DALLAS – 7-Eleven Inc. celebrated its 80th birthday yesterday and announced another milestone. The global retailer, which has long held the lead as the company with more convenience stores than any other, has now overtaken QSRs and food providers in the number of retail outlets worldwide.      

With a net of 1,086 new stores opened year-to-date, 7-Eleven became the food retailer with the most units, beating McDonald’s Corporation, which reported 31,062 as of March 31, 2007, and Subway Restaurants, with approximately 27,836, according to a company press release. 7-Eleven operated, franchised and licensed 32,711 stores by the end of June. One year ago, 7-Eleven ranked second in units, but has since stepped up its domestic and overseas expansion. 

While 7-Eleven is rapidly expanding with a market-concentration strategy, the chain only operates in 17 countries and one U.S. territory, giving it tremendous growth potential, especially when compared to McDonald’s, which operates in 118, and Subway, with locations in 86 countries. Nearly 50 percent of 7-Eleven stores are located in the United States and Japan.

“The expansion of 7-Eleven indicates the growth potential for convenience worldwide,” said 7-Eleven Inc. President and CEO Joe DePinto. “As we celebrate our 80th anniversary as the world’s leading convenience retailer this month, we look forward to satisfying customers and further strengthening our brand around the globe.”