The environment is looking up for convenience stores, and particularly for beverages sold in the channel. The channel posted sales gains of 4.4 percent for the latest 52 weeks ending July 15, versus a year ago, which resulted in approximately a $5.5 billion increase in business, reports Chicago-based market research firm SymphonyIRI Group.
Total beverage sales were up 2.7 percent for the period versus a year ago, with many categories posting double-digit gains, SymphonyIRI reports. Energy drinks boasted a 17.8 percent gain, sports drinks grew 11.6 percent, ready-to-drink (RTD) teas increased 10.6 percent, wine rose 23 percent, and spirits grew 16.2 percent in the 52 weeks ending July 15, compared with the previous year. In addition, bottled water sales grew