Avanti Issue 4 2023

2023 ISSUE 4

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Unity In Action Camaraderie & Community Showcased At The NCASEF 47 Annual Convention & Trade Show Building Our Future, Together The Value Of Franchisee Community Engagement Transfers The Unseen Crisis Staying On Top Of Your Store’s Financials How To Surrender Your Store And Cut Your Losses How Minimum Wage Increases Affect 7-Eleven Franchisees How Paradox Improves Your Hiring Process Sprains, Strains, And Overexertion, Oh My NCASEF’s Convention Impacts CMN Hospitals

Flip Through The Convention Photo Spread!

Pages 15-20

9/11!

N O S E R TO STO G N I M O C © 2023 7-Eleven, Inc. 7-ELEVEN, 7REWARDS, SLURPEE, SPEEDWAY, Moving S Design, and SPEEDY REWARDS are trademarks of 7-Eleven, Inc. and Speedway LLC. © 2023 The CocaCola Company.

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AVANTI 2023 ISSUE 4

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Collaboration ess Through Unlocking Succ Local Of Joining Your The Benefits 7-Eleven FOA e Shaving Whil ghts Thou oving itals Are Impr Children’s Hosp SecondHow Quarter 2023 thcare Affiliate & Boar Access To Heal d Of Director ness Association s MeetingJoin A Small Busi ingmar Sum y FOA Added Perks PageWill44Give Your n: ult Preventio Crime And Assa 2023 An Update For

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A Healthy Rela

3 The Spring 202 ber Directory Affiliate Mem Page 43

THE VOICE OF 7-ELEVEN FRANCHISEES

Contents 21 Building Our Future, Together

By Sukhi Sandhu, NCASEF Chairman

The Value Of Franchisee 25 Community Engagement

Flip Through The Convention Photo Spread!

Pages 15-20

By Joe Rossi, NCASEF Executive Vice Chair

27 Transfers

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The Greater Northwest FOA’s Annual Charity Golf Tournament

By Eric Karp, Esq., General Counsel To NCASEF

36 The Greater Oregon FOA’s Charity The Unseen Crisis— Golf & Trade Show Events 31 Employee Turnover In The Retail Industry

By Teeto Shirajee, NCASEF Vice Chairman

33 Staying On Top Of Your Store’s Financials

By Raj Singh, NCASEF Vice Chairman

40

Delaware Valley FOA Trade Show Makes Big Waves

48

Texas FOA Supports Local Back To School Fair

50 To Surrender Your Store Tournament A Milestone Event 35 How And Cut Your Losses

San Diego FOA Charity Golf

By Thomas Ayres—Warner, Federico & Ryan, LLP

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A Fun Day For San Diego FOA Members

71

FOA Of Chicagoland Donates To Lurie Children’s Hospital

How Minimum Wage Increases 64 Michigan FOA Charity Golf Tournament 43 Affect 7-Eleven Franchisees

By Ali Haider, Michigan FOA President, Board of Directors–SBAM

Paradox Improves Your Hiring Process, 45 How All While Saving You Time And Money

47th Annual Convention 51 NCASEF’s & Tradeshow Makes An Impact For

EN PA RT M

By John Harp, CSP, ARM—Risk Engineering Consultant, Mitsui Sumitomo Insurance Group

DE

Strains, And Overexertion, 47 Sprains, Oh My—Why It Hurts

TS

By Paradox AI

By Children’s Miracle Network Hospitals

Bits & Pieces..........53

Legislative Update.......63 SEI News...................67

Children’s Miracle Network Hospitals

AVANTI is published by the National Coalition of Associations of 7-Eleven Franchisees for all independent franchisees, store managers and interested parties. National Coalition offices are located at 3645 Mitchell Road, Suite B, Ceres, CA 95307. For membership information, call 855-444-7711 or e-mail nationaloffice@ncasef.com.

The views and opinions expressed in the articles and columns published in AVANTI Magazine are those of the authors and do not necessarily reflect the official policy or position of the National Coalition of Associations of 7-Eleven Franchisees, its officers or its Board of Directors.

Member News............10

Vendor Focus....70 FOA Board Meetings.....72 FOA Events.....................74 2023 ISSUE 4 AVANTI 9

Member News

NATIONAL COALITION OF ASSOCIATIONS OF 7-ELEVEN FRANCHISEES NATIONAL OFFICERS & STAFF Sukhi Sandhu

Convenience Retailers See Rising Sales In 2023 Convenience retailers have witnessed a positive trend in sales for 2023, with two-thirds (66 percent) reporting an increase in sales during the first seven months as compared to the same period last year, reveals a new survey released by NACS. This data aligns with the metrics from the NACS’ CSX database, which showed in-store sales experiencing a 9.4 percent rise and inside transactions going up by 1.0 percent for the first half of 2023 compared to 2022. Furthermore, convenience store retailers are optimistic about the remainder of the year: onethird believe that convenience stores are best positioned for success, closely followed by online retailers at 32 percent, and dollar stores at 14 percent.

Conversely, when considering which channels might struggle in 2023, 39 percent of respondents believe restaurants are least positioned for success, followed by drug stores (25 percent) and grocery stores (12 percent).

A key industry concern remains the labor shortage, with 44 percent of retailers listing it as their primary issue, especially given the current low unemployment rates. This concern surpasses others such as inflation, credit card fees, and government regulations.

On the community front, convenience

stores contribute significantly, donating over $1 billion annually to charitable causes. The top community issue that the industry should address, as per the survey, is the prevention of underage access to age-restricted products, wellness (nutrition), and human trafficking.

EXECUTIVE VICE CHAIRMAN 312-501-4337 • joer@ncasef.com

Rajneesh Singh VICE CHAIRMAN 214-208-6116 • rjn_singh@yahoo.com

VICE CHAIRMAN 954-242-8595 • teeto.shirajee@yahoo.com

Nick Bhullar VICE CHAIRMAN 626-255-8555 • bhullar711@yahoo.com

Romy Singh TREASURER 757-506-5926 • romys@ncasef.com

Shawn Howard

7-Eleven Climbs NRF’s 2023 Hot 25 Retailers List Achieving impressive growth in the retail sector, SEI has been recognized by the National Retail Federation (NRF) as one of the fastest-growing U.S. retailers, securing the No. 5 position on its 2023 Hot 25 Retailers list. Compiled by Kantar based on year-over-year domestic sales growth, 7-Eleven reported a 30.2 percent increase in U.S. retail sales from 2021 to 2022, translating to an increase of $6.99 billion in sales. This jump to the fifth slot is notable, given that 7-Eleven previously ranked 23rd on the 2022 list. While the

The strength of an independent trade association lies in its ability to promote, protect and advance the best interests of its members, something no single member or advisory group can achieve.

The independent trade association can create a better understanding between its members and those with whom it deals.

National Coalition offices are located in Ceres, California.

VENDOR RELATIONS ADMINISTRATOR 855-444-7711 • shawnh@ncasef.com

Eric H. Karp, Esq. GENERAL COUNSEL 617-423-7250 • ekarp@wkwrlaw.com John Riggio MEETING/TRADE SHOW COORDINATOR 262-394-5518 • johnr@jrplanners.com

John Santiago MANAGING EDITOR 267-994-4144 • avantimag@ncasef.com

The National Coalition Office

AVANTI 2023 ISSUE 4

Joe Rossi

Teeto Shirajee

“Sixty-six percent of convenience retailers reported an increase in sales during the first seven months of 2023 as compared to the same period last year.”

continued on page 12

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NATIONAL CHAIRMAN 855-444-7711 • sukhi.sandhu@ncasef.com

April J. Key GRAPHIC DESIGNER lirpayek@gmail.com

3645 Mitchell Road Suite B Ceres, CA 95307 855-444-7711 nationaloffice@ncasef.com

The Voice of 7-Eleven Franchisees 2023 ISSUE 4 ©2023 National Coalition of Associations of 7-Eleven Franchisees Avanti Magazine is the registered trademark of The National Coalition of Associations of 7-Eleven Franchisees.

A Day Of Unity & Giving At The Greater Northwest FOA’s Annual Charity Golf Tournament The Greater Northwest FOA’s Annual Charity Golf Tournament, held at Harbor Pointe Golf Club on August 10, 2023, was a well-attended event featuring 18 foursome teams and drawing participants from various sectors of the 7-Eleven franchise ecosystem. Notably, SEI executives Becky Stockwell, Philip Shirk, and Tony Vaz joined in the action, alongside a large contingent of franchisees and vendors. The event aimed to embody the spirit of “Building the Brand Together,” with an underlying mission of charitable giving. Kira Haller from Seattle Children’s Hospital represented Children’s Miracle Network Hospitals, the beneficiary of the golf tournament.

FOA President Chander Shekhar led the crowd in voicing the event’s philanthropic mission: “Let’s open up our hearts and pockets for the children.” True to that rallying call, the charity golf tournament raised a total of $7,011— alongside an additional $500 from an auction—towards the Greater Northwest FOA’s commitment to serve CMN Hospitals. Beyond the financial contributions, the event was infused with a sense of community, featuring a wide array of raffle prizes and culminating in a sumptuous dinner for all attendees.

Credit for the event’s overwhelming success goes to the entire Greater Northwest FOA Board, who masterfully orchestrated the day’s proceedings. The charity golf tournament was met with unanimous applause, attesting to the event’s impact both as a charitable endeavor and as a catalyst for strengthening community bonds among franchisees, vendors, and corporate team members, alike.

2023 ISSUE 4 AVANTI 11

Member News continued from page 10

overall growth rate was generally lower on the 2023 list compared to the previous year, trends indicate a surge in food sales and growth driven by mergers and acquisitions.

SEI Reps Among 2023 Future Leaders In Convenience Convenience Store News recently announced the selection of 36 individuals as part of its 2023 class of Future Leaders in Convenience (FLIC). Representing a wide range of roles from 29 distinct entities within the convenience store sector, these promising talents are being recognized for their significant positive impacts on their respective companies and the broader industry. From 7-Eleven Inc., three standout individuals are among the awardees:

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Gretchen Akers (Category Manager, Beer West), Nathali Aucapina (Market Leader, Golden Gate Market), and Michael Silver (Payments Fraud Strategy Analyst Treasury). These leaders, all aged 35 or below, were chosen based on the commendable contributions they made between January 1, 2022, and April 30, 2023, as highlighted by nominations from their companies and peers.

The FLIC awards, currently in their sixth year, aim not only to spotlight but also foster the growth of the convenience store industry’s future leadership. These emerging frontrunners will receive their honors at the sixth-annual Future Leaders in Convenience Summit slated for November 16 in Pittsburgh, PA. This summit serves as a prelude to the Convenience Store News’ 2023 Hall of Fame gala dinner, where notable

figures will be inducted.

7-Eleven Dominates Top 100 Convenience Store Chains List 7-Eleven Inc., has once again secured the top position in the 2023 Convenience Store News Top 100 ranking, marking another successful year for the leading retailer.

Despite relatively low activity in mergers and acquisitions within the convenience store industry, 7-Eleven has managed to maintain its dominance with a staggering 12,763 U.S. store locations, according to the annual report produced in partnership with TDLinx.

Preserving their top five ranks along with 7-Eleven, Alimentation Couche-Tard Inc. (5,716 c-stores), Casey’s General Stores continued on next page

Member News continued from previous page

Inc. (2,489), EG America (1,681), and GPM Investments LLC (1,491) continue to play a pivotal role in the convenience store landscape. Despite the overall minimal change in the ranking, the industry has witnessed some significant moves in 2023, including BP’s $1.3-billion agreement to acquire TravelCenters of America Inc., and the acquisition of Kum & Go LC by MaverikAdventure’s First Stop. As the longestrunning census of the largest convenience store chains by store count, the Convenience Store News Top 100 offers key insights into the industry’s competitive landscape.

Dollar Stores Surge In Q2 Placer.ai’s Q2 2023 Quarterly Index reveals an ongoing trend of increased foot traffic in

discount and dollar stores, with these outlets enjoying steady visits throughout the quarter, reported StoreBrands.com. Specifically, year-over-year (YoY) weekly foot traffic rose by 3.7 percent to 9.7 percent from mid-May onwards. Leading the pack were Dollar Tree and Dollar General, with visit shares of 39.4 percent and 32.9 percent, respectively. While Dollar General remains the largest in terms of store count, Dollar Tree and its Family Dollar subsidiary experienced YoY visit increases of 10.5 percent and 5.1 percent.

On the other hand, grocery stores showed modest gains, mostly outpacing their previous year’s foot traffic by the end of Q2.

Notably, Trader Joe’s, WinCo Foods, and Aldi witnessed the most significant quarterly YoY visit increments, whereas Meijer and Kroger registered decreased footfalls. Superstores, encompassing club retailers, exhibited signs

“Year-over-year weekly foot traffic at discount and dollar stores rose by 3.7 percent to 9.7 percent from mid-May onwards.” of recovery after a slower quarter. Though Walmart remained dominant in this category, accounting for about 60 percent of visits, it— alongside Target and BJ’s Wholesale Club— experienced reduced YoY visits during Q2.

Conversely, Costco observed a 0.7 percent rise in YoY visits.

U.S. Retail Sales Rise In July In July 2023, U.S. retail sales revenue,

continued on page 53

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A United Front For Building The Brand The NCASEF 47th Annual Convention and Trade Show at Caesars Palace Las Vegas was nothing short of spectacular, capturing the spirit of the event’s theme: “Building The Brand Together.” The convention was a melting pot of innovation and community, attended by 7-Eleven franchisees and their families from across the nation, alongside sponsoring and exhibiting vendors, and SEI executives. Over four action-packed days, attendees were treated to business-building seminars, fun activities, and a stellar two-day trade show featuring the hottest products and deals our valued vendor community has to offer.

The convention also offered a perfect blend of enjoyment and philanthropy, with a charity golf tournament at the TPC Las Vegas Golf Course to benefit Children’s Miracle Network Hospitals.

Additional leisure activities included tickets to the High Roller Observation Wheel, providing attendees with a unique view of Las Vegas from above.

The evenings were equally memorable, with special events like the Charity Night Gala benefitting CMN Hospitals and the Grand Banquet on the final night. The Grand Banquet was particularly dazzling, featuring an awards ceremony to recognize standout franchisees and vendors, topped off by an electrifying performance by renowned Indian recording artist Mika Singh.

As you flip through this photo spread, relive the magic and camaraderie that embody the essence of the NCASEF Convention and Trade Show!

2023 ISSUE 4 AVANTI 15

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AVANTI 2023 ISSUE 4

A Very Speciall

“Thank You”

To Our 2023 Convention Sponsors!

SUPREME

PRIME

PepsiCo, Inc. Anheuser-Busch

Ferrara Candy In Motion Design Mark Anthony Brands Perfetti Van Melle Acosta Sales & Mktg Advantage Solutions Atkinson-Crawford Sales Co. Aon Risk Services Barbot Insurance Services Bimbo Bakeries BlueTriton Brands Cintas Corporation Ecolab Firestone Walker Brewing Co. Heineken USA InComm Mars Wrigley Mini Melts Ice Cream Morinaga America RJ Reynolds Tobacco Co. SRP Companies Swedish Match North America Swisher International T-Mobile Wonderful Pistachios & Almonds/Fiji Water

GRAND McLane Company Inc. MONSTER Energy Company Altria Group Distribution Company Coca-Cola

PREMIUM Celsius Hostess Brands Kellogg’s BeatBox Beverages Bon Appetit Congo Brands Constellation Brands Molson Coors

ELITE Vixxo Corporation BIC USA Hershey Company Ghost Energy Glanbia Performance Nutrition Mondelez International Red Bull North America

CHARITY GOLF TOURNAMENT SPONSORS TOURNAMENT

Bon Appetit Reyes Coca-Cola Bottling

DIAMOND

Monster Energy Company Fairlife

RUBY

Congo Brands Constellation Brands Geloso Beverage Group Molson Coors Perfetti Van Melle SRP Companies

SAPPHIRE

BeatBox Beverages Core-Mark

EVENT SPONSORS PepsiCo & Bud Light – Grand Banquet Entertainment Monster Energy – Charity Night Gala Celsius – High Roller Ferris Wheel Reception

2023 ISSUE 4 AVANTI 17

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AVANTI 2023 ISSUE 4

Special Thanks To Our Exhibiting Vendors For making Our Trade Show A Stellar Success!

22nd Century Group 7 Stars Trading Acosta Sales & Mktg Advantage Solutions Altria Group Distribution Company Anheuser-Busch Aon Risk Services Ape Beverages Atkinson-Crawford Sales Co. Barbot Insurance Services Bayside Wireless BeatBox Beverages Benestar Brands BIC USA Big Ideas Marketing Bimbo Bakeries BlueTriton Brands Bon Appetit Boston Beer Company Bridgford Foods Bring It Home Brownie Baker Bubbies Ice Cream CAB Enterprises – Electrolit Campbell Soup Co. Celsius

Century Snacks Cintas Corporation Coca-Cola Congo Brands Constellation Brands Core-Mark CROSSMARK Convenience Danone North America DermaCare BioSciences Ecolab EHP Labs Ferrara Candy FIFCO USA Firestone Walker Brewing Co. Geloso Beverage Group Ghost Energy Glanbia Performance Nutrition Happy Dad Hard Seltzer Heineken USA Hershey Company Hostess Brands In Motion Design InComm ITG Brands Johnsonville Sausage JUUL Labs

Kellogg’s Keurig Dr Pepper Kretek International Lewer Agency Lindt & Sprungli Mark Anthony Brands Mars Wrigley McKee Foods McLane Company Inc. MegaMex Foods/Hormel-Don Miguel Mini Melts Ice Cream MIT 45 Molson Coors Mondelez International MONSTER Energy Company Morinaga America National Raisin Company Nepa Wholesale Paradox Payality Powered by Payroll People PepsiCo, Inc. Perfetti Van Melle Procter & Gamble Promark Red Bull North America

Remedy Organics Republic Amusements Republic Brands RJ Reynolds Tobacco Co. Ryse Shankman & Associates Sigma Sonam Water SRP Companies Starco Brands Stratus Group Swedish Match North America Sweetwood Smokehouse Swisher International T-Mobile Talking Rain Tehuacan Mineral Water The Patch Brand Turning Point Brands Ultimate Sales & Services Vixxo Corporation Whatcha Burnin Wonderful Pistachios & Almonds/Fiji Water Zappo - Chance Branding

2023 ISSUE 4 AVANTI 19

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AVANTI 2023 ISSUE 4

Building Our Future, Together

BY SUKHI SANDHU, NCASEF CHAIRMAN

What a whirlwind four days we had at the NCASEF 47th Annual Convention and Trade Show held at Caesars Palace in Las Vegas. The theme of the event was “Building the Brand Together,” and I believe we certainly lived up to it. The convention was packed with franchisees from all across the country, and the venue was filled with positive energy. We were also graced with the presence of SEI executives, whose participation added valuable insights to our discussions. Last, but by no means least, our exhibiting and sponsoring vendors dazzled with their amazing trade show offerings and unwavering support.

“From franchisees to vendors and SEI representatives, each stakeholder plays a significant role in driving us forward.”

The importance of unity in strengthening the 7-Eleven brand can’t be overstated. From franchisees to vendors and SEI representatives, each stakeholder plays a significant role in driving us forward. We gathered from various corners of the country, each with unique experiences, challenges, and perspectives, but with a common goal: To grow and evolve, both as individual business entities and as an integral part of the broader 7-Eleven network.

Our four-day event was a melting pot

“This charitable act shows that our 7-Eleven community doesn’t just talk about making a difference, we actively participate in bringing about positive change.” of collaboration and innovation. The seminars were meticulously planned to deliver insights, tools, and strategies to strengthen our businesses. The objective of these sessions was simple—inform our franchisees and equip them with the best resources to prosper.

There was also plenty of room for relaxation and networking. The charity golf tournament at the TPC Las Vegas Golf Course benefitting Children Miracle Network Hospitals and the High Roller Observation Wheel were not just entertaining, they also served as poignant reminders of the power of community.

The last two evenings of the convention were reserved for moments of celebration and gratitude. The Charity Night Gala and the Grand Banquet were elegantly executed, honoring our unified spirit. The Charity Night Gala in support of CMN Hospitals was an awe-inspiring testament to what we can achieve when we come together for a cause greater than ourselves. Not only did we enjoy silent and live auctions filled with incredible items, but the highlight of the night was the presentation of a $200,000 check to the organization. This charitable act shows that our 7-Eleven community doesn’t just talk about making a difference, we actively participate in bringing about positive change. It was an event that embodied the true essence of unity, and it makes me proud to be a part of this remarkable coalition.

The awards ceremony at the Grand Banquet shined a spotlight on franchisees and vendors who’ve made remarkable contributions to our community. And the mesmerizing performance by renowned Indian recording artist Mika Singh added a special charm to the night that will be etched in our memories for years to come. It was truly the perfect ending to a stellar event.

A pivotal part of our convention was the two-day trade show, where our valued vendors showcased a variety of products and special deals designed to improve our retail offerings and ultimately enhance the customer experience. I want to extend my heartfelt thanks to all vendors who exhibited, as well as those who went above and beyond by sponsoring the convention.

Your involvement in our national and local events isn’t just beneficial—it’s essential to our collective prosperity.

To all the franchisees who attended,

“A pivotal part of our convention was the two-day trade show, where our valued vendors showcased a variety of products and special deals designed to improve our retail offerings and ultimately enhance the customer experience.” continued on page 23

2023 ISSUE 4 AVANTI 21

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Building Our Future, Together continued from page 21

“Let’s carry the message of ‘Building the Brand Together’ into every business decision we make, every customer we serve, and every challenge we overcome.” your active participation added immense value to our convention. The exchange of ideas, the genuine feedback, and the profound commitment to the brand are what make these gatherings worthwhile. Lastly, I want to thank the SEI executives who attended. Your presence underscored the importance of a collaborative relationship between franchisees and the corporate team.

It’s through unity that we’ll continue to build a brand that’s not just profitable, but also impactful and enduring. Each one of us is a building block in the powerhouse that is 7-Eleven. When we come together, whether it’s for a grand event like this convention or in our dayto-day interactions, we fortify our brand.

serve, and every challenge we overcome.

Once again, thank you all for contributing to the overwhelming success of the 47th Annual NCASEF Convention and Trade Show. Here’s to an exciting year ahead, building our brand together, united in purpose and vision.

Let’s carry the message of “Building the Brand Together” into every business decision we make, every customer we

SUKHI SANDHU

Join Your Local Franchise Owner’s Association Today!

The best way to stay informed of the latest changes and challenges to our 7-Eleven system-and the convenience industry, in general-is to join your local Franchise Owner’s Association. FOAs help franchisees share ideas and concerns, and allow us to approach our franchisor and vendor partners with a unified voice. Becoming an FOA member also makes you a member of the National Coalition, which consists of all 41 FOAs nationwide.

To join your local organization, contact the FOA president closest to you, or follow the instructions below to fill out an online membership form. If you cannot find the FOA closest to you, contact nationaloffice@ncasef. com for more information.

We welcome your participation!

“None of us is as great as all of us together”

CAN BE REACHED AT 855-444-7711 or sukhi.sandhu@ncasef.com

How do I join an FOA? 1.

Log in to 7Help using 7Hub (secured) in-store or using this link https:/7elevenna.servicenow.com/from any external device.

2. In the search bar type “FOA.” 3. Select the popup suggestion “FOA/ PAC:FRANCHISE OWNERS ASSOCIATION.” 4. Type “NONE” in the “Current FOA” box if you are joining an FOA for the first time or you are not a member of any other FOA. 5. Type in the full name of the FOA that you wish to join (No abbreviation) in the “Future FOA” box.

6. Type in the amount of monthly dues as instructed per local FOA. 7.

Type “Please enroll (store number) as a member of (name of the local) FOA.”

8. Repeat Step 7.

9. Press the green submit icon.

2023 ISSUE 4 AVANTI 23

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AVANTI 2023 ISSUE 4

The Value Of Franchisee Community Engagement

BY JOE ROSSI, NCASEF EXECUTIVE VICE CHAIR

Now that we’ve made it past the 100 Days of Summer, it seems apt to step back and assess not just our individual accomplishments but also our collective gains as part of the 7-Eleven franchisee community. We’ve weathered many storms together, including the impact of COVID-19 that disrupted the business environment on an unprecedented scale.

While we are getting back to some sense of normalcy, there are still challenges we need to address collectively, such as labor issues and crime. Despite these hurdles, one thing remains clear: now is the time to reconnect with our franchisee community.

“Despite these hurdles, one thing remains clear: now is the time to reconnect with our franchisee community.”

The past couple of years have been so centered on survival that many of us have inadvertently neglected the community aspect of being a 7-Eleven franchisee.

But it’s important to remember that we didn’t get to where we are by isolating ourselves. We built our businesses by getting involved in our stores’ communities, by participating in events that brought people into our stores, and by supporting our fellow franchisees.

The power of community isn’t just a feelgood concept, it’s a business imperative.

Our local FOA meetings, for example, are not mere social gatherings—they are occasions for mutual learning and growth.

Think about the last time you attended a local FOA meeting or event. These

“The power of community isn’t just a feel-good concept, it’s a business imperative.” aren’t just opportunities to take a break from your daily grind—they’re crucial venues to share knowledge, solve common problems, and develop strategies for collective success. Even when it feels like there are not enough hours in the day, making time for FOA meetings and events is essential. The value derived from discussing issues with fellow franchisees—often leading to actionable insights—can’t be overstated.

locality. The larger the gathering, the broader the cross-section of experience and the richer the potential learning.

The fundamental truth is, we improve through interaction. Some of the most innovative ideas come from casual conversations where someone shares a tactic they’ve been quietly employing at their store. Such insights can be gamechanging, bringing about increased revenue or operational efficiencies.

Lastly, don’t underestimate the value of subgroups within our larger franchisee community. If you find that your specific subgroup of a handful of 7-Eleven owners—be it regional or issue-focused—is not doing enough, take the initiative to organize activities.

An informal lunch with a focused discussion topic can spark ideas that benefit everyone involved.

Soon, most local FOAs will host holiday parties. Make it a point to attend.

These events offer a unique setting to understand your fellow franchisees as individuals, which can strengthen your professional relationships.

After all, business isn’t always “The value derived from just about numbers, it’s also discussing issues with fellow about people. And speaking of franchisees—often leading numbers, sharing knowledge with other franchisees at the to actionable insights—can’t annual NCASEF convention be overstated.” and trade show can also be invaluable. Many franchisees have In a time when it’s easy to get lost in the reported implementing strategies day-to-day operations of our individual learned at these events that have led to stores, let’s not forget the immense measurable improvements in their store value that lies in franchisee community performances. engagement. Let’s not forget to give back.

As we head into the year-end and look Mark your calendar now for future forward to 2024, my message to each franchisee community events, whether of you is this: reconnect, engage, and they are local FOA meetings, the contribute to our franchisee community.

NCASEF convention, or NCASEF Board It’s good for business and our brand. meetings. Pre-planning ensures that you’ll make the time to be present and engaged. You might be surprised at how JOE ROSSI CAN BE REACHED AT much you can learn from a national 312-501-4337 or joer@ncasef.com meeting, even if it’s not in your immediate 2023 ISSUE 4 AVANTI 25

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Transfers

BY ERIC H. KARP, ESQ., GENERAL COUNSEL TO NCASEF

In the last issue of Avanti, we explored the turnover rates of franchised stores, which includes terminations of franchise agreements, non-renewals, repurchases by the franchisor, and abandonments of stores by franchisees. That examination did not include transfers in the calculation of turnover rates. In an excellent companion article in this issue, my colleague, Thomas Ayres, walks through the process of surrendering a franchised store.

default and staying in compliance with the franchise agreement and its operating standards.) Nevertheless, when such a sale is concluded, it is treated as a transfer rather than as a termination.

The number of transfers in the 7-Eleven system has been trending upward. Over the last five complete years, which included the introduction of the so-called 2018 Franchise Agreement and the COVID-19 pandemic, there were

“Transfers sometimes occur when 7-Eleven gives a franchisee who has received a termination notice time to attempt to sell the location rather than having it terminated.”

Transfers are sales of franchised locations from one franchisee to another franchisee. These transactions can be the result of distress or bad news, such as the death or incapacity of a franchisee, or good news in that a franchisee has reached the stage where he or she wants to retire or engage in other activities.

Transfers sometimes occur when 7-Eleven gives a franchisee who has received a termination notice time to attempt to sell the location rather than having it terminated. (Termination notices can often be avoided by curing a

a total of 1,170 transfers in the United States. In the previous 5 years, from 2013 to 2017, there were 612 transfers, or approximately one-half of the number from 2018 to 2022.

The definition of a “transfer” and the requirements for transfers are summarized in Item 17 of the Franchise Disclosure Document (“FDD”) and in sections 25(b) and 25 (c) of the 2018 form of the Franchise Agreement.

As a threshold matter, a “transfer” includes not only a sale or assignment of the Franchise Agreement and your interest in the franchised location, but also a transfer of any of the shares of stock in a corporation that may hold the Franchise Agreement, and also any transfer of the membership interests in a limited liability company. In addition, because the franchisee does not own

an interest in the furniture, fixtures or equipment, these may not be sold without SEI consent.

Under the Franchise Agreement the person or entity to whom the franchisee sells or proposes to sell his or her location is called a “transferee”—in common parlance, the buyer.

That said, here is a checklist of the eight steps that SEI may require in the event of an assignment: • Release of Claims by Transferee.

The transferee or buyer is required to execute a document that releases SEI from any liability for amounts paid by the transferee or any representations you may make to the transferee regarding the business. While SEI takes an active role in approving both the transferee and the transaction, it insulates itself from any liability to you or the buyer.

• List of Available Stores. In a provision unique to the 7-Eleven system, SEI reserves the right to provide the

“The transferee or buyer is required to execute a document that releases SEI from any liability for amounts paid by the transferee or any representations you may make to the transferee regarding the business.” continued on page 29

2023 ISSUE 4 AVANTI 27

Transfers continued from page 27

proposed transferee with a list of all 7-Eleven stores available to purchase in the general area where your store is located. This provision obviously helps the transferee in a variety of ways, but it is not particularly favorable to the franchisee seeking a sale.

• Release of Claims. In order to finalize the transaction, the franchisee must enter into (a) a mutual agreement with SEI to terminate the existing Franchise Agreement, (b) an indemnity in favor of SEI for any claims made by the transferee relating to the transaction, and (c) a general release by you in favor of SEI, which has the effect of wiping out and forever forgiving any claims you may have against your franchisor.

• Franchise Agreement in Effect. In order to be eligible to participate in a sale of your store, no termination of your Franchise Agreement can be pending, and you must be not in Material Breach of the Franchise Agreement. Material Breach is a defined term under Exhibit E to the Franchise Agreement, which in turn refers to 12 separate and distinct events listed in section 26(a) and 16 events listed in section 26(b) of the Franchise Agreement.

“In order to be eligible to participate in a sale of your store, no termination of your Franchise Agreement can be pending, and you must be not in Material Breach of the Franchise Agreement.”

“SEI has a right of first refusal, meaning that it has an opportunity to match any offer you may receive from anyone else to purchase your franchised business.”

• Complete Required Training. SEI is required to approve or disapprove your proposed transferee for training within 60 days after it receives all information regarding the proposed transaction that it may reasonably require. The reasonably required information is not specified in the Franchise Agreement. Training must be successfully completed based on criteria and standards specified by SEI. • Sign Then-Current Form of Franchise Agreement. The transferee must sign the then-current form of Franchise Agreement which may be materially different (and possibly less favorable to your buyer) than your Franchise Agreement at the time of sale. The transferee must also comply with all then-current financial terms, including those relating to the Down Payment, the 7-Eleven Charge, Franchise Fee, and other matters.

These capitalized terms are also defined in Exhibit E to the Franchise Agreement.

• Meet All Qualifications.

The transferee must, in the sole opinion of SEI, meet all qualifications to become a franchisee including those general qualifications set forth in the then-current 7-Eleven Operations Manual. According to the 2023 FDD, the Operations Manual

contains 1,009 pages. Provisions regarding the Operations Manual can be found in Section 4 of the 2018 form of Franchise Agreement.

• Comply with SEI Right of First Refusal. SEI has a right of first refusal, meaning that it has an opportunity to match any offer you may receive from anyone else to purchase your franchised business. You must notify SEI of any such offer you receive and provide whatever information and documentation regarding that offer that it may require. Once that information is submitted, SEI has 15 days to exercise its right of first refusal, in which event it must close the purchase within 60 days thereafter. It is important to note that such rights of first refusal are more or less standard in franchise agreements in the United States.

One way to measure the health of a franchise system is the extent to which franchisees are able to successfully navigate the many requirements for approval of the sale of their business, as well as their ability to harvest the goodwill value that they have created through their investment and hard work. We hope that this information is helpful to every franchisee in the system, especially those who are currently contemplating the possibility of a transfer.

ERIC H. KARP CAN BE REACHED AT 617-423-7250 or ekarp@wkwrlaw.com

2023 ISSUE 4 AVANTI 29

The Unseen Crisis—Employee Turnover In The Retail Industry

BY TEETO SHIRAJEE, NCASEF VICE CHAIRMAN

The retail industry is no stranger to challenges, from evolving consumer behaviors to increasing competition from e-commerce giants. However, there is an often-overlooked crisis within retail businesses that deserves attention: the high employee turnover rate. This unaddressed crisis is not only detrimental to the profitability and overall success of retail companies, but also poses a significant risk to the industry’s future.

A Vicious Cycle Employee turnover has become a common issue plaguing retail businesses across the globe. The cycle often starts with employees feeling undervalued, overworked, and under-compensated. This leads to low job satisfaction, reduced motivation, and ultimately, high turnover rates. As a result, retail companies find themselves in a constant cycle of recruiting and training new employees, which is both time-consuming and costly.

Causes of Employee Turnover 1. Low Wages and Lack of Incentives: Retail employees are frequently paid minimal hourly wages, making it difficult for them to make ends meet. With low pay, limited career growth prospects, and inadequate benefits, employees find it tempting to seek better-paying opportunities elsewhere.

2. High Workload and Stress: Retail jobs are often demanding, requiring employees to handle numerous responsibilities simultaneously and face demanding customers. The constant pressure and stress affect employee motivation, leading to burnout and an increased desire to leave the job.

3. Inadequate Training and Development

Opportunities: Retail businesses often prioritize cost-cutting measures, including inadequate training programs for employees. This results in a lack of skill development, leaving employees feeling undervalued and unprepared for their roles, prompting them to search for better opportunities.

4. Limited Career Advancement: Many retail employees perceive a lack of growth potential within their organizations.

This absence of clear career paths can discourage individuals from staying longterm, as they feel there is limited room for advancement.

Impacts on Retail Businesses 1. Increased Costs: Employee turnover can be financially burdensome for retail businesses. Costs associated with recruiting, hiring, onboarding, and training new employees rack up quickly, negatively impacting the bottom line.

2. Decreased Customer Experience: Frequent turnover means a constant influx of new employees who lack familiarity with products and services, leading to lower customer satisfaction levels. A decline in customer experience can result in decreased sales and brand loyalty.

3. Poor Employee Morale and Productivity: A constant cycle of hiring and training new employees can act as a demotivator for remaining staff. When colleagues continuously leave, it creates an atmosphere of uncertainty and instability, leading to decreased productivity and employee dissatisfaction.

Solutions and Best Practices 1. Competitive Compensation and Benefits: Retail businesses must offer competitive

wages and benefits packages to attract and retain talented individuals. Implementing performance-based incentives and recognition programs can incentivize productivity and loyalty.

2. Ongoing Training and Development: Consistent investment in employee training and development can enhance their skills, job satisfaction, and loyalty. Offering opportunities for skill-building and career advancement within the organization promotes a sense of commitment.

3. Flexible Scheduling: Retail businesses can provide flexible scheduling options to accommodate the needs of their employees.

This can improve work-life balance and, in turn, reduce turnover rates.

4. Employee Engagement and Support: Encouraging open communication, soliciting employee feedback, and providing support systems can contribute to a positive work environment. Regularly recognizing employee efforts and achievements fosters a sense of belonging and boosts morale.

The employee turnover crisis in the retail industry is a pressing issue that cannot be ignored. By addressing the root causes and implementing strategies to improve employee satisfaction and retention, retail businesses can break the cycle of high turnover rates.

Taking proactive measures to invest in their employees will not only lead to a more stable and motivated workforce, but also enhance the overall success and profitability of the retail industry as a whole.

TEETO SHIRAJEE CAN BE REACHED AT 954-242-8595 or teeto.shirajee@yahoo.com

2023 ISSUE 4 AVANTI 31

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Staying On Top Of Your Store’s Financials

BY RAJ SINGH, NCASEF Vice Chairman

Franchisees should review the following reports on a daily, weekly, and monthly basis in order to analyze how your store is performing and to identify opportunities for improvement. All the reports mentioned below can be accessed on 7-Report.

REPORTS TO MONITOR DAILY • DMR—Daily Merchandise Report

• ERI—Extended Retail Invoice This report provides information on the Daily Invoices Detail for purchases that are reported on the DMR for DSD, and provides information on how their retail was calculated—i.e., Suggested Retail Price (SRP), Custom Retail Price (CRP) and Factored (FCTR).

This report provides information on your Daily Purchases, Beginning and Ending Inventory Level of DMR date, Audit Adjustments, Past Invoices, Price Overrides, Markups and Markdowns, Write Offs, Daily Inventory Sales, and very importantly— MTD GP% of purchases during the month.

• WDR—Wholesaler Detail Report

• POR—Price Override and Markup/ Markdown Report

REPORTS TO MONITOR WEEKLY

This report provides information on Price Overrides, Markups/Markdowns, Retail Adjustments and Retail Adjustment Amounts associated with the Sales Transactions of items within a business day.

Please note: The POR report is a summary of Inventoried Items Transactions ONLY. • NIS—Non-Inventoried Sales This report provides Sales Transactions of Proprietary Beverages, SBT, and Commission Items.

• PSR—Promo Sales Report This report provides a detailed breakdown of all the Promos/Discounts issued at the store, which helps to check the performance at the Promo level.

• APD—Accounts Payable Report This report provides information on maintenance charges, amount withdrawn from the Draw Portal, and other businessrelated miscellaneous amounts that are paid on your behalf.

This daily report provides very vital and useful information on your purchases, and needs to be reviewed to ensure the accuracy of your Invoice. (Invoice Unit Cost and Retail, Selling Unit Retail Price, Invoice Quantity, Extended Cost and Retail) • IMR—Inventory Management Report Franchisees should review this report every week in order to understand the purchase trend over weekly overage. The IMR reveals information on the irregularity in ordering.

REPORTS TO MONITOR MONTHLY • AP9—Accounts Payable Summary This report provides information on your maintenance charges and other miscellaneous amounts that 7-Eleven pays on your behalf. The AP9 is the summary report of the APD. • 11A—Detailed General Ledger This report provides all the charges that appeared on 48A—Franchise Financial Summary. Apart from the charge details, this report provides Net Activity of the month and beginning balance of all the charges, including your purchases during the month.

• 48A—Franchise Financial Summary This report provides all the financial

information, including profit or loss, balance on Open Account, and Minimum Net Worth.

The above information is very basic, but is important as it helps you understand your store’s finances. Apart from above reports, franchisees should also review the following Daily/Weekly/Monthly reports in order to understand your store in detail.

DAILY REPORT • RA1D—Daily Bank Activity MONTHLY REPORT • BRS—Final Billback/Scanback report to verify the accuracy of Billback amount in 48A. • CCE—Monthly Credit Card Fees Expanse Report to verify the accuracy of credit card fees in 48A. • MAP—Product Margin Report This is monthly report provides very useful information on the Current Period and Year-to-Date (PSA Category, Cost, Retail, % to the Retail, % to the Purchase Margin, % Purchase Margin Contribution, Ending Inventory, Non-Inventoried Sales, Inventoried Sales, Inventory Turn, Gasoline Sales, Transaction Count, Average Daily Transaction Count, and Average Sales).

All of the above-mentioned reports contain essential information that will help you better understand how your store is operating, and if there are any measures you can take to improve its performance.

RAJ SINGH CAN BE REACHED AT 314-960-6736 or 214-208-6116 or rjn_singh@yahoo.com

2023 ISSUE 4 AVANTI 33

How To Surrender Your Store And Cut Your Losses

BY THOMAS AYRES, WARNER, FEDERICO & RYAN, LLP

You’ve fought the good fight, but you may still feel that the store isn’t worth the hassle, and no one seems to want to buy it. No franchisee wants to give up, but sometimes it makes good business sense. According to 7-Eleven’s Franchise Disclosure Document issued April 1, 2023, 347 stores ceased operations and 670 stores were reacquired by the franchisor in 2020, 2021, and 2022, so franchisees often voluntarily terminate their agreements. Here is a brief checklist of how to surrender your store in an orderly fashion: First, you need to notify the franchisor in writing. Paragraph 27(b) of your franchise agreement states that if you want to avoid a $5,000 termination fee, you must give more than 30 days’ written notice. You can give written notice as short as 72 hours if you want, but be prepared for the $5,000 fee to be taken from your Open Account (more on that later). Do not expect an SMS or WhatsApp message sent to your Field Manager to do the trick: you should at least email your notice and ask for confirmation of receipt.

Second, you need to participate in the closeout procedure. If you just walk away, you may be charged for things that you could have addressed yourself and your Final Inventory amount may be less than you expected. Your store should be in the same condition you received it, except for normal wear and tear. 7-Eleven will charge your Open Account if it feels that any cleaning or maintenance needs to be done, so look around and make sure things are

in pretty good shape. Be present when the Final Inventory is taken so you can correct any entries you think are wrong.

Take pictures or videos if it helps prove your case. Once the Cost Value of the Final Inventory is determined, it is very difficult to change it a month later.

Third, take all paper copies of business licenses in your name or other materials that are personal to you; otherwise, they will be thrown out. (You may need to transfer some licenses and permits to 7-Eleven.) Cancel any licenses and permits in your name so the government doesn’t charge you later. Relatedly, settle your accounts with any nonrecommended vendors and cancel any future services or deliveries. Contact the worker’s compensation company to cancel the policy and request a refund.

If you have a paper version of the Operations Manual, give it back for a $100 credit. If you’ve downloaded the Operations Manual to your laptop or tablet and are not operating any other stores, then delete it.

“Cancel any licenses and permits in your name so the government doesn’t charge you later.

Relatedly, settle your accounts with any nonrecommended vendors and cancel any future services or deliveries.”

Fourth, make sure 7-Eleven has your correct contact information and physical address so you promptly receive the initial settlement worksheet and money 30 days from the changeover day. You will not have access to the store’s ISP and data, so if your address changes, call Customer Service at 1-855-711-0711 to update it. You will receive the greater of $15,000 or 25 percent of your total assets.

If you signed the franchise agreement in 2019 or after, you will receive the greater of $10,000 or 25 percent of your total assets. (If you’re in New Jersey, New York, Connecticut, or Illinois, you may receive the greater of $35,000 or 25 percent of your total assets due to bulk sales provisions.)

Fifth, be patient because the final summaries will come within 105 days after the last day of the month in which the changeover occurred, which means it could take more than four months. If you have a credit balance in your Open Account, then you receive payment in that amount. (A debit balance means that you have to pay that amount.) If you still dispute the amount, then do not deposit the check because that will be considered an acceptance and a release of claims.

If you have any questions about surrendering your store or anything else relating to your franchise agreement, you can reach me at tayres@wfrllp.com and 617.970.0063.

THOMAS AYRES CAN BE REACHED AT 314-960-6736 or 617-970-0063 or tayres@wfrllp.com

2023 ISSUE 4 AVANTI 35

A Hole-In-One For Charity & Business: The Greater Oregon FOA’s Charity Golf Tournament & Trade Show Events The Greater Oregon Franchise Owners Association (FOA) successfully hosted their annual golf tournament on July 17, 2023, at Pumpkin Ridge Golf Club in North Plains, Oregon. The event was attended by 192 golfers and raised a commendable $11,711 for the Children’s Miracle Network Hospitals (CMN Hospitals). Among the attendees of both events were NCASEF Chairman Sukhi Sandhu and Jawad Ursani, Secretary of the FOA of Southern California. Several key representatives from 7-Eleven, Inc. were also present, including Sembe Cole, Vice President of Western Franchise Operations; Becky Stockwell, Regional Director of Operations Western Zone;

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AVANTI 2023 ISSUE 4

and Market Leaders Jessica Weese and Jason Mollet, as well as most of the area leaders from Oregon.

Following the golf event, a trade show was organized at the same venue on July 18. The show featured 48 vendors, presenting an excellent networking and business opportunity for franchisees and suppliers.

Both the golf tournament and the trade show exemplified the collaborative spirit of franchisees, vendors, and SEI leadership, underlining the Greater Oregon FOA’s dedication to philanthropy and the growth of the 7-Eleven brand.

2023 ISSUE 4 AVANTI 37

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Delaware Valley FOA Trade Show Makes Big Waves In Atlantic City Great products and deals filled the showroom floor of Caesars Atlantic City Resort in New Jersey during the Delaware Valley FOA’s annual trade show, held on July 20, 2023.

The event was an extravagant affair featuring 60 exhibiting vendors, big prize giveaways, and a special live performance by a celebrated singer from Pakistan. In terms of prizes, attendees had the chance to win a grand cash prize of $3,000, a bicycle, a 75-inch TV, two Xbox video game consoles, and an assortment of gift

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cards totaling $5,000.

NCASEF Chairman Sukhi Sandhu was among the distinguished attendees, marking the event with his presence.

Mr. Sandhu was joined by key figures from the SEI team, specifically from the Accounting and Franchising departments. Representatives from facility management company Vixxo were also in attendance. Adding to the success of the event were the presidents and vice presidents of other FOAs, including those from UFOLINY, Detroit FOA, and the

Alliance of 7-Eleven Franchisees, making the event a significant assembly of franchisee leaders.

This gathering not only provided a platform for vendors to showcase their products, but also allowed for networking opportunities among different arms of the 7-Eleven franchise universe. With its prize giveaways and a diverse range of attendees, the Delaware Valley FOA’s trade show has set a high bar for future events.

2023 ISSUE 4 AVANTI 41

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How Minimum Wage Increases Affect 7-Eleven Franchisees

BY ALI HAIDER, MICHIGAN FOA PRESIDENT, BOARD OF DIRECTORS –SMALL BUSINESS ASSOCIATION OF MICHIGAN

Lately, there’s been a lot of talk about raising the minimum wage—that’s the lowest pay someone can legally receive.

Some folks say it’s a good thing because it helps workers earn more money. But for 7-Eleven franchisees, it’s not that simple.

We’re going to look at why this can be a problem for us and what’s been happening in some states where the minimum wage went up.

What Politicians Are Doing You might have heard about politicians who really want the minimum wage to go up. They say it’ll make things better for workers. But the thing is, they might not be thinking about what this means for people who own small businesses like 7-Eleven. There’s even a big court case in Michigan about this, that could potentially lead to a significant increase in the state minimum wage.

The Problem With Quick Changes One of the most significant challenges with implementing minimum wage hikes is the pressure placed on small businesses like our 7-Eleven stores. Small businesses often operate on thin margins and may not have the capital or the revenue stream to absorb a sudden increase in labor costs.

When the minimum wage rises quickly, small businesses may face two untenable options: cut staff or raise prices. Cutting staff can erode the quality of service or products, while raising prices can drive away cost-sensitive customers. Both scenarios risk the sustainability of small businesses, potentially resulting in closures that harm local economies and lead to job losses.

A rapid increase in the minimum wage can also contribute to inflation. When businesses raise their prices to offset higher labor costs, the cost of goods and services increase, affecting everyone.

Furthermore, a sudden surge in income for minimum-wage workers can drive up the cost of rent and other living expenses in areas where they live. In essence, any benefit from higher wages may be negated by a proportionate increase in the cost of living.

How 7-Eleven Franchisees Are Affected 7-Eleven franchisees have a special challenge. Most of the money we make goes towards paying our workers. If the minimum wage increases significantly, we might have less money left over to keep our stores running properly and make a profit.

This could mean fewer job opportunities for people in the communities that our stores serve, and even some stores having to close down.

Finding The Right Balance The whole minimum wage situation is like a tricky balancing act. It’s important to pay workers fairly, but it’s also important to make sure small businesses, like our 7-Eleven stores, can keep going strong.

People need jobs, and stores play a big part in local communities. So, it’s like figuring out a puzzle where both workers and franchisees win.

Changes In Some States Let’s look at a few places where the minimum wage has gone up a lot over the past five years: 1. Oregon

Five Years Ago: Workers earned at least $9.25 per hour.

Now: Workers get at least $13.25 per hour.

Increase: About 43.24 percent.

2. New York Five Years Ago: Workers earned at least $9 per hour.

Now: Workers get at least $13.20 per hour.

Increase: About 46.67 percent.

3. California Five Years Ago: Workers earned at least $10 per hour.

Now: Workers get at least $15.00 per hour.

Increase: 50 percent.

4. Washington Five Years Ago: Workers earned at least $9.47 per hour.

Now: Workers get at least $14.49 per hour.

Increase: About 52.96 percent.

5. Massachusetts Five Years Ago: Workers earned at least $11 per hour.

Now: Workers get at least $14.25 per hour.

Increase: About 29.55 percent Being a 7-Eleven franchisee is rewarding, but it isn’t easy, especially when it comes to the minimum wage challenge. While it’s important to make sure workers are paid fairly, it’s also important to think about how raising wages quickly can affect our stores. We need to find a way where both workers and franchisees can be happy because a strong community needs both jobs and stores to thrive.

ALI HAIDER CAN BE REACHED AT 517-219-5288 or ali@mi-foa.com

2023 ISSUE 4 AVANTI 43

How Paradox Improves Your Hiring Process, All While Saving You Time And Money

BY PARADOX AI

You’re a business operator. Tending to hundreds of customers’ needs a day, on top of the behind-thescenes management of your 7-Eleven location(s) isn’t easy. The last thing you want to have to worry about is if your night shift cashier is going to show up for work on a given day.

That’s where we come in. Paradox completely automates the hiring experience, from the initial contact through onboarding. We automatically handle all candidate screening and scheduling so you can focus on making sure customers keep coming back to your store.

Here are five reasons you need to transform your hiring process with Paradox.

With Paradox, candidates can prequalify for a position in one minute and apply in two minutes via text. And because these processes are automated, they can happen 24/7, not just when your hiring managers are available. A candidate can reach out about open roles at 11:55 PM and be scheduled for an interview by midnight.

A leading retailer used Paradox to shorten their interview scheduling process from days to minutes, with an average schedule time under seven minutes. Hiring managers no longer wasted hours each day looking back and

“Paradox completely automates the hiring experience, from the initial contact through onboarding.”

1. You’ll Save Money Paradox actually helps your business save money. A McAlister Deli’s franchise organization improved their candidate flow by more than 42X, while simultaneously reducing their paid job advertising spend by 70 percent and their employee turnover by more than 60 percent. The result: An influx in top talent, staffed stores, and money in the franchise owner’s wallet.

So not only is our technology saving time and reducing headaches for hiring teams, it’s also impacting the bottom line of the business—and it’s doing it almost instantly.

2. You’ll Engage Candidates Faster Speed is key to attracting highdemand, frontline employees. A difficult application results in high candidate drop-off rates, making it impossible to hire quickly.

forth at their calendar, and candidates moved along in the process much quicker, creating less room for drop-off.

3. You’ll Attract More Candidates With Paradox, 7-Eleven candidates can apply in Spanish, English, or French.

This ensures an immersive and personal experience for every candidate while helping them stay comfortable and confident through the hiring process.

This also increases your volume of candidates without any extra work.

With demand for bilingual workers more than doubling in recent years, this flexibility is vital to creating seamless experiences for every candidate (and

customer).

4. It’ll Keep Your Hiring Compliant Paradox doesn’t stop working after a job offer is sent and accepted. To ensure a positive experience all the way to the first day on the job, we handle onboarding and employee verification processes as well.

Digital onboarding documents like Form I-9 and WOTC are automated and sent to candidates through text message, even sending reminders on deadlines to complete the forms. This ensures candidates don’t forget to complete all necessary documents, and understand what is expected of them for their first day.

5. Happy Candidates = Happy Customers Put yourself in the shoes of a candidate. You get excited about working at 7-Eleven, but then find out the application process is long and difficult.

You end up disinterested and frustrated, and this may even discourage you from shopping at 7-Eleven in the future.

With Paradox, applying for a job is as easy as sending a text. Candidates don’t even have to leave their messaging app—everything happens in the initial conversation. This creates a modern, sleek, and people-friendly experience that matches the 7-Eleven brand.

Companies that use Paradox end up getting overwhelming positive responses from candidates, often because they had never seen hiring this easy. Paradox makes your hiring process simple, fast, and fit for any customer. Best of all, you won’t have to worry about unfilled positions again.

2023 ISSUE 4 AVANTI 45

WARNING

GIFT CARDS CAUSE EXTREME HAPPINESS

KEEP CUSTOMERS RETURNING TO YOUR ALL-IN-ONE GIFTING DESTINATION CAUTION: Make sure inventory is in stock

Need more inventory?

Email us at 7ElevenAutoReplen@incomm.com for FREE inventory/delivery!

If you are a victim of a phone scam, have questions or need help, please contact us: 7-Eleven Asset Protection Hotline (800) 555-2620 InComm Fraud Department (866) 362-9035 or FraudDepartment@incomm.com

Clip and save for reference.

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AVANTI 2023 ISSUE 4

119843_0723

SPRAINS, STRAINS, AND OVEREXERTION, OH MY—WHY IT HURTS

BY JOHN HARP, CSP, ARM—RISK ENGINEERING CONSULTANT MITSUI SUMITOMO INSURANCE GROUP

What if you or one of your employees suffers a back or strain injury and is unable to work? Employee back, shoulder and knee injuries can occur in the store from lifting, pushing/pulling, reaching, and slip and falls. These injuries can occur from a single event but many times it’s an accumulation of small events and poor fitness over days and even years. Back injuries are one of the most costly injuries to businesses and are a common cause of worker’s compensation claims at 7-Eleven stores.

Now that the 100 days of summer have ended, it’s important to assess how you did in preventing strain injuries and look for improvement ideas in the future.

The cost of a back or shoulder injury can be significant because of medical bills, continuing therapy, lost time, and in serious cases the employee may need surgery or be unable to return to their regular duties. In general business, NCCI estimates that the average cost of a low back injury is $37,000.

Here are a few examples of franchisee store back or strain injury cases: • Changing a 5g. BIB— $42,237 • Repetitive stocking using the same arm—$6,920 • Employee throwing trash into the dumpster—$2,425 • Lifting a case of water in the cooler—$9,610

“Back injuries are one of the most costly injuries to businesses and are a common cause of worker’s compensation claims at 7-Eleven stores.”

Common Causes of Strain Injuries in the Store

although 2022 saw an uptick. And, the costs tend to increase over time as claims costs develop over time.

1. Improper technique while lifting or carrying.

2. Lifting too much.

Common Causes of Back or Strain Injuries in the Stores

3. Sudden motion or twisting.

• Lifting bag in a box (BIB).

4. Slip, trip, and fall.

• Moving cases of beer or soda.

5. Lack of fitness.

• Handling full trash bags, especially with wet coffee grounds.

6. Poor posture when standing, bending, or reaching.

• Slip and fall while stocking or throwing trash.

Injury Claims - Sprains, Strains, Overexertion 100 90 80 70 60 50 40 30 20 10 0

$2,500,000 $2,237,430

$2,000,000 $1,500,000 $1,232,903

$1,115,666 $857,100

$1,000,000 $668,553 $500,000

2018

2019

2020

2021

Count

Cost

At MSIG-insured franchise stores, 17 percent of all injuries involved strains and overexertion as the basic sources of claims.

But, the severity or medical/lost time costs are 35 percent of the total. Here are the costs and count of strain claims since 2018.

It’s valuable to note that there is an improvement in the number of strains,

2022

$0

• Repetitive bending to the floor while stocking.

• Standing at the register on a hard floor without a mat.

• Pushing cases of milk inside the cooler.

• Overhead reaching while stocking the cooler or shelves. continued on page 49

2023 ISSUE 4 AVANTI 47

Texas FOA Supports Local Back To School Fair For The Third Year The Texas FOA recently participated in the Northwest Independent School District’s Back to School Fair in Justin Texas for the third year in a row. The group handed out over 1,000 free Slurpees and Mini Melts to kids, parents, and other attendees. The Texas FOA thanks Market 1611 Market Leader Ken Kieweg and his team for supporting the event.

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AVANTI 2023 ISSUE 4

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Sprains, Strains, And Overexertion, Oh My—Why It Hurts continued from page 47

Did You Know?

• Most liquids weigh 8.3 pounds per gallon. Milk is 8.6 pounds.

• A 24-count of bottled beer weighs 35-40 pounds.

• A 5 g. bag in a box weighs 43 pounds.

• 10 pounds at arm’s length puts almost 100 pounds of force on your lower back.

1. Train your employees in safe lifting, and encourage stretching and fitness.

2. Most employees should not lift more than 25 pounds without help.

3. Are box weights within the employee’s lifting ability?

Without space, it is difficult to lift these items properly.

Safe Lifting Guidelines • Plan the lift—where will the case or product go?

• Check the load—is it as heavy or light as expected?

• Know your limits—get help.

• Get a good grip.

• Bend your knees, not your waist.

• Hold the item close (fully extended arms can increase the load by 10 times).

• Move your feet—do not twist at the waist.

• Avoid lifting heavier items from below the knees or above the shoulders.

• Wear sturdy shoes with a cushioned insole.

How to Safely Handle Cases or Product

“At MSIG-insured franchise stores, 17 percent of all injuries involved strains and overexertion as the basic sources of claims.”

4. Bag in a box—keep full boxes off the floor. 5 g. boxes should be placed above the knees and below the shoulders.

5. BIBs should be replaced during shifts with 2 employees.

6. Stock room and cooler should have clear space to allow for proper lifting/handling methods and to reduce reaching.

7.Add cameras in the vault and backroom to document an injury (many “unidentified” injuries occur here).

8. Incoming deliveries should be placed where employees can easily grasp and carry.

The upper and lower shelves are danger zones.

15. Stocking lower shelves should be done using a small chair or stool, or a knee pad on the floor to minimize bending.

16. Use a sturdy step stool to reach high shelves.

17.Trash bags should be emptied frequently, especially if there are wet coffee grounds.

9. Make sure stacks of beverages are stable.

18. Dumpsters should have a fold-down side or opening so employees don’t have to toss trash bags over the top.

10. Encourage milk and other caseloads are delivered only 4 high.

19. Keep floors clean and dry—a slip can result in a back strain.

11. Keep crates stocked in the cooler 4 high or less.

20. A cushioned mat at the registers can improve back health and lessen fatigue.

12. Crates or case goods should be kept on the dollies in the cooler for easier movement.

If you need assistance with injury prevention resources, please contact your broker, agent, or me at the contact info below.

13. Store dollies in a designated space or on a holder to prevent trips and falls.

14. A long-handled hook device should be used to limit reaching for lightweight items like cups.

JOHN HARP CAN BE REACHED AT 908-604-2951 or jharp@msigusa.com

2023 ISSUE 4 AVANTI 49

30th Annual San Diego FOA Charity Golf Tournament Was A Milestone Event The San Diego FOA celebrated its 30th Annual Charity Golf Tournament on July 12, 2023, at the picturesque Rancho Bernardo Inn in San Diego. This year’s event was extra special as it marked three decades of community engagement and philanthropy, with the proceeds benefiting Rady Children’s Hospital San Diego. A total of 173 golfers attended the charity tournament—a perfect mixture of franchisees and valued vendors—and the celebratory atmosphere was capped off with a banquet dinner held in the Bernardo West. The tournament’s first-place

winners included Roy Sawaya, Eric Horan, Steve Menefee, and Gary Walia, while the Closest to the Pin accolade was awarded to NCASEF Vice Chairman Nick Bhullar.

The event drew significant participation from industry vendors, amplifying the spirit of collaboration.

In addition to individual players and teams, Tee Sponsorships added an extra layer of support and were provided by Beam Suntory, Sahara Stock & Go Wholesale, Phaze International, and 21 ROCS. Special guests included NCASEF Chairman

Sukhi Sandhu and Executive Vice Chairman Nick Bhullar, as well as franchisees from various FOAs such as the Joe Saraceno FOA, the FOA of Greater Los Angeles, and the FOA of Southern California.

Beyond the competitive fun and networking, the heart of the event was its charitable mission. Attendees and sponsors alike contributed generously, underscoring the FOA’s long-standing adherence to social responsibility.

The San Diego FOA sends a special thanks to the event’s aforementioned Tee Sponsors and participating vendors:

50

• Alesmith

• Boston Beer

• John Lenore

• Sigma

• Altria

• C-4

• Mark Anthony Brands

• SRP

• Anheuser Busch

• Coca-Cola

• McLane

• Stone Distributing

• Ballast Point

• Constellation Brands

• Molson Coors

• Stratus Group

• Bang Energy

• Fairlife

• Monster Energy

• Swisher

• Blue Triton

• Geloso Beverage

• Pepsi

• Body Armor

• Heineken USA

• Red Bull

AVANTI 2023 ISSUE 4

NCASEF’s 47th Annual Convention & Tradeshow Makes An Impact For Children’s Miracle Network Hospitals

BY CHILDREN’S MIRACLE NETWORK HOSPITALS

The NCASEF 47th Annual Convention & Tradeshow was an incredible showcase of the partnership between Children’s Miracle Network Hospitals (CMN Hospitals) and the National Coalition of Associations of 7-Eleven Franchisees.

celebrate the incredible impact of the partnership between NCASEF and CMN Hospitals in 2022. A special thank you to our award winners for their continued effort and dedication to change kids’ health to change the future.

Thank you, NCASEF! We couldn’t achieve our mission without you. Together we can change kids’ health and the future— for all of us.

Monday: TPC Las Vegas Golf Outing Benefiting Children’s Miracle Network Hospitals

2022 Top Fundraising Franchisees (Store Fundraising) • Jeannine Christensen • Donald Wills • Harshil Patel

When we positively change the health of even one child, we create a ripple effect felt in our neighborhoods for years to come. When we ensure our children can lead healthy, fulfilling lives, we foster the inventors, artists, leaders, and families of tomorrow.

The week kicked off with a successful golf outing. Over 140 golfers braved the Las Vegas heat to enjoy time at the beautiful TPC Las Vegas. Funds from the golf outing were encompassed in the check presented to CMN Hospitals during the Annual Gala on Wednesday, August 2.

Tuesday: Convention Opening & Annual Charity Night Sponsored by Monster Energy The CMN Hospitals booth showcased how our collective efforts provide member hospitals with the critical funds they need to advance pediatric healthcare at large, ultimately improving individual patients’ health, protecting our children’s futures, and enhancing our communities.

Spencer Haywood, four-time NBA AllStar and Hall of Famer, stopped by the CMN Hospitals booth for a meet-andgreet. Fans of all ages stopped by for a picture, autograph, and basketball advice.

Spencer Haywood is a proud supporter of Children’s Miracle Network Hospitals!

The Tuesday evening Annual Charity Night was sponsored by Monster Energy.

The evening consisted of presentations, awards, and successful live and silent auctions. At the end of the event, individuals generously gave additional donations through a fundraising effort led

by NCASEF Chairman Sukhi Sandhu.

Together, we had the opportunity to

2022 Top Fundraising FOAs (Event Fundraising & Store Fundraising) • Eastern Virginia FOA • Rocky Mountain FOA • Central Florida FOA Wednesday: Annual Gala & Check Presentation The week culminated with a check for $200,000 being presented to Children’s Miracle Network Hospitals during the Annual Gala. The check funds will go to the local member hospital of each donor or FOA. These funds are unrestricted and go to each hospital’s most urgent needs, whether that’s providing care to children without insurance, investing in research that discovers life-saving treatments and cures, training the next generation of doctors and nurses, or offering families comfort and peace of mind during the most trying moments of their lives.

Change Kids’ Health. Change the Future.

Children’s hospitals are on the frontlines when it comes to protecting the health of future generations. But they can’t do it alone. We are committed to serving our neighbors to meet their everyday needs. So together, we can build a better tomorrow.

Children’s Miracle Network Hospitals is proud to be the National Coalition of Associations of 7-Eleven Franchisees’ charity of choice. With the support of NCASEF and local FOAs, CMN Hospitals raises critical funds for 170 children’s hospitals across the U.S. to help fulfill their most urgent needs. We make all this possible at the local level. When you donate through NCASEF or your local FOA, the donation goes to your local member hospital.

Your donations allow each hospital to be flexible to address the most urgent needs in your community, while also preparing

“At the end of the event, individuals generously gave additional donations through a fundraising effort led by NCASEF Chairman Sukhi Sandhu.”

By improving medical equipment, facilities, and treatments, children’s hospitals are better equipped to address the most challenging health issues of our day.

and planning for tomorrow. With your support, we can change kids’ health to change the future.

2023 ISSUE 4 AVANTI 51

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Member News continued from page 13

The Atlanta City Council in Georgia recently approved legislation that will require gas stations and convenience stores to install and maintain video surveillance systems to help stop shootings, robberies, and carjackings, reported Atlanta News First. • Dollar General has partnered with retail tech company AiFi to test cashierless checkout at one of its stores in North Carolina, reported Supermarket News.

Similar to Amazon’s Just Walk Out technology, AiFi’s system uses cameras to monitor what items shoppers leave the store with and charge them accordingly. • A Walmart warehouse in Brooksville, Florida has shifted to automation to handle most products and is a prototype of the company’s larger plans to fully or partially automate its more than 100 warehouses across the United States, reported the Wall Street Journal. • Wawa recently launched its own pizza in over 900 locations across the Mid-Atlantic and Florida, with options available via in-store touchscreens or their app. The pizzas are made to order using fresh ingredients and baked in dedicated ovens, with a variety of toppings available. • Seven & I Holdings recently replaced the president of Sogo & Seibu in an apparent move to pave the way for a sale of the department store unit, reported The Japan Times. Seven & I hopes that the new president, Hiroto Taguchi, will help accelerate the talks to sell Sogo & Seibu. • Albertsons and Safeway recently launched Vine & Cellar, a digital platform delivering curated wines from regional and specialty vineyards to consumers across California, with offerings ranging from $10 to over $1,000 per bottle, reported Drug Store News. • The global contactless payments market is expected to be valued at $90.6 billion by 2032 from $22.4 billion in 2022, with a CAGR of 15.4 percent during the forecast period 2023 to 2032, according to a new report by Market.Us. North America is forecast to be the most lucrative market, with a share of 30 percent during the forecast period. • continued on page 57

including both discretionary general merchandise and consumer packaged goods (CPG), increased 2 percent compared to the same month last year, and unit sales declined 2 percent, according to Circana. Discretionary general merchandise spending declines continued with a 4 percent drop in dollar sales and 7 percent decrease in unit sales compared to July 2022. CPG spending remained elevated with 4 percent growth in food and beverage, and a 3 percent increase in non-edible revenue.

However, the impact of elevated prices on demand are evident in CPG, with unit sales falling 1 percent and 3 percent respectively across edible and nonedible segments. Overall, discretionary general merchandise spending declines continued into the first week of August with another 5 percent year-over-year decline in sales revenue, and 8 percent drop in unit sales.

Credit Card Competition Act Unlikely To Affect Rewards A new study conducted by global payments consulting firm CMSPI has revealed that the passage of the Credit Card Competition Act would have virtually no impact on credit card rewards, according to the Merchants Payments Coalition. The research estimates that credit card rewards would be reduced by less than one-tenth of 1 percent if the legislation becomes law.

Furthermore, it found that six out of the 10 largest U.S. card issuers have a 30 percent profit on swipe fees, more than enough to offset reduced revenue and maintain current reward levels.

The study highlighted historical precedents like Australia where credit card swipe fees were capped in 2003, resulting in minimal impacts on rewards.

Comparatively, U.S. rewards per dollar would drop a minuscule 0.097 percent.

The card industry’s threats to eliminate or reduce rewards in other places that have reduced swipe fees were described as idle threats, as rewards continued to be offered after reforms.

Ampm Debuts Autonomous Store Ampm recently launched its very first autonomous arena c-store called “Ampm ASAP Grab and Go” at San Francisco’s Chase Center, home to the NBA team Golden State Warriors, reported C-Store Dive. Incorporating AiFi and Verizon Business technology, this store offers a seamless shopping experience where customers can swipe their credit card upon entry, pick up their desired items, and simply walk out. This trend of frictionless technology in convenience stores is becoming increasingly prominent in arenas, combining both swift service and branded experiences for sports enthusiasts.

The Ampm ASAP Grab and Go store was first trialed during the 2022-23 NBA playoffs and has now been inaugurated for all Chase Center events. Positioned conveniently on the main concourse near portal 19, the store offers a variety of snacks and beverages, including beer, wine, and Ampm’s signature cookies.

According to Ampm’s Vice President of Convenience, the store’s advanced selfcheckout technology ensures shorter wait times, an ideal feature for arenas where fans don’t want to miss pivotal moments of games or shows.

NY C-Stores Concerned Over Cigarette Tax Increase New York State recently introduced an additional one-dollar tax per pack of cigarettes, and the New York Association continued on page 54

2023 ISSUE 4 AVANTI 53

Member News continued from page 53

of Convenience Stores (NYACS) has warned that this move might backfire, pushing consumers towards illicit cigarettes and causing legitimate retailers to lose significant business, reported WREN News. While understanding the state’s goal of reducing smoking, NYACS President Kent Sopris said that the tax might inadvertently promote the rise of illegal vendors who evade taxes and sell unauthorized vapes. He also emphasized that convenience stores, which derive nearly a third of their business from tobacco sales, will also miss out on associated sales of drinks and sandwiches. Sopris advocated for stricter tobacco law enforcement over increased taxation.

“NYACS said New York’s cigarette tax increase might backfire, causing legitimate retailers to lose significant business.”

collaborative, with Kellogg employees worldwide contributing name suggestions and feedback, resulting in thousands of proposed names. Notably, many suggestions celebrated the company’s enduring legacy, as seen in the final chosen names.

‘Store-Hailing’ With SelfDriving Shopping Vehicles Robomart, a Los Angeles-based startup, aims to redefine the shopping experience by introducing “store-hailing”—a concept where consumers can summon a mini, selfdriving store stocked with items right to their doorstep, reported Tech Crunch. Initially launched in 2018, the idea is to provide a more accurate and convenient shopping alternative to existing online grocery apps, which often misrepresent stock availability leading to order mistakes. The firm recently secured a $2 million seed round, bringing their total funding to $3.4 million.

Kellogg Reveals New Names For Split Businesses Kellogg Company recently unveiled the names for the future companies it will create through its planned separation into two public companies focused on global snacking and North American cereal. The global snacking, plant-based foods, international cereal and noodles, and North American frozen breakfast sector will be branded as “Kellanova.” This entity is set to oversee a plethora of internationally recognized brands, such as Pringles, Cheez-It, and PopTarts.

The North American cereal division will operate under the name “WK Kellogg Co.” Representing a significant portion of the cereal market in the U.S., Canada, and the Caribbean, this division boasts iconic cereal brands like Frosted Flakes, Froot Loops, and Mini-Wheats. The company stated that the naming process was deeply 54

AVANTI 2023 ISSUE 4

Additionally, Robomart has announced their new product, the Haven, which will join their existing Oasis model. While the Oasis model, launched in 2020, targets restaurants and has around 100 vehicles contracted (with Ben & Jerry’s as a notable customer), the Haven is set to cater to supermarkets and convenience stores, and plans to commence deliveries by 2025. Robomart’s Haven offers retailers the option of custom branding and can house approximately 300 SKUs.

Dollar Tree Expands Its Price Points After successfully transitioning from $1 to

$1.25 pricing last year, Dollar Tree is setting its sights on higher price points ranging from $2 to $5, primarily for food and beverage items, reported Winsight Grocery Business. The discount retailer announced its new strategy during its annual investor conference recently, noting that the previous price shift, coined BTD (Breaking the Dollar), has set the stage for further price increases. According to CEO Rick Dreiling, the move to multiple price points allows for a wider assortment of goods, including national brands and bigger pack sizes, as they aim to capture sales that their customers are

“Dollar Tree is setting its sights on higher price points ranging from $2 to $5, primarily for food and beverage items.” currently making elsewhere.

Dollar Tree had initially begun testing its multi-price “Dollar Tree Plus” offerings in 2019, a program that expanded to 2,500 locations by the end of 2022, and is expected to reach 4,300 of the retailer’s over 8,000 stores by the end of 2023. While the initial product mix was skewed towards seasonal discretionary items, Dollar Tree is now focusing on capturing more of the grocery market share. As it introduces more prices, Dollar Tree also plans to maintain its opening price point as the core assortment and is considering reducing the price of 300 to 400 items back to $1.

Americans Turn To ‘Buy Now, Pay Later’ Apps Amid soaring grocery prices and lingering continued on page 57

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PepsiCo recently chose 10 Hispanic-owned startups in food and beverage to join its Greenhouse Accelerator Program Juntos Crecemos Edition, offering them a six-month mentorship and a $20,000 grant to enhance their business growth and product transformation. • Monster Beverage Corporation recently entered into an agreement to acquire all of Bang Energy’s assets, including a beverage production facility, for $362 million. The acquisition is expected to close in the second half of 2023. • Small business owners in Virginia from a growing collection of restaurants, retail establishments, bars, convenience stores, and other organizations recently formed the Virginia Merchants and Amusement Coalition (VA MAC) to support legal skill games and assist in curtailing illegal gaming, reported the Independent-Messenger. • The U.S. gift card market is projected to reach $260 billion by 2026, with digital gift cards accounting for nearly $135 billion, according to a study by Blackhawk Network and NAPCO Research. • GasBuddy has partnered with CSC ServiceWorks to help drivers easily locate air pumps and emphasize the significance of proper tire inflation for safety and fuel efficiency through the GasBuddy app. • Kodiak Robotics and Pilot Company have inaugurated their first truckport in Villa Rica, Georgia, to serve as a launch and landing point for Kodiak’s self-driving trucks. The facility, part of Kodiak’s 18,000-mile autonomous deployment network, will provide services like refueling, light maintenance, and specialized inspections for autonomous trucks. • Walmart+ recently partnered with Exxon Mobil to double the fuel discount for mem-

bers from 10 cents to 20 cents off every gallon at approximately 12,000 Exxon and Mobil stations from August 15 through September 15. This initiative aimed to offer significant savings for members during the busy travel holiday weekend and the back-toschool season. • In response to rising rent, labor, and food costs, automated pizza-making kiosks are gaining popularity, with brands like PizzaForno and Pizza Jukebox leading the way in the U.S., reported QSR Magazine. PizzaForno aims to open 20,000 kiosks by 2026 in various locations, while Pizza Jukebox offers an experiential approach, allowing customers to listen to music as a robotic arm prepares their pizza. • Yellow Corp, a major U.S. trucking company, recently shut down operations and filed for Chapter 11 bankruptcy protection, affecting 30,000 workers, reported Reuters. Financial analysts cited acquisition debts, disparate company operations, and low shipping rates as key issues leading to the company’s demise. • Electric vehicle drivers are increasingly dissatisfied with public charging, with a J.D. Power report showing a decline in customer satisfaction for both Level 2 and fast chargers, reported USA Today. As more drivers transition to electric cars, many face challenges with the current EV charging infrastructure, including lengthy charge times and inconsistencies across charging networks. • Cash Depot Ltd. recently announced the official launch of BANK IN A BOX, its new cash management, ATM, and consumer financial services system. The technology is designed to provide a versatile cash solution for retailers with unbanked and underbanked consumers by combining smart safe, cash recontinued on page 58

financial strain from the pandemic, more Americans are resorting to “buy now, pay later” (BNPL) platforms to manage their expenses, reported the Washington Post. While BNPL services like Klarna, Affirm, and Afterpay initially gained traction during the pandemic, their usage has surged by 40 percent in the first two months of 2023 for grocery purchases, according to Adobe Analytics data. The economic repercussions of the pandemic combined with ongoing inflation have left many Americans searching for financial solutions, leading to the over 25 percent projected growth of the $309 billion BNPL industry by 2026.

Midwesterners Opt For Cheaper Food Amid Inflation The CEO of Casey’s General Stores said that due to inflation, a significant proportion of the company’s lowincome customers are modifying their spending habits by selecting cheaper prepackaged foods and the store’s private label over hot breakfast items or branded products, reported Bloomberg.

These customers are also opting for less expensive ethanol blends at the gas pump as a strategy to maximize their money.

Despite the economic pressures, Casey’s, the third-largest US convenience store operator, is targeting an expansion plan of 350 additional stores to its existing 2,500 locations by the fiscal year ending April 2026. The company said it is capitalizing on a favorable development environment, with smaller convenience stores providing attractive expansion opportunities.

2023 ISSUE 4 AVANTI 57

Member News

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cycler, ATM, and financial services kiosk into one machine. • Dollar General is growing its Clover Valley private label brand with the addition of more than 100 grocery items in the hopes of further boosting food and beverage sales, reported Winsight Grocery Business. The discount retailer is also investing heavily in grocery, with plans to install more than 65,000 cooler doors this year as part of its DG Fresh initiative. • Restaurant dining has rebounded as more than half of consumers (55 percent) say they are dining in restaurants as much or more than before the pandemic, reveals a new Deloitte study. The re-

port also shows that consumers age 18-38 are more likely to return to restaurants that use automation technologies than those age 39+.

• Trucks moved more than 11.4 billion tons of freight in 2022, up from 10.93 billion tons the previous year, according to the latest edition of American Trucking Associations’ American Trucking Trends 2023. The industry also collected 80.7 percent of the nation’s freight bill in 2022, generating $940.8 billion. • Inflation is causing more high-income earners to seek bargains at Dollar General, Family Dollar, ALDI and other low-priced stores, with members of six-figure house-

holds 15 percent more likely to say they would shop at such stores now than in June of 2022, reported the Wall Street Journal. • With $48.7 billion in systemwide sales, McDonald’s ranked first on a list of the 500 biggest U.S. restaurant chains compiled by Nation’s Restaurant News and Datassential.

Starbucks came in second, and Chick-fil-A, Taco Bell and Wendy’s rounded out the top five. • A new report has found that Candy is the most popular category with repeat c-store customers, with salty snacks and bakery close behind, reported CStore Decisions. According to the survey, 10 percent of continued on page 61

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A Fun Day At The Del Mar Racetrack For San Diego FOA Members The San Diego FOA broke another attendance record for its annual Day at the Races event this year, as 152 franchisees, friends, families, and vendors joined us for an unforgettable day of thrills and winnings. The event took place at the Del Mar Thoroughbred Club on August 25, and we not only watched some spectacular races, but also got a chance to sponsor the second race of the day featuring the horse Straighten Up—owned by Doug F. O’Neill and ridden by Antonio Fresu—which took first place.

The highpoint came when our Board member Bobby Brar’s wife, Manveer Brar, and Renee Aon’s daughter, Marena Aon, presented the winning jockey with flowers and took photos in the Winner’s Circle. Those are memories that will last a lifetime! San Diego FOA President Bic Sidhu would like to extend a heartfelt ‘thank you’ to

Anheuser-Busch, John Barbot, Coca-Cola, Colonial Life, Fairlife, Monster Energy, Sahara Stock & Go Wholesale, 21 ROCS, and Red Bull for sharing this memorable day with the San Diego FOA. But the fun didn’t end at the racetrack. Thanks to our generous vendors—Arizona, Frito-Lay, Gummy Bear Distributing, Perfetti Van Melle, and Morinaga—everyone went home with goodie bags filled with delicious snacks.

On behalf of the San Diego FOA Board, family, and friends, I’d like to express our deepest gratitude for their donations. As I look back on this record-setting day, I can’t help but be grateful for the amazing San Diego FOA community that came together to make it all possible.

Thank you, everyone, for being a part of this fantastic event. Cheers to many more!

—Lisa Ashby, San Diego FOA 2023 ISSUE 4 AVANTI 59

Introducing the Ecolab Nexa Hand Care Program ®

™

NDC 63146-117-10

NDC 63146-303-09

NDC 63146-304-10

Act Now! 7-Eleven Cleaning Program Refresh* Receive a complimentary cleaning program refresh including hand care system installation, new wall charts and updated SDS manual contents during the hand care roll out by Ecolab when you order.

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Verify your installation date on the Ecolab Hand Care Installation Schedule Order one case each of Mystic™ Foaming Hand Soap, Mystic™ Foaming Hand Sanitizer and Alphasan™ Hand Sanitizer

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Due to Health Department regulations, Ecolab installers can only install dispensers if enough product is on hand to fully stock them.

FREE Hand Care

Dispensing Equipment

Ordering Information Mystic Foaming Antibacterial Hand Soap 4 - 1250 mL SLIN#

UIN#

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530328

961649

447362

Sent ~2 weeks prior to install

Mystic NEXA Foaming Hand Sanitizer 4 - 1250 mL SLIN#

UIN#

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530326

961656

447361

Alphasan Hand Sanitizer 4 - 1200 mL SLIN#

UIN#

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350063

350488

522329

60031/7300/0723 ©2023 SSDC Division, Ecolab, 4050 Corporate Drive, Suite 100, Grapevine, TX 76051

Member News

continued from page 58

respondents said they purchased candy every day, while 19 percent said they purchased it multiple times a week, and 18 percent said they purchased it monthly. • Wawa has introduced a renovated, digital-centric store design at Drexel University in Philadelphia, where customers order entirely via in-store touchscreens or the Wawa mobile app, reported NJ.com. Despite this change, staffing levels remain unaffected and the company plans to collect feedback on the new layout in the upcoming months. • Tilray Brands, the world’s largest cannabis company, has entered into an $85 million deal with Anheuser-Busch InBev to acquire eight beer and beverage brands, positioning itself as the fifth-largest craft brewer and fifteenth-largest overall brewer in the U.S., reported Forbes. • More Americans are shopping online for groceries than ever before, with 6 in 10 people reporting they shopped online in the past 12 months and 41 percent stating they did “all, or almost all,” or “most” of their grocery shopping online compared to 28.3 percent last year, according to a new survey by Coresight

would be built on 22.4 acres of land and come in at 241,000 square feet—to replace an existing 134,000-square-foot Costco three miles up the road in Fresno, California, reported The Fresno Bee. The plans for the store include 32 gas station pumps and an automated car wash. • Uber recently announced that it has partnered with grocery chain Hy-Vee to provide on-demand and scheduled grocery delivery to customers in the Midwest, incorporating over 260 Hy-Vee outlets in Iowa, Illinois, Kansas, Minnesota, Missouri, Nebraska, South Dakota and Wisconsin into the Uber Eats platform. • Texas recently approved a plan requiring companies to include Tesla’s technology in electric vehicle charging stations in order to qualify for federal funds, despite opposition and concerns about the supply chain and certification, reported Reuters. This decision aligns with Tesla’s ambitions to establish its technology as the U.S. charging standard. • Food delivery companies DoorDash, Grubhub, and Uber Eats have recently filed lawsuits against New York City, opposing its new minimum wage law for app-based

Research. • A South Florida jury recently awarded $800,000 in damages to a little girl who received second-degree burns when a hot Chicken McNugget fell on her leg as her mother pulled away from the drive-thru of a McDonald’s restaurant in 2019, reported the Associated Press. • Dunkin’ appears to be launching a range of spiked coffees and teas with alcohol contents of 6 percent and 5 percent, respectively, as indicated by a new age-restricted website, reported Fox News. The company is supposedly partnering with Harpoon Brewery, with whom they collaborated in September 2022 for a beer mix pack. • Coors Banquet has renewed its “Protect Our Protectors” program, pledging $250,000 to the Wildland Firefighters Foundation and other donations to support areas affected by wildfires, including $25,000 to the Maui Strong Fund. • FinanceBuzz is offering $1,000 plus an additional $250 for expenses, to someone willing to taste test 25 popular foods from Buc-ee’s, a well-known rest stop chain in the South, reported USA Today. • Costco recently proposed its largest store ever—which

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Member News Legislative Update Taking Action On The Credit Card Competition Act

government modernizes the Electronic Benefit Transfer (EBT) system with chip cards, mobile payments, and other payment upgrades.

NACS is rallying for the passage of the Credit Card Competition Act of 2023, a bill poised to usher in competition to the credit card marketplace, thus providing respite to the convenience industry and its customers.

The bill, however, is up against significant opposition from credit card companies and megabanks who have launched a campaign propagating misinformation about the legislation. NACS said the crucial countermeasure lies in industry-wide grassroots level advocacy with Congress members to gather support for the bill.

The EBT Act would make permanent a temporary protection from new transaction fees first established in the 2018 Farm Bill.

Without legislative action, that provision will expire this year, potentially leading to increased costs or a two-tiered payment system that would discourage retailers from participating in SNAP and burden consumers.

To empower this advocacy, NACS has outlined nine ways to support the Act: sending an email message to Congress members, making a phone call to voice concerns, using social media platforms to share personal experiences with swipe fees, sharing swipe fee stories with NACS for lobbying efforts, writing letters or op-eds to local newspapers, arranging in-person meetings with lawmakers, hosting instore visits for lawmakers to understand the impact of swipe fees, staying informed through updates from NACS, and recruiting friends to join the cause. NACS stated these actions aim to amplify the voice of the convenience industry against the well-funded opposition, ensuring a fair competition in the credit card market.

Bill Would Ensure No SNAP Transactions Fees Congresswoman Shontel Brown (OH11) recently introduced the Ensuring FeeFree Benefit Transactions Act (EBT Act), new legislation to protect Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program (SNAP) retailers and beneficiaries from transaction fees. Congresswoman Brown’s legislation would ensure that retailers are only responsible for their own costs as the federal

House Panel Backs Bill Against Ending Internal Combustion Engine Sales A House of Representatives committee recently greenlighted a bill opposing the discontinuation of internal combustion engine (ICE) vehicle sales, reported NACS Daily. This move comes in reaction to California’s Advanced Clean Fleets rule, endorsed by the California Air Resources Board (CARB), which mandates zeroemission for all new medium and heavyduty vehicles by 2036 and all trucks by 2042.

The legislation, initiated by Rep. John Joyce (R-PA), seeks to prevent the Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) from granting waivers that would outlaw the sale or usage of new ICE vehicles, which California requires to minimize ICE vehicles in fleets. Joyce and Rep. Bob Latta (R-Ohio) emphasized maintaining consumer choice and not allowing one state to dictate national policy. The American Trucking Association has also expressed support for the bill, advocating for technologically neutral, realistic emission targets.

Utah Measure Would Allow Alcohol Sales in C-Stores A ballot initiative named “Citizens’ Initiative to Amend and Modify Title

32B” was recently introduced in Utah, seeking to relax the state’s stringent alcohol regulations, reported Fox 13 News. The proposal aims to allow the sale of wine and spirits in grocery and convenience stores, slash the state’s markup on alcohol sales from 88 percent to 30 percent, transition state-owned liquor stores to private ownership, and position Utah’s Department of Alcoholic Beverage Services purely as a wholesaler. This move would also enable major retailers, such as Costco and Trader Joe’s, to procure licenses to sell alcohol and allow consumers to receive direct alcohol shipments from outside the state. While the initiative’s proponents believe that a free-market approach will offset any state revenue losses, it faces challenges from influential entities, including The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints.

Oregon’s Self-Service Fuel Ban Lifted After 72 Years Oregon recently lifted its long-standing ban on self-service fueling, permitting gas stations across the state to allow customers to pump their own gas, reported CNN. The new regulation, embodied in House Bill 2426 and signed into law by Democratic Governor Tina Kotek, went into effect immediately in early August, positioning New Jersey as the sole U.S. state still upholding a complete ban on self-service fueling. However, Oregon’s law still mandates that in its 16 most populous counties, a maximum of 50 percent of pumps at any station can be designated as self-serve, and there must be at least one employee available for fueling at all times, with no additional charges for the full service. The shift has elicited mixed reactions, with some appreciating the convenience and others lamenting potential job losses and favoring traditional full-service.

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Michigan FOA Charity Golf Tournament Raises Funds For Children Advocacy Organization The Michigan Franchise Owners Association of 7-Eleven hosted an incredible charity golf event on August 29 at the Links of Novi in support of the Children Trust Michigan, an organization that funds effective programs and services that prevent child abuse and neglect. With a fantastic turnout, we were joined by 137 golfers and approximately 40 supporters.

The day was filled with camaraderie and competition as golfers took on the 18-hole scramble, all while enjoying delightful breakfast and dinner offerings.

A special highlight of the event was the awards ceremony, where trophies were presented to the deserving winners. The day concluded with an exciting vendor auction and raffle, which turned out to be a smashing success! Through the combined efforts of our passionate community, we’re proud to announce that we raised an impressive $7,111 in support of this meaningful initiative.

A heartfelt thank you to all the participants, sponsors, and volunteers who made this event a resounding success.

Your dedication and generosity will undoubtedly make a significant impact on the lives of Michigan’s children.

Together, we’re making a difference!

—Ali Haider, Michigan FOA President

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500 screens within the app, solidifying its commitment to delivering a best-in-class digital shopping environment.

SEI Launches Fifth Annual ‘Brands With Heart’ Showcase

The Redesigned 7-Eleven App

SEI recently introduced a new version of its 7-Eleven mobile app, incorporating significant upgrades aimed at enhancing customer experience both in its physical stores and through the 7NOW Delivery service. The 7Rewards loyalty program, initially launched in 2017 via the mobile app, has seen continuous refinement to cater to the evolving shopping habits of its users. The freshly unveiled app features include a streamlined login and registration process, enhanced in-app shopping and delivery mechanics, an intuitive discovery experience offering rapid access to services like fuel loyalty and carwash, an overhauled homepage, and a centralized hub for exclusive deals and rewards.

Recognizing its role as theworld’s leading convenience retailer, 7-Eleven emphasizes the crucial nature of a topnotch digital experience in meeting customer expectations for convenience, engagement, and satisfaction. The comprehensive redesign offers users a seamless interface replete with contemporary design elements and animations spread across more than

SEI recently announced a call for innovative and emerging brands to apply to its annual Brands with Heart showcase. The program, now in its fifth year, is designed to give brands the opportunity to enter a new retail channel with the chance to see their products on the shelves of 7-Eleven, Speedway and Stripes stores across the U.S. The company said it is always on the hunt for up-and-coming, exciting new products that enhance the customer experience and complement its iconic food and beverages like Slurpee drinks, Big Bite hot dogs, pizza and more. Through the Brands with Heart program, emerging brands can make their case on why their product deserves a spot on shelves of all 7-Eleven’s banners.

SEI said it is looking for items across all categories that meet the needs of its onthe-go customers—including snacks, beverages, alcoholic beverages and ‘betterfor-you’ products.

Standout products will be invited to attend the Brands with Heart showcase in Irving, Texas November 1-3 where they will present to company employees and meet with merchandising teams for coaching and mentoring. Following the showcase, select brands will be invited to participate in an in-store test at select 7-Eleven, Speedway and Stripes stores across the U.S.

7-Eleven Donates To Hawaii Wildfire Relief

Amid the destruction caused by wildfires in Hawaii—particularly in the town of Lāhainā on Maui—SEI has stepped forward

to aid the relief efforts, announcing a donation of $25,000 to the American Red Cross Hawaii Wildfires Relief Fund. SEI, through its 7-Eleven Cares Foundation, is an established member of the American Red Cross Disaster Responder program, where corporations pledge a minimum of $250,000 annually to back Red Cross preparedness and relief initiatives. This consistent support ensures prompt action by the Red Cross during times of crisis.

‘Uncrewed’ 7-Eleven Opens In Taiwan

ITRI and 7-Eleven recently unveiled the “X-STORE 7,” a 24-hour autonomous convenience store in Taiwan, equipped with AIoT (Artificial Intelligence of Things) technologies. Located at ITRI’s headquarters, the store incorporates ITRI’s Grab & Go System Service, which features smart shelves and a range of AI sensors designed to optimize store management and understand consumer behavior.

X-STORE 7 stands out as Taiwan’s first self-sufficient unmanned convenience store, requiring no support from neighboring stores. Through the smart shelves and a ledger system, inventory and sales can be monitored remotely by a single worker, the companies said.

Customers use a QR code from the 7-Eleven app for entry and checkout.

Unlike other cashier-less stores that depend on expensive computer vision, X-STORE 7’s sensor-based approach offers cost-efficiency, paving the way for rapid expansion, according to ITRI.

7-Eleven Australia Enhances Digital Shopping Experience

7-Eleven Australia has joined forces continued on page 69

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food delivery workers, which is set to increase their pay to nearly $20 per hour by April 2025, reported CNN Business. The companies argue the regulation unfairly targets only meal-delivery services. • By 2030, workers over the age of 55 will fill an additional 150 million jobs globally, making up over a quarter of the workforce in high-income countries, according to a study from Bain & Company. • Many Walmart stores nationwide turned off radios, dimmed lights and got rid of moving screen images for a couple of hours on Saturday morn-

ings through late August to create a “quieter” shopping environment for adults and children who live with sensory issues, reported Fox 35 Orlando. • According to Fortune Business Insights, global self-checkout system market size was valued at US$4.23 billion in 2022 and is projected to grow from US$4.88 billion in 2023 to US$13.98 billion by 2030, exhibiting a CAGR of 16.2 percent during the forecast period. • Dollar General plans to expand its fresh produce availability in more than 10,000 stores over the next few years, in-

cluding many in areas designated as food deserts by the USDA, reported The Produce News. The retailer plans to have fruits and vegetables in 5,000 stores by January, up from 3,900 stores as of May 5. • The global vegan chocolate market generated $585.8 million in 2022, and is anticipated to generate $2 billion by 2032, witnessing a CAGR of 13.1 percent from 2023 to 2032, according to a new report by Allied Market Research.

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with Grabango to enhance the “My 7-Eleven App Pay and Go” feature, with plans to deploy it in 10 outlets by the end of 2024. The partnership will enable customers to bypass the register and the requirement to individually scan their items, thanks to Grabango’s AI-driven checkout-free technology. This initiative builds on 7-Eleven’s recent digital advancements, including the introduction of Australia’s inaugural cashless and cardless convenience store in 2019 and the recent national implementation of pay-and-go solutions in all its stores. The updated system will coexist with traditional payment methods in the majority of the company’s locations, supporting both digital and traditional payment preferences of the consumers.

New Game Day Grub For Tailgate Season

In anticipation of the football season, SEI recently launched a variety of new game day foods and deals, setting the stage for the ultimate tailgate experience.

Available at 7-Eleven, Speedway, and Stripes stores, the fresh lineup includes Spicy Meat Pizza, Cheesy Garlic Bread Sticks, Chicken Bacon Ranch Roller, and Korean BBQ Boneless Wings, with exclusive discounts for 7Rewards and Speedy Rewards members. Vareesha Shariff, 7-Eleven’s Senior Director of Hot Food, emphasized the brand’s commitment to enhancing the tailgating tradition with these new offerings.

Additionally, fans can easily order other game day essentials like 7-Select chips and Big Bite hot dogs through the 7NOW Delivery app, ensuring a complete feast for their football celebrations.

An Exclusive Music Video Experience

7-Eleven, Inc. continued its summer of the Slurpee drink by teaming up with award-winning multi-media music company Lyrical Lemonade to provide one lucky customer the chance to win the VIP experience of a lifetime—just by shopping at 7-Eleven, Stripes and Speedway stores. For the first time ever, Lyrical Lemonade and

Cole Bennett—founder and mastermind behind the internet’s hottest music videos— collaborated with 7-Eleven to bring one lucky customer on-set as an extra in an upcoming music video. The winner will be flown out to hang on set, mingle with a tobe-announced hip hop star, and of course, enjoy all their favorite 7-Eleven snacks.

Through August 29, 7Rewards and Speedy Rewards customers were able to enter to win by purchasing participating products in-store or via the 7NOW Delivery app. Hundreds of lucky customers also had the chance to win even more exciting prizes like custom headphones and speakers.

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A Snack Revolution: New Hostess Bouncers Glazed Twinkies

MTN DEW Pitch Black Slurpee Drink Has Landed

Enjoy higher snacks sales with these new Hostess productA Snack Revolution: New Hostess Bouncers Glazed Twinkies

MTN DEW Pitch Black has landed in the frozen iconic Slurpee drink! Thanks to the overwhelming requests from DEW Nation, MTN DEW is welcoming back MTN DEW Pitch Black Slurpee drink to its roster for a limited time exclusively at 7-Eleven and Speedway. MTN DEW Pitch Black is DEW with a blast of dark citrus punch flavor and other natural flavors delivering a legendary drinking experience. Now available to order.

Get ready for a scrumptious twist on a classic favorite! Hostess recently unveiled their new Bouncers Glazed Twinkies 4-cake pack, promising an elevated snacking experience for convenience store shoppers. These tasty treats are baked with real vanilla and boast a delicious crème filling, all encased in a lightly glazed golden cake. And for those mindful of ingredients, they contain no high fructose corn syrup.

Additionally, the glaze is of a higher quality, designed to reduce breakage and damage, ensuring that each bite is as perfect as the last. The convenience factor has also been amped up. Each pack comes in a 4-cake sleeve with a transparent window for easy product viewing, and its design allows for one-handed eating, making it a go-to snack for those on the move.

The McLane UIN for this product is 686237, and the Core Mark DCMS is 521738.

Don’t miss out on stocking this revolutionary snack that’s set to become a fast favorite among consumers.

New Bouncers Glazed Twinkies is a go-to snack for those on the move.

KOOL Expands Product Line Non-Menthol KOOL LUXE ITG Brands has expanded the product line for KOOL with the brand’s first national launch of non-menthol offerings. The introduction of KOOL LUXE provides more options of premium quality taste from KOOL with both Bold and Smooth nonmenthol variants, available in Kings and 100s Box packings.

KOOL LUXE Bold provides a rich tobacco taste with just the right strength, balanced from start to finish, while KOOL LUXE Smooth provides a smooth, slightly sweet tobacco taste. Both finish with a clean aftertaste.

KOOL LUXE Bold and Smooth non-menthol variants are poised for success.

KOOL LUXE is poised for success, with the KOOL brand continuing to grow volume and KOOL retail transactions up. The launch is being supported by in-store presence, presence on KOOL.com, integration with KOOL’s loyalty program (KOOLCOIN), direct-to-consumer communication, and strong price support.

MTN DEW Pitch Black Slurpee is back for a limited time.

Enjoy High-Octane Sales With Zero NOS Energy Drink Mark your calendars for October 23, when the all-new Zero NOS Energy Drink hits convenience store shelves. This latest offering delivers the high performance and original NOS flavor profile that fans have come to love, but now it’s formulated with zero sugar. This means you can rev up your day without any sugar-related guilt.

For 7-Eleven operators, this product is a musthave addition to your energy drink section, catering to health-conscious consumers seeking high performance without the sugar. Don’t miss out on this highly anticipated launch!

Sugar free Zero NOS continues to provide the highperformance energy boost that the brand is known for.

Add A Dash Of Surprise With SOUR PUNCH Pickle Roulette Bites Get ready for an exciting addition to your candy aisle that will keep your customers guessing. Introducing SOUR PUNCH Pickle Roulette Bites, a one-of-a-kind confection that offers a surprise element with hidden pickle-flavored bites in every bag. With Green Apple, Lemon Lime, Watermelon and Pickle flavors, each bag promises to spice up your customer’s snacking experience.

Each 5oz Peg bag contains roughly 4.5 servings, with only 110 calories per serving. The candy is low fat, low sodium, and Kosher certified, catering to a wide variety of snackers. With a case cost to McLane at $13.44, a unit cost of $1.12, and a suggested retail price range of $2.19-$2.49, you’re looking at a margin of 48.9 – 55 percent.

As a 7-Eleven franchisee, you know how important it is to offer

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unique, high-margin products that attract and retain customers. With pickle being a sought-after and popular flavor across many snack items, SOUR PUNCH Pickle Roulette Bites offer a lucrative opportunity you won’t want to miss. This innovative product will be launching this November, making now the perfect time to plan its inclusion in your store’s lineup.

SOUR PUNCH Pickle Roulette Bites is a unique, high-margin product that will attract and retain customers.

Danone Personal Control Creamers Offer Coffee Drinkers More Options Danone is changing the game for the coffee bar and providing more options for the ever-changing coffee consumer. Danone offers the International Delight core favorites, Silk plant-based Oat creamer, and the popular SToK espresso shot.

Silk OAT creamer is for the consumer looking for plant-based creamer options, but they do not want to sacrifice the taste or

creaminess of their coffee experience.

SToK espresso coffee shot gives your brewed coffee a caffeine boost.

Portion control SToK shots allow consumers to add the exact amount desired. SToK provides a destination for coffee consumers that they can’t get anywhere else.

International Delight is a brand that 7-Eleven shoppers know and love from the coffee bar to the take-home creamers. International Delight Creamer is the #1 brand for exclusivity and loyalty, which means you will attract incremental shoppers to the category!

Flavor is the most important factor in a creamer consumer’s decision!

Core flavors are the most common point of entry into creamers on the coffee bar, and all other items offer flavor variety. A wide variety of flavor drives consumer satisfaction. Danone suggest carrying a minimum of six.

To place an order or learn more, please call (888) 620-9910 or visit DanoneAwayFromHome.com.

Offer your customers a variety of flavors with Danone’s Silk OAT, SToK espresso coffee shot, and International Delight creamers.

FOA Of Chicagoland Donates To Lurie Children’s Hospital The FOA of Chicagoland presented a check for $5,711 to the Ann & Robert H. Lurie Children’s Hospital on July 20.

The funds were raised during the groups’ annual charity golf tournament, held on May 1 at the St. Andrews Golf and Country Club in West Chicago, Illinois. The donation

demonstrates the association’s ongoing devotion to their community and highlights the successful outcome of their golf event, which brings together franchisees, vendors, and other supporters for a noble cause.

2023 ISSUE 4 AVANTI 71

FOA Board Meetings Central Florida FOA

FOA Of Greater Los Angeles

Phone: 207-415-0924

Phone: 619-726-9016

November 2, 2023—General Meeting

September 19, 2023—FOAGLA Meeting

Columbia Pacific FOA Phone: 503-998-5941

October 17, 2023—FOAGLA Mini Trade Show

September 28, 2023—General Membership Meeting

November 14, 2023—FOAGLA Meeting

December 2, 2023— General Membership Meeting

Metro New Jersey FOA

FOA Of Chicagoland

Phone: 732-910-8854

Phone: 847-595-1596

September 14, 2023—General Member Meeting/Tabletop Show

September 28, 2023—General & Board Meeting

Southern California FOA

October 25, 2023—Board Meeting December 7, 2023—Board Meeting

Phone: 818-357-5985 September 20, 2023—Board of Directors Meeting

October 18, 2023—Board of Directors Meeting November 15, 2023—Board of Directors & Members Meeting

UFOLINY Phone: 613-486-6266 September 26, 2023—General Membership Meeting October 24, 2023—General Membership Meeting November 28, 2023—General Membership Meeting

United FOA Of Northern Florida Phone: 407-683-2692 November 2, 2023—General Meeting

Change Kids’ Health.

Change the Future.

Children’s hospitals are on the frontlines when it comes to protecting the health of future generations. But they can’t do it alone.

You can help fund pioneering research and transformative care for children not just in their youth, but throughout their lives.

Give Today!

CMNHospitals.org

72

AVANTI 2023 ISSUE 4

FOA EVENTS December 2, 2023 Phone: 408-203-1039

Rocky Mountain FOA Holiday Party Gaylord Rockies Resort & Convention Center Aurora, Colorado December 2, 2023 Phone: 818-448-1348

Midwest FOA Chicago Holiday Showcase Pinstripes South Barrington, Illinois December 6, 2023 Phone: 847-971-9457

Southern California FOA Holiday Party Venue TBD December 8, 2023 Phone: 818-357-5985

Northern California FOA Christmas Party Venue TBD December 8, 2023 Phone: 916-837-3039

continued from page 74

Nor-Cal United FOAs (Central Valley FOA/ Greater Bay FOA/ Northern California FOA/ Sacramento Valley FOA) Holiday Party Venue TBD December 9, 2023 Phone: 707-344-6287

San Diego FOA Christmas Party Hilton San Diego/Del Mar Del Mar, California December 9, 2023 Phone: 619-713-2411

UFOLINY FOA Holiday Party Crest Hollow Country Club Woodbury, New York December 13, 2023 Phone: 613-486-6266

Michigan FOA Trade Show TBD March 6, 2024 Phone: 517-219-5288

Nor-Cal United FOAs (Central Valley FOA/ Greater Bay FOA/ Northern California FOA/ Sacramento Valley FOA) Trade Show Venue TBD Vacaville, California April 16, 2024 Phone: 707-344-6287

Nor-Cal United FOAs (Central Valley FOA/ Greater Bay FOA/ Northern California FOA/ Sacramento Valley FOA) Charity Golf Venue TBD Napa, California April 17, 2024 Phone: 707-344-6287

Midwest FOA Golf Outing Cantigny Golf Club Wheaton, Illinois June 6, 2024 Phone: 847-971-9457

Rocky Mountain FOA Trade Show TBD June 20, 2024 Phone: 719-661-1048

Rocky Mountain FOA Golf Tournament TBD June 21, 2024 Phone: 719-661-1048

Rocky Mountain FOA Summer Party TBD July 20, 2024 Phone: 719-661-1048

Michigan FOA Charity Golf

Southern California FOA 2024 Trade Show Pasadena Convention Center Pasadena, California May 7, 2024 Phone: 818-357-5985

TBD August 22, 2024 Phone: 517-219-5288

Michigan FOA Trade Show TBD October 24, 2024 Phone: 517-219-5288

AD INDEX 22 Century Group ....................52

Dreyers Ice Cream....................58

Morinaga....................................56

American Licorice.....................55

Ecolab.........................................60

Musco Family Olive..................75

Anheuser-Busch........................48

Hostess........................................76

PepsiCo - Beverage.....................6

AON.....................................12, 13

InComm.....................................46

PepsiCo - Food Service..............8

Bic USA........................................3

ITG Brands.................................32

PepsiCo - Frito Lay....................14

Bug Juice.....................................34

Kellogg’s......................................22

Perfetti Van Melle......................24

Celsius...........................................4

King Palm...................................44

Sabra...........................................66

Coca-Cola.....................................2

McLane.........................................5

Swedish Match (ZYN)..............26

Constellation Brands..........38, 39

MolsonCoors.............................28

Swisher Sweets...........................68

Danone.......................................30

Mondelez....................................65

Total Product Events.................62

Diageo.........................................42

Monster.......................................78

Vita Coco......................................7 2023 ISSUE 4 AVANTI 73

FOA EVENTS

continued on page 73

UFOLINY FOA Golf Outing

South Nev/Las Vegas FOA Trade show

Baiting Hollow Club Baiting Hollow, New York September 6, 2023 Phone: 613-486-9266

Alexis Park Resort Las Vegas Nevada October 19, 2023 Phone: 714-396-1003 or 702-569-9755

Utah FOA Annual Trade Show

Michigan FOA Trade Show

TBD September 13, 2023 Phone: 801-547-2750

Utah FOA Golf Event Top Golf September 14, 2023 Phone: 801-547-2750

United Franchise Owners Of Florida FOA 2nd Annual Trade Show Holiday Inn Express Cocoa, Florida September 21, 2023 Phone: 407-683-2692

Joe Saraceno FOA Trade Show Embassy Suites by Hilton Arcadia Arcadia, California September 28, 2023 Phone: 619-726-9016

San Diego FOA Vendor Appreciation Day AleSmith Brewing Company San Diego, California October 5, 2023 Phone: 619-713-2411

FOA Of Greater Los Angeles Mini Trade Show Venue TBD October 17, 2023 Phone: 714-728-4300

South Nev/Las Vegas FOA Golf Tournament Sienna Golf Club Las Vegas, Nevada October 18, 2023 Phone: 714-396-1003 or 702-569-9755

Farmington Hills Manor Farmington Hills, Michigan October 25, 2023 Phone: 517-219-5288

Alliance Of 7-Eleven Franchisees FOA Holiday Showcase The Westin Chicago Northwest Itasca, Illinois November 15, 2023 Phone: 847-949-0097

Eastern Virginia FOA Holiday Trade show Venue TBD November 15, 2023 Phone: 407-683-2692

FOA Of Chicagoland Holiday Trade Show Venue TBD November 16, 2023 Phone: 847-595-1596

Detroit FOA Trade Show Holiday Party Venue TBD November 17, 2023 Phone: 248-766-9002

Metro New Jersey FOA Holiday Party/ Tabletop Show Venue TBD November 18, 2023 Phone: 732-910-8854

United Franchise Owners Of Florida FOA Holiday Party Holiday Inn Express Cocoa, Florida December 1, 2023 Phone: 407-683-2692

San Francisco/ Monterey Bay FOA Holiday Party Delta Hotels by Marriott Santa Clara, California 74

AVANTI 2023 ISSUE 4

NCASEF BOA RD MEETINGS National Coalition Board meetings are scheduled one per quarter.

Vendors interested in sponsoring a Board meeting should contact John Riggio, JR Planners, at 262-394-5518 or johnr@jrplanners.com.

National Coalition Affiliate Meeting Hyatt Regency San Francisco San Francisco, California November 7-8, 2023

National Coalition Board Of Directors Meeting Hyatt Regency San Francisco San Francisco, California November 9-10, 2023

National Coalition Affiliate Meeting The Westin Dallas Stonebriar Golf Resort & Spa Frisco, Texas February 27-28, 2024

National Coalition Board Of Directors Meeting The Westin Dallas Stonebriar Golf Resort & Spa Frisco, Texas February 29-March 1, 2024

National Coalition Affiliate Meeting Courtyard by Marriott King Kamehameha’s Kona Beach Kailua-Kona, Hawaii November 12-13, 2024

National Coalition Board Of Directors Meeting Courtyard by Marriott King Kamehameha’s Kona Beach Kailua-Kona, Hawaii November 14-15, 2024

Change Kids’ Health.

Change the Future.

Hunter has undergone 24 surgeries due to his spina bifida. Also spending many hours receiving physical and occupational therapy that have helped him thrive after his many procedures. Hunter continues to amaze his mother with his can-do attitude and zest for life. Even when he had ankle and foot surgery that required him to wear a cast for 12 weeks, he didn’t let his condition get him down!

Thanks to donations, Hunter has access to continuous high-quality care for his spina bifida through physical and occupational therapy helping him move like Superman!

Give Today!

CMNHospitals.org

Hostess Fix the Mix with Top Seller + High Gross Profit 60% Everyday ®

Focus on Top Voids with High APSD Nationally #2 Ranked Hostess® Frosted Donettes® 174320 #3 Ranked Hostess® Powdered Donettes® 171248 #6 Ranked Hostess® Iced Vanilla Zingers® 171259

Why Carry?

Action Steps:

•

ALL stores love High Gross Profit, Hostess® singles have 60% GM/ $1.56 GP EVERYDAY!

•

2023 YTD Hostess® is outpacing the Category growing at +22%, while Category growth is +13%

•

Warehouse Brands Like Hostess® are growth drivers in Packaged Bakery Category for C-Store

•

Sweet baked goods is a winning Category; large, growing, and frequently purchased Category

•

Hostess® Brand contributed 20% to total category growth in 2022 and our innovation alone drove 4%.

•

Hostess® cakes and breakfast pastries have a strong affinity and pair well with coffee and breakfast drinks

•

Mark SKU’s as Carried

•

Set to POG Recommendations

•

Print and place tags on shelf Item

SLIN

Pack/Size

SRP

GP%

GP$

Chocolate Cupcakes

175408

6/3.17 oz

$2.59

60%

$1.56

Top 10

Frosted Donettes®

174320

6/3 oz

$2.59

60%

$1.56

Powdered Donettes®

171248

6/3 oz

$2.59

60%

$1.56

Twinkies®

175407

6/2.7 oz

$2.59

60%

$1.56

Must Have to Drive Profit

Crunch Donettes®

174346

6/4 oz

$2.59

60%

$1.56

Iced Vanilla Zingers®

171259

6/3.81 oz

$2.59

60%

$1.56

Coffee Cake

171270

6/2.89 oz

$2.59

60%

$1.56

Glazed Donettes®

171374

6/3.7 oz

$2.59

60%

$1.56

Devil’s Food Zingers®

171133

6/3.81 oz

$2.59

60%

$1.56

Orange Cupcakes

171343

6/3.38 oz

$2.59

60%

$1.56

All costs/retail are national averages. Please refer to the ISP for exact cost/retail by store.