IRVING, Texas — A total of 233 emerging brands have advanced to the next stage in 7-Eleven’s annual Brands with Heart program, an increase of 50 from the previous year, demonstrating continued innovation within the convenience retail sector. These brands are invited to submit samples for review by 7-Eleven’s Emerging Brands team.
Following the sample review, 7-Eleven will decide which brands will move on to virtual meetings with its buyers, during which it will select the brands to be invited for final pitches in person at an event at the 7-Eleven Support Center in Irving, Texas.
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Now in its sixth year, the Brands With Heart program provides emerging brands with the opportunity to enter a new retail channel and place their products on the shelves of 7-Eleven, Speedway and Stripes stores across the U.S. Submissions for the latest cycle closed on October 13.
According to Louisa McCarty, Manager of 7-Ventures | 7-Eleven Emerging Brands, the program offers a vital path for selected brands into a new retail channel. They gain access to millions of convenience shoppers, alongside mentorship, educational opportunities, and direct access to 7-Eleven category managers. “Last year, we had nine brands move into regional tests after BWH,” she said. “We even have a few who are on their way to expand nationally!”
For more details on the Brands With Heart Program, read our interview with Lousia McCarthy.
MMR
