7-Eleven Inc. said it has added four cuddly, collectible critters to its in-store products as a way to benefit pediatric cancer research and treatment center St. Jude Children’s Research Hospital.
7-Eleven has been one of the original retail partners with the annual St. Jude Children’s Research Hospital Thanks and Giving campaign.
The four collectibles include two plush Labrador puppies and two stuffed bears. All of them are available for purchase at participating 7-Eleven stores through the holidays while supplies last. The bears and pups retail for $8.99 each, $2 from which will be donated to St. Jude.
Since 2004, 7-Eleven stores have raised more than $400,000 for the world-renowned children’s hospital in Memphis, Tenn.
“The St. Jude bears have become a holiday tradition at 7-Eleven, and we expect the new puppies to be just as popular, if not more so, with our customers,” said Terry McGill, nonfoods category manager at 7-Eleven. “These collectible toys are created exclusively for 7-Eleven, and we have a new one each year that you won’t find anywhere else. During the holidays, it’s an ideal way to support such an important children’s charity and give someone a new friend.”
7-Eleven was among the first retailers to offer a plush bear as part of the annual Thanks and Giving campaign, offering a different bear in each of the previous years it has been involved with St. Jude. To the oatmeal- and golden brown-colored bears, 7-Eleven adds yellow and black Lab puppies this year, each with the St. Jude logo embroidered on one paw and a matching green ribbon and bow around its neck.
“The children of St. Jude, their moms and dads, and I are thrilled to welcome back 7-Eleven stores to the St. Jude Children’s Research Hospital Thanks and Giving campaign," said Marlo Thomas, National Outreach Director for St. Jude. "7-Eleven’s dedication to this holiday campaign helps ensure that St. Jude can continue the lifesaving research and care that has brought hope to so many families."