7-Eleven Working On Plans That Could See It Re-Enter The UK
26th April 2024
Renewed reports suggest that global convenience giant 7-Eleven could return to the UK as part of a wider push into Europe over the coming years.
According to trade publication Better Retailing, a presentation at Seven & I Holdings’ investor relations day earlier this week showed that the Japanese parent firm was looking to enter 10 new countries by 2030, with Europe described as its ‘top priority’, including the UK.
Better Retailing noted that it had discovered last year that 7-Eleven has held talks with potential partners about re-establishing its presence in the UK.
The brand was last seen in Britain during the 1990s when 57 stores operated under the fascia. However, it ceased trading in the country in 1997 when it sold the stores to Budgens for £5.8m. Despite rumours in recent years, the firm has yet to confirm if a return to the UK is imminent.
Better Retailing said 7-Eleven outlined two models that are used to expand into a new market. The first is a master franchise agreement, where the parent company has “no direct involvement” other than consultation and logistical support. The second is joint ventures and acquisitions, which would see “direct participation” and moving global staff into the new markets to help launch the brand.
The report noted that for both models, the master franchise owner, joint venture partner or acquired firm is expected to already have a network of stores, food production capability and supply chain, significantly limiting the pool of potential targets.
Describing its expansion into new markets through working with existing companies in those regions, the company said it wants to “Grow 7-Eleven business rapidly with top performers”.
7-Eleven currently operates nearly 85,000 stores across 19 countries, with the company targeting 100,000 outlets by 2030. Whilst most of its sites are in Asia and the US, the brand does have a presence in Northern Europe, with stores in Sweden, Norway, and Denmark.
NAMNEWS Implications:
*. Anyone in doubt re the importance of this item…
*. …should consult overseas colleagues re how good 7-11 can be…
*. then prepare accordingly.
#7-Eleven #7-11
Executive Director @ NORA Network | Corporate Responsibility, Stakeholder Relations
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