7-Eleven continues to invest in growth and jobs in North Queensland

The Australian owned and operated 7-Eleven opens store number two for North Queensland, at the corner of Lynwood Avenue and Mt Low Parkway, Bushland Beach, Townsville on Tuesday 29 November. The new team of 12 grows the 7-Eleven local team to 29.

According to Fiona Hayes, 7-Eleven General Manager - Channel, the 15 million plus investment in new stores in North Queensland is expected to provide more than 100 store based roles across Townsville and Cairns, while also providing approximately 200 full time jobs during construction.

7-Eleven’s investment in Townsville includes working with local manufacturers to bring products made in Townsville to the retailer’s stores across the country.

The company has been working with the Townsville based The Outback Pie Co. since late 2021 to develop its Puff Pastry Bakes range. The three 7-Eleven brand bespoke products are sold in more than 500 stores nationally, and the volumes so far have meant approximately 10 additional jobs at the factory.

According to Milo Gaffney, The Outback Pie Co. Managing Director, “locally based manufacturing will continue to be critical to the strength of the Australian economy and food supply chain. Not only does it mean employment in the regions, which helps ensure balanced economic growth across the country, but it facilitates efficient ecosystems of raw ingredients and other inputs close to the point of manufacturing. This means it is more efficient and reduces the need to transport ingredients huge distances.”

7-Eleven’s new Smoothie and Frappe machines also have a local influence, with supplier Fresh Blends Australia working with a Townsville based supplier to manufacture the flavours and ingredients for 7-Eleven stores nationally.

According to Peter Donohoe, Managing Director of Fresh Blends Australia, “we are excited to see the machines roll out to 7-Eleven stores across the country. Making the flavour and ingredient components for 7-Eleven’s new Smoothie and Frappe offer has led to 10 full time jobs in Townsville. As more people try these new drinks for themselves, and demand continues to grow, we expect to see job opportunities grow alongside increasing demand.”

Ms Hayes says the expansion of the company’s network in the North will continue in 2023, with stores expected to open in Mundingburra and Aitkenvale in Townsville, and in North Cairns.

“We are proud to be providing Townsville locals with the same choice and convenience that is available to those in metropolitan areas.”

“The investment in expansion and growth from both ourselves and our supplier partners is providing new career opportunities locally. New recruits for our store based leader and team member roles receive full training to set them up for success, so specific convenience and petrol experience isn’t required to build a career with our business.

“We are excited to open our latest store in Queensland, and look forward to continuing to contribute to economic growth in the North throughout 2023”