Emily Boes

f’real, the innovative, fast-growing brand known for its blend-it-yourself shakes and smoothies, launched a Mystery Flavor Milkshake. The limited-time offering promises an indulgent and nostalgic experience, inviting consumers to relive memories of visiting their favorite childhood ice cream shop with a fruity, creamy, familiar flavor that celebrates summer, the heyday of ice cream season. Available nationwide, the Mystery Flavor Milkshake will appeal to Gen Z consumers, who are especially interested in nostalgic desserts, with 62% saying they love these old-school treats, according to Datassential. Gen Z’s love for unique and exciting flavors is evident, with 44% loving to try new foods — the crazier and more unique, the better — and 51% willing to try a new food just because it sounds exciting. The f’real turnkey self-serve program enables c-stores to offer delicious, refreshing shakes and smoothies without adding labor. The suggested retail price is $3.99 for each 12-ounce treat.

PinterestLinkedIn Melting Forest Black Cherry Energy Drink is a dynamic, invigorating beverage crafted to boost consumers’ energy and focus. Infused with the rich and deep flavors of black cherry, this drink offers a robust taste experience. It’s powered by 150 milligrams of natural caffeine derived from green coffee beans, providing a sustained energy lift without the jitters. The addition of Cordyceps and Lion’s Mane mushrooms enhances mental clarity and physical performance. Further enriched with the antioxidant properties of Rosa Roxburghii and the revitalizing effects of Panax Notoginseng (Ginseng), this energy drink is not just a burst of energy, but a nourishing choice for consumers’ body and mind. It’s perfect for those needing an extra push to conquer their day.

The Infinity Overhead Merchandiser is one of the most customizable overhead merchandisers on the market. Consumer trends are increasingly shifting toward reduced-risk tobacco and nicotine products. Harbor has responded by developing the most flexible overhead merchandiser available. The merchandiser provides quick and easy access to smokeless tobacco, vapor and modern oral nicotine products, in addition to cigarettes. Using our Infinity Modular Trays (5-Wide Cigarette Pusher, Smokeless Pusher and Adjustable Pusher), the Infinity Overhead Merchandising system provides retailers with the freedom to merchandise the perfect mix of products for their stores. The Infinity Overhead Merchandiser comes in three versions for the front, customer-facing side that provide large, attention-getting messaging opportunities:

PinterestLinkedIn Modelo Chelada Fresa Picante Flavored Beer is a michelada-style beer that brings to life the vibrancy of Mexico. Crafted with authentic Mexican beer and the balanced flavors of strawberry and chile peppers, this Modelo beer is the ideal blend of sweet and savory. Served in ready-to-drink, 24-ounce beer cans, this strawberry-flavored Mexican import beer is 3.5% alcohol by volume.

Hot dispensed beverage preferences vary widely, with specialty coffee gaining traction among consumers while traditional coffee continues to maintain a strong following.

While c-store operators prepare for the year ahead, it’s important they keep tabs on how technology is set to evolve in 2025.

2024 has seen tobacco product seizures, warning letters and a progression of the proposed low nicotine rule.

Dry January is expected to elevate the already budding alcohol-free segment of beer, wine and spirits, and c-stores should be ready to capitalize on the trend and show customers their authority in the space.

While finances and health were high priorities for many shoppers in 2024, various factors influenced consumer purchasing habits.

Electric vehicles and biofuels are increasingly accompanying traditional gasoline in the forecourt in 2025, although chainwide adoption appears slow as retailers watch for market shifts and regulations.