While many premium sweet goods purchases happen in the in-store bakery, c-stores are starting to step up as a new channel for this category.

“There is a transition going on with convenience stores,” said Tim Kanaly, division president for Legendary Baking. “They’re trying a lot of things to differentiate themselves. They’re more into restaurant-quality foods. It’s more than grilled hot dogs.”

By offering more foods typically served as meals, such as sandwiches, instead of only snacks, c-stores have begun competing with quick-service restaurants. As well as more hefty meal options, Mr. Kanaly observed that c-stores have become a big outlet for single-serving frozen desserts. This new push to offer more substantial food opens for bakers a new frontier of premium sweet goods.