NightOwl has devised a new ‘store of the future’ model for its network. It has been rolled out across two Queensland based stores and there are plans to eventually update all stores with the new look. 

Franchisor Adam Adams said the new model, which seeks to cater to the modern customer’s every need, was 10 months in the making.

“We have researched changes and trends within the industry to establish what are the best offers we can put into our stores, from hot, cold and ambient food products to coffee, fresh produce and a greater range of dairy products to make it a one-stop shop for the customer.

“No longer are customers purely looking for the standard products of drinks, confectionary, chips and tobacco in their convenience store – they are looking at what other items they can buy in the store to save them having to go to the major supermarkets,” he added

Stores under the new model have LED lighting and closed in refrigeration systems, which is said to lower electricity usage by around 25 percent.  

A new store design has also been developed, and includes more modern features as well as earthy tones that are designed to create a more welcoming environment.

“It’s not just another convenience store,” said Townsville franchisee Gaurav Patel, who owns the store with business partner Ketan Patel.

“The concept of the convenience outlet has evolved and customers can find everything from basic groceries to confectionery and snacks and a wide range of ready-made meals.”

Stores under the new model offer a more extensive product range, including pastas, garlic bread, chicken and beef rolls and freshly baked pies and sausage rolls. 

There is also more of an emphasis on convenient yet healthy options including wraps, Turkish breads and toasted sandwiches.

“The store of the future concept is about providing a one-stop shop for customers’ needs,” added Gaurav.

In keeping in line with this approach, the store will expand its offering to include a Fun Wall complete with gelato, confectionery and frozen drinks in the coming months.

“Customers can make their own creations such as a gelato with a confectionary topping or a frozen Coke with gelato,” Adams said.

There are also plans to include an in-store Owl Cafe at the site, which will serve up sweet bakery items including donuts, cakes and danishes as well as coffee.

“We believe we are at the forefront of change within the convenience industry and will be converting all of our stores to this model over the next 18 months to two years,” added Adams.