First Look: Newest 7-Eleven ‘evolution’ store features drive-up restaurant
Customers at a new 7-Eleven can get Slurpees and tacos without having to leave their cars.
The convenience store giant has opened the sixth location of its “evolution” store format, at Park Lane and Abrams Road in Dallas. The location also features the first-ever Laredo Taco Company drive-thru restaurant, with indoor seating as well. (7-Eleven acquired Laredo Taco Company restaurants in 2018.) It is the first time 7-Eleven has operated a corporate-owned drive-thru restaurant at one of its stores.
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At the drive-thru, customers can select from various Laredo offerings and also order a Slurpee — a first for the iconic 7-Eleven beverage — or choose from over 30 other beverages.
The evolution format is designed as a testing ground where the chain can test new concepts, products and services tailored to the individual market. So far this year, 7-Eleven announced plans to open evolution stores in North Texas and Manassas, Virginia, with more planned later in the year. The retailer continues to tweak the design and product mix of the format based on customer feedback and shopping habits.
In addition to the Laredo Taco Company, the new Dallas store offers an assortment of exclusive products and services, including mobile checkout and delivery. The most popular features include self-serve specialty coffee and espresso drinks, on-tap novelty beverages, cookies and croissants baked fresh in-store, national brand skincare and cosmetics items, and The Wine Cellar and Beer Cave. The exterior includes larger-than-life murals painted by local muralist Tex Moton.
While opening the first Laredo Taco Company drive-thru restaurant with a 7-Eleven store would be exciting any time, we think customers looking for socially distanced ways to grab breakfast, lunch and dinner will really appreciate it now," said Chris Tanco, 7–Eleven executive VP and COO.