China: Will Convenience Stores be the Next Big Retail Space for Imported Food Products?

Convenience stores are one of the most rapidly developing retail models in China with sales of more than $28 billion in 2017. While this sector has traditionally focused on lower priced processed foods and beverages, many chains are now increasing their premium and imported food offerings. Single serve attractively packaged high quality products, perceived by customers as fresher and healthier than traditional convenience store fare, is especially sought after. While imported foods and beverages become more commonplace in convenience stores, purchasing managers are interested in sourcing U.S. snack foods, beverages, beer, frozen products, and fresh fruit. Sourcing products can be complicated for convenience stores since they carry more products, but within smaller spaces than hypermarkets, so exporters should focus on developing relationships with regional distributors to get their products carried in this growing retail segment. 

China: Will Convenience Stores be the Next Big Retail Space for Imported Food Products?