We’re in the midst of an evolution in perceptions of c-store food offerings. They’re gaining on QSRs in the minds of consumers. In some cases, they’re equal or c-stores even have an edge. OilCare can help c-stores capitalize on these growing trends, pushing their convenience store foodservice operations forward with flexible cooking oil supply, used cooking oil management, and automated oil handling systems that are fully customizable and easy to manage.
A host of studies are proving what c-store operators have seen with their own eyes. According to NACS (National Association of Convenience Stores), inside sales (non-fuel) have increased for 22 straight years with food service being the largest contributor to that growth. Data from Technomic, the sister research arm of CSP (Convenience Store News and Petroleum), shows that 15% of c-store visits in Q3 2025 were lost QSR occasions. This means that in 15% of occasions where consumers visited a c-store for prepared foods or beverages, they considered going to a quick service restaurant but ultimately chose a convenience store—highlighting the growing role of c-stores as true quick service restaurant alternatives.
The report said that 67% of c-store operators agree that they are striving to compete with QSRs for consumer foodservice occasions, and 68% of consumers agree that c-stores are just as capable as restaurants in offering fresh, quality food. This shift underscores the importance of investing in scalable, efficient convenience store foodservice programs that can meet rising expectations.
As if that wasn’t enough, c-stores are also closing the gap in the share of respondents rating food quality “excellent” on a recent visit, according to the report. In 2022, 54% rated QSR food as excellent versus 41% for c-stores—a difference of 13 percentage points. By 2025, that gap had narrowed to 11 points, 56% versus 45%. Maintaining this momentum will depend on consistency, food quality, and strong back-of-house efficiency.
Even though they’re competing more directly with QSRs, convenience stores aren’t built to drive traffic solely on food purchases. They are, however, better positioned to convert their existing traffic into potential foodservice customers. They provide the opportunity to bundle fuel and food in one stop, have extended hours, and can offer a wider variety of options. C-stores also benefit from lower marketing costs, relying on in-store signage and merchandising to convert traffic—making operational efficiency and cost control even more critical to profitability.
OilCare becomes a strategic partner in helping c-store operators fully capitalize on this shift. As convenience store foodservice programs grow, so does the operational complexity behind the scenes. Managing cooking oil, maintaining oil quality, and ensuring clean, safe kitchen environments are essential to running efficient foodservice operations. OilCare’s cooking oil management systems streamline this often-overlooked aspect of the business, helping operators scale without adding unnecessary burden on staff.
By providing closed-loop used cooking oil management and automated oil handling systems, OilCare helps eliminate many of the pain points associated with traditional oil handling and grease management. Employees no longer need to manually transport hot oil, reducing the risk of spills, burns, and workplace injuries. This improves workplace safety, delivers meaningful labor savings, and enhances overall operational efficiency—allowing staff to focus on food preparation and customer service, which directly impacts the consumer experience and repeat business.
Cleanliness and consistency are also essential as c-stores compete more aggressively with traditional restaurants. OilCare’s systems support better oil quality management and cleaner back-of-house environments by reducing mess and ensuring proper oil storage and handling. A more efficient and sanitary kitchen leads to better food quality consistency and reinforces the perception that c-stores can deliver restaurant-quality offerings.
In addition, OilCare supports sustainability initiatives through responsible cooking oil recycling and waste oil disposal. These sustainable foodservice solutions help operators meet environmental compliance standards while strengthening their brand reputation with increasingly eco-conscious consumers. Ultimately, as convenience stores continue to gain ground in foodservice, success will depend not just on menu innovation and branding, but on operational excellence. OilCare enables operators to implement and maintain high-performing c-store foodservice programs with greater cost control, consistency, and efficiency. By removing friction from one of the most challenging aspects of foodservice operations, OilCare empowers c-stores to focus on what matters most: delivering a convenient, high-quality experience that keeps customers coming back.