Electric Vehicles Threaten Beverage Sales At Gas Station C-Stores

There’s plenty of time to prepare, but industry watchers see the gradual shift to hybrid and electric vehicles as a dark cloud on the horizon of CPG companies and convenience store retailers. The shift will mean fewer fueling visits at gas station C-stores and a significant drop in purchases of nonalcoholic RTD beverages, according to Morgan Stanley. Energy drink companies such as Monster Beverage would be at the greatest risk – half of Monster’s sales are derived from gas stations and convenience stores – but companies like PepsiCo and Dr Pepper Snapple could also be hurt. Food Dive advised snack and drink manufacturers to look at exclusive partnerships and special product discounts and promotions to attract more people into convenience stores.