USA Today, world reknowned for their franchise evaluation skills (note the sarcasm) as evidence by naming Quinoz #2 in 2006, has named 7-Eleven as their #1 franchise for 2008.

7-Eleven management is very systematic and generally organized.  With so many world-wide stores, it has invested heavily in automation and technology.   Marketing partnerships are big with 7-Eleven to get people in the stores, see the Simpsons movie promos and Citibank ATMs as examples.

7-Eleven does not allow absentee-ownership, and each location generally must be  a minimum of 1,400 square feet and must be at least 1/2 mile from another 7-Eleven franchise.  Franchise fees are at least $70,000 plus typical build out costs.

The article mentions a unique system that builds “equity” in their store, so if the franchisee wants to sell, the seller can ask for a premium “goodwill” payment representing built-up equity.

Single store ownership is a way to make a living, but not make a six-figure income.

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