7-Eleven will be investing more than $15 million into entering the Far North Queensland market with around 15 stores set to open over the next two years.
The first stores will be opened in Townsville and Cairns before June 2022, marking the convenience retailers first entrance into the region.
The investment is expected to create more than 200 full time jobs during the building phase, with more than 150 additional ongoing local jobs created to run store operations.
7-Eleven Australia General Manager – Channel, Braeden Lord, said the company is proud to be making an investment that will create jobs and drive economic growth in Far North Queensland.
“7-Eleven is committed to providing regional Australians with access to the same level of choice and convenience that is available to people who live in metropolitan areas,” Lord said.
“Recent investments in our supply chain have made it possible for us to bring our offer to Townsville and Cairns and we are incredibly excited about the chance to serve the local communities in Far North Queensland.”
Lord said that specific convenience and petrol experience isn’t required to build a career in the family-owned Australian organisation.
“In addition to the jobs created to build the stores, each site will employ up to 15 team members in a mix of full-time, part time and casual roles,” he said.
“There will be a number of leadership positions available, and we hope to have Townsville and Cairns locals join us as leaders.
“We would like to speak to locals who have strong people leadership skills, can lead a team to deliver excellent customer service and who are interested in using proven processes to deliver high standard results, with a focus on safety and store presentation.
“We provide extensive training to ensure people are set up for success on opening day so previous experience in convenience, petrol and retail isn’t a requirement. “
While the company is yet to advise specific locations of the stores they expect to open, the company is confident that the new network will grow quickly in the next two years.
“We are continuing to work with landlords and developers to identify opportunities to secure the right sites to meet the needs of the community.
“We’re starting in Townsville and Cairns and will be continuing to explore the region which we feel has a huge potential for growth.”
7-Eleven is looking to engage with Far North Queensland locals to work at the new stores, with several leadership positions available. They encourage interested locals to reach out to pexstoreleader@7eleven.com.au.