LOS ANGELES — Retailers in the convenience channel appear to be capturing a growing share of foodservice occasions as restaurant loyalty weakens and value-conscious consumers reassess where they spend on prepared meals and snacks, according to new research from Tillster.
Tillster’s 2026 Phygital Index Report found that 45% of consumers say their favorite restaurant has changed in the past year, up from one-third in 2025. This suggests diners are becoming less tied to specific brands and more focused on the overall experience. The survey of 2,144 U.S. diners also found that 69% have either decreased or maintained their dining-out budgets due to economic conditions.
For c-store operators, the report highlights a meaningful opportunity. While 29% of diners said they are visiting fast-food chains less often and 37% said they are visiting fast-casual chains less often, 33% said they are visiting convenience stores more often. Grocery stores also gained traction, with 36% of consumers saying they are visiting them more often…