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Making Growth Work Franchisees Support The Strategy, But Stronger Economics Are Essential Turning Challenges Into Action Enhancing Capital Efficiency And Profitability Joining Your Local FOA Isn’t Just Beneficial—It’s Essential Workers’ Compensation: Looking Beyond The Premium Safety Spotlight: Theft Claims = High-Dollar Losses

2026 ISSUE 4

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AVANTI 2026 ISSUE 4

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8/28/26 8:22 AM

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CONTENTS 15 Turning Challenges Into Action By Sukhi Sandhu, NCASEF Chairman

Enhancing Capital Efficiency And Profitability Through A Stronger Franchise System By Eric Karp, General Counsel To NCASEF

Business, Deals & Good Times In Philly

San Diego FOA Races Into Del Mar

59 Years Of Grippi Family Legacy With 7-Eleven

Greater Oregon FOA Swings For A Great Cause

By Teeto Shirajee, NCASEF Vice Chair

Compensation: 29 Workers’ Looking Beyond The Premium By John Wales, Aon Program Manager

A Cool Start To The School Year

VIEW

Joining Your Local FOA Isn’t Just Beneficial—It’s Essential

Safety Spotlight: Theft Claims = High-Dollar Losses

The NCASEF 50th Annual Convention & Trade Show In Photos

Pages 32-37

Third Quarter 2026 Board Of Directors Meeting Summary

By Kalli Hoben, Vice President, Partner Manager—Marsh

EXTRA! EXTRA!

Avanti is turning the spotlight on the people and partners who make a difference! Our new Franchisee Spotlight celebrates 7-Eleven franchisees who go above and beyond in their stores and communities, and Vendor Spotlight recognizes the valued vendor partners who supported NCASEF’s 50th Annual Convention and Trade Show and continue to stand behind the franchisee community.

• Franchisee Spotlight page 30 • Vendor Spotlight pages 43-45

DEPARTMENTS

Page 41

Member News .................................. 10 Bits & Pieces ..................................... 47 Legislative Update .......................... 52 SEI News ...........................................54 FOA Events ....................................... 58

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THE VOICE OF 7-ELEVEN FRANCHISEES 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.

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

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Monster Energy.........................3

Bota Box - Delicato Wines........ 18

PepsiCo.....................................6

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Primo Brands......................8, 60

Celsius......................................5

Swedish Match........................28

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

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2026 ISSUE 4 AVANTI 9

Member News U.S. C-Store Count Holds Steady

The United States had 151,975 convenience stores at the end of 2025, a slight decrease of 280 locations—or 0.2 percent—from the previous year, reported NACS Daily. The number of stores selling motor fuel increased by 768, reaching an eight-year high of 122,620, while convenience stores accounted for an estimated 80 percent of all fuel purchased by U.S. consumers. Smaller operators continued to dominate the industry, with companies owning 10 or fewer locations controlling 95,672 stores, or 63 percent of the total; by comparison, companies with at least 500 locations operated 33,810 stores, representing 22.2 percent. Texas remained the country’s largest convenience store market with 16,504 locations, followed by California with 12,143 and Florida with 9,730. Based on an estimated national population of 343 million, the United States has approximately one convenience store for every 2,257 residents.

Nicotine Pouches Reshape Tobacco Sales

Cigarettes remain the top-selling tobacco product in convenience

NATIONAL COALITION OF ASSOCIATIONS OF 7-ELEVEN FRANCHISEES

stores, generating more than $50 billion during the 52 weeks ending June 14, although unit sales declined 5.3 percent, reported CStore Decisions. Smokeless and spitless tobacco posted some of the category’s strongest results, with dollar sales up 12.7 percent and unit sales up 10 percent. Tobacco accessories also performed well, while vapor products fell 6 percent in dollars and 14 percent in units despite producing more than $6 billion in sales. Inflation is also pushing price-conscious consumers toward lower-tier cigarettes and nicotine products, creating growth opportunities in value offerings.

NATIONAL OFFICERS & STAFF

“Cigarettes remain the topselling tobacco product in convenience stores.”

Rajneesh Singh

AI Sharpens The C-Store Product Mix

Artificial intelligence is helping convenience retailers make more precise decisions about which products deserve limited shelf space, reported C-Store Dive. By analyzing store-level sales patterns, product velocity and inventory gaps, AIpowered tools can recommend which items to add, remove, or reposition. Experts estimate that data-backed

Sukhi Sandhu

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

Nick Bhullar

EXECUTIVE VICE CHAIR 626-255-8555 bhullar711@yahoo.com

Teeto Shirajee VICE CHAIR

954-242-8595

teeto.shirajee@yahoo.com

Michelle Niccoli

VICE CHAIR 719-661-1048 nicco711@yahoo.com

Khalid Asad

VICE CHAIR 913-488-3014 Khalid.asad@aol.com

TREASURER 214-208-6116 rjn_singh@yahoo.com

Shawn Howard

OFFICE & VENDOR RELATIONS MANAGER 855-444-7711 shawnh@ncasef.com

Eric H. Karp, Esq. GENERAL COUNSEL 617-512-9004 ehkarp@gmail.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 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. 10

AVANTI 2026 ISSUE 4

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 2026 ISSUE 4 ©2026 National Coalition of Associations of 7-Eleven Franchisees Avanti Magazine is the registered trademark of The National Coalition of Associations of 7-Eleven Franchisees.

Member News assortment planning can improve margins by 2 percent to 5 percent, while a focused assortment redesign can increase sales by 1 percent to 3 percent. Smaller operators may get the best return from targeted, cloud-based tools that integrate with existing POS and financial systems, rather than investing in a costly suite of advanced capabilities.

World Cup Delivers Sales Lift

Convenience stores in metropolitan areas hosting 2026 FIFA World Cup matches gained an estimated $12.7 million in additional spending during the tournament, reported Convenience Store News. Upside’s analysis of 33 match days found that host-market stores recorded a 1.2-percentagepoint advantage in foot traffic over stores in non-host markets, while basket sizes rose 1.3 percent, compared with 0.4 percent elsewhere. Customers spent an average of 8 cents more per visit, helping each host-market store generate approximately $66 in additional sales per match day. The strongest gains occurred inside the store, as fuel traffic declined 2.8 percent in host markets, slightly more than the 2.4-percent decrease recorded in non-host markets.

GLP-1 Growth Opens New Foodservice Opportunities

Convenience stores should treat the rapid growth of GLP-1 weight-loss drugs as a foodservice opportunity rather than a threat, reported CSP Daily News. About 9 percent of U.S. adults currently use the medications, and that figure could reach 24 percent by 2030 as costs decline, insurance coverage expands, and easier-to-use formats become available. Technomic research found that GLP-1 users focus on four factors when selecting food and beverages: portion size, preparation method, protein, and price. At convenience stores, 59 percent choose smaller portions, 62 percent prioritize foods that are roasted, baked, broiled, sautéed, boiled, or steamed, and 52 percent say protein influences their purchases. More than half of GLP-1 users—56 percent—will pay extra for products that meet their dietary needs, although they do not expect a steep premium. Technomic’s Donna Hood Crecca advised retailers to review existing menus for smaller portions, highprotein products, and healthier preparation methods before developing entirely new items. Operators can increase visibility through limited-time offers and value-priced meal combinations while continuing to sell indulgent products, which GLP-1 users still purchase. The opportunity extends

“C-stores should treat the rapid growth of GLP1 weight-loss drugs as a foodservice opportunity.”

beyond medication users: 79 percent of consumers said they are more likely to visit a foodservice location when they know high-protein options are available.

Walmart Shoppers Shift Online

Walmart shoppers are making fewer store visits as more spending moves online, reported Store Brands. Numerator data shows Walmart stores lost 118 million trips over the past year. Walmart. com gained nearly 250 million trips during the same period. Higher-income households increased their online Walmart spending by nearly $6.4 billion, or 27 percent, and Gen Z spending jumped 48 percent. Online transactions average $65, compared with $40 in stores, but customers shop less frequently online. Baby boomers were the only generation to reduce their overall Walmart spending, with some of those dollars shifting to Amazon and Costco.

C-Store Foodservice Stays Strong

Convenience store foodservice continues to gain momentum despite growing consumer concern over prices, reported CStore Decisions. Datassential’s Q3 C-Store Quarterly Tracker found that 58 percent of c-store shoppers believed prices were higher than the previous month, with Baby Boomers reporting the greatest pressure at 68 percent, followed by Gen X at 65 percent, Millennials at 54 percent and Gen Z at 51 percent. Consumers in the West noticed the sharpest increases, while continued on page 12

2026 ISSUE 4 AVANTI 11

Member News

continued from page 11

lower-income shoppers were the most likely to report rising prices. Retailers nevertheless remained upbeat: 71 percent described the month as profitable or average, another 12 percent called it very profitable, and only 6 percent reported a loss. Looking ahead, 76 percent of foodservice decisionmakers expected store traffic to increase during the following month.

Gas Prices Weigh On Consumer Confidence

U.S. consumer confidence fell to a seven-month low in August as gasoline prices remained above $4 per gallon and households continued to face elevated costs, reported the

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Associated Press. The Conference Board’s consumer confidence index declined to 89.4 from 90.2 in July, with respondents expressing growing concern about fuel and food prices, international conflict, trade and employment. Although 27 percent of consumers said jobs were plentiful, up from 24.4 percent in July, only 14.6 percent expected more jobs to become available during the next six months. The Federal Reserve’s preferred inflation measure rose 3.7 percent year-over-year in June, compared with 2.8 percent before the Iran conflict began in February. The labor market also weakened in

July, when employers cut 23,000 jobs and revisions erased another 103,000 jobs previously reported for May and June.

Record Diesel Prices Raise Costs Across Retail Supply Chain

U.S. diesel prices reached a record $5.85 per gallon as the war with Iran disrupted global fuel supplies, reported the Associated Press. The national average has climbed nearly 56 percent since late February, increasing transportation expenses for products delivered by truck, train and ship. Regular gasoline also rose to $4.15 per gallon, up from $3.20 a year ago, adding further pressure on consumers and businesses.

Member News Convenience retailers could see higher wholesale and delivery costs flow through to food, beverages and other merchandise as freight contracts reset and fuel surcharges take effect. Fuel represents an estimated 15 to 30 percent of the total cost of food, with refrigerated products such as meat, seafood, produce and dairy particularly vulnerable because they require frequent, temperature-controlled deliveries. Amazon, UPS, FedEx and the U.S. Postal Service have already introduced or expanded fuel-related fees, and economists expect more transportation costs to reach store shelves if diesel prices remain elevated.

Dollar Tree Sales Climb

Dollar Tree recently reported second-quarter sales rose 7 percent to $4.9 billion as the retailer continued reshaping its business after divesting Family Dollar. The company opened 75 locations during the quarter and finished with 9,436 stores across its U.S. and Canadian banners. The retailer converted or added approximately 710 stores to its multi-price format, bringing the total to about 6,600 locations. Dollar Tree also posted operating income of $690 million, a 14.1 percent operating margin, and $675 million in free cash flow.

Wholesale Clubs Lead Retail Traffic Growth

Wholesale clubs and superstores recorded year-over-year traffic gains during the second quarter of 2026, with Costco leading the sector at 8.2 percent growth, reported Placer.ai. Costco also increased average visits per location by 6 percent, showing that existing clubs are attracting more shoppers even as the chain expands. BJ’s Wholesale Club, Sam’s Club, and Target each posted overall gains of nearly 5 percent, while Walmart’s traffic rose just 0.7 percent as more of its growth shifted online. Target’s recovery accelerated throughout the spring, culminating in a 7.3 percent traffic increase in July, while Walmart rebounded with

continued on page 46

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AVANTI 2026 ISSUE 4

f a r a s e s

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Turning Challenges

Into Action

Over the past several months, I have spent a great deal of time talking with franchisees across the country about the challenges they are facing in their stores. The message has been consistent. Operating costs continue to rise, customer traffic remains under pressure, and too many programs designed to increase sales are not producing enough additional profit for the franchisee.

“At our first-quarter meetings, I told the Board that profitability must remain our overriding priority.” These concerns have been at the center of our NCASEF Board meetings throughout this year. At our first-quarter meetings, I told the Board that profitability must remain our overriding priority. Franchisee income declined for three straight years, and that trend cannot continue. We have repeatedly brought this issue directly to SEI leadership, and we have made it clear that growing sales alone is not enough. Growth must translate into stronger bottom-line results for franchisees. At the same time, I want to be equally clear about something else: NCASEF and franchisees are aligned with SEI’s North Star strategy. We understand the need to grow fresh food and foodservice, expand digital and delivery through 7NOW, and provide our customers with consistently clean, wellrun stores and a better overall experience. Franchisees are ready and willing to execute that strategy. But successful execution must also create sustainable economics for the franchisees being asked to deliver it at store-level. Increased sales must translate into increased franchisee income. New initiatives must take into account the labor, product costs, waste, maintenance, and other expenses required to execute them successfully. A strategy is

BY SUKHI SANDHU NCASEF Chairman

sustainable only when everyone participating in it has the opportunity to succeed. Our discussions with SEI have focused heavily on several areas where we believe meaningful improvements can be made. One is 7NOW. NCASEF supports delivery and understands its importance to the future of our business and the North Star strategy. But the economics have to work. Franchisees have raised legitimate concerns about labor requirements, delivery costs, canceled orders, and the amount of time employees spend fulfilling orders. At our second-quarter Board meeting, we asked the invited SEI guests to reconsider the delivery cost structure and restore financial support as longer-term solutions are developed. We have also pushed for labor requirements to be based on the actual time it takes stores to fulfill orders rather than simply the number of orders received. Food profitability is another major priority. We all understand that fresh food and foodservice will play a larger role in the future of 7-Eleven. But increasing food sales cannot come at the expense of franchisee margins.

“Product costs, promotional pricing, shelf life, waste, and labor all have to be considered when determining whether a program truly benefits the store.” Product costs, promotional pricing, shelf life, waste, and labor all have to be considered when determining whether a program truly benefits the store. We have raised these issues with SEI and continue working through our NCASEF committees to identify ways to improve the economics of foodservice. Fuel commissions remain another important part of these discussions. Systemwide gallons have declined, continued on page 16

2026 ISSUE 4 AVANTI 15

Turning Challenges Into Action continued from page 15

yet SEI’s gasoline gross profit percentage has increased significantly compared with the pre-pandemic period. Franchisees continue to be compensated primarily based on gallons rather than the profit being generated from fuel. NCASEF believes the economics deserve another look to determine whether franchisees are receiving an equitable share of the value being created at the pump. Our work also goes far beyond these three areas. Rising labor expenses, maintenance costs, required store supplies, technology problems, pricing discrepancies, and equipment downtime all affect the bottom line. During our second-quarter meetings, Board members pointed out that franchisee operating expenses are increasing faster than income. We also questioned the cost of certain required supplies after learning that similar products may be available elsewhere at much lower prices. I asked our Store Profitability Committee to compare those costs so we can have facts in hand when discussing the issue with SEI. Technology must also make stores more efficient, not create additional work. Register delays, system crashes, and other technology problems can seem small when viewed individually, but every unnecessary delay adds labor and frustrates customers and employees. We continue raising these issues through our Digital/ IT/7NOW/RIS Committee and directly with SEI. One frustration I heard earlier this year was that issues were being raised repeatedly without franchisees knowing what happened afterward. That criticism was fair. At our first-quarter meeting, we discussed the need for a better system to track issues and determine whether they were pending, resolved, or still unsatisfactory. By our third-quarter Board meeting in New York, NCASEF had begun formally tracking outstanding operational issues. That tracking process is important because our responsibility does not end when we raise a concern. We have to follow it through. Today, our officers and committees continue discussions with SEI involving franchisee profitability around 7NOW, fuel commissions, food sales, maintenance, and ultimately changes to the Franchise Agreement. Some of these issues will take time to resolve, but we will continue 16

AVANTI 2026 ISSUE 4

pressing for answers and measurable progress. There are also encouraging signs. Recent results show franchisee income improving compared with last year, including strong gains in July and positive year-to-date growth. We welcome that progress. At the same time, after three consecutive years of declining franchisee income, our focus must remain on whether those improvements can be sustained and built upon over the long term.

“At the same time, after three consecutive years of declining franchisee income, our focus must remain on whether those improvements can be sustained and built upon over the long term.” Our conversations with SEI are continuing, and they increasingly include the larger question of franchisee profitability. We appreciate SEI leadership’s willingness to engage in those discussions. NCASEF will continue bringing forward ideas and working collaboratively toward solutions that strengthen franchisee income and create a healthier and more sustainable system. In the middle of all these challenges, we also had an opportunity this summer to see just how strong our franchisee community remains. Our Golden Anniversary 50th Annual Convention and Trade Show in New York City was a tremendous success. Approximately 2,500 franchisees and vendor partners came together from across the country to celebrate 50 years of NCASEF. We broke attendance records, and the enthusiasm throughout convention week was incredible. Just as important was what happened on the trade show floor. Franchisees came ready to do business, and our vendor partners responded with strong deals and incentives. The result was record-breaking orders during the trade show. That success matters because the purpose of our convention has never been simply to bring people together. We want franchisees to return to their stores with opportunities that can help them increase sales and improve profitability.

That success also reinforced how important trade shows are to franchisees, our vendor partners and local FOAs. We are now working with SEI on the ordering process for future NCASEF and FOA trade shows, including the issues surrounding EDI orders. Our goal is to take the lessons learned from processing National Convention orders and develop a workable solution that allows these events to continue delivering value to franchisees and vendor partners. The convention also demonstrated the value of the relationships NCASEF has built with our vendor community. Our vendors have consistently supported franchisees, our FOAs, and our charitable efforts. This year, convention attendees, FOAs, vendor partners and sponsors helped raise $350,711 for Children’s Miracle Network, bringing NCASEF’s total contributions to CMN since 2022 to approximately $2.5 million. I believe there is an important connection between what we accomplished in New York and the work taking place every day throughout our system. I have often described our system as a three-legged stool—franchisees, SEI and our vendor partners. Each leg depends on the others. Our Golden Anniversary Convention demonstrated what can happen when all three are strong and working toward a common objective. The same principle must guide us as we pursue the North Star strategy and address franchisee profitability. Franchisees understand where the business needs to go, and we are prepared to do our part to get there. But we must make sure that growth, execution, and profitability

move forward together. We will continue advocating for better 7NOW economics. We will continue pushing for stronger food margins and a more equitable fuel commission structure. We will continue addressing maintenance, technology, operating costs, and the many other issues that affect franchisees every day. And we will continue tracking those issues so our members can see where progress is being made and where more work remains.

“We will continue addressing maintenance, technology, operating costs, and the many other issues that affect franchisees every day.” Fifty years ago, franchisees came together because they understood they were stronger with a unified voice. That principle is just as important today. Our Golden Anniversary gave us an opportunity to celebrate everything NCASEF has accomplished during those 50 years. Now our responsibility is to build on that strength and work with SEI and our vendor partners toward a more profitable and sustainable future for every franchisee in the system. North Star gives us the direction. Strong franchisee economics make that journey sustainable. And working together is how we will get there.

Sukhi Sandhu • 855-444-7711 • sukhi.sandhu@ncasef.com

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Enhancing Capital Efficiency And Profitability Through A Stronger Franchise System

BY ERIC H. KARP

General Counsel To NCASEF

The phrase which serves as the title of this article appears on side 13 of the Presentation for the First Quarter of FY 2026, issued by Seven & i Holdings Co., Ltd. (the parent company of 7-Eleven, Inc.) on July 9, 2026 (the “Q1 2026 Presentation”).(1) But the “capital efficiency and profitability” of franchisees is not the subject of this slide. Rather, it explains in detail one of the ways that management intends to position the company for a public offering of 7-Eleven, Inc. (“SEI”) sometime in 2027: to substantially increase the percentage of locations in the United States that are franchised as opposed to company owned. This is to be accomplished through corporate to franchise conversions, meaning the sale by SEI of a corporately owned location to be operated by a franchisee under a franchise agreement. At the end of 2017, prior to its Sunoco and Speedway acquisitions, SEI was almost 83 percent franchised.(2) At present, approximately 58 percent of SEI locations are franchised(3) and the company apparently intends to restore at least some of its previous balance. But why? In its presentation to investors on April 23, 2026 (the “IR Day Presentation”), the company touted the franchising model as one that “delivers stronger overall economics,” allowing the company to scale with lower capital intensity. (4) This is starkly consistent with the Q1 Presentation, which refers to enhancing capital efficiency. What this simply means is that by paying franchise fees, franchisees reimburse the company for at least some of the capital expended in building or acquiring these locations. This frees up capital for other purposes, including building new corporate stores and the possibility of additional mergers and acquisitions. Reducing capital intensity is one definition of franchising; a business model in which franchisees invest their capital in a brand that they do not own and accept

“The Q1 Presentation repeats a previously disclosed plan to execute 2,600 corporate to franchise conversions by 2030, projecting a total of 390 such conversions this year.”

the entrepreneurial risk of operating a business. The Q1 Presentation repeats a previously disclosed plan to execute 2,600 corporate to franchise conversions by 2030, projecting a total of 390 such conversions this year.(5) The IR Day Presentation lauded franchisees by stating that that they bring improved performance to the table because of their “entrepreneurial spirit and local market insight.”(6) The Q1 Presentation Report states that the 135 conversions executed in 2025 show that these franchisees generated “low to mid single-digit growth” in merchandise sales and “strong margin expansion,” in contrast to the converted stores previously operated as corporately owned. (7) These presentations confirm what franchisees have long believed, which is that they are indeed better and stronger operators than corporate store managers. But if you are an existing 7-Eleven franchisee in good standing, you are the logical choice of SEI for the purchase of a corporate store as a franchise opportunity. And you may also have friends, relatives or business associates who are contemplating the purchase of a franchise opportunity in the 7-Eleven system and who look to you for advice or guidance. If this is true, I suggest the following initial steps in your or their investigation or due diligence of this potential investment. A. Request and carefully review a current franchise disclosure document (FDD) issued by SEI. The furnishing of the FDD is mandated by federal law as well as by the law of a number of states in the United States. In some of those states, it is illegal to make an offer or sale of a franchise unless the prospective franchisee receives that disclosure document in advance of making an investment or signing a contract. The purpose of the FDD is to give the prospective franchisee the material information they need in order to weigh the risks and benefits of such an investment.(8) Make sure you carefully review and analyze the Unaudited Statement of Average Franchise Sales and Earnings for the calendar year 2025, which appears at Exhibit H of the 2026 FDD and which is limited to the disclosure of revenue, gross margin and gasoline commissions.(9) If you have any difficulty reviewing or understanding the document (the 2026 FDD has 578 pages), seek the advice of a competent continued on page 21

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AVANTI 2026 ISSUE 4

Enhancing Capital Efficiency And Profitability Through A Stronger Franchise System continued from page 19

and experienced business advisor, lawyer or accountant. Questions you may have about the FDD or its contents should be submitted in writing to SEI with the expectation that you will receive specific answers in writing.

“Request in writing at least three and preferably five years of complete profit and loss statements of the company owned location you are contemplating for purchase.” B. Request in writing at least three and preferably five years of complete profit and loss statements of the company owned location you are contemplating for purchase. The opportunity to study in detail the financial performance of the business you are considering for purchase is an elementary and basic element of due diligence. The IRS issued Revenue Ruling 59-60(10) which states in essence that the assessment of the value of a business requires the examination of five years of profit and loss statements. Please be assured that it is perfectly legal for SEI to provide this information to you under the Federal Trade Commission Franchise Rule; it specifically provides that the franchisor may deliver to a prospective franchisee a supplemental financial performance representation about a particular location apart from the disclosure document. The information must have a reasonable basis and written substantiation.(11) If you have questions about the financial statements, ask for written substantiation and consult an accountant or business advisor. C. Consider asking some or all of the following questions in writing with the expectation that you will accept only a written response: 1. Why were there fewer franchisees in the United States on December 31, 2025 than there were on January 1, 2023? The 2026 FDD discloses that the turnover in franchised locations consisting of (a) franchisee to franchisee sales (632), (b) locations purchased back by SEI (567), and (c) those that ceased operations (237), was 1,436 franchised locations during that three-year period.(12) How much turnover is anticipated during the course of implementing 2,600 corporate to franchised conversions between now and 2030? 2. 7-Eleven stores in Japan report higher gross margins on processed food (41.1 percent) than on daily food (35 percent) or fast food (36.3 percent). Does this indicate that increasing the sales of fresh food and daily food

in the United States will yield more overall profit at the store level? Why doesn’t SEI publicly report gross margins on daily food, fast food, processed food and non-food, in a similar fashion as 7-Eleven Japan?(13) What is the incremental labor cost of daily food and fast food that is not applicable to processed food and non-food? 3. Last October, 7-Eleven Japan announced the development of a new contract for the expansion of benefits for franchise owners in order to increase their profitability and to make it easier for them to manage multiple stores. The announcement indicated that there would be new systems to improve franchisees’ profit and promote new franchisees.(14) Are similar steps planned for the United States? If not, why not? 4. In what specific ways will an IPO of SEI benefit franchisees in the United States? How much of the capital raised from an IPO will be invested in franchised stores and in improvements to store level economics? Can SEI achieve its stated goal of remodeling 7,000 stores(15) without an IPO? 5. What enforceable guarantees are there regarding the profitability of private brand sales and 7Now sales given the company’s stated goal to substantially increase sales in those channels?(16) 6. System wide merchandise gross margin was 36 percent in 2007(17), fell below 35 percent in 2011(18) and fell below 34 percent in 2024(19). In the most recent quarter, the merchandise gross margin of SEI of 33.2 percent(20) was less than their publicly held competitors, Alimentation Couche-Tard (34.4 percent) and Casey’s General Stores (42.4 percent). What is behind these trends and what steps are contemplated to reverse them?(21) 7. Same store sales increases in the United States have not been above 2 percent since 2022(22) and in the most recent quarter, SEI’s increase of 1.4 percent was less than their publicly held competitors, Alimentation Couche-Tard (3.4 percent)(23) and Casey’s General Stores (5.5 percent)(24). Why is this the case and what steps are planned to respond? 8. Is it the policy of SEI to price gasoline to increase the number of gallons sold and thereby increase the commissions paid to franchisees and the number of instore merchandise transactions? 9. Why did the parent company of SEI recently stop disclosing monthly data on fuel sales, average retail gallons per store, average retail price, fuel margin, and retail fuel margin?(25) 10. The company’s retail gross profit on gasoline in the continued on page 23

2026 ISSUE 4 AVANTI 21

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Enhancing Capital Efficiency And Profitability Through A Stronger Franchise System continued from page 21

first quarter of 2026 was 14.3 percent, contrasted with a retail gas gross profit of 10.8 percent in the first quarter of 2025(26) and 10.5 percent in the first quarter of 2024.(27) The Q1 2026 elevated gross profit led to an increase in its gas gross profit of $349M(28), and a reported operating profit of $229 million.(29) Did this not lead, at least in part, to an 8.8 percent decrease in retail gallons sold, and a same store sales increase of just 1.4 percent coupled with a transactions decrease of 4.3 percent?(30) 11. Much has been written in the financial press about the enormous investment that technology companies are making in AI infrastructure and the negative effect that widespread adoption of artificial intelligence may have on employment in the United States. On August 7, 2026, the U.S. Bureau of labor Statistics reported a decline in non- farm payroll employment

of 23,000 jobs.(31) To what extent will this affect the typical 7-Eleven customer and thus the revenue of franchised stores? 12. The 2026 FDD states that the Franchise Fees paid in 2025 ranged from $0.00 to $800,000.(32) How are these franchise fees calculated? What is the formula? Are these fees calculated the same way across the country? A person contemplating an investment in any franchise should engage in no less due diligence than they would if they were purchasing an independent business. The purpose of due diligence when purchasing a business is to verify financial claims, uncover hidden risks, and determine fair value. It is an investigative process used to ensure the investment makes sense and that the risks that you are taking on are reasonable and manageable, before you sign a franchise contract or pay any money.

Eric H. Karp • 617-512-9004 • ehkarp@gmail.com (1) Presentation for the First Quarter of FY 2026, of Seven & i Holdings Co., Ltd., July 9, 2026 at page 13, found at https:// www.7andi.com/en/ir/file/library/ks/pdf/2026_0709kse_01.pdf. Note that all data cited in this article was publicly available as of August 7, 2026. (2) Brief Summary FY 2018, April 5, 2018, page 21, found at https://www.7andi.com/library/dbps_data/_template_/_res/en/ir/ library/kh/pdf/2018_0405khe.pdf, page 21. (3) Brief Summary for the First Quarter of FY 2026, July 9, 2026 at page 39, found at https://www.7andi.com/en/ir/file/library/kh/ pdf/2026_0709khe.pdf. (4) IR Day 2026 Spring, 7-Eleven, Inc., April 23, 2026 at page 7, found at https://www.7andi.com/en/ir/file/library/ks/pdf/2026_0423kse_01.pdf. (5) Presentation for the First Quarter of FY 2026, of Seven & i Holdings Co., Ltd., July 9, 2026 at page 13, found at https://www.7andi.com/en/ir/file/library/ks/pdf/2026_0709kse_01.pdf. (6) IR Day 2026 Spring, 7-Eleven, Inc., April 23, 2026 at page 7, found at https://www.7andi.com/en/ir/file/library/ks/pdf/2026_0423kse_01.pdf., page 7. (7) Presentation for the First Quarter of FY 2026, of Seven & i Holdings Co., Ltd., July 9, 2026 at page 13, found at https://www.7andi.com/en/ir/file/library/ks/pdf/2026_0709kse_01.pdf. (8) U.S. Federal Trade Commission, Disclosure Requirements and Prohibitions Concerning Franchising and Business Opportunities, Rule Summary, found at https://www.ftc.gov/legal-library/browse/ rules/franchise-rule. (9) 7-Eleven, Inc. Franchise Disclosure Document dated April 1, 2026, at Exhibit H, page H-16. (10) Tax Notes, Deloitte, Section 4(d), found at https://www. taxnotes.com/research/federal/irs-guidance/revenue-rulings/revrul-59-60/d30t (Detailed profit-and-loss statements should be obtained and considered for a representative period immediately prior to the required date of appraisal, preferably five or more years) (11) U.S. Federal Trade Commission, Disclosure Requirements and Prohibitions Concerning Franchising and Business Opportunities, 16 CFR §436.5(s)(4&5). See also16 CFR §436.10(a) (“… franchisors may have additional obligations to impart material information to prospective franchisees outside of the disclosure

document under Section 5 of the Federal Trade Commission Act.”) (12) 7-Eleven, Inc. Franchise Disclosure Document dated April 1, 2026, at Tables No. 1, 2 & 3, pages 60-63. (13) Brief Summary for the First Quarter of FY 2026, July 9, 2026 at page 20, found at https://www.7andi.com/en/ir/file/library/kh/ pdf/2026_0709khe.pdf. (14) IR Day 2025 Autumn, Seven-Eleven Japan, October 31, 2025, page 7 found at https://www.7andi.com/en/ir/file/library/ks/ pdf/2025_1031kse_01.pdf. (15) IR Day 2026 Spring, 7-Eleven, Inc., April 23, 2026 at page 5, found at https://www.7andi.com/en/ir/file/library/ks/pdf/2026_0423kse_01.pdf, page 5. (16) Transformation of 7-Eleven, Seven & i Holdings Co., Ltd., August 6, 2025 at pages 17 and 19, found at https://www.7andi. com/en/ir/file/library/ks/pdf/2025_0806kse_01.pdf. (17) Brief Summary of FY 2008, April 10, 2008 at page 4, found at https://www.7andi.com/library/dbps_data/_template_/_res/en/ir/ library/kh/pdf/kh_200802_01_e.pdf . (18) Brief Summary of FY 2012, April 12, 2012 at page 4, found at https://www.7andi.com/library/dbps_data/_template_/_res/en/ir/ library/kh/pdf/2012_0405khe.pdf. (19) Brief Summary for FY2024, April 9, 2025, page 26, found at https://www.7andi.com/en/ir/file/library/kh/pdf/2025_0409khe.pdf. (20) Brief Summary for the First Quarter of FY 2026, July 9, 2026 at page 24, found at https://www.7andi.com/en/ir/file/library/kh/ pdf/2026_0709khe.pdf. (21) Alimentation Couche-Tard, Inc. Announces its Results for the Fourth Quarter and Fiscal Year 2026, June 22, 2026 found at https://corporate.couche-tard.com/2026-06-22-ALIMENTATION-COUCHE-TARD-ANNOUNCES-ITS-RESULTSFOR-ITS-FOURTH-QUARTER-AND-FISCAL-YEAR-2026 and Casey’s Announces Fourth Quarter and Fiscal Year Results, June 9, 2026, found at https://investor.caseys.com/news-releases/ news-release-details/caseys-announces-fourth-quarter-and-fiscalyear-results-1. (22) Brief Summary for the First Quarter of FY 2026, July 9, 2026 at page 24, found at https://www.7andi.com/en/ir/file/library/kh/ pdf/2026_0709khe.pdf and Brief Summary for FY 2022, April 6,

2023 at page 12, found https://www.7andi.com/en/ir/file/library/kh/ pdf/2023_0406khe.pdf. (23) Alimentation Couche-Tard, Inc. Announces its Results for the Fourth Quarter and Fiscal Year 2026, June 22, 2026 found at https://corporate.couche-tard.com/2026-06-22-ALIMENTATIONCOUCHE-TARD-ANNOUNCES-ITS-RESULTS-FOR-ITSFOURTH-QUARTER-AND-FISCAL-YEAR-2026. (24) Casey’s Announces Fourth Quarter and Fiscal Year Results, June 9, 2026, found at https://investor.caseys.com/news-releases/ news-release-details/caseys-announces-fourth-quarter-and-fiscalyear-results-1 (25) Compare Monthly Business Performance, Fiscal Year Ending February 28, 2026 to Monthly Business Performance, Fiscal Year Ending February 28, 2025, found at https://www.7andi.com/en/ir/ financial/monthly_highlight.html. (26) Brief Summary for the First Quarter of FY 2026, July 9, 2026 at page 24, found at https://www.7andi.com/en/ir/file/library/kh/ pdf/2026_0709khe.pdf. For the first quarter of fiscal year 2026, the average retail price of gasoline was $3.29 per gallon and the retail fuel margin was 47.04 cents/gallon (.04704/3.29 = 14.29 percent). For the first quarter of fiscal year 2025, the average retail price of gasoline was $3.15 per gallon and the retail fuel margin was 34.14 cents/gallon (.03414/3.15 = 10.8 percent). (27) Brief Summary for FY2025, April 9, 2025, page 26, found at https://www.7andi.com/en/ir/file/library/kh/pdf/2025_0409khe.pdf. For the first quarter of fiscal year 2024, the average retail price of gasoline was $3.32 per gallon and the retail fuel margin was 34.79 cents/gallon (.03479/3.32 = 10.5 percent). (28) Presentation for the First Quarter of FY 2026, of Seven & i Holdings Co., Ltd., July 9, 2026 at page 11, found at https://www.7andi.com/en/ir/file/library/ks/pdf/2026_0709kse_01.pdf. (29) Presentation for the First Quarter of FY 2026, of Seven & i Holdings Co., Ltd., July 9, 2026 at page 21, found at https://www.7andi.com/en/ir/file/library/ks/pdf/2026_0709kse_01.pdf. (30) Id. at page 24. (31) Employment Situation Summary, Bureau of Labor Statistics, August 7, 2026, found at https://www.bls.gov/news.release/empsit. nr0.htm (32) 7-Eleven, Inc. Franchise Disclosure Document dated April 1, 2026, at Item 7, page 17.

2026 ISSUE 4 AVANTI 23

A Cool Start To The School Year Local law enforcement officers and firefighters also joined the celebrations, giving students and families an opportunity to meet and spend time with first responders from their communities. The events marked the eighth consecutive year Chahal has hosted the back-to-school celebration. Chahal thanked 7-Eleven and his support team, including his Area Leader, Market Leader and Zone Leader, for helping make the events possible. The annual celebration once again brought together students, families, first responders, and the local 7-Eleven community to kick off the school year with plenty of energy and smiles. California franchisee Ravi Chahal recently welcomed students and families back to school with his Annual Back-to-School Slurpee Celebration, held at his four 7-Eleven stores in Orcutt, Santa Maria, Arroyo Grande, and Santa Barbara. Students from the Orcutt Union School District, St. Montfort School, Lucia Mar Unified School District, and Santa Barbara Unified School District were treated to free Slurpees as they prepared for the start of a new school year.

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Joining Your Local FOA Isn’t Just Beneficial—

It’s Essential

BY TEETO SHIRAJEE NCASEF Vice Chair

In the fast-moving world of convenience retail, independent franchise owners face a unique blend of opportunity and challenge. From navigating supply chain shifts to managing labor, technology, and customer expectations, running a 7-Eleven store requires both agility and insight. That’s exactly why local Franchise Owners Associations (FOAs) exist—to strengthen owners through community, advocacy, and shared expertise.

• Logistics and operations experts. • Accounting, maintenance, and AP teams. • Vendor partners and category specialists. These sessions offer real-time insights into trends, best practices, and upcoming changes—giving members a competitive edge. Whether it’s learning about new product lines, understanding compliance updates, or improving store efficiency, FOA education is practical, actionable, and tailored to franchisee needs.

“Membership in a local FOA is one of the most valuable tools a franchise owner can leverage to grow, protect, and elevate their business.”

3. Networking with Fellow Franchise Owners Running a store can be isolating, but FOA membership connects you with peers who understand your challenges and ambitions. These relationships create: • A support system for troubleshooting operational issues. • Opportunities to share best practices. • Mentorship for new franchisees. • Collaboration on community or promotional initiatives. • The FOA community has become a powerful resource—one that strengthens every member.

Membership in a local FOA isn’t just a formality. It’s one of the most valuable tools a franchise owner can leverage to grow, protect, and elevate their business. Here’s why. 1. A Strong, Unified Voice with Corporate One of the greatest advantages of FOA membership is collective representation. As individual owners, your concerns may feel small in the larger corporate ecosystem. But as a unified group, FOAs influence: • Advocate for operational improvements. • Address supply chain or vendor issues. • Provide feedback on new programs and technology. • Ensure franchisee perspectives are heard at the regional and national levels. This collaborative relationship helps shape policies and initiatives that directly impact store profitability and day-to-day operations. 2. Access to Industry Expertise and Education FOAs regularly host meetings, workshops, and presentations featuring: • Senior corporate leaders.

“FOAs cultivate strong relationships with trusted vendors who support franchise operations.” 4. Vendor Partnerships and Exclusive Opportunities FOAs cultivate strong relationships with trusted vendors who support franchise operations. Members benefit from: • Special pricing or promotional opportunities. • Product demonstrations. • Direct access to vendor representatives. • On-site exhibitor tables at meetings. These partnerships help owners discover new solutions, streamline operations, and improve profitability. 5. Local Advocacy and Community Impact FOAs are deeply connected to the communities they serve. Through coordinated efforts, members can:

continued on page 27

2026 ISSUE 4 AVANTI 25

“ a

AVANTI 2026 ISSUE 4

Joining Your Local FOA Isn’t Just Beneficial—It’s Essential continued from page 25

• • • •

Support local events and charitable initiatives. Strengthen the 7-Eleven brand’s presence. Build goodwill with customers and local leaders. A strong FOA enhances both community engagement and store reputation.

6. A Platform for Best Practices and Problem-Solving Every FOA meeting is an opportunity to learn from real-world experience. Members share insights on: • Staffing strategies. • Loss prevention. • Inventory management. • Customer service improvements. • Technology adoption. This exchange of knowledge helps owners avoid pitfalls and adopt proven methods that boost performance. 7. Member-Only Events, Benefits, and Recognition Many FOAs offer additional perks such as:

• • • •

Raffles and giveaways. Appreciation events. Awards for outstanding franchise performance. Lunches and social networking. These gatherings build camaraderie and celebrate the hard work of franchise owners. Why It Matters Being part of a local FOA means you’re not navigating the complexities of franchise ownership alone. You’re backed by a network of peers, supported by industry experts, and connected to corporate leadership in a meaningful way. The FOA strengthens your voice, your business, and your community—all while helping you stay informed, empowered, and prepared for what’s ahead. For any 7-Eleven franchise owner, FOA membership isn’t just beneficial—it’s essential.

Teeto Shirajee • 954-242-8595 • teeto.shirajee@yahoo.com

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”

How do I join an FOA? 1.

Log in to 7Help using 7Hub (secured) instore or using this link https:/7elevenna. service-now.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. 2026 ISSUE 4 AVANTI 27

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Looking Beyond The Premium

Why franchise owners should consider long-term value, policy accuracy, and claims readiness alongside cost.

BY JOHN WALES Program Manager AON

Vendor Guest Article

Workers’ Compensation:

For franchise owners, managing expenses is a daily priority. Rising labor costs, operating expenses, and tight margins make it natural to look for ways to control insurance costs. When it comes to Workers’ Compensation insurance, however, focusing only on the upfront premium can sometimes lead to unexpected costs later.

Corporate officer inclusion and exclusion rules are another area that often creates confusion. These requirements vary by state, and an audit may include a review of officer status that affects the final premium calculation. Franchise owners who understand these rules in advance are often better prepared for any adjustments that occur during the audit process.

“Workers’ Compensation premiums are typically based on factors such as payroll, employee classifications, claims history, and state-specific regulations.”

“A better question than ‘Did I get the cheapest policy?’ is: ‘Do I have the right coverage in place if an employee gets hurt tomorrow?’”

Workers’ Compensation premiums are typically based on factors such as payroll, employee classifications, claims history, and state-specific regulations. At the beginning of the policy term, premiums are often calculated using estimated payroll. At the end of the year, the insurance carrier conducts an audit to compare those estimates to actual payroll figures. Depending on the results, the final premium may increase or decrease. Because of this process, the lowest initial quote does not always result in the lowest overall cost.

“Accurate payroll reporting and employee classifications play an important role in ensuring a policy is priced correctly and performs as expected when a claim occurs.” Accurate payroll reporting and employee classifications play an important role in ensuring a policy is priced correctly and performs as expected when a claim occurs. If a policy is issued using incorrect classifications or payroll information, the lower initial premium may be outweighed by audit adjustments, claim complications, or coverage concerns.

Questions to Ask Before Choosing a Policy When evaluating Workers’ Compensation coverage, franchise owners may benefit from asking a few practical questions: • Are employee classifications accurate? • Is payroll being reported correctly? • Have officer inclusion or exclusion rules been reviewed? • Do I understand how the audit process works? • Will the policy respond as expected if an employee is injured? The Bottom Line Every business owner should seek competitive pricing, and insurance costs matter. But Workers’ Compensation insurance has a specific purpose: helping protect employees and helping businesses manage the financial consequences of workplace injuries. The most informed owners recognize that the goal is not simply to find the lowest premium. The goal is to make sure coverage is structured properly, payroll information is accurate, and the policy is positioned to perform as expected when it is needed most.

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Franchisee Spotlight Spotlight Owning and operating four 7-Eleven stores takes an incredible amount of time and effort, yet Ravi Chahal, who lives in California’s Central Coast region, makes it a priority to give back to his community. A member of the FOA of Southern California, Chahal, his wife Harpreet ,and their two children Harmehar and Harnihal are regular volunteers at their local Salvation Army food kitchen. “Our whole family goes there,” said Chahal. “We go shopping for groceries first and get whatever we need to prepare the hot meal. We go early in the morning. My wife, my kids, my mom and I start cooking. By 11:30 a.m., people are lining up and we start serving.” Stepping in to support others is nothing new for the Chahal family. During the COVID pandemic, they volunteered time to feed employees at a local hospital and food bank, in addition to local police and sheriff departments and members of the California Highway Patrol. “It’s from my heart and I like to help out however I can, even with my busy schedule,” said Chahal. “Whatever people need, I like to share my blessings. I’m very pleased and lucky to have this kind of business that can connect me with my community.” Chahal points out that the support he gets from his 7Eleven team, Area Leader, Market Leader, and Zone Leader is appreciated and leads to the success of his philanthropic efforts. Chahal’s youngest customers and their families look forward to what has become an annual tradition across several school districts where he has stores—a back-toschool event held on the first day of the new school year. “This will be our eighth year,” Chahal said. “We coordinate with the fire department and sheriff’s department and invite them to the store. They park a fire truck and police cars in front of the store. We offer free Slurpees. The kids talk with the firefighters and police and [deputies]. I really like to connect with the community for the kids. I’m very pleased and lucky to have this kind of business that can connect with local students.” Chahal also supports “The Patch Santa Maria”—a pumpkin patch run by high school students. Proceeds support scholarships and provide free hands-on agricultural programs. Chahal has also been acknowledged by community groups and organizations such as the Boys & Girls Clubs of South San Luis Obispo County for donating Slurpees to their summer camps. 30

AVANTI 2026 ISSUE 4

MEET

Ravi Chahal

OF CALIFORNIA

In addition, Chahal and his family recently donated playground and sports supplies such as basketballs, soccer balls, and other recreational equipment to six elementary schools in their area. He says it’s their way of helping to create “positive, healthy and joyful experiences” for his community. His message to fellow franchisees is that you can start small. “You don’t have to be cooking for hundreds of people,” said Chahal. “Start by feeding three or four people. It’ s never too small when you’re doing it with a good heart. Every meal you provide, every person you help, and every act of kindness can make a difference. When you give back to the community, we’re not just serving food—we’re sharing kindness, hope and care. To serve your community is a blessing.” Chahal says he is available to speak with any fellow franchisees who would like to learn more about starting their own back-to-school events.

Do Do You You Know? Know? Do you know an outstanding franchisee making a difference in their community? NCASEF looks forward to recognizing more franchisees whose leadership extends beyond their stores. Please email us at feedback@ncasef.com to share a franchisee story.

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Theft Claims = High-Dollar Losses BY KALLI HOBEN

Quick, safe responses protect people, preserve evidence, and reduce claim costs—here’s what franchisees should do when theft happens

Marsh Partner Manager

“Theft is one of the most common—and disruptive—claims affecting 7-Eleven franchisees in the NCIS network.”

Theft is one of the most common—and disruptive— claims affecting 7-Eleven franchisees in the NCIS network. These incidents can escalate in seconds, and even a brief interaction between an employee and a customer can have serious consequences. Your first priority is the safety of staff and customers, followed by preserving evidence and reporting the event promptly. Below are two real-world scenarios and clear, actionable steps to take. Shoplifting: You notice a small group of teenagers repeatedly walking through the store but rarely purchasing anything. Immediate actions: • Pull and preserve all available surveillance footage right away. Timestamp and label the clips; don’t overwrite or delete footage. • Document estimated value of stolen merchandise using receipts, recent inventory records, and shelf tags. • File a police report even if recovery is unlikely— most theft claims require an official police report. • Report the incident to Asset Protection immediately at 800-555-2620. Why this matters: Prompt documentation and preserved footage improve recovery chances and support any insurance or criminal proceedings. Delays can jeopardize investigations and claim outcomes. Armed Robbery: An individual with a concealed weapon threatens the clerk and demands cash and cigarettes. Immediate actions: • Prioritize personal safety. Do not fight, do not pursue, and do not attempt to disarm the suspect. • Call 911 as soon as it is safe to do so—ideally immediately after the suspect leaves the premises. • Do not touch the register, counter, or any area the

Vendor Guest Article

Safety Spotlight:

suspect may have accessed; preserve the scene for law enforcement. • Secure surveillance footage and back it up if possible; preserve original files and note who had access. • Document all stolen items and cash, including denominations and register readings. • Report the incident to Asset Protection immediately at 800-555-2620.

“Witness statements, intact evidence, and preserved video materially aid law enforcement and claims adjusters.” Why this matters: Witness statements, intact evidence, and preserved video materially aid law enforcement and claims adjusters. Above all, a calm, safetyfirst response reduces risk to employees and customers. Quick checklist for all theft incidents: • Do not engage the suspect. Avoid confrontation. Safety first. • Report promptly to police and your insurance broker. Preserve evidence: footage, receipts, inventory logs, and the physical scene. • File a police report for the record. • Document everything: times, descriptions, witness names, and staff statements.

“Contact Asset Protection at 800-555-2620 to report the claim or ask questions.” • Contact Asset Protection at 800-555-2620 to report the claim or ask questions. Interested in learning more about your insurance options? Contact Marsh, the exclusive administrator of the 7-Eleven® Franchisee Insurance Program, at (855) 5465361, Monday–Friday, 8:00 a.m.–5:00 p.m. CST, or email 7-eleven@marsh.com to speak with a licensed insurance advisor.

2026 ISSUE 4 AVANTI 31

NCASEF’s

Golden Anniversary

Lights Up New York

AVANTI 2026 ISSUE 4

NCASEF marked a major milestone with its 50th Annual Convention and Trade Show, held July 21-24 at the Marriott Marquis and Javits Center in New York City. The Golden Anniversary broke attendance records, drawing approximately 2,500 franchisees and vendor partners from across the country for four days of business, networking, entertainment, and charitable giving. The milestone event celebrated five decades of NCASEF conventions bringing franchise owners, their families, and vendors together to exchange ideas, strengthen continued on page 34

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relationships, and support the 7-Eleven franchisee community. The festivities kicked off with a Welcome Reception at the Marriott Marquis, giving franchisees and vendors an opportunity to reconnect with longtime friends and business partners and meet new ones before the convention moved into full swing. Wednesday offered attendees several ways to experience the New York area. Franchisees could take a New York Big Bus tour, and golfers traveled to TPC Jasna Polana for the Children’s Miracle Network Charity Golf Tournament. Wednesday evening provided another memorable New York experience as attendees boarded dinner cruises. Three departures accommodated convention guests and offered an opportunity to relax,

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socialize, and take in the sights of New York from the water before the convention’s business program began the following morning. Thursday opened with the State of the Coalition Address featuring NCASEF’s executive officers. During the franchisee-only session, the officers updated members on the latest developments within the National Coalition and discussed NCASEF’s ongoing advocacy on their behalf, including its work to address store-level concerns and push for solutions to issues affecting franchisee operations and profitability. The session gave franchisees a closer look at the work taking place within the organization before attention shifted to the centerpiece of the convention—the NCASEF Trade Show.

For two days, the Javits Center became a bustling marketplace filled with products, promotions, services, and opportunities for franchisees to improve their margins. The exhibitor lineup included major beverage, snack, beer, tobacco, foodservice, technology, and service companies, along with 7-Eleven departments covering areas such as Hot Foods, Private Brands, Accounting, and Facilities. Over the course of the two Trade Show days, franchisees placed a recordbreaking number of orders, making the Golden Anniversary show a standout for vendor participation and franchisee purchasing activity. The Trade Show also brought an added element of fun. Franchisees received entries into multi-prize raffles by placing orders during the show,

providing another incentive to take advantage of vendor deals. The combination of a packed exhibitor lineup, strong ordering activity, and raffle excitement kept the Javits Center floor busy throughout both days. Thursday evening shifted the focus from business to giving back with the Charity Night Gala. A cocktail reception kicked off the evening along with a silent auction, followed by dinner and both silent and live auctions. Comedians Nimesh Patel and Jared Fried provided the entertainment before guests finished the night with live music and dancing. Friday began with another franchisee education session, as NCASEF General Counsel Eric Karp presented the Legal Forum. Attendees then returned to the Javits Center

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for the second and final day of the Trade Show before gathering that evening for the Grand Banquet. The closing celebration included Franchisee Recognition Awards, Vendor Recognition Awards, and a special check presentation to Children’s Miracle Network. The anniversary festivities concluded in style with a performance by internationally recognized Bollywood entertainer Neha Kakkar. Charitable giving once again played a major role throughout the convention. Through the golf tournament, sponsorships, FOA pledges, auction purchases, and individual donations, $350,711 was raised for Children’s Miracle Network. The money will benefit more than 20 local Children’s Miracle Network hospitals, where unrestricted funds can be used for their most pressing needs, including charitable care, medical equipment, research, pediatric healthcare training, and support services for children and their families. The convention also pushed NCASEF past another important milestone. Since selecting Children’s Miracle Network as its charity partner in 2022, NCASEF has raised more than $2 million for children’s hospitals across the United States. By the time the convention wrapped up, the four-day event had delivered a little of everything—record attendance, record-breaking orders on the Trade Show floor, informative franchisee sessions, plenty of opportunities to reconnect with friends and colleagues, memorable New York experiences, and an impressive showing of support for Children’s Miracle Network. It was a busy and successful 50th Annual Convention, with strong participation from franchisees, FOAs, and vendor partners throughout the week. 36

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To Our

Convention Partners! PepsiCo Coca-Cola Anheuser-Busch Celsius Holdings Red Bull North America Monster Energy McLane Company Inc. Republic Amusements

GRAND Altria BBI

PREMIUM Primo Brands Liquid Death Keurig Dr Pepper Constellation Brands Molson Coors Bon Appetit Aon Risk Services

ELITE PMI SRP Big Ideas Hostess - JM Smucker Juul Labs

ELITE (Continued)

BIC USA The Hershey Company ITG Mark Anthony Brands Mondelez Accel Entertainment Advantage Solutions TCM Acosta

Perfetti Van Melle Swisher Bimbo Bakeries Core-Mark Dippin Dots Ecolab Fiji Water/Wonderful Pistachios InComm Payments Mars Snacking Mini Melts Nutrabolt Electrolit Reynolds American Yerba Madre Monster Brewing Geloso Beverages

TOURNAMENT & RECEPTION Coca-Cola/Fairlife/BodyArmor Red Bull RUBY Accel Entertainment Anheuser-Busch Bon Appetit Celsius Holdings Dippin’ Dots Liquid Death Mark Anthony Brands Molson Coors Olipop PepsiCo SRP SAPPHIRE Core-Mark

Welcome Reception Celsius Holdings

PRIME

EVENT SPONSORS

SUPREME

CHARITY GOLF TOURNAMENT SPONSORS

A Golden Thank You

Charity Golf Tournament Sponsors Coca-Cola/Fairlife/BodyArmor Red Bull Dinner Cruise Sponsors PepsiCo Celsius Holdings Anheuser-Busch Coca-Cola/Fairlife/BodyArmor Charity Night Gala Coca-Cola/Fairlife/BodyArmor Monster Energy Grand Banquet PepsiCo Anheuser-Busch 2026 ISSUE 4 AVANTI 37

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Business, Deals & Good Times In Philly The Delaware Valley FOA brought franchisees and vendors together for its annual Trade Show on August 26 at the Four Points by Sheraton in Philadelphia. Vendors showcased new products and offered special deals designed to help franchisees increase store margins, giving attendees an opportunity to explore new

items and take advantage of added savings. Following the trade show, attendees gathered for dinner and an evening of great food, DJ music, and raffle prize giveaways. The festivities provided a relaxed setting for franchisees, vendors, and guests to catch up and enjoy themselves after a busy day on the trade show floor.

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Board Tackles Key Franchisee Issues Ahead Of Convention NCASEF’s third-quarter Board meeting brought franchisee leaders together on July 21 in New York City, just prior to the kickoff of the 50th Annual Convention and Trade Show. The Board addressed store profitability, unresolved operational concerns, the 7Clean program, 7NOW, fuel commissions, food profitability, maintenance, proposed bylaw changes, and preparations for the Golden Anniversary convention. Chairman Sukhi Sandhu also introduced Myrna Hawkins as NCASEF’s Director of Strategic Partnerships and Franchise Engagement, a role that will involve working with FOAs, NCASEF, and vendor partners to improve communication and program execution. General Counsel Eric Karp discussed Seven & i Holdings’ potential North American IPO and said the company remained under pressure to improve its North American financial performance. He also addressed SEI’s strategy of converting additional corporate stores to franchises, advising franchisees considering these opportunities to request several years of historical profitand-loss statements before making a purchase. Store-level concerns generated considerable discussion. Board members expressed frustration that some operational problems have remained unresolved despite repeated conversations with SEI. Mr. Sandhu said NCASEF has begun formally tracking outstanding issues, including SEI’s response, expected completion dates, and progress toward resolution. He said the process should provide greater visibility and accountability as NCASEF continues pressing for solutions. The Board spent significant time discussing 7Clean, particularly the additional labor required to meet

program standards. Members noted that franchisees can be held accountable for store appearance even when problems involving buildings, signage, equipment, fuel canopies, and other conditions are SEI’s responsibility. Mr. Sandhu reiterated NCASEF’s position that franchisees should receive adequate compensation when company programs require additional labor. Other major issues under discussion with SEI include 7NOW profitability, franchise agreement changes, fuel commissions, food profitability, and maintenance. The Membership/Bylaws Committee reported on proposed changes involving duplicate FOA memberships and discussed the process for bringing proposed bylaw amendments before the committee. The Board also discussed officer and Chairman term limits following the 2023 amendments that changed officer terms from two years to three years. Additional discussion focused on older, low-volume stores struggling with rising operating expenses, and locations still awaiting remodels and capital improvements. Mr. Sandhu said NCASEF would continue raising profitability concerns with SEI and seek additional information regarding the company’s remodel schedule. The meeting concluded with a look ahead to the convention. Board members were encouraged to participate in convention activities, support vendors, and place orders during both Trade Show days. Mr. Sandhu announced that the 50th Annual Convention had already broken attendance records and encouraged Board members to take pride in NCASEF’s 50-year history as they prepared to welcome franchisees and vendor partners to the Golden Anniversary celebration. 2026 ISSUE 4 AVANTI 41

San Diego FOA Races Into Del Mar The San Diego FOA welcomed 160 franchisees, vendors, friends and family to its annual Day At The Races at the Del Mar Thoroughbred Club on August 21. The sold-out event filled 40 tables on the shaded Clubhouse Terrace, giving guests an opportunity to enjoy the races and spend time together in a relaxed setting Sponsors joining the FOA at the track included Anheuser-Busch, Monster Energy, Nantucket Crisps, Lovana Consulting, Coconut Cowboy, Coca-Cola,

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Aon Insurance, Top Step Electric, Sotoland, John Lenore, Monster Brewing, Nutrabolt, SRP, Primo Brands, Fairlife, and PepsiCo. McLane, Frito-Lay, and Nantucket Crisps also generously donated snacks for goodie bags prepared for guests, complete with personalized table signs. The San Diego FOA said its sponsors and everyone who attended made the annual gathering another memorable event, and looks forward to welcoming everyone back to the races in 2027.

This series highlights prominent 7-Eleven vendors who took part in the NCASEF 50th Annual Convention and Trade Show. America 250 celebration into our booth activation. As part of that effort, we are giving franchisees the opportunity to win a Jeep Wrangler inspired by the spirit of traveling across America.” One fortunate franchisee will learn in October if they are the winner of the new Jeep Wrangler. Handley also emphasized CocaCola’s ongoing commitment to supporting NCASEF and its partnership with Children’s Miracle Network (CMN). “We highly value both CMN and NCASEF and are always proud to support and partner with organizations that make such a meaningful impact,” he said. NCASEF likewise expressed its appreciation for Coca-Cola’s continued partnership and support. In addition to sponsoring the Charity Night Gala, Coca-Cola remains a strong advocate for fundraising initiatives benefiting Children’s Miracle Network.

Monster Energy Company Monster Energy Company likes to say, “Monster Energy is not just a drink. It’s a lifestyle in a can.” And much of that lifestyle can be traced back to 7-Eleven. “7-Eleven was one of the first retailers to embrace the Monster Energy brand and played a significant role in helping propel the brand to become one of the leading energy drink brands, not only in the U.S. but globally,” said Zachary Wood, Monster Energy Company Senior Director of Operations. That effort has really paid off. Wood says over 10 million cases of Monster Energy drinks were sold at 7-Eleven stores in 2025.

This Supreme Sponsor had a large presence at the recent NCASEF 50th Annual Convention and Trade Show. It was hard to miss a specially branded off-road vehicle that was at the center of the Monster Energy display. “The biggest [promotion] is we are going to be giving away a Polaris RZR in P6, and that’s to a consumer, so this really is an opportunity to increase foot traffic,” said Wood. The drawing for the RZR will take place in January 2027. In addition, Monster was recognized with the Show Stopping Booth and Lifetime Partnership Awards at the Trade Show. 2027 will also bring several special Monster promotions tied to celebrating 7-Eleven’s 100th anniversary. In terms of new products, franchisees in attendance at the convention were able to sample the new Monster Energy Vanilla Shot

and Monster Zero Sugar Vanilla Shot. These are extensions of the everpopular original Monster Energy brand. Wood says franchisees can expect a new Dubai chocolate flavored drink coming in October. Monster Energy had a “monster sized” presence at the Trade Show. Wood said being there and meeting franchisees is critical. “The only way you can stay relevant and top of mind is to build relationships with the people who make things happen,” said Wood. “We feel like the more that we have a relationship with the franchisees, the more they get to have a relationship with us, as well.” NCASEF thanks Monster Energy Company for its continued support and strong presence at the NCASEF 50th Annual Convention and Trade Show, including its valued sponsorship of the Charity Night Gala.

directly with 7-Eleven franchisees. It’s obvious she has a true respect for the dedication of these store owners. “These are the folks that are investing their time, money, and every ounce of their life into these businesses,” said Smith. “They’re the folks that are dealing with the real world; they’re dealing with the customers.”

Smith says she makes a point to build relationships. “I believe the best partnerships are built on shared success,” said Smith. “My focus is on understanding what matters most to each FOA and aligning our initiatives in a way that creates value for both organizations. By equipping our field teams with the

CELSIUS CELSIUS National Account Execution Manager Meaghan Smith spends a good amount of time working

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Vendor Spotlight

The Coca-Cola Company It’s a familiar logo to people across the globe. Perhaps you remember the “Have a Coke and a smile” campaign or the “I’d Like to Teach the World to Sing” commercial jingle from the early 1970s, or maybe more recent slogans like “Taste the Feeling.” The fact remains—just about everyone knows Coca-Cola. Coca-Cola Director of Sales Steve Handley and his team had a significant presence at the recent NCASEF Convention and Trade Show in New York City. Coca-Cola proudly served as a Supreme Sponsor of the convention and sponsor of the golf tournament, while also being honored as Supplier of the Year alongside the Coca-Cola, Fairlife,

and Advanced Nutrition Brand Family. “7-Eleven is an extremely important customer for Coca-Cola,” said Handley. “As the world’s largest convenience retailer, 7-Eleven has more store locations than any other convenience retailer globally, making our partnership incredibly meaningful.” Handley highlighted that iconic brands such as Coca-Cola, Fairlife, and BODYARMOR Sports Nutrition continue to bring innovative products and exciting promotional programs to market. However, one of the most talked-about highlights for franchisees at this year’s convention was CocaCola’s featured giveaway. “This NCASEF convention is a great example of the exciting opportunities our partnership continues to create,” Handley said. “In addition to offering outstanding trade show promotions, we wanted to elevate the experience even further by incorporating the

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Vendor Spotlight

right tools and working collaboratively, we’re able to bring ideas to life that strengthen relationships, drive sales, and reward great execution.” CELSIUS is offering several special promotions that Smith was eager to share, including a special in P5 on the energy beverage Alani. 7-Eleven customers will be able to purchase three for $7.11. They will also be launching Alani Witches Brew—a limited edition, Halloween-themed, caramel-apple flavored energy drink

Hostess/The J.M. Smucker Co. As Hostess Sales Director for 7-Eleven nationally, Jackie Lawing works exclusively with 7-Eleven, helping franchisees bring Hostess favorites to stores across the country while developing new opportunities and exclusive products specifically for 7-Eleven customers. But Jackie’s relationship with 7-Eleven franchisees is about much more than selling some of America’s most iconic snack cakes. After 25 years working with the 7-Eleven franchisee community, and seven years with Hostess, now part of The J.M. Smucker Co., Lawing has built relationships that have become an important part of both her professional and personal life. “The best part of working with the

Perfetti Van Melle For Perfetti Van Melle, its association with 7-Eleven is about much more than selling candy and gum. It is a partnership built on relationships, family, and a shared commitment to helping franchisees grow their businesses. That spirit was on full display at the NCASEF 50th Annual Convention and Trade Show, where Perfetti Van Melle joined franchisees, vendors, and industry partners from across the country. Andrew Sparks, Regional Sales 44

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during this same promotion period. As with many NCASEF partners, CELSIUS shows up for the communities franchisees serve. “When our FOA partners or the 7-Eleven operations team invite us to be part of an event, we want to show up in a meaningful way,” said Smith. “Whether we’re providing product, swag, or simply spending time with customers, franchisees, and the local community, it’s about building genuine relationships and supporting the people who

support us. We’re just getting started in expanding our local presence at these events, and it’s exciting to see the momentum building. We look forward to continuing to show up, strengthen those connections, and create memorable experiences together.” NCASEF thanks CELSIUS for being a valued vendor partner and for their participation in and sponsorship of the NCASEF 50th Annual Convention and Trade Show.

7-Eleven franchisees is the people,” Lawing said. “I have made such great connections. I have known many of these people for a really long time. They are all really good people. I help them, they help me. We have developed a very reciprocal partnership. These people are like my family and I enjoy working with them very much,” she said. For many franchisees, Lawing has also become synonymous with the Hostess brands she represents. “Everyone knows me as the lady who sells Ding Dongs, Twinkies and Ho Hos!” she said with a laugh. The relationship between Hostess and 7-Eleven franchisees extends beyond the products on store shelves. Lawing has also seen firsthand the tremendous commitment franchisees have to supporting their communities. “The Children’s Miracle Network relationship has been really powerful,” Lawing said. “It’s so wonderful to see the franchisees’ commitment to local [children] hospitals.”

Sweet things are ahead for 7-Eleven customers as Hostess plans to deliver some exciting exclusive products for customers in the coming months. • Cappuccino Twinkies—Coming exclusively to 7-Eleven in January 2027. • Banana Twinkies—In celebration of Hostess’ 100th anniversary, 7-Eleven customers will have exclusive access to a special Banana Twinkie. • Cherry Slurpee Twinkies—Returning for National 7-Eleven Day in July, combining the iconic Slurpee flavor experience with the classic Twinkie. “The exclusive offerings reflect the collaborative relationship between Hostess and 7-Eleven and give franchisees an opportunity to offer customers products they cannot find anywhere else,” said Lawing. NCASEF thanks Hostess and The J.M. Smucker Co. for their continued partnership with the 7-Eleven franchisee community and for their support and participation in the NCASEF 50th Annual Convention and Trade Show.

Manager with Perfetti Van Melle, said 7-Eleven is a culture, not a customer. “We are very much a part of this family,” said Sparks. While he has developed strong relationships with many of his accounts over the years, his connection with 7-Eleven is unique. With so many individually owned stores, he sees the franchise system as a collection of hardworking families who have invested significant time, energy and resources into their businesses. The NCASEF Convention and Trade Show has become a major highlight of the year for Perfetti Van Melle. “This conference gives us the opportunity to meet store owners and their families face-to-face. That’s the

best way for us to sell our products, getting to know them on an individual basis, on a personal basis,” Sparks said. The event provides Perfetti Van Melle with an opportunity to showcase both established products and new offerings designed to provide value for franchisees and help them grow sales. Sparks believes 7-Eleven franchisees play a significant role in determining which products become the next big trend in the convenience category. “A lot of the items you see here today are brand new and, when they appear on the shelves of 7-Eleven and we watch them grow, it helps create the trends,” he said. That ability to introduce products directly to franchisees and

their purse.” The smaller package also comes at a lower price point, an important consideration as consumers continue to look for ways to stretch their spending. Perfetti Van Melle launched the product in the spring, but the NCASEF Convention marked its first opportunity to showcase Mentos 10-Piece Gum directly to 7-Eleven franchisees. “This is the first time it’s ever been shown to 7-Eleven since we launched it and we are very excited for them to see this product,” Sparks said. “This is an item that you’re going to see in a year or two from now and it’s really going to take off, but it started at 7-Eleven. This is the genesis of it.” Perfetti Van Melle’s participation in

the NCASEF Convention reflects the company’s broader commitment to the franchise community and to NCASEF. “We’re so supportive of NCASEF. It’s such a great organization,” Sparks said. “They want to help build a brand together with not only vendors, but also with the franchisees.” That shared approach is what makes the relationship especially valuable, according to Sparks. When vendors and franchisees work together, everyone has an opportunity to benefit. NCASEF thanks Perfetti Van Melle for being a valued vendor partner, and for participating in and sponsoring the NCASEF 50th Annual Convention and Trade Show.

Keurig Dr Pepper (KDP) This year’s NCASEF Trade Show featured over 100 exhibitors, including Keurig Dr Pepper. Andrew Robles leads KDP’s Sales Execution for the U.S. and is the primary contact for FOAs. He was excited to be able to bring KDP to the NCASEF 50th Annual Convnention and Trade Show and talk with franchisees about new products and deals coming up in August. “This is amazing,” said Robles. “Being able to partner with our teams and showing up in a way that we

can have a presence with FOAs and 7-Eleven headquarters, as well, is a great opportunity to meet people, work together, and put our brands front and center with our customers.” Among the specials KDP brought to 7-Eleven franchisees in August were what Robles called a “very aggressive” promotion with Ghost—a ready-todrink energy brand—where customers could buy two and get one free. In addition, KDP recently secured La Colombe ready-to-drink coffee and will be promoting that brand, as well as having a special with Bloom Nutrition’s energy drinks. “It’s all about innovation,” said Robles. “It’s no secret that Bloom is on fire right now. Electrolit has been

a strong powerhouse, and Dr Pepper with all the flavors we have coming out right now is exciting. Our innovation has been very strong this year, but it will be even stronger in 2027.” KDP is also proud to support NCASEF franchisee philanthropic efforts and has supported golf outings which benefit Children’s Miracle Network-affiliated hospitals. “The kids are our future,” said Robles. “It’s very important we take care of them and having the opportunity to give back is a blessing.” NCASEF thanks Keurig Dr Pepper for their unwavering support, and for their sponsorship of the NCASEF 50th Annual Convention and Trade Show.

Utz Quality Foods If you grew up on the East Coast, chances are Utz potato chips were a staple in your pantry. Based in Pennsylvania, the brand has been in business for over 100 years. “We were primarily an eastern company for a lot of years,” said Utz Quality Foods Senior Account Manager Jack Claiborne. “Over the last two years we’ve been pushing west. We just opened up in Seattle and the

Oregon market.” This expansion means more 7-Eleen franchisees will now be able to offer Utz to their customers. Claiborne said the company is in the process of expanding their reach to include Arizona, southern Nevada, and Colorado, and has plans to expand to California next year. Claiborne was among the vendors at the recent NCASEF 50th Annual Convention and Trade Show, giving franchisees the chance to taste products for themselves. Utz has expanded its offerings to include new flavors of its popular cheese balls and is tapping into the protein craze with cheese curls and mini pretzels, which

contain 8 to 10 grams of protein per serving. Building franchisee relationships is at the heart of Claiborne’s work. “I was brought in primarily to focus on 7-Eleven,” said Claiborne. “I love the different personalities of all the franchisee organizations. They really have a uniqueness to them. I like giving them quality products that generate revenue and I also love the support that the FOA leadership gives to each of our programs. There’s a lot of opportunity for growth for Utz with 7-Eleven.” NCASEF thanks Utz for its partnership and presence at The NCASEF 50th Annual Convention and Trade Show.

Vendor Spotlight

see how consumers respond makes 7-Eleven an especially important partner for Perfetti Van Melle. One of the highlights of Perfetti Van Melle’s presence at this year’s convention was the introduction of its newest product to 7-Eleven franchisees: Mentos 10-Piece Gum. The company already has a strong customer base for its traditional Mentos gum bottle, but the new product takes the concept and puts it into a smaller, pocket-sized package. “We started with the big bottle and have a very large customer base, but then we decided to put it in a pocketsized bottle,’” Sparks explained. “It’s easy to carry. People can put it in their pocket, and ladies can slip it into

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Member News

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a 2.4 percent gain as both retailers promoted back-to-school savings. Wholesale clubs outperformed superstores every month from April through July, reflecting sustained consumer demand for bulk purchasing and value amid continued economic pressure. Gas stations also remained an important traffic driver for the club chains, with visits staying above year-earlier levels through July despite easing from their May peak.

“Wholesale clubs and superstores recorded yearover-year traffic gains during the second quarter of 2026.”

$46 billion pursuit of Seven & i Holdings. Żabka operates about 13,000 stores across Poland and Romania, including a dense Polish network designed to place stores within roughly 500 meters of customers’ homes. Couche-Tard expects the acquisition to generate approximately $250 million in annual cost benefits within three years and could seek to delist Żabka if it secures at least 95 percent ownership.

Self-Checkout Market Set For Rapid Growth

U.S. retailers are accelerating their adoption of self-checkout technology as automation, artificial intelligence, and contactless payments reshape the checkout

Couche-Tard Launches Bid For Żabka

Alimentation Couche-Tard recently launched a voluntary tender offer to acquire all shares of Polish convenience store chain Żabka for 32 zlotys per share, valuing the company at approximately 32.6 billion zlotys, or $8.8 billion, reported Reuters. The offer represents a 2.3 percent premium over Żabka’s previous closing price. Circle K Polska, a Couche-Tard subsidiary, will acquire the shares in what would be the Canadian retailer’s largest transaction to date, following its abandoned

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experience, reported SNS Insider. The research firm projects the U.S. self-checkout market will grow from $1.31 billion in 2025 to $5.01 billion by 2035, representing a compound annual growth rate of 14.37 percent. New systems combine computer vision, RFID, mobile scan-and-pay applications, digital wallets, and AI-based loss prevention to speed transactions, reduce scanning errors, and identify suspicious activity. Convenience and fuel retailers are among the businesses embracing smaller self-service formats, with

Gilbarco Veeder-Root positioned as a key provider alongside NCR Voyix, Diebold Nixdorf, Toshiba, and Fujitsu. Mobile checkout and frictionless technologies are also expanding in grocery stores, airports and sports arenas, while future systems could recognize products without requiring customers to scan each item individually.

Dollar Stores Draw Shoppers Across Income Levels

Dollar stores are attracting more shoppers across income levels as persistent inflation, higher fuel prices, and economic uncertainty push consumers to seek value, reported The New York Times. Dollar General said comparablestore sales increased 3.5 percent during its latest quarter, with store traffic rising 2 percent for its fifth consecutive quarterly gain, and its Value Valley sections featuring rotating $1 merchandise posted comparable-sales growth of more than 16 percent. Dollar General CEO Todd Vasos said financially constrained customers are prioritizing affordability as volatile fuel prices squeeze household budgets, but the chain is also seeing increased visits from higher-income consumers. Dollar Tree reported a similar trend, with comparable sales climbing 3.7 percent and traffic increasing 0.4 percent, and CEO Mike Creedon said sales grew across all income groups, particularly among middle- and higher-income households. The chains are also facing greater competition from major retailers continued on page 48

Michigan Lottery retailers can now redeem winning tickets worth up to $999.99, up from the previous $600 limit, according to updated Michigan Lottery guidance. The change gives customers more opportunities to collect larger prizes directly from local retailers, although stores are not required to redeem winning tickets and may set limits based on the amount of cash they have available. • Convenience store snack innovation is increasingly centered on protein, sweet-and-spicy flavors, sour candy, plant-based products, and globally influenced treats, reported C-Store Dive. Recent launches include Slim Jim Cheese Mode with 10 grams of protein per stick, Angie’s Boomchickapop Mango Habanero popcorn, Haribo Sour Sodas gummies, and Ghirardelli Dubaistyle chocolate. • Amazon plans to expand drone delivery to suburban areas in nearly 500 U.S. cities by yearend, reported the Associated Press. The drones can carry packages weighing up to five pounds and deliver orders in as little as 30 minutes. The expansion will bring the service to millions more customers as Amazon competes with Walmart, which plans to operate from 270 drone delivery locations by 2027. • Burger King has overtaken Wendy’s as the nation’s second-largest burger chain by systemwide sales, reported CNBC. Burger King’s U.S. same-store sales rose 8.5 percent in the second quarter, extending its growth streak to five quarters, while Wendy’s posted a 7 percent decline—its sixth consecutive quarterly drop. McDonald’s remains the market leader by a wide margin. • The FDA will allow Philip Morris International to market 20 Zyn nicotine pouch products as less harmful than cigarettes, reported CNN Health. The agency said switching completely from cigarettes to Zyn lowers the risk of several cancers and smoking-related diseases, and could benefit public health. Zyn is the fastest-growing nicotine product in the United States, with Philip Morris selling 794 million cans nationwide in 2025—more than double its 2023 vol-

59 Years Of Grippi Family Legacy With 7-Eleven On July 1, 1967, Frank and Jeanette Grippi opened the first 7- Eleven store in Centereach, Long Island, New York, marking the beginning of their family legacy. Today, the Grippi family proudly owns three stores, continuing this legacy that spans four generations. When Frank and Jeanette started as franchisees, they faced many challenges. Their store was essential for serving the community around the clock and became a central gathering place for their family. The children often returned home from school and completed their homework in the back room, where milk crates served as desks. They also helped with meal preparation by making sandwiches and soups for customers as part of their daily routine. Despite their busy schedules, the family found the energy to support the Muscular Dystrophy Association through local and nationwide charity events. They were also founding members of UFOLI, an organization dedicated to guiding new franchisees as they entered the system. Jeanette was the first editor of UFOLI’s magazine, Soundwave, and actively participated in UFOLI’s inaugural golf outing, trade shows, and holiday events. Their contributions to the creation of the NCASEF, in collaboration with other FOAs, are remarkable in protecting the interests and welfare of franchises. Jeanette and Frank were inseparable participants in every committee and task force focused on developing innovations and new initiatives that streamlined processes for both customers and franchisees. Today, even though Frank Grippi is no longer with us, we are very proud to have Jeanette as part of our team. As a franchisee, she has made significant contributions, and we are incredibly grateful for her dedication to the 7-Eleven brand and the success of our incoming franchisees. We are very proud of the Grippi Family for following their family tradition and dedicating themselves to continuing on the same path of serving.

— Basit Khurshid, President UFOLINY

continued on page 49

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Member News

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such as Walmart and Target, which have been cutting prices to appeal to budget-conscious consumers, making price increasingly important in the battle for customer traffic.

“Dollar stores are attracting more shoppers across income levels as persistent inflation pushes consumers to seek value.”

SNAP Enrollment Falls Nationwide

SNAP participation fell nearly 13 percent year-over-year in April, leaving just over 37 million people enrolled nationwide, reported

C-Store Dive. Every state except Alaska recorded a decline, with half seeing enrollment drop by at least 10 percent. Arizona posted the steepest decrease at more than 50 percent, while Georgia fell nearly 28 percent, and Florida and Louisiana each declined by more than 20 percent. The reductions followed federal policy changes that tightened work requirements, increased monthly documentation, and shifted more program costs and administrative responsibilities to states. The Congressional Budget Office estimates the requirements will reduce average monthly participation by approximately 2.4 million people over the next decade. Alaska’s enrollment rose slightly

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more than 8 percent, making it the only state to register an increase.

Wawa Plugs Into Branded EV Charging

Wawa announced plans to install eight company-branded electric vehicle chargers at its Pennsylvania

ALL NATURAL LEAF WRAPPER

Member News convenience stores through a partnership with Electrify America. Scheduled to come online this year, the chargers will be owned and operated by Wawa, while Electrify America supplies the underlying technology and charging support. Five locations will offer speeds up to 400 kilowatts with both Combined Charging System and North American Charging Standard connectors, while the remaining three will provide speeds up to 350 kilowatts with CCS connectors.

Walmart Turns Tariff Refund Into Price Cuts

Walmart plans to use its $2.9 billion tariff refund to lower prices as consumers face growing pressure

from higher fuel costs, reported CNN Business. The retailer earned $6.4 billion in net income for the quarter ended July 31, supported by strong online spending and the refund, but comparable U.S. sales excluding fuel grew just 2.6 percent—down from 4.6 percent a year earlier and the slowest pace since early 2020. Walmart CFO John David Rainey said the consumer environment has softened since February, with gasoline prices above $4 per gallon influencing household spending decisions. Walmart shares fell more than 9 percent following the results, while other major retailers—including Target, Home Depot, Lowe’s, and TJX—also reported receiving refunds for tariffs paid on imports

in 2025 and early 2026.

Consumers Still Feel The Pinch

Prices for everyday household goods fell 0.4 percent in July after rising 0.7 percent in June, bringing annual inflation down from 3.4 percent to 2.6 percent, according to a Numerator report. Despite the slowdown, 39 percent of consumers identified rising prices as their top concern for the coming year, nearly matching May’s record high. Inflation remains especially pronounced among low-income and Gen Z consumers, whose costs have climbed 35.1 percent and 39 percent, respectively, since January 2018, compared with the continued on page 51

continued from page 47

ume. • Giant Food recently installed Savings Stations at all 162 of its stores to help shoppers access discounts more easily, reported Grocery Dive. The stations, located near entrances, allow customers to load personalized offers and digital coupons directly onto their loyalty accounts, with all eligible discounts automatically applied at checkout. • Casey’s General Stores is acquiring all 24 Pak-A-Sak convenience stores in the Texas Panhandle, primarily in the Amarillo area, reported ABC 7 News. The deal would end nearly five decades of independent ownership for the family-run chain. Casey’s, which operates more than 2,900 stores across 19 states, did not disclose the purchase price or expected closing date. • Murphy USA is rolling out automated foodservice machines featuring White Castle products at

select larger-format stores. Developed by Automated Retail Technologies, the “restaurant in a box” serves hot, branded food without the labor, space or equipment required for a commercial kitchen. Murphy USA will evaluate whether the machines increase store traffic, inside sales, and basket size. • Walmart’s U.S. e-commerce sales climbed 24 percent in the second quarter and now represent more than 23 percent of its domestic business, reported Retail Dive. Stores fulfill 80 percent of online orders and every fast-delivery purchase. • Keurig Dr Pepper recently announced that it will sell its entire equity stake in Chobani and its Allentown, Pennsylvania, manufacturing and warehouse facility to Chobani for a combined $925 million. KDP will receive $800 million for its Chobani stake and about $125 million for the fa-

cility, and the companies are also expanding their long-term commercial relationship. • Celsius has become the first official energy drink sponsor of ESPN’s College GameDay under a new multi-year agreement. The partnership will give Celsius a season-long presence around the college football pregame show, including on-campus activations, fan experiences and integrations designed to connect the brand with college football audiences. • Amazon has overtaken Walmart as the world’s largest company by annual revenue, ending Walmart’s long reign atop the Fortune Global 500. The e-commerce and cloud giant posted $716.9 billion in revenue for 2025, edging out Walmart’s $713.2 billion by less than $4 billion. In 2020, Amazon ranked ninth on the list with $281 billion. • Aon will acquire USI Insurance Services

continued on page 51

2026 ISSUE 4 AVANTI 49

Greater Oregon FOA Swings For A Great Cause The Greater Oregon FOA brought franchisees, vendors and friends together for its annual charity golf tournament on August 17 at Pumpkin Ridge Golf Club in North Plains, Oregon. The event raised an impressive $15,711 for Children’s Miracle Network, adding a charitable purpose to a fun day on the course. NCASEF Chairman Sukhi Sandhu and Executive Vice Chair Nick Bhullar were among the special guests who joined the Greater Oregon FOA to show their support. The tournament offered everyone a chance to enjoy a day of golf, catch up with friends and colleagues, and help raise funds for a worthy cause.

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AVANTI 2026 ISSUE 4

Member News

continued from page 49

“Despite the inflation slowdown, 39 percent of consumers identified rising prices as their top concern for the coming year.” 33.2 percent national average. Numerator partly attributed that disparity to heavier spending at quick-service restaurants, where prices have surged 53.9 percent since 2018. Consumers have responded by switching brands and retailers, reducing their experienced inflation by 0.4 percentage points in July—the largest impact from changing purchasing habits in more than a year.

Retail Sales Dip In July

U.S. retail and food services sales totaled $763.6 billion in July 2026, a seasonally adjusted decline of 0.6 percent from June but a 5 percent increase from July 2025, according to the U.S. Census Bureau. Sales were adjusted for seasonal variation and differences in holidays and trading days, but not for price changes. Total sales from May through July rose 6.3

percent compared with the same three-month period in 2025, while the previously reported 0.2 percent increase from May to June remained unchanged.

Foodservice Fuels Couche-Tard’s Growth

Couche-Tard recently posted its fifth consecutive quarter of positive U.S. same-store merchandise sales growth, with revenue rising 1.7 percent in fiscal 2027’s first quarter. Food, energy drinks, and alternative nicotine products drove the gains, while soft drinks, salty snacks and packaged sweets remained sluggish amid cautious consumer spending. Foodservice delivered particularly strong results, with the company selling about 14 million meal deals—nearly 20 percent more than a year earlier. Its new Flamin’ Hot boneless wings also topped 40,000 units per week, while customers increasingly chose higher-value prepared foods.

Sinclair Oil has reported increased

customer visits and fuel purchases by adding game-linked rewards to its DINOPAY loyalty app. Powered by Mistplay’s LoyaltyPlay platform, the program lets customers earn fuel discounts by playing promoted mobile games, keeping members engaged between fill-ups and giving them an incentive to return sooner. During the November 2025-toJune 2026 campaign, highly engaged members visited Sinclair locations 42 percent more often, participating customers returned 1.7 percent faster, and reward redemptions generated a 9.7 percent increase in fuel purchases. Within the program’s first six months, 13 percent of DINOPAY’s monthly active members participated in the gaming offers. Sinclair operates more than 1,900 branded and licensed stations nationwide.

and cost savings. • General Mills has removed artificial colors from all U.S. cereals, including Lucky Charms and Trix, reported the Associated Press. The company now uses colors derived from fruits, vegetables and spices such as turmeric and paprika. General Mills said 90 percent of its U.S. retail products are free of artificial dyes and plans

to reformulate remaining products, including certain Betty Crocker mixes and Fruit Roll-Ups, by the end of 2027. • The share of U.S. adults who drink alcohol held at a record-low 54 percent for the second consecutive year, reported Gallup. The study further reveals that 51 percent consider moderate drinking harmful, and 17 percent have

Sinclair Turns Mobile Gaming Into Fuel Sales

continued from page 49

for $17 billion in cash, expanding its presence in the U.S. middle market, reported Yahoo Finance. The debt-financed transaction is expected to close in the fourth quarter of 2026, subject to regulatory approval. USI generates about $3 billion in annual revenue, and Aon projects $395 million in annual earnings benefits from new revenue

continued on page 53

2026 ISSUE 4 AVANTI 51

Legislative Update Swipe Fee & CashRounding Bills Gain Ground

Federal Bill Would Raise Minimum Wage

A bill introduced in the U.S. House on September 3 would raise the federal minimum wage to $20 per hour in three steps, according to the U.S. Government Publishing Office. The Better Pay for American Workers Act (H.R. 10294), introduced by Rep. Norma Torres of California, would increase the federal minimum wage from its current $7.25 per hour to $15 on January 1, 2027, $17.50 in 2028 and $20 in 2029. Beginning in 2030, the rate would be adjusted annually based on changes in the median hourly wage. The bill was referred to the House Committee on Education and Workforce on September 3. If enacted, the proposal could significantly increase labor costs for convenience store and other franchise operators in states where current minimum wages remain below the proposed federal levels.

“A BILL INTRODUCED IN THE U.S. HOUSE WOULD RAISE THE FEDERAL MINIMUM WAGE TO $20 PER HOUR IN THREE STEPS.”

AVANTI 2026 ISSUE 4

Two convenience retail priorities gained momentum in Congress recently as the Credit Card Competition Act attracted additional Senate support and federal cash-rounding legislation moved closer to enactment, reported NACS Daily. Sens. Bernie Moreno (R-Ohio), Cynthia Lummis (R-Wyo.) and Angus King (I-Maine) joined Sens. Roger Marshall (R-Kan.), Richard Durbin (D-Ill.) and Peter Welch (D-Vt.) as sponsors of S. 3623. The bill would require greater processing-network choice for credit card transactions, introducing competition intended to reduce the swipe fees paid by retailers. The House companion, H.R. 7035, is led by Rep. Lance Gooden (R-Texas) and has bipartisan support from eight cosponsors. The Senate also unanimously approved the Common Cents Act, S. 1525, which would establish a federal framework allowing businesses without sufficient pennies to round cash totals to the nearest five cents. The House passed its version, H.R. 3074, on July 14 and is expected to consider the Senate bill next, which would clear the measure for the president’s signature. Federal protection is important because rounding transactions under the current patchwork of laws could expose retailers to compliance problems and class-action lawsuits. Some businesses have responded by rounding only in

the customer’s favor, potentially creating unplanned costs while still conflicting with certain laws.

Convenience Stores Seek SNAP Rule Delay

Thousands of convenience stores could lose their ability to accept Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program benefits under new federal stocking requirements, reported Reuters. Beginning November 4, participating retailers must offer at least seven varieties in each of four staple-food categories: dairy, fruits or vegetables, grains and protein. Stores that fail to comply will be removed from the SNAP program. Nearly 250 retailers and industry groups have asked the U.S. Department of Agriculture to delay enforcement until six months after it issues further guidance. The extension would give stores time to source qualifying products, negotiate with distributors and restock shelves. More than 117,000 convenience stores accept SNAP— nearly half of all authorized retailers—and signatories included locations operated by 7-Eleven, Wawa, Sheetz and RaceTrac.

“THOUSANDS OF CONVENIENCE STORES COULD LOSE THEIR ABILITY TO ACCEPT SNAP BENEFITS UNDER NEW FEDERAL STOCKING REQUIREMENTS.”

Legislative Update

continued from page 51

substituted nonalcoholic beer, wine, or spirits for alcohol during the past year. Beer remains the most popular alcoholic beverage at 36 percent, followed by liquor at 32 percent, and wine at 30 percent. • Kroger and Instacart now allow customers to order groceries and eligible prescriptions for delivery together, reported Store Brands. Available across nearly all Kroger banners nationwide, the service connects shoppers with more than 2,200 Kroger pharmacy locations. Pharmacy teams fill and verify prescriptions before customers add them to a grocery order through the retailer’s website or mobile app. • Altria Group and Philip Morris USA recently announced that they have agreed to a manufacturing collaboration with Philip Morris International’s non-U.S. affiliates to improve combustible cigarette production efficiency. Initial shipments are expected in early 2027, pending regulatory requirements and operational readiness. The companies will remain independent and do not expect the arrangement to materially affect their 2026 financial results. • Walmart recently opened its 100th company-owned and operated electric vehicle fastcharging site at a Supercenter in Monument, Colorado. The retailer’s charging network now spans 20 states, with most locations offering eight to 16 stalls capable of delivering up to 400 kilowatts. Drivers can start and pay for charging through the Walmart app, and Walmart+ members receive discounted rates. • Tyson Foods plans to close beef facilities in Illinois and Utah and pursue the sale of another in Washington amid historically tight cattle supplies, reported Fox Business. The company will consolidate production at plants in Nebraska, Kansas, and Texas while maintaining similar cattle-processing levels across a more efficient network. Drought-driven herd reductions have kept beef prices and meatpackers’ costs elevated. •

Tobacco Rules Shift Across Several Jurisdictions

Local governments and courts advanced a mix of tighter tobacco controls and relaxed restrictions in July, reported Convenience Store News. Fresno, California proposed a retailer licensing program with stronger penalties for underage and illegal flavored-product sales, while Newark, Delaware began requiring tobacco and vape shops to obtain special-use permits. Troy, Illinois raised the minimum age for tobacco vending-machine purchases from 18 to 21. Meanwhile, Worcester, Massachusetts relaxed its spacing rules to allow tobacco retailers and smoking bars to operate within 500 feet of one another, although flavored products remain restricted to use and sale inside smoking bars. The Oregon Supreme Court declined to review a ruling affirming counties’ authority to ban flavored-tobacco sales, leaving the lower court’s decision in place.

New York Imposes Tax On Nicotine Pouches

New York recently extended its tobacco-products tax to alternative nicotine products, including tobacco-free nicotine pouches, effective September 1, according to the New York State Department of Taxation and Finance. The tax will equal

“NEW YORK RECENTLY EXTENDED ITS TOBACCO-PRODUCTS TAX TO ALTERNATIVE NICOTINE PRODUCTS, INCLUDING TOBACCO-FREE NICOTINE POUCHES.” 75 percent of the wholesale price. Retailers, wholesalers and distributors must also inventory covered products in their possession at 11:59 p.m. on August 31 and pay a floor tax on that inventory by September 21. Businesses selling these products must be licensed or registered to sell tobacco products unless they already hold the required registration.

House Delays Impending Ban On Hemp Products

The U.S. House of Representatives recently passed a Continuing Resolution that pushes the federal ban on natural hemp products from November 12 to December 11, reported NACS Daily. The short-term extension gives lawmakers additional time to develop a federal regulatory framework for products containing more than 0.4 milligrams of hemp-derived THC, while synthetic hemp products remain subject to the original November prohibition. Industry advocates continue pushing for federal standards that protect minors while allowing responsible convenience store retailers to meet strong adult consumer demand for THC beverages and consumables. The President is expected to sign the measure into law following prior approval by the Senate.

continued on page 55

2026 ISSUE 4 AVANTI 53

SEI NEWS SEI Maps Major North American Expansion

SEI plans to open roughly 1,300 New Standard stores across North America by 2030, reported CSP Daily News. Terri Micklin, senior vice president of store development, facilities and real estate, is overseeing the expansion. The new format builds on lessons from the company’s Evolution stores, which introduced in-store restaurants, premium products and other features designed to broaden the traditional convenience-store experience. Micklin also discussed Seven & i Holdings’ plans to

AVANTI 2026 ISSUE 4

remodel at least 7,000 North American stores by 2030 as part of a wider transformation of the 7-Eleven business. The combined construction and remodeling program represents a substantial overhaul of the chain’s store network, with new locations incorporating the company’s latest operating and merchandising concepts while thousands of existing stores receive updates.

Seven & i Completes Share Allocation

Seven & i Holdings recently completed the disposal of treasury shares to SoftBank, PayPay, and Sumitomo Mitsui Card as part of

the capital and business alliance announced in July, according to a company announcement. The three companies completed payment on August 17 for a combined 144,927,534 Seven & i shares at ¥2,070 per share, generating approximately ¥300 billion ($2 billion) for Seven & i. Under the third-party allocation, SoftBank, PayPay and Sumitomo Mitsui Card each received 48,309,178 shares. Following the transaction, Seven & i holds 50,222,254 shares of its common stock in treasury. The share allocation was approved by Seven & i’s board on July 31 as part of the

SEI NEWS previously announced capital and business partnership with the three companies.

Big Bite Sales Top 100 Million Annually

7-Eleven sells more than 100 million hot dogs annually, making the convenience store chain one of the nation’s largest hot dog retailers, reported Daily Meal. The company introduced its proprietary all-beef Big Bite in 1988, and the quarter-pound hot dog has since become a cornerstone of its hot-food program. Its appeal includes a consistent flavor and a wide selection of toppings—such as chili, nacho cheese, onions, jalapeños, pico de gallo, relish, pickles and sauerkraut—generally included in the purchase price. The article states that the Big Bite could play an even larger role in 7-Eleven’s evolving foodservice strategy as the company begins opening more than 1,000 new stores with a stronger emphasis on prepared foods. With traditional fast-

food prices rising, the chain is positioning hot foods and other convenient meal options to attract value-conscious customers.

SEI Adds Performance-Based Digital Offers

SEI has selected Ibotta as the exclusive third-party provider of digital offers for consumer packaged goods—excluding age-restricted products—across the 7-Eleven, 7NOW, and Speedway apps. The partnership will allow brands to reach more than 100 million 7Rewards and Speedy Rewards members at over 11,500 U.S. locations while paying only when an offer generates a verified sale. Customers will be able to clip Ibotta-powered offers in the apps and earn rewards on qualifying purchases made in stores, at the pump or through delivery, with the savings deposited directly into their loyalty accounts. The agreement also brings Ibotta’s closed-loop measurement capabilities to the convenience channel, giving participating brands data on the sales generated by their promotions.

SEJ Tests Self-Service Parcel Shipping

Seven-Eleven Japan and Yamato Transport will introduce self-service machines that allow customers to ship parcels without waiting at staffed checkout counters, reported News On Japan. Customers scan a barcode, attach the machine’s printed label to their parcel, and deposit the package in a collection box. The service will accept Yamato Transport parcels that fit inside the box, including packages generated through flea market apps and similar online platforms. By shifting these transactions away from the register, the companies expect to shorten checkout lines and reduce store employees’ workloads. Kohei Takegahara of Seven-Eleven Japan’s marketing division called the machine an innovative convenience and said it could also attract customers who have not previously visited Seven-Eleven stores.

continued from page 53

Cumberland Farms recently opened its first namesake store in Europe near Berlin. The remodeled location features the retailer’s proprietary Maxi Fresh Bakery concept and is the first of 250 German stores slated for conversion over the next five years. Cumberland Farms also plans to introduce the bakery program at about 25 locations across Germany. • Consumers are

shopping for Halloween candy earlier as “Summerween” gains momentum. Hershey research found that 67 percent of parents purchased Halloween candy during the summer, while 55 percent entered “Halloween mode” before October. Online Summerween mentions also jumped from about 14,000 in 2023 to 65,000 in 2025. • Dollar Tree shoppers can now use SNAP/

EBT benefits at eligible stores on DoorDash, reported Supermarket News. Customers can order from more than 1,000 qualifying products, including pantry staples and frozen foods, for delivery in under an hour on average. More than 4.5 million consumers have added a SNAP card to DoorDash, which offers SNAP/EBT payments at over 57,000 stores. 2026 ISSUE 4 AVANTI 55

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FOA

EVENTS contiued from page 58

West Coast FOA

Midwest FOA

Venue TBD December 11, 2026 Phone: 213-344-7494

Venue TBD May 4, 2027 Phone: 847-971-9457

Holiday Party

San Diego FOA Holiday Party

The Heights Golf Club San Diego, California December 12, 2026 Phone: 619-713-2411

Joe Saraceno FOA Holiday Party

Imperial Event Venue Banquet Hall Pasadena, California December 13, 2026 Phone: 619-726-9016

Southern California FOA Trade Show

Pasadena Convention Center Pasadena, California April 6, 2027 Phone: 626-255-8555

Charity Golf Tournament

Trade Show

Golf Outing

Venue TBD May 5, 2027 Phone: 847-971-9457

South Texas FOA Trade Show

Venue TBD May 5, 2027 Phone: 623-533-2485

Golf Tournament Venue TBD May 6, 2027 Phone: 623-533-2485

Baltimore FOA

TriState (SubWA/Baltimore)

Vendor Dinner

Venue TBD May 11, 2027 Phone: 443-506-8380

Joe Saraceno FOA 4th Annual Charity Golf Tournament Brookside Golf Club Pasadena, California May 26, 2027 Phone: 619-726-9016

5th Annual Tradeshow

Hilton Los Angeles/Universal City Universal City, California May 27, 2027 Phone: 619-726-9016

San Diego FOA

Annual Charity Golf Tournament Rancho Bernardo Inn San Diego, California June 9, 2027 Phone: 619-713-2411

Chicagoland FOA Annual Picnic

Venue TBD July 18, 2027 Phone: 847-595-1596

Chicagoland FOA Winter Expo & General Meeting

Pacific Palms Resort City of Industry, California April 7, 2027 Phone: 626-255-8555

Trade Show

Northern California FOA

Chicagoland FOA

Sunrise Banquet Hall & Event Center Vacaville, California April 21, 2027 Phone: 707-344-6287

Venue TBD May 12, 2027 Phone: 847-595-1596

Venue TBD December 1, 2027 Phone: 847-971-9457

Chicagoland FOA

Charity Golf

Chicagoland FOA Charity Golf Outing Venue TBD May 13, 2027 Phone: 847-595-1596

Venue TBD December 3, 2027 Phone: 847-595-1596

NorCal United (CV/GB/NCA/SV) Trade Show

Chardonnay Golf Club American Canyon, California April 22, 2027 Phone: 707-344-6287

Venue TBD May 12, 2027 Phone: 443-506-8380

Summer Expo & General Meeting

Venue TBD November 11, 2027 Phone: 847-595-1596

Midwest FOA

Holiday Trade Show

Holiday Party

Joe Saraceno FOA Holiday Party

Venue TBD December 6, 2027 Phone: 619-726-9016

2026 ISSUE 4 AVANTI 57

NCASEF BM EOA R D ETINGS National Coalition Affiliate Meeting

Omni Frisco Hotel At The Star Frisco, Texas November 9-10, 2026

National Coalition Board of Directors Meeting

Omni Frisco Hotel At The Star Frisco, Texas November 11-12, 2026

FOA

NCASEF Board meetings are scheduled one per quarter. For information on Board Meeting sponsorship opportunities, please contact the National Office at 855-444-7711 or nationaloffice@ncasef.com

National Coalition Board of Directors Meeting

St. Kitts Marriott Beach Resort Frigate Bay, St. Kitts February 2-3, 2027

National Coalition Affiliate Meeting

St. Kitts Marriott Beach Resort Frigate Bay, St. Kitts February 4-5, 2027

National Coalition Board of Directors Meeting

The Broadmoor Colorado Springs, Colorado April 26-27, 2027

Midwest FOA

Raahauge’s Shooting Range Eastvale, California October 21, 2026 Phone: 213-344-7494

Venue TBD December 2, 2026 Phone: 847-999-5558

Annual Fun Shoot Event

Chicagoland FOA Winter Expo

Holiday Inn & Suites Chicago North Shore (Skokie) Skokie, Illinois November 19, 2026 Phone: 847-595-1596

Metro New Jersey FOA Venue TBD November 21, 2026 Phone: 732-910-8854

The Broadmoor Colorado Springs, Colorado April 28-29, 2027

National Coalition Board of Directors Meeting Gaylord Texan Grapevine, Texas July 26, 2027

MARK YOUR CALENDAR!

NCASEF 51st Annual

Convention & Trade Show

Gaylord Texan Grapevine, Texas July 26-29, 2027

Holiday Show

Greater Oregon FOA Holiday Party

Venue TBD December 3, 2026 Phone: 503-516-3483

Eastern Virginia FOA Holiday Party & Table Top Event Venue TBD December 3, 2026 Phone: 757-971-2828

Michigan FOA Holiday Party & Tabletop Show

Venue TBD December 4, 2026 Phone: 517-219-5288

FOA Of Greater Los Angeles Holiday Party

Venue TBD December 5, 2026 Phone: 562-567-1660

Southern California FOA Holiday Party

Knott’s Berry Farm Buena Park, California December 5, 2026 Phone: 626-255-8555

T continued on page 57

AVANTI 2026 ISSUE 4

EVENTS

West Coast FOA

Annual Holiday Party

National Coalition Affiliate Meeting

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