FT. MYERS, FL – The News-Press highlighted earlier this week the increasingly upscale fare available at convenience stores.

“It's a bit of a shocker,” the paper said. “Many gas station convenience stores are transforming into cafes and grocery stores that just happen to sell gas.”

According to Ned Bowman, CEO of the Florida Petroleum Marketers & Convenience Store Association, foodservice is the fast-growing segment of the convenience store industry, accounting for 27.1% of gross profit dollars nationwide in 2012.

Indeed, many area customers depend on convenience stores for fresh sandwiches and produce.

“I really don’t go nowhere but here for my food and gas,” said Mike Perkins, 53, as he bought raw chicken wings, flour, Crisco and mustard greens along with his Lotto tickets at Lawhon’s Grocery & Meat, a North Fort Myers store that sells Marathon gas at its fuel pumps. “I love it. They’re good people.”

Leveraging the trending consumer preference, gas station convenience stores are partnering with major QSRs such as Subway and Dunkin’ Donuts, along with local eateries.

Wayne Ramsay opened a full-service Naples gas station in 1975, but when he remodeled about four years ago, he decided to upgrade his foodservice program.

“It attracts a certain customer that I don’t normally get,” Ramsay said, who partnered with a doughnut shop.

According to Bowman, the trend reflects a consumer base that demands quality as well as convenience.  

“The time value you have today is very important, and how you use it,” he said.