Beverage Display Strategies for C-Stores
Smart beverage display strategies help c-stores maximize sales through optimized coolers, strategic island displays, and effective endcaps. Key tactics include organizing by category, eye-level placement of top sellers, and cross-merchandising with snacks.
If you’re a convenience store owner, you know that beverages are a top seller and a powerful driver of foot traffic. But with so much competition, simply stocking the right products isn’t enough. To maximize sales and customer satisfaction, you need smart beverage display strategies for c-stores. Here’s how to make your cooler, island, and endcap displays work harder for you.
Best Practices for Coolers, Islands, and Endcaps
1. Coolers: The Heart of Beverage Sales
Coolers are the main attraction for beverage shoppers. To get the most out of them:
- Keep them clean and well-lit: A tidy, brightly lit cooler makes products look fresh and inviting12.
- Organize by category: Group similar beverages together—like energy drinks, sodas, and bottled waters—so customers can find what they need quickly34.
- Adjust shelving for visibility: Place top-selling and high-margin items at eye level, and use adjustable shelves to fit different bottle and can sizes12.
- Maintain optimal temperature: Regularly check that your cooler is keeping drinks cold and fresh, as this impacts both sales and customer trust12.
2. Island Displays: Create a Destination
Island displays—like iced beer tubs or beverage tubs—are great for impulse purchases and seasonal promotions:
- Position in high-traffic areas: Place island displays near the entrance, checkout, or in the center of the store to catch shoppers’ attention53.
- Use cross-merchandising: Add chip baskets or snack shelves to encourage customers to grab a drink and a snack together56.
- Keep ice fresh and products visible: Regularly replenish ice and rotate stock so every product is easy to see and grab5.
3. Endcap Displays: Capture Impulse Buyers
Endcap displays at the end of aisles are prime real estate for promoting new or best-selling beverages:
- Keep it simple: Focus on one or two products or promotions per endcap to avoid overwhelming shoppers74.
- Highlight promotions: Use bold signage to advertise special deals, seasonal favorites, or new arrivals74.
- Refresh displays often: Change up endcap products and promotions regularly to keep customers interested and coming back for more84.
Signage and Cross-Promotion Tips
Signage: Make Your Message Stand Out
- Use clear, bold messaging: Signs should be easy to read from a distance and highlight the product’s unique selling points or special offers910.
- Place signs at eye level: Position signage where customers naturally look, such as on cooler doors or at the top of endcaps104.
- Add interactive elements: Consider QR codes, digital screens, or sample stations to engage customers and encourage them to try new products711.
Cross-Promotion: Boost Basket Size
- Pair beverages with snacks: Place chips, candy, or sandwiches near beverage coolers or islands to encourage combo purchases6123.
- Create themed displays: Tie in seasonal promotions or local events (like sports games) to make your display more relevant and memorable11.
- Bundle products: Offer deals like “buy a drink, get a snack at a discount” to increase the average transaction value6.
Internal Links
Want to know which beverages are driving sales? Check out our guide to the top-selling beverage categories in convenience stores.
Looking for fresh ideas to launch new drinks? Discover how to promote new beverages in small retail.
Call to Action
Ready to take your beverage sales to the next level? Download the Beverage Category Expansion Toolkit for C-Stores and get expert tips, checklists, and templates to help you grow your beverage category.
Optional Enhancements
- Display Layout Template: Use a visual guide to plan your cooler, island, and endcap placements for maximum impact.
- Interactive Displays: Add touch screens, QR codes, or sample stations to engage customers and boost trial rates.
- Seasonal Refresh Checklist: Create a schedule for updating displays with seasonal products and promotions.
With the right beverage display strategies for c-stores, you can turn every cooler, island, and endcap into a sales powerhouse—and keep customers coming back for more.