Slurpee holds a nostalgic place in our memories, and 7-Eleven is synonymous with round-the-clock convenience. But have you ever wondered how the name “7-Eleven” came to be? Let’s uncover the amusing story behind this iconic brand.
It all began in 1927 when the company was known as the Southland Ice Company, solely selling ice. As time went on, they expanded their offerings to include grocery items. Surviving the Great Depression, the company decided to rebrand in 1946.
And there it was, the birth of 7-Eleven. The name was chosen to highlight their operating hours, from 7 am to 11 pm. Back then, this was an unconventional schedule, and it quickly became the distinctive trait of their stores. However, it wasn’t until 1963 in Austin, Texas, that they first experimented with 24-hour operations.
Today, 7-Eleven is owned by Seven & i Holdings, a Japanese-based company, carrying on the legacy of convenience and innovation.
From a small ice retailer to a global powerhouse, the journey of 7-Eleven is a testament to the enduring impact of a simple name and a commitment to meeting customers’ needs. So, the next time you step into a 7-Eleven store, take a moment to appreciate the story behind the name that has become ingrained in our culture for nearly a century.