Candy & Snacks

New features include a redesigned bakery-café look, as well as upscale menu offerings.

New features include a redesigned bakery-café look, as well as upscale menu offerings.

C-store chain sees its new private label lines outsell leading national brands.

Salty snacks moved back into the top 10 in-store categories last year with a 2.7-percent industry sales gain — leaping over the non-edible grocery category. On a per-store basis, salty snack sales were up 2.9 percent to $28,499 in sales per store last year. The category represented 2.33 percent of all in-store sales and contributed 2.53 percent of in-store gross margin dollars.

Cigarettes and foodservice accounted for almost 47 percent of in-store sales at convenience stores last year, and about 41 percent of gross margin dollars.

Eskimo Hut's distinguishing Texas niche is a dedication to drive-thru service and daiquiris.

Company looks to expand this niche snack product and category.

Savory brand extensions and honey highlights are just some of the trends from last week's sell-out show in Chicago.