Once Big in Utah: Store Plans to Reclaim its Glory

This convenience store once had locations all over Utah. If you grew up in the 80s, you probably had a 7-Eleven convenience store nearby where you would grab a Slurpee or a Big Gulp and maybe drop a quarter to play Space Invaders. Then many of these locations disappeared.

What Happened to You Neighborhood 7-Eleven? 

In the late 80s and early 90s, there was a lot of corporate raiding going on. Trying to keep that from happening, 7-Eleven went private and sold off different stores and other companies they owned to make it happen. 

Since that time, the company has gone through growth and expansion in different ways. It is still worldwide with many locations. At the end of last year, the parent company announced to their investors that they had plans to build 500 more stores in North America. 

May Not Look Exactly Like the 7-Eleven You Remember 

They have been experimenting with “Evolution” stores that offer premium products like craft beers and wine cellars. They also include restaurants in the stores. Probably not the same kind of store where you could kick it with your friends in the parking lot on Friday nights. 

Read More: Three Small Utah Towns Make Best Pizza in the U.S.

I spent a lot of time in 7-Eleven growing up and worked nights there when I was in college in Arizona. It may not be the same place I knew, but it is cool to see the company with plans to expand. Who knows, I might like the new version even better.