Buc-ee’s has been named the top U.S. convenience store retailer in dunnhumby’s latest Convenience Retailer Preference Index (RPI), a nationwide study analyzing the $860 billion U.S. convenience market. Outshining 40 competitors, Buc-ee’s scored 17 points higher than Sheetz, which came in second, followed by Wawa, Kwik Trip, and Walmart c-stores. Each of the top five earned its place by excelling in key customer priorities like product quality, affordability, ease of transactions, visibility, and a broad product assortment. These leaders are redefining what convenience retail looks like by focusing on what truly resonates with modern consumers.
According to dunnhumby, the convenience retail sector is undergoing a pivotal transformation. No longer is success based solely on fuel sales or traditional offerings. Retailers are evolving to meet broader customer needs.
Dunnhumby’s President of the Americas, Matt O’Grady, said, “We’re at an inflection point in convenience retail. The stores that are thriving aren’t just keeping pace—they’re reimagining what matters most to their customers. This report spotlights the successful retailers and provides c-store operators actionable insights to benchmark against the leaders, focus their efforts where they'll have the greatest impact, and build the kind of customer loyalty that translates to long-term growth.”
Key findings from the RPI reveal that top-tier retailers are significantly outpacing their lower-ranked peers in both short- and long-term growth. Over the past five years, foot traffic for top-tier c-stores grew at a compound annual rate of 7.2%, compared to just 2.5% for bottom-tier retailers. This growth is largely driven by three standout strategies: positioning themselves as meal destinations, exceeding expectations in product quality and store experience, and delivering affordable prices alongside traditional fuel offerings.
A deeper contrast is emerging between the best and worst performers. Top-tier c-stores are embracing personalization and digital engagement, achieving higher app and loyalty program usage than their lower-ranked competitors. They’re also winning in the battle for meal occasions, offering superior variety and convenience compared to QSRs. On the other hand, bottom-tier retailers have been slower to adapt, and the consequences are evident in their declining traffic and stagnating growth. The future of convenience retail, as this report suggests, belongs to those who are agile, data-driven, and committed to delivering a seamless, personalized experience that goes far beyond selling snacks and gas.
Unlock the full report here.