Convenience retailer 7-Eleven has been named as 2008 Franchisor of the Year by the Franchise Council of Australia.

The retailer was awarded for its continued product and store innovation, strong franchisee partnerships and consistent growth in recent years.

The annual award recognises best practice in business franchising and promotes the economic value of a strong franchising sector in Australia.

With record franchisee satisfaction results, 7-Eleven was recognised specifically for its success in building effective working partnerships with franchisees, created through active listening programs such as the Franchisee Advisory Council.

These partnerships were one of the cornerstones of 7-Eleven's 'Energising Everyone' plan, a 10 year blueprint for the company's growth launched in 2007.

This program underpins a $22 million, five year investment the company is making to continue to set world class benchmarks in the Australian convenience retailing industry.

“We've recognised that changing consumer tastes have led to declining sales in traditional core convenience store products such as confectionery and tobacco,” said Warren Wilmot, 7-Eleven's CEO.

“Our 'Energising Everyone' program has refocused our business and our franchisees on more profitable growth categories, such as frozen drink Slurpee and freshly prepared food through the Munch range. We also introduced new products such as public transport tickets and ATM services in many of our stores, which have increased both foot traffic and sales.

“We are delighted, through this award, to be recognised as a best practice business both in retailing and in the overall franchise sector. It reflects the commitment and efforts of our staff and our 340 franchisees across Victoria, NSW and Queensland.”

The award also recognised 7-Eleven's continued investment in its brand and in-store experience which has kept the brand relevant to changing consumer needs, with many 7-Eleven stores being refurbished in the last two years.

“We continue to be excited by the potential in our business and for our franchisees in being part of a business model that works for all of us,” Wilmot concluded. “As we still have eight years to go in our 'Energising Everyone' program, there is still much to do.”