7-Eleven, Inc., the world’s largest convenience retailer, has announced the start of its sixth annual Brands with Heart showcase.
This initiative is designed to give emerging brands the chance to display their innovative products across 7-Eleven, Speedway, and Stripes stores throughout the United States. The program, which focuses on purpose-driven brands, is open for applications until November 3, 2024, via 7-Eleven’s website.
Expanding Opportunities for Emerging Brands
The Brands with Heart program offers companies the opportunity to enter a new retail channel and grow their businesses within the 7-Eleven family. This year’s focus is on consumer packaged goods that bring innovation and disruption to their respective categories. The products should meet the unique needs of today’s convenience store shoppers who are often on the move.
“At 7-Eleven, we’re committed to being a launchpad for fresh, innovative ideas,” said Jesus Delgado-Jenkins, Executive Vice President, Chief Merchandising Officer at 7-Eleven. “Our goal is to curate a diverse range of innovative products that resonate with our customers and create solutions to meet their needs. We believe that partnering with new, high-potential brands is key to building the most forward-looking portfolio.”
Criteria for Participation
Brands interested in applying are encouraged to highlight what makes their product offerings unique. 7-Eleven is specifically searching for products that are ready for launch in a significant number of stores and have an innovative edge. Emphasis will also be placed on companies that prioritize sustainability and forward-thinking practices.
Once brands are selected, they will participate in virtual programming designed to prepare them for in-person pitches. These virtual sessions are intended to equip brands with the knowledge they need to succeed in a competitive retail environment. Early in 2025, the in-person showcase will take place at the 7-Eleven Store Support Center in Irving, Texas. This event will allow selected brands to pitch their products to category managers and participate in educational sessions, followed by a broader product showcase.
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“We are thrilled to open doors for emerging brands, especially those that make a difference for the planet and the people who occupy it,” said Marissa Jarratt, Executive Vice President, Chief Marketing and Sustainability Officer at 7-Eleven. “We’re eager to discover new products that taste great and provide the cutting-edge offerings that 7-Eleven’s customers are looking for, while also helping to support up-and-coming brands interested in the convenience store channel.”
In-Store Testing and Nationwide Exposure
After the in-person showcase, select brands will be chosen for an in-store test, offering them a major opportunity for exposure across participating stores in the U.S. This testing phase is crucial, as it provides these brands with access to a new customer base and helps gauge how their products perform in a real-world retail environment.
For companies looking to enter the program, applications can be submitted through 7-Eleven’s official website, with the deadline fast approaching on November 3, 2024.
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Facts about 7-Eleven
Based in Irving, Texas, 7-Eleven, Inc. is a leader in the U.S. convenience retail industry. With more than 13,000 stores in the U.S. and Canada, the company operates, franchises, and licenses various locations, including 7-Eleven, Speedway, Stripes, Laredo Taco Company, and Raise the Roost Chicken and Biscuits.
Iconic for its signature offerings like Slurpee, Big Bite, and Big Gulp, 7-Eleven has expanded its product range to include sandwiches, salads, and high-quality snacks such as pizza, chicken wings, and mini beef tacos.
The company also offers industry-leading private label products at exceptional value. Through its 7Rewards and Speedy Rewards loyalty programs, which have over 80 million members, customers can earn points and redeem them at stores nationwide.
