LONDON - U.K. convenience stores in less populated areas should tailor their products to a more "local feel" with an extensive selection of fresh produce, according to Verdict Research, Talking Retail reports.

Its "The Future of Convenience Retailing in Europe" report revealed that U.K. retailers with a tight core of food items appeal to shoppers wanting to quickly grocery shop. The recession has increased this demand.

No standardized "one size fits all" format fits convenience stores, said Verdict analyst Natalia Grabov. "While the fast 'in and out?? concept is suited to high-footfall office locations, rural convenience stores will trade better as neighborhood local stores and need a wider assortment of fresh produce."

Verdict found that 36 percent of U.K. consumers stopped at a local convenience store at least weekly. The outlets appeal to consumers?? "increasingly irregular shopping patterns," with extended operating hours.

"While it is cost intensive and time consuming to 'localize?? every store, retailers that manage to find a balance between a standardized convenience format and localized aspects, in regards to layout and merchandising mix, will have greater success in drawing in footfall and keeping local customers coming back on a regular basis," said Grabov.

"As more consumers embrace the online channel for large shops, local convenience stores are well placed to benefit from increased demand for perishable products and essential items, such as milk and bread, or food-to-go in between destinations," she said.