7-Eleven has been named the Australian Retailers Association (ARA) Visa Australian Retailer of the Year, thanks largely to its skill and success as a franchise.
According to CEO Warren Wilmot, to be recognised before the rest of the country’s great retailers is a “big milestone” for the business.
“While we have been recognised before for our skill in franchising, it is testament to the hard work of our team, particularly of our franchisees, that we have today won an award for our efforts as a retailer.”
Wilmot said a number of business strengths have contributed to its winning the award.
“Firstly, from the owners of 7-Eleven Australia, the Withers and Barlow families, to our Franchisees and corporate staff, there is a sense of community and a business culture that is very strongly linked to family.”
“Secondly, while we are in fact one large business, most of the time we see ourselves as 600 small businesses. By focusing on developing each store and growing its profitability, the business, as a whole, benefits.”
The third advantage is the structure of its franchise arrangement, which is specifically designed to work for both franchisors and franchisee.
“The key is that the broader 7-Eleven business makes money only when the Franchisees make money, ensuring that everyone in the business is focused on the mutual goal of increasing individual store profitability,” Wilmot added.
“These three strengths, combined with the strong global 7-Eleven brand, our commitment to delivering a market leading customer offer, and our 600 diligent Franchisees who proudly operate their own businesses, have positioned us for success, including the win we are celebrating today.”
