TOKYO – 7-Eleven, Inc. (SEI), the world’s largest convenience retailer with 56,400 stores worldwide, has signed a master franchise agreement with Seven System Vietnam Co. Ltd. to develop and operate 7-Eleven stores in Vietnam. The expansion marks the company’s first stake in the Pacific Rim since 7-Eleven entered Indonesia in 2009.

7-Eleven’s entry into the country aims to enhance the convenience-shopping experience for Vietnamese customers and contribute to modernizing small retailers in the world’s 13th most populous country. 

The new master franchisee plans to construct 7-Eleven stores, convert existing locations to the 7-Eleven brand supported by enhanced infrastructure, and eventually franchise operations to local businesspeople. 

Internationally popular products like Slurpee frozen carbonated beverages and Big Gulp® soft drinks, as well as immediately consumable fresh foods, with recipes developed for regional tastes, will be part of the convenience offerings. 

7-Eleven and its parent company, Seven-Eleven Japan, will provide start-up support for its newest master franchisee by assisting Seven System Vietnam in implementing 7-Eleven’s successful strategies of market concentration, team merchandising and item-by-item management.

Vietnam will be the 18th country or region where 7-Eleven stores operate. In addition to the United States, other countries include Canada, Mexico, Japan, Thailand, South Korea, Taiwan, China (including Hong Kong), The Philippines, Australia, Singapore, Malaysia, Indonesia, Norway, Sweden, Denmark and the United Arab Emirates, where its first 7-Eleven store will open early this autumn.