Irving-based convenience store giant 7-Eleven Inc. has put out a call for innovative and emerging brands to apply to its annual Brands with Heart showcase, now in its fifth year.
“7-Eleven has a legacy of innovation — from to-go coffee to self-serve soda fountains — and Brands with Heart is just another example of how we’re innovating to meet customers’ needs,” Nikki Boyers, vice president of Private Brands at 7‑Eleven, said in a statement. “The Brands with Heart showcase allows us to scout for the best new products for our customers, while also giving smaller brands the chance to shine.”
The program is designed to give brands the opportunity to enter a new retail channel with the chance to see their products on the shelves of 7-Eleven, Speedway, and Stripes stores nationwide.
The company said that applications are now live at the company’s website and will remain open through the end of the month.
7-Eleven said it is always looking for up-and-coming, exciting new products that enhance the customer experience and complement its iconic food and beverages such as Slurpee drinks, Big Bite hot dogs, pizza and more.
Seeking creative snack and drink products
Via the Brands with Heart program, up-and-coming brands can make their case on why their product deserves a spot on shelves of 7-Eleven, Speedway and Stripes stores.
The retailer said it is looking for items across all categories that meet the needs of its on-the-go customers — including snacks, beverages, alcoholic beverages and “better-for-you” products.
“We look forward to the Brands with Heart showcase every year — it’s inspiring to see the innovation and creativity that’s out there, and of course enjoy some tasty treats along the way,” Adam Franks, director of private and emerging brands at 7-Eleven, said in a statement. “We love helping these up-and-coming brands grow and thrive. In fact, Elite Donuts is an alum of the Brands with Heart program — which is sold in many of our stores today across the country.”
It doesn’t matter if the product is ready to hit the shelves or still in development, 7-Eleven said it is encouraging all emerging brands to apply.
The company said that submissions will be reviewed throughout the month of August and standout products will be invited to attend the Brands with Heart showcase Nov. 1-3 in Irving, where they will present to company employees and meet with merchandising teams for coaching and mentoring.
After the showcase, 7-Eleven said that select brands will be invited to participate in an in-store test at select 7-Eleven, Speedway, and Stripes stores nationwide.
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