Top Convenience Store Franchise Opportunities of 2022

Is there anything better than grabbing a Slurpee and Slim Jim 10 hours into a road trip? Convenience stores are a true staple of American life, and the petroleum and convenience store franchise segment is an evolving industry with high customer demand. There are nearly 150,000 convenience stores in the U.S., and a hefty majority of them are franchised. The most successful convenience store franchises offer both a high level of support and a proven operational model, as well as access to a strong brand awareness and customer loyalty.

Here are five of the top convenience store franchises that we love in 2022.

7-Eleven

• Units: 61,086
• Initial investment: $37,550 to over $1,000,000

7-Eleven is an international chain of over 66,000 convenience stores operating in 17 countries worldwide. As a franchise opportunity, 7-Eleven is distinct in that it allows franchisees to tailor their businesses to the individuality of their market and customer needs. The franchisor offers assistance on several aspects of the business, including obtaining and bearing the ongoing cost of the land, building and store equipment, record-keeping, bill-paying and payroll services for store operations fees and financing for all normal store operating expenses. The company also expanded into the QSR space last year as an attempt to create a more unique experience and better value for customers.

Circle K

• Units: 1,886
• Initial investment: $185,000 to $1,600,000

Circle K is one of the most widely recognized convenience store brands in the world, with a long history of international franchising and a presence in a whopping 26 countries. Circle K offers business operators and entrepreneurs the opportunity to work with a franchisor who not only helps grow new ventures, but provides the flexibility to tailor individual stores to the customers they serve. Whether establishing new locations or converting existing properties, Circle K offers benefits to every kind of franchisee.

AMPM

• Units: 956
• Initial investment: $430,698 to $10,073,895

AMPM is another leading convenience store franchise in the U.S. and is well-established as part of the West Coast's culture. The franchise offers powerful, distinctive branding, strong customer loyalty and one of the highest visibilities in the convenience store franchise industry. The AMPM corporate team provides entrepreneurs with comprehensive support, streamlined operations and an award-winning marketing platform. 

RaceTrac

• Units: 500
• Initial investment: $1,000,000 to $1,400,000

RaceTrac is known for its convenient locations, quality food and wide product selection. Today, as a pioneer and leader in the retail convenience industry, RaceTrac is capitalizing on its existing store locations and expertise in fuel and merchandise retailing to recruit and support qualified entrepreneurs. RaceTrac franchisees should expect for a hands-on business opportunity in which they are actively involved in the day-to-day operations. 

Farm Stores

• Units: 422
• Initial investment: $245,800 to $540,000

Farm Stores is America’s largest and original drive-thru grocery store. From coffee and breakfast sandwiches to fresh pastries and gallons of milk, Farm Stores offers a place for customers to get all of their essentials. The corporate Farm Stores team prides itself on providing all of the education, tools, training, support and marketing that franchisees need to be successful in their business.