AI, mobile loyalty and subscriptions to be key 2026 C-store growth drivers

NEWTON, Mass. — Convenience stores are expected to enhance customer engagement in 2026 by focusing on automation, AI-driven personalization, and subscription-style loyalty programs, according to the new 2026 Paytronix Trends & Predictions report from Paytronix.

Download the 2026 Paytronix Trends & Predictions Report

While the report covers restaurants and foodservice broadly, several of its 10 identified trends have direct implications for c-stores as operators face rising labor costs, margin pressure, and increasingly digital-first consumers.

One of the most significant findings for convenience retailers is the increasing availability of automation and artificial intelligence, especially for smaller operators. Tim Ridgely, Paytronix vice president of engineering, noted that advances in lightweight AI and affordable hardware are allowing businesses to implement advanced tools without substantial infrastructure investments.

“As labor costs rise and margins tighten, smaller operators are under pressure to do more with less,” Ridgely noted, adding that AI-powered automation is becoming “a lifeline for small operators navigating rising costs in an already high-risk industry.”

The report also highlights a shift in how consumers define value — a key issue for c-stores dealing with price sensitivity during inflation. Instead of focusing only on price, shoppers more often consider experience, convenience, and perceived benefits. This matches Paytronix’s prediction that loyalty programs will grow beyond discounts to include access perks, subscriptions, and cross-brand partnerships.

For convenience stores, subscription models connected to coffee, fountain drinks, car washes, or foodservice bundles are expected to grow in 2026, helping to encourage repeat visits and stabilize revenue. The report also emphasizes omnichannel engagement as a standard expectation, with consumers demanding smooth experiences across mobile apps, in-store touchpoints, and digital orders.

Mobile-first engagement remains especially crucial for younger shoppers. Millennials and Gen Z consumers are drawn to gamified, app-based experiences, while older demographics increasingly expect seamless digital convenience — a dual challenge many convenience store chains are already addressing through app upgrades and loyalty program updates.

Cybersecurity also becomes a crucial foundation for trust, as loyalty programs and personalized offers depend on first-party data. Paytronix warns that brands lacking strong security measures risk damaging consumer confidence when digital engagement is essential for growth.

Overall, the report highlights convenience stores as well-positioned to capitalize on these trends considering their frequent visits, expanding foodservice offerings, and growing digital ecosystems. As Paytronix notes, operators that combine personalization, automation, and experiential value will be best placed to stand out in a competitive convenience landscape.