Arko has upgraded the coffee program at all of its more than 1,000 convenience stores across 30-plus states, the retailer announced this week.

The centerpiece is Coffee Creations, a new program that brings coffeehouse-style personalization to Arko's coffee bars. Guests can choose from a variety of syrups, creamers, sweeteners and toppings. In-store signs and QR codes offer seasonal recipes.

The upgrade also includes limited-time coffee beverages. The lineup features a bean-to-cup pumpkin caramel coffee, a pumpkin spice cappuccino at participating locations, a Pumpkin Spice Café Tango frozen coffee at more than 400 participating locations and a Cinnabon-flavored syrup at select stores.

"Today's coffee customer is looking for more than just a cup of coffee — they want customization, seasonal flavors, and great value," said Arie Kotler, chairman, president and CEO of Arko, in the announcement. "Our fall coffee program delivers all three through Coffee Creations, unique limited-time flavors, and compelling offers that reward our loyal guests and keep them coming back."

Coffee has been central to Arko's convenience business for years. The Virginia-based retailer began introducing bean-to-cup machines at the start of the COVID-19 pandemic. Since then, it has invested heavily in new roasts and blends based on consumer demand and made affordability a pillar of the program with a $1.49 cup for loyalty members.

The revamped coffee bar is the next step in that investment. Arko said the new program aims to make it easier for customers to try new flavors and build a beverage tailored to their tastes.

The coffee push underscores the company's focus on loyalty and value in a difficult retail operating environment. In August, Arko doubled down on its loyalty program as consumer sentiment hit what it called historic lows.

Arko said it will continue featuring value-driven food and beverage combinations for customers pairing coffee with breakfast items. Those items connect to the retailer's proprietary food program, Fas Craves, which spans hot and cold grab-and-go options including crispy chicken biscuits, potato wedges, mozzarella sticks, jumbo chicken wings, chicken sandwiches and burgers.

With Coffee Creations rolling out chainwide and seasonal limited-time beverages in the mix through fall, Arko is betting that customization plus a $1.49 loyalty price point can keep coffee buyers returning to its stores.