A Marriage of Convenience
7-Eleven and White Hen Join Forces to Bring the Ultimate in Convenience to Consumers
DALLAS, TX, August 10, 2006 - In its largest acquisition in 20 years, 7-Eleven, Inc. has announced the purchase of White Hen Pantry, Inc., a Lombard, Ill.-based convenience store chain. White Hen operates and franchises 206 stores in the Chicago area and Northwest Indiana, and licenses another 55 in Boston. With the addition of the White Hen stores, the number of stores 7-Eleven operates, franchises and licenses in North America increases to more than 7,100.
"This acquisition is a strategic fit for 7-Eleven and enhances market presence in the Chicagoland area," said 7-Eleven, Inc. President and Chief Executive Officer Joseph DePinto. "White Hen has a well-earned reputation for quality, service and fresh foods. We plan to incorporate best practices from the White Hen stores and provide our customers with an even better and more convenient shopping experience."
7-Eleven and White Hen have a long history in the Chicago area, with 7-Eleven opening its first store there in 1966 and White Hen in 1965. Both companies have steadily increased their presence in the Chicago area over the years, and together will now total nearly 400 stores in the market. White Hen stores will continue to operate for the near term as they have.
"The c-store business has become increasingly sophisticated and competitive," said White Hen Pantry, Inc. President and Chief Executive Officer Brandon Barnholt. "As the founder and global leader of convenience retailing, 7-Eleven – probably more than anyone – understands what it takes to be successful in this business. I believe this decision will provide great opportunities for the future of our company, our franchisees and our customers."
"Chicago is a growth market for 7-Eleven," said Nancy Smith, vice president for 7-Eleven stores in the Midwest. "With the addition of White Hen, convenience becomes even more accessible to Chicago area shoppers."
7-Eleven's local offices are located in Schaumburg, IL; White Hen Pantry's offices are in Lombard, IL.
About 7-Eleven, Inc.
7 Eleven, Inc. is the premier name and largest chain in the convenience retailing industry. Based in Dallas, Texas, 7-Eleven operates, franchises or licenses more than 7,100 7-Eleven® stores in North America. Globally, 7-Eleven operates, franchises or licenses more than 30,000 stores in 18 countries and U.S. territories. During 2005, 7-Eleven stores worldwide generated total sales of approximately $43 billion. Find out more online at www.7-Eleven.com.
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