IRVING, TEXAS - Convenience is king, and nothing exemplifies that more than the meal kit trend sweeping across the retail landscape. The concept picked up when companies like Blue Apron and HelloFresh broke onto the scene in a big way, and has since permeated into traditional brick-and-mortar retail with behemoths like Kroger and Hy-Vee following suit. Now, with Blue Apron on rocky ground following its infamous IPO and consequential turmoil, the meal kit trend is reaching another new frontier: convenience stores.

7-Eleven announced that it is turning up the heat on its prepared-food program with 15 new locally made, chef-inspired recipes, piloting in North Texas locations, according to a press release.

“With these chef-inspired entrees, 7‑Eleven can provide busy individuals and families with a delicious, premium-quality, whole-meal solution in one stop,” said Kelly Buckley, Vice President of Fresh Food Innovation. “You can add a salad, beverage, and dessert. The creamy mac and cheese is particularly kid-friendly and pairs well with chicken tenders and a cup of fresh-cut fruit. We want to take the hassle out of meal time with a variety of options and without giving up quality. There is something for everyone.”

With a focus on fresh, the heat-and-eat meals include the following veggie-infused options:

• Homestyle Turkey Chili – Homestyle chili made from ground turkey, black beans, ripe tomatoes, red bell peppers, onions, and celery in an ancho chile pepper puree.
• Asian-style Beef and Broccoli Bowl – Premium steak cuts on a bed of long grain white rice, served with broccoli, roasted red peppers, and a teriyaki glaze.
• Chipotle Chicken Bowl – Shredded chicken seasoned with crushed tomatoes and onions, served with rice, vegetables, and ranchero beans, and topped with cheddar cheese.
• Chipotle Steak and Egg Bowl – Roasted potatoes topped with poblano queso sauce, scrambled eggs, chipotle-seasoned beef, fire-roasted peppers and onions, and shredded cheddar cheese.

Click here to see the full list.

“Dining occasions are evolving from traditional meals and mealtimes,” Buckley said. “Younger demographic groups, in particular, are constantly snacking throughout the day vs. eating three traditional meals. As a 24-hour operator, 7‑Eleven has a wide variety of hot and fresh foods that can be purchased and eaten any time.”

According to an NPD Study, almost two-thirds of consumers surveyed said they buy premade meals at least once a week. 7‑Eleven offers a convenient solution to that dilemma, and the locally made meals add to 7‑Eleven’s growing prepared-food offerings, which now stand at more than 300 items.

“7‑Eleven has always been a hot spot for snacks and drinks,” Buckley said. “Now, whatever you’re craving for breakfast, lunch, dinner, or a snack, 7‑Eleven has it. If someone wants a breakfast bowl for dinner, we’ve got it. If you want pizza and fruit or a burger and a protein snack pack, you don’t have to go to two places to get it. Hearty, healthy, heavy, or light–our mission is to have a selection of delicious foods at all hours of the day.”

How will the expanding prevalence of prepared food fare for specialized business like Blue Apron? Stay tuned to AndNowUKnow as we continue to report.

7-Eleven