three Consumer-Focused Secrets These Brands Share

1. They’re Grocerants in Disguise

All five retailers are masters at blurring the line between grocery and restaurant. From made-to-order hoagies at Wawa, to brisket sandwiches at Buc-ee’s, these stores offer chef-inspired food without the wait or price of a traditional restaurant. This “grocerant” model taps into the modern consumer's desire for speed without sacrificing freshness, variety, or perceived quality. They're not just gas stations with snacks—they're fast-casual restaurants masquerading as convenience stores.

2. They Build Destination-Worthy Experiences

Unlike traditional convenience stores that cater to impulse stops, these chains encourage planned visits. Families go out of their way for Buc-ee’s beaver nuggets. College students make Sheetz runs a social event. Wawa’s coffee culture rivals Starbucks loyalty. This transition from a place of necessity to a place of intention is a powerful retail shift. They’re not convenience stores; they’re branded, high-frequency food experiences.

3. They Offer Food Transparency and Customization

Today’s consumer expects transparency in ingredients and full control over their meals. Each of these chains excels at providing digital ordering platforms or touchscreen kiosks where customers can customize their sandwiches, salads, drinks, and more. This not only improves speed and accuracy but also builds trust and loyalty. It's fast food with full autonomy—something traditional QSRs still struggle to deliver at scale.

 

Three Ways Other Companies Can Replicate Their Success

Whether you're a regional chain, a supermarket, or even a drugstore dabbling in food, these are actionable steps any brand can take:

1. Launch a Branded, Signature Food Item

Develop one item that’s uniquely yours and build a cult following around it—just like Buc-ee’s did with its fudge or Wawa with its hoagies. Signature items give customers a reason to return beyond routine needs. Think destination dining, even in a convenience context.

2. Incorporate Grocerant Elements Into Your Layout

Dedicate part of your store to made-to-order or grab-and-go meals with a fresh, open-kitchen vibe. Even small footprint stores can add value through food theater—like visible sandwich assembly, open prep areas, or unique packaging that showcases freshness.

3. Invest in Digital-First Food Ordering

Touchscreens or app-based ordering allow for personalization and upselling while reducing labor strain. More importantly, they meet modern consumer expectations. Integrate loyalty programs, suggest add-ons, and let customers control their experience end-to-end.

 

Think About This
Buc-ee’s, Sheetz, QuikTrip, Wawa, and GetGo aren’t thriving simply because they’re clean, convenient, and well-stocked. They’re reshaping what food-on-the-go means by mastering the grocerant model, turning ordinary stops into food-forward destinations. If other retailers want to compete for share of stomach—not just share of wallet—they need to lean into experience, elevate food quality, and give customers the control they crave.

Food isn’t an add-on anymore—it’s the main attraction. The future of retail belongs to those who understand that.

From the Grocerant Guru’s lens, it’s clear: the evolution of convenience is spelled F-O-O-D.

Success Leaves Clues—Are You Ready to Find Yours?

One key insight that continues to drive success is this: "The consumer is dynamic, not static." This principle is the foundation of our work at Foodservice Solutions®, where Steven Johnson, the Grocerant Guru®, has been helping brands stay relevant in an ever-evolving market.

Want to strengthen your brand’s connection with today’s consumers? Let’s talk. Call 253-759-7869 for more information.

Stay Ahead of the Competition with Fresh Ideas

Is your food marketing keeping up with tomorrow’s trends—or stuck in yesterday’s playbook? If you're ready for fresh ideations that set your brand apart, we’re here to help.

At Foodservice Solutions®, we specialize in consumer-driven retail food strategies that enhance convenience, differentiation, and individualization—key factors in driving growth.

👉 Email us at Steve@FoodserviceSolutions.us
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