7-Eleven Inc. selected 26 “innovative and purpose-driven brands” to participate in its Brands with Heart showcase, held at the 7-Eleven Store Support Center in Irving, Texas, according to a press release. Now in its sixth year, the retailer said the program provides emerging brands with the opportunity to enter a new retail channel and have their products in 7-Eleven stores across the U.S.

“The 26 finalists were selected through an application process from the retailer's Emerging Brands team. They represent a diverse range of products that align with 7-Eleven's commitment to making a positive impact on the planet and communities,” wrote the retailer.

Finalists were invited to participate in virtual learning sessions and present and sample their products at the event, as well as engage with merchandising leadership for coaching, mentoring and educational sessions designed to help them grow their business within the retail industry.

“At 7-Eleven, we are constantly seeking opportunities to champion innovation and foster the growth of emerging brands,” said Jesus Delgado-Jenkins, executive vice president, chief merchandising officer at 7-Eleven. “By collaborating with new visionary partners every year, we aim to deliver breakthrough products that not only delight our customers but also shape the future of immediate consumption.”

Some of the Brands with Heart participants included:

• Bear n Beaver: Bear n Beaver is “dedicated to reducing plastic waste. By using recyclable and eco-friendly packaging, the brand is helping to minimize its environmental footprint.”
• Prime Bites: a “health-conscious snack brand that prioritizes nutrition with a focus on wholesome, nutritious ingredients.”
• Just Iced Tea: an “organic, fair trade, real-brewed tea line. With their Just Sweet Enough and unsweetened varie-teas, their goal is to create a healthier future for farmers, the planet and customers.”

Earlier this month, Seven & i Holdings, parent company of 7-Eleven, was reportedly developing initiatives to unlock its North American convenience-store business’s potential value as well as optimal capital relations with its banking unit, and said “it will accelerate expansion to new regions to seek growth in markets worldwide. … The company plans to complete its strategic restructuring this fiscal year to achieve profit growth in the coming years.”