Today 7-Eleven, Inc. announced a call for innovative and emerging brands to apply to the retailer’s annual Brands with Heart showcase. The program, now in its fifth year, is designed to provide the opportunity to enter a new retail channel with the chance to see their products on the shelves of 7-Eleven, Speedway, and Stripes stores across the US. Applications are now live at 7-Emerging.com and will remain open through the end of July.

7-Eleven is always on the hunt for up-and-coming, exciting new products that enhance the customer experience and complement its iconic 7-Eleven-owned Brand food and beverages like Slurpee drinks, Big Bite hot dogs, pizza, and more. Through the Brands with Heart program, up-and-coming brands can make their case on why their product deserves a spot on shelves of all 7-Eleven’s banners, including 7-Eleven, Speedway, and Stripes stores. The retailer is looking for items across all categories that meet the needs of its on-the-go customers – including snacks, beverages, alcoholic beverages, and ‘better-for-you’ products.

“7-Eleven has a legacy of innovation – from to-go coffee to self-serve soda fountains – and Brands with Heart is just another example of how we’re innovating to meet customers’ needs,” said Nikki Boyers, Vice President of Private Brands at 7‑Eleven. “The Brands with Heart showcase allows us to scout for the best new products for our customers, while also giving smaller brands the chance to shine.”

“We look forward to the Brands with Heart showcase every year – it’s inspiring to see the innovation and creativity that’s out there, and of course, enjoy some tasty treats along the way,” said Adam Franks, Director of Private and Emerging Brands at 7-Eleven. “We love helping these up-and-coming brands grow and thrive. In fact, Elite Donuts is an alum of the Brands with Heart program – which is sold in many of our stores today across the country.”

Whether a product is ready to hit the shelves or still in development, 7-Eleven encourages all emerging brands to apply. Submissions will be reviewed throughout the month of August. Standout products will be invited to attend the Brands with Heart showcase in Irving, TX, November 1- 3, where they will present to company employees and meet with merchandising teams for coaching and mentoring. Following the showcase, select brands will be invited to participate in an in-store test at select 7-Eleven, Speedway, and Stripes stores across the U.S.