Convenience Stores Are Taking Over Breakfast from Fast-Food Chains
Written by Emily J. Thompson, Senior Investment Analyst
Updated: Sep 13 2025
0mins
Source: CNBC
Shift in Breakfast Preferences: Fast-food restaurants are losing breakfast customers to convenience stores, with morning meal traffic to fast-food chains rising only 1% while visits to food-forward convenience stores increased by 9% in the last three months.
Consumer Behavior and Market Trends: A significant portion of consumers (87%) still prepare breakfast at home, but convenience stores are gaining popularity due to their fresh food offerings and perceived value, with 72% of consumers viewing them as a viable alternative to fast-food chains.
Impact of Economic Factors: Rising menu prices and a tight job market have made breakfast the most economically sensitive meal, leading to a decline in fast-food breakfast visits, which fell 8.7% in the second quarter.
Competitive Strategies: Fast-food chains are now looking to convenience stores for inspiration on improving their breakfast offerings, as c-stores like Wawa and Casey's have successfully attracted more customers with diverse and quality food options.
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Analyst Views on WEN
Wall Street analysts forecast WEN stock price to rise
20 Analyst Rating
2 Buy
14 Hold
4 Sell
Hold
Current: 7.810
Low
8.00
Averages
9.39
High
11.00
Current: 7.810
Low
8.00
Averages
9.39
High
11.00
About WEN
The Wendy’s Company is primarily engaged in the business of operating, developing and franchising a system of distinctive quick-service restaurants. The Company’s menu includes made-to-order square hamburgers using beef, and fan favorites like the Spicy Chicken Sandwich and nuggets, Baconator, and the Frosty dessert. Its segments include Wendy’s U.S., Wendy’s International and Global Real Estate & Development. Wendy’s U.S. includes the operation and franchising of its restaurants in the United States. Wendy’s International includes the operation and franchising of its restaurants in countries and territories other than the United States. Global Real Estate & Development includes real estate activity for owned sites and sites leased from third parties, which are leased and/or subleased to franchisees, and also includes its share of the income of its Canadian restaurant real estate joint venture (TimWen). The Company and its franchisees have over 7,000 restaurants worldwide.
About the author
Emily J. Thompson
Emily J. Thompson, a Chartered Financial Analyst (CFA) with 12 years in investment research, graduated with honors from the Wharton School. Specializing in industrial and technology stocks, she provides in-depth analysis for Intellectia’s earnings and market brief reports.
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- Acquisition Rumors Intensify: With shares plummeting nearly 35%, Wendy's market value has dropped to $1.55 billion, making it a potential acquisition target for Trian Fund Management, which currently holds a 7.85% stake in the company.
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See More
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- Background Information: Wright previously served as CEO of fast-casual chain Potbelly and held senior roles at Wendy's, Charleys Philly Steaks, and Domino's Pizza, bringing extensive industry experience that could open new growth opportunities for Wendy's.
- Interim CEO Role: Cook will remain as CFO after Wright's appointment, ensuring financial stability while supporting the new CEO in the smooth implementation of company strategies.
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