Shifts in drivers鈥� needs along with changes in consumer behavior are reshaping the product mix at truck stops, with some products sets expanding while others are on the decline.
Spotting Top Sellers
Hot products and categories can vary based on geographic location, customer mix and more, but there are some categories that seem to do well across the board.
鈥淲e know we are seeing more younger drivers, women and minorities, but it is important for operators to really get to know the specific demographics they are serving, including if they are long-haul, short-haul or day drivers,鈥� Schulte said. 鈥淚t is also important to understand if they are company drivers or owner operators because that will influence their purchases and top priorities.鈥�
Dale Elks, a regional manager at , said toys continue to sell tremendously well. 鈥淢ost of the sales are an impulse buy from the four-wheel traffic side buying toys for their kids,鈥� he added.
While standard professional driver categories, such as lights and tools, remain essential, Elks said comfort is king. 鈥淭here is a big push for seat cushions and blankets and neck pillows,鈥� he said.
Cell phone accessories and charging cords are popular among professional drivers and four-wheel traffic alike. 鈥淭hings break or you forget something, so people are stopping looking for that patch to either get them home or to become a permanent piece,鈥� Elks said.
The trucking industry has seen an uptick in the number of drivers traveling with pets and truck stops have responded by increasing their inventory of pet-related products. Items such as dog food, collapsible water bowls and other pet accessories are in demand.
Promoting Health and Wellness
Consumers overall are seeking out protein-packed snacks and meals, and the quest for protein has even extended into beverage categories, including coffee, teas, waters and energy drinks. The majority of consumers鈥�71% of consumers are focused on protein consumption in their diet, according to the 2024 Food and Health Survey from the International Food Information Council. Protein is the No. 1 nutritional element consumers are looking to increase.
Mintel鈥檚 2025 Global Food and Drink Trends report said the emergence of GLP-1 weight-loss medications, such as Ozempic, are inspiring consumers to reevaluate the relationship between food and medicine. The report said 鈥渢he focus will be on food and drinks that help consumers, especially weight-loss drug users who have reduced appetites, get the best nutrition from what they eat鈥︹��
The average age of a professional truck driver is hovering around 50, and older drivers may be more likely to seek out health-conscious food options, such as fresh fruits and vegetables, yogurt parfaits and protein-rich grab-and-go options. Several 麻豆色播 members have also had success with adding on-site pharmacies and medical facilities as well as health-related merchandise, such as blood pressure cuffs.
Determining the Ideal Mix
Elks recommends operators look at sales data quarterly while also keeping a close eye on their customers鈥� needs. 鈥淵ou got to look at what your market share is. You have to look at your customer count and flow,鈥� he explained. 鈥淎re you closer to a neighborhood? Or are you on the interstate closer to other truck stops? It makes a big difference.鈥�
Sales teams can be a valuable resource to help operators determine which categories are hot and where opportunities exist. With DAS, for example, sales reps are in locations every two weeks to meet with the owner or manager.
Top Microtrends Shaping the Truck Stop and Travel Center Industry in 2025 Report
Staying ahead of industry trends鈥攅specially microtrends鈥攅nables travel centers to seize new opportunities, adapt to market dynamics and meet customer needs proactively. The 麻豆色播 Foundation created the Top Microtrends Shaping the Truck Stop and Travel Center Industry in 2025 Report to provide actionable insights to help operators maintain a competitive edge.
The Top Microtrends Shaping the Truck Stop and Travel Center Industry in 2025 Report was created with generous support from聽.
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