7-Eleven and franchisees authorised to continue to co-operate to adapt to COVID-19 pandemic

The ACCC has granted re-authorisation to 7-Eleven to continue to enter into agreements with its franchisees about temporary closures and/or reduced trading hours.

7-Eleven sought authorisation because it owns and operates stores in competition with its franchisees in some areas, and therefore discussions and agreements between them risk breaching the competition laws.

The re-authorisation will continue to have conditions that 7-Eleven notify the ACCC of the franchisees it proposes to approach for a temporary store closure or a reduction in hours, and the stores affected.

The ACCC has decided to grant re‑authorisation until 30 June 2022. The ACCC had proposed to grant re-authorisation for a shorter period when it released its draft decision. Given the ongoing uncertainty around the impact of the COVID-19 pandemic, the ACCC considers a longer authorisation period than that contemplated in the draft decision is appropriate.

Further information about the ACCC's decision is available on the ACCC public register at: 7-Eleven Stores Pty Limited

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