Ever wondered about the story behind the name of one of the world’s most ubiquitous convenience stores, 7-Eleven? It’s a question many of us have, especially when we see them open 24/7!
Well, you might be surprised to learn its origins trace back to 1927, not as a convenience store, but as the Southland Ice Company in Dallas, Texas. They primarily sold ice blocks for keeping food cold before refrigerators were common.
Eventually, these ice houses started selling everyday items like bread, milk, and eggs, evolving into small grocery stores. They even got a new name: “Tote’m Stores,” a playful nod to customers “toting” away their purchases, and some locations even featured Native American totem poles.
But the big name change happened in 1946. To highlight their groundbreaking extended operating hours—from 7 AM to 11 PM, seven days a week—the company officially rebranded as 7-Eleven. This was revolutionary for its time, offering unparalleled convenience!
Of course, today many 7-Eleven stores are open 24 hours a day, 7 days a week. This shift began in 1963, when an Austin, Texas, store stayed open all night after a football game, realizing the demand for round-the-clock service. So, while the name reflects its historic hours, it’s a testament to its commitment to convenience, no matter the time!