#United States #Irving #7-Eleven #Brands with Heart #Innovation Showcase

7-Eleven Opens Applications for Emerging Brands in 2026 Showcase

In a move to amplify emerging brands, 7-Eleven, Inc., the world’s largest convenience retailer, has opened applications for its seventh annual Brands with Heart™ showcase. This program offers a one-of-a-kind opportunity for innovative, retail-ready products to gain exposure in more than 13,000 7-Eleven®, Speedway®, and Stripes® stores across the United States.

Program Overview

Launched on September 17, 2025, this unique initiative is designed to foster the growth of new consumer packaged goods (CPG) companies. The showcase seeks out innovative snacks, beverages, and frozen treats that resonate with today’s evolving consumer demands. Brands have until October 13, 2025, to submit their applications, showcasing how their products stand out in taste, packaging, or social responsibility.

Insights from Leadership

Jesus Delgado-Jenkins, Executive Vice President and Chief Merchandising Officer at 7-Eleven, emphasized the importance of unique concepts: "At 7-Eleven, we're looking for bold ideas and distinctive products that will capture the attention of our customers." His sentiments are echoed by Marissa Jarratt, Executive Vice President and Chief Marketing & Sustainability Officer, who believes the showcase is a platform for brands that not only promise innovation in taste but also align with a sense of purpose that today’s consumers seek.

What Makes the Showcase Unique?

The Brands with Heart showcase is more than just a pitching platform; it’s an accelerator. Selected brands will participate in educational sessions, where they will learn the ins and outs of retail merchandising, as well as gain direct pitching opportunities with category managers from 7-Eleven. This hands-on approach provides valuable insights into the market, benefiting brands in their journey from concept to consumer.

One of the standout brands from the previous round, Magic Spoon, shared their enthusiasm about being a part of this program. Hilary Freedman, Director of Sales, Alternate Channels, stated, "Magic Spoon was thrilled to be selected for the 7-Eleven Brands with Heart Program, allowing us to bring our Protein Treats to stores across the New York area." This illustrates the program's ability to not only showcase but also facilitate the actual sale of innovative products.

Application Details

To apply for the 2026 showcase, brands need to visit 7-Eleven.com/Emerging-Brands. The submission window is open until October 13, 2025, inviting brands to introduce their innovative products to the convenience market. Following the application phase, select brands will be granted the chance to have their products tested in stores nationwide—with a pathway to expand their visibility across the 7-Eleven family of brands.

About 7-Eleven

7-Eleven, Inc. is recognized as a leader in the convenience-retailing industry, operating a wide variety of stores in the U.S. and Canada. Known for offering high-quality convenience foods, 7-Eleven also champions social responsibility through programs like Brands with Heart, which aims to cultivate fresh ideas and support the next generation of entrepreneurial brands. By leveraging its large retail footprint, 7-Eleven continues to provide customers not only with convenience but also with exciting new options that align with their values and preferences.

In an ever-evolving retail landscape, initiatives like the Brands with Heart showcase are critical in fostering innovation and inspiring brands to think outside the box—while meeting the diverse needs of today’s consumers.