Smyrna 7-Eleven store celebrates half-century in business.
When the first 7-Eleven store in New Smyrna Beach (NSB) opened June 1, 1964, bananas were nine cents a pound, ice cream was 69 cents a half-gallon, and the grand-opening specials included a six-pack of bottled beer for 89 cents.
Franchisee Michelle Simpson invited NSB residents and tourists to party like its 1964 from 10 a.m. to 2 p.m. on Saturday, June 7, as the store marked its 50th year in business on North Atlantic Avenue near Flagler Avenue. Coincidentally, 7-Eleven, Inc. is observing its 50th year of franchising in the U.S.
During the four-hour party, two quarters (50 cents) bought any of the following: coffee, Slurpee or Big Gulp drinks, Big Bite hot dogs or chicken wings. A 7-foot, 11-inch sandwich was served to guests during the event. Colorful balloons and temporary tattoos also were given away to youngsters attending. Local dignitaries were invited to attend.
Simpson, who has worked in retail more than 30 years, was a 7-Eleven store manager and trained other store managers for seven years before acquiring the Atlantic Avenue location in 2012. She said she loves operating a business so close to the beach.
“Depending on the time of year, my customers might be residents shopping for groceries or a hot pizza for dinner, tourists stocking up their condo or time-share, or barefoot surfers in bathing suits needing Slurpees and sunscreen,” she said. “My husband even remembers coming to this store when he was in high school.”
Husband Jim Simpson works as a field consultant for 7-Eleven. An alumni of New Smyrna Beach High School, he has lived in the area his entire life.
“The only time I didn’t live here was when I was in the Navy, but we moved back as soon as I got out,” he said. “I attended the old high school, which wasn’t far at all from the store, and there were lots of trips to 7-Eleven after school and on the way to the beach. Now, new generations of students and surfers are here to grab what they need, whether it’s an after-school treat or beach towels and beverages.”