While the Forecourt Show didn’t take place this year, the wider convenience and forecourt sector continues to evolve rapidly. Insights from The UK Food & Drink Shows and industry leaders reveal a consistent message: sustainability, health, and innovation are no longer trends - they are the new foundations of consumer loyalty and business growth.
For forecourt retailers, these themes are especially relevant as the sector evolves into a hub for convenience, energy and experience.
Sustainability as a Strategic Priority
According to The Grocer, 2025 is the year brands must “move beyond greenwashing” and demonstrate measurable, transparent sustainability commitments. Consumers are no longer satisfied with claims - they want proof, and they’re making purchasing decisions accordingly.
This was reflected strongly by exhibitors. Debbie Hammonds, Managing Director of Farmhouse Biscuits, explained:
“In terms of key trends or insights that we’ve picked up from the show—definitely sustainability. We're constantly talking to people about packaging. So, whether that is reusable packaging or anything that is completely sustainable, removing plastic, using more card.”
For forecourts, sustainability goes beyond packaging. It includes EV charging infrastructure, energy-efficient store design and carbon-conscious supply chains. Operators like Westmorland are leading the way, installing ultra-fast EV chargers powered by renewable energy and supported by battery storage and hydrogen generators - ensuring reliability even in rural locations.
Health and Clean Label Products
The search for guilt-free indulgence has sparked demand for healthy products, with an expectation those products are low in calories, low in sugar, high in protein and natural. Health and functionality was one of the major trends explored in Food Manufacture’s 2024 trends report, with focus on healthy ageing, gut health, natural ingredients and reformulation.
Lawrence Hill from Tofoo Co. noted, “Consumers are moving away from ultra-processed foods… our products are made from three ingredients”. The trend is also driving demand for functional foods. “We’re steering towards putting bread back at the centre of the table,” Aidan Monks, Owner of Lovingly Artisan noted, “but the bread has to be worthy… ancient grains and sourdough have a positive effect on your gut biome. It's the fact that we tell stories about every one of those grains and the loaves that they make and what health benefits they bring. It's those stories that engage people and make them become regular customers going forward.”
For forecourts, this means offering nutritious options that align with wellness trends - from protein bars and kombucha to artisan bakery items that tell a story.
Innovation with Flavours – Bold, Functional, and Local
Consumers are not only health-conscious - they’re curious. They want bold flavours, new formats, and products that surprise the tastebuds. This is pushing brands to innovate what consumers already know.
Katie Dack from Montezuma’s shared:
“There are a lot of conversations around innovation, new flavours. Pistachio and matcha are really interesting to learn, especially as a company that's so bold with their flavours.”
Retailers are responding by seeking out products that offer both indulgence and nutritional value, known as ‘guilt-free pleasure’. This is pushing brands to reimagine familiar formats with a twist, blending global inspiration with local authenticity.
For forecourts, this means curating a diverse and exciting product mix that reflects changing tastes while maintaining convenience.
EV Charging: A New Standard for Forecourt Experience
EV infrastructure is no longer a future consideration - it’s a present-day priority. Forecourts are evolving into multi-purpose destinations, where drivers can recharge both their vehicles.
Westmorland’s approach to EV charging is a blueprint for success. Their sites feature:
- Ultra-fast 150kW chargers
- Hydrogen-powered generators and battery storage
- 32” touchscreens with contactless payment
- Integrated branding and promotional content
This infrastructure not only supports sustainability goals but also enhances the customer experience, turning charging stations into brand engagement platforms.
Whether it’s the food on the shelves or the chargers in the car park, 2025 buyers are making informed choices based on values. Sustainability, health and innovation are not passing trends - they’re reshaping how forecourts operate, what they stock, and how they connect with customers.
To find out more about the show, click here: https://www.forecourtshow.co.uk/
