In the largest acquisition in its entire history, 7-Eleven has purchased 1030 stores in 17 states from Sunoco, such that its overall count now exceeds 9700 stores across the United States and Canada. This acquisition seemingly flies in the face of many retail trends, in which companies appear to be shedding stores and seeking more efficient operations.

But convenience stores are a little different. This market continues to grow, along with dollar stores and off-price retail outlets. People still rely on convenience stores, even though the products and services they demand are changing. For example, many consumers appreciate fresh and prepared food options, such that they are able to grab a meal that is a little more substantial than beef jerky or a bag of chips.

Accordingly, some competitors in this sector are pursuing growth through other means too, such as Hy-Vee’s experiments with “convenience stores on steroids.” These alternative approaches offer all the conveniences of a conventional convenience store, but they also might feature a Starbucks counter or a small in-store restaurant, to expand the offerings available.

Nor is the acquisition the only move that 7-Eleven is trying. A new mobile app allows customers to place orders in advance, which they can pick up in stores. A future iteration also might integrate a delivery option. Regardless of which changes it makes in its retail locations though, 7-Eleven today has a much larger collection of stores in which to test them.

Discussion Question:

1. What changes are occurring in the convenience store retail sector?

 Source: Matthew Stern, Retail Wire, January 26, 2018