1927
600
$400,000
$25,000
$1,200,000
No
7-Eleven is one of the world’s most recognized and trusted convenience store brands, known for redefining quick retail with innovation, accessibility, and around-the-clock service. Originating in the United States, 7-Eleven has built a powerful reputation across Canada as a community-driven, customer-focused retail leader offering high-quality convenience products, beverages, and fresh food options.
With over 80 years of success globally, 7-Eleven operates thousands of stores across North America and continues to grow its footprint throughout Canada. The brand’s proven business model, strong supply chain, and advanced technology systems empower franchisees to run profitable operations while delivering exceptional customer experiences.
From morning coffee runs to late-night snacks, 7-Eleven is more than a store—it’s part of everyday Canadian life. As a 7-Eleven franchisee, you’ll join a legacy brand that combines global strength with strong local support, helping you succeed in one of the most resilient retail categories.
7-Eleven offers a rare mix of brand power, operational simplicity, and continuous innovation—making it one of the most lucrative retail franchises in Canada. Here’s why it stands out:
Established Global Brand: With over 80,000 stores worldwide, 7-Eleven is a global leader in convenience retail, trusted by millions of consumers daily.
Recession-Resistant Model: Convenience retail remains one of the most stable industries in Canada, thriving on essential, everyday purchases.
Comprehensive Franchise Support: 7-Eleven’s franchise program includes end-to-end support, from site selection to grand opening and ongoing business operations.
Diverse Revenue Streams: Franchisees earn from multiple sources—food, beverages, tobacco, grocery essentials, fuel (in some locations), and digital delivery platforms.
Proven Technology & Systems: State-of-the-art POS systems, inventory management, and data-driven insights help optimize sales and profitability.
7-Eleven is a global icon in the convenience retail industry, known for transforming the way consumers shop for everyday essentials. The company’s journey began in 1927 in Dallas, Texas, when founder Joe C. Thompson Sr. started selling basic household goods like milk, eggs, and bread from the Southland Ice Company. What began as a simple icehouse evolved into the world’s most recognized convenience store chain, introducing the revolutionary concept of extended operating hours—from 7 a.m. to 11 p.m., later transitioning to a 24/7 business model that changed retail forever.
Over the decades, 7-Eleven has become synonymous with speed, accessibility, and innovation. From pioneering self-serve beverages and the Slurpee® to launching digital ordering, loyalty apps, and contactless payments, the brand continues to evolve with modern consumer lifestyles.
Expansion into Canada
7-Eleven made its entry into Canada in 1969, opening its first store in Calgary, Alberta. Since then, it has become a cornerstone of Canadian convenience retail, operating over 600 stores nationwide. The brand maintains a strong presence in British Columbia, Alberta, Saskatchewan, Manitoba, Ontario, and parts of Quebec, serving millions of Canadians every day.
In Canada, 7-Eleven operates under the ownership of Seven & i Holdings Co., Ltd., a Japanese retail conglomerate headquartered in Tokyo. The company owns several global retail and foodservice brands, ensuring international expertise and financial strength back every 7-Eleven location.
Brand Journey & Evolution
From its early beginnings selling ice to becoming a global retail powerhouse, 7-Eleven’s success has been built on three core pillars: convenience, consistency, and customer care. The company continuously reinvests in technology, product innovation, and franchisee support.
Key milestones include:
Launch of Slurpee® (1966), now a cultural icon in Canada.
Introduction of fresh food programs, including sandwiches, bakery items, and premium coffee.
Expansion into fuel retailing, offering customers one-stop convenience.
Development of the 7-Eleven app and 7NOW Delivery, meeting the growing demand for online and on-demand convenience.
Today, 7-Eleven is part of everyday Canadian life—serving commuters, families, students, and professionals. Its brand name represents reliability and familiarity, whether it’s a morning coffee, an afternoon snack, or a late-night essential.
Industry Category & Market Presence
7-Eleven operates in the Convenience Retail and Quick-Service Food category—an industry valued at billions annually in Canada. Its adaptability, broad product range, and efficient store model make it a market leader, consistently ranking among the top retail franchises worldwide.
With an ever-growing footprint and a proven franchise system, 7-Eleven Canada offers entrepreneurs the opportunity to join a brand that combines global recognition with local community connection, setting the standard for success in convenience retail.
7-Eleven’s franchise program is designed to help franchisees succeed at every step of their journey—from launch to daily operations. The company provides one of the most comprehensive support systems in the retail franchise sector:
Pre-Launch Support:
Assistance with site selection, store setup, and lease negotiations.
Access to a turnkey business model, where store build-out, equipment, and inventory setup are handled by the corporate team.
Detailed pre-opening training covering customer service, merchandising, and compliance.
Training & Operations:
Intensive 6–8 week hands-on training at an existing 7-Eleven store and corporate training centre.
Guidance on inventory management, vendor relationships, staff recruitment, and store maintenance.
Access to the 7-Eleven Retailer Initiative Program (RIP) for continuous performance evaluation and business improvement.
Marketing & Technology Support:
National and local marketing campaigns, loyalty programs, and digital promotions to boost store traffic.
24/7 support through advanced POS systems, operational dashboards, and analytics tools.
Assistance from dedicated Franchise Consultants who provide ongoing mentorship and business guidance.
7-Eleven’s partnership model ensures franchisees focus on sales, customer engagement, and community relationships while the corporate team handles backend operations and supplier management.
A successful 7-Eleven Canada franchisee is more than just an investor—they are hands-on operators, community leaders, and customer-focused entrepreneurs who take pride in running a store that serves as a neighbourhood hub. The brand looks for partners who share its commitment to excellence, innovation, and customer satisfaction.
Key Qualities and Traits:
Entrepreneurial Mindset: You should have the drive to own and operate a business with a strong desire to grow and scale within a proven retail system.
Customer-Focused Leadership: 7-Eleven franchisees must value exceptional customer service and community engagement—creating a friendly, safe, and welcoming environment for every guest.
Operational Discipline: The ideal franchisee is detail-oriented, follows structured systems, and ensures brand standards are met daily—from cleanliness to inventory management.
Strong Work Ethic: Running a 7-Eleven store is active, hands-on work that rewards commitment and energy. Owners who are present and involved tend to achieve higher sales and smoother operations.
Team Management Skills: Ability to recruit, train, and motivate staff to deliver consistent service and maintain smooth day-to-day store operations.
Financial Readiness: You should have adequate capital to invest in the franchise and sustain operations through the initial growth phase.
Preferred Backgrounds:
Experience in retail, hospitality, food service, or small business management is an advantage.
Previous ownership or leadership experience in a customer-facing business helps franchisees adapt quickly to 7-Eleven’s fast-paced environment.
Investors looking for multi-unit ownership opportunities or absentee management models are also encouraged, especially in high-demand regions like Ontario, British Columbia, and Alberta.
Location Preferences:
Ideal franchise locations include high-traffic areas such as residential communities, near schools or hospitals, business districts, fuel stations, and busy intersections. 7-Eleven works closely with franchisees to identify the most strategic sites for maximum visibility and profitability.
In Summary:
The ideal 7-Eleven franchisee is a proactive, people-oriented entrepreneur with a passion for retail, a strong sense of community, and the determination to grow under a globally trusted brand. With 7-Eleven’s robust support, even first-time business owners can thrive in this proven and profitable retail system.
Below is a detailed breakdown of the estimated financial requirements and investment structure for opening and operating a 7-Eleven franchise in Canada. Figures may vary depending on store size, location, and specific market conditions.
| Financial Component | Estimated Amount (CAD) | Details & Notes |
|---|---|---|
| Total Investment Range | $400,000 – $1,200,000 | Includes franchise fee, equipment, inventory, working capital, and initial setup costs. |
| Minimum Liquid Capital Required | $150,000 – $250,000 | Minimum personal funds required to qualify for franchise approval. |
| Franchise Fee | $25,000 – $50,000 | One-time fee granting the rights to operate under the 7-Eleven brand. Varies based on store type and region. |
| Royalty Fees | Variable Profit-Sharing Model (Typically 50/50) | 7-Eleven operates on a shared gross profit model instead of a traditional percentage royalty. |
| Marketing & Advertising Contribution | Included in Royalty Structure | National and regional advertising programs are supported by the corporate marketing team. |
| Store Build-Out & Equipment | $150,000 – $400,000 | Covers shelving, refrigeration, signage, technology systems, and other fixtures. |
| Initial Inventory | $50,000 – $100,000 | Initial stock of food, beverages, grocery essentials, and convenience items. |
| Working Capital | $50,000 – $100,000 | Cash flow buffer for operations, staffing, and unforeseen expenses in the first 6–12 months. |
| Leasehold Improvements | $75,000 – $200,000 | May include construction, signage, and location-specific modifications (if required). |
| Training & Onboarding Fee | Included | Comprehensive training program provided at no additional cost to approved franchisees. |
| Expected ROI | 15% – 25% Annually | Depending on location, store performance, and management efficiency. |
| Break-Even Period | 18 – 30 Months | Estimated time to recover initial investment through consistent revenue growth. |
| Average Gross Sales (per store) | $1.2M – $2.5M annually | Varies based on store size, location, and product mix. |
| Franchise Units (Canada) | 600+ and growing | 7-Eleven continues to expand across major provinces like Ontario, BC, Alberta, and Manitoba. |
| Revenue Streams | Multi-Channel Sales | Food & beverage, grocery, snacks, fuel (select stores), and digital delivery (7NOW). |
