IRVING, Texas --7-Eleven Inc. has announced U.S. Marine Corps veteran Jean Cetoute of Richlands, N.C., as the 2016 winner of a 7-Eleven convenience store in its second Operation: Take Command franchise competition.
As the winner, Cetoute will receive a waiver of the franchise fee, valued at up to $190,000, to franchise any 7-Eleven store available in the continental United States. Cetoute hopes to franchise a c-store near his family in New York state.
Cetoute was one of three finalists who interviewed with 7-Eleven president and CEO Joe DePinto, a U.S. Army veteran himself, at the company’s home office in Irving, Texas. The interview was the culmination of a multi-month contest that included a social media video showdown to select the top three who were flown in, all travel expenses paid, for the interview.
“I want to congratulate Jean, and thank all the veterans who entered. We are grateful for all our military veterans who selflessly give so much for our country,” DePinto said. “Operation: Take Command allows 7-Eleven to recognize and salute them. 7-Eleven is also a winner, as is any company that chooses to work alongside these men and women who have demonstrated the leadership skills, team approach and core values to succeed.”
An immigrant from Haiti, Cetoute served 20 years in the Marines, retiring in 2014 as chief of utilities. As utilities chief, Cetoute oversaw a department of 50 people to provide services for more than 30,000 people. Since retiring from the military, Cetoute has been working as an independent real-estate agent. He has a business degree from the University of Maryland.
“Winning a 7-Eleven franchise is a tremendous opportunity for my family,” Cetoute said. “I get to have a second career and be a part of an internationally known brand. I spent 20 years in the military, and now, with 7-Eleven, I can become a contributing member of a civilian community.”
“Jean represents the best of the best,” said Larry Hughes, 7-Eleven vice president of franchise systems, a West Point graduate and U.S. Army veteran. “Based on his drive, enthusiasm and initiative throughout this competition, I have no doubt that Jean will be an excellent 7-Eleven franchisee.”
Some applicants have chosen to continue through the franchising process. Five of the top 10 finalists in last year’s contest are now 7-Eleven franchisees.
Through its military veterans franchise program, 7-Eleven offers up to a 20% discount on the franchise fee for first-time qualified veterans on their first 7-Eleven store. This discount can be as much as $50,000. The company has waived approximately $2 million in franchise fees for veterans. It also provides the land, building, equipment and a turnkey operation for its franchisees.
Response to this year’s Operation: Take Command surpassed last year with 11,000 entries, an 83% increase, the company said.
7-Eleven has been recognized by veterans’ organizations and publications for its military-friendly business opportunities, hiring practices and philanthropic support for military families.
Based in Irving, Texas, 7‑Eleven operates, franchises and licenses more than 10,700 7-Eleven convenience stores in North America. Globally, approximately 59,500 7-Eleven c-stores serve customers in 17 countries.
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