Top 10 Convenience Store Franchises

A convenience store, sometimes called a corner store, is a small retail business that sells a range of everyday items such as coffee, snacks, groceries, carbonated drinks, ice creams, tobacco products, over-the-counter medicines, toiletries, magazines, lottery tickets. Some of them provide utility payment and drive-thru services, too. There are more than 150,000 convenience stores in the U.S., most of which are franchise chains. Doing intensive research helps you identify which franchise is right for you. To start a convenience store business, look for the best franchise from our list. 

1. 7-Eleven

7-Eleven Inc. is a Japanese-owned international chain American company based in Dallas, Texas. It has more than 66,000 convenience stores scattered in 17 countries worldwide. The 7-11 convenience store franchise is unique because it allows franchisees to customize their businesses to the distinct characteristics of their market and customer needs. This article discusses the details of owning a 7-Eleven franchise. 

Established in: 1927

Franchising since: 1964

Initial investment: $37,550

Royalty Fees: Varies 

2. Circle K

Circle K is one of the well-known convenience store brands worldwide for quality products and excellent customer support. It is also widely recognized for franchising outside of the U.S. and Canada. The Circle K Franchise team’s experts are committed to supporting its franchisees. Whether opening new shops or transforming existing properties, Circle K offers many benefits to every kind of franchisee.

Established in: 1951

Franchising since: 1995

Initial investment: starts at $185,500

Royalty Fees: 3 – 7.5%

3. AMPM

Petroleum and convenience store franchises continue to evolve as the demand increases. The AMPM brand is a well-established chain that has become a part of the West Coast’s culture. Its powerful and unique branding is the foundation of AMPM’s credibility as a convenience store franchise. Likewise, brand awareness and customer loyalty are the key elements of AMPMs marketing strategy.

Established in: 1975

Franchising since: 1979

Initial investment: starts at $430,698

Royalty Fees: 11 – 14%

4. RaceTrac

RaceTrac delivers outstanding service to customers looking for modern, convenient locations, quality food offers, and a broad product selection. Prospective franchisees are given opportunities to be actively involved in the day-to-day operations of the retail business. 

Established in: 1934

Franchising since: 1934

Initial investment: $1,000,000

Royalty Fees: 3.5%

5. Dash In

Dash In is a gas station and convenience store offering franchise opportunities with multiple revenue layers. That means our franchisees have more options for growth and success and beat the competition—Dash In aims for franchisees to successfully run the business. 

Established in: 1979

Franchising since: 1979

Initial investment: starts at $138,600

Royalty Fees: 5.5%

6. Street Corner

Franchising is a proven way to build your own business affordably. Street Corner Urban Market’s concept sets them far apart from traditional and mainstream convenience stores everywhere. 

Established in: 1988

Franchising since: 1995

Initial investment: starts at $99,400

Royalty Fees: 4.95%

7. Farm Stores

Farm Stores is the largest and original drive-thru grocery store in the United States. Customers love the convenience of driving through for coffee and a breakfast sandwich while on the way to work. The company wants its franchisees to succeed and their stores to thrive. With that said, Farm Stores provide all the education, tools, training, support, and marketing franchisees need to succeed in their business.

Established in: 1957

Franchising since: 2015

Initial investment: starts at $128,501

Royalty Fees: 5%

8. Gateway Newstands

Gateway Newstands is a convenience store and kiosks in large office buildings, shopping centers, public places, and transit stations in the United States and Canada. The company boosts a vast system & over 30 years of retail experience.

Established in: 1983

Franchising since: 1983

Initial investment: starts at $55,875

Royalty Fees: 3.5%

9. Just-A-Buck

Just-A-Buck Licensing, Inc., headquartered in New Windsor, New York, supports a chain of franchised and company-owned dollar stores with locations throughout the eastern United States. Just-A-Buck family company-owned and franchise chain has grown steadily stronger since its humble beginnings in 1988.

Established in: 1988

Franchising since: 1992

Initial investment: $172,475

Royalty Fees: Unknown

10. Save-A-Lot Food Stores 

Save-A-Lot is a leading discount grocery chain with over 1,300 stores across the U.S. and the Caribbean. Approximately 70% of these locations are owned and operated by individuals or corporate entities under our licensed retailer program. Their business model is designed to help retailers succeed and compete effectively in the grocery industry.

Founded in:1977

Franchising since: 1978

Initial investment: starts at $750,000

Royalty Fees: Unknown