A Farewell Note

By Joe Rossi, NCASEF Board Member

Serving as the Executive Vice Chairman of the National Coalition of Associations of 7-Eleven Franchisees was never a role I envisioned holding for the long haul. My commitment from the outset was to serve a single term—a fleeting, yet pivotal, two years. In this compact span of time, we’ve journeyed together through many challenges and triumphs, each step forging a stronger, more unified path for our organization and the franchisees it represents.

I stepped into this role with a singular focus: to create a stronger, more collaborative path for our franchisees and the organization. Looking back, I’m proud to say we’ve accomplished much, turning aspirations into tangible realities.

One of the crowning achievements of our tenure has been establishing a robust line of communication with SEI and our valued vendors. Communication—clear, open, and constructive—is the cornerstone of any successful relationship. We’ve broken down barriers and built bridges, ensuring that the voices of our franchisees are not just heard, but listened to and acted upon. This dialogue has been instrumental in driving change and creating a spirit of cooperation.

This newfound communication has also served as a beacon of resolution for various store-related challenges. By giving us a voice in our dealings with vendors and SEI, we’ve seen a transformative shift in how business is conducted. Issues that once seemed insurmountable are now being addressed with a “Team 7-Eleven” mentality, leading to solutions that benefit all parties involved. This open channel of communication is a testament to what can be achieved when we listen, engage, and work together towards common goals.

Our ties with SEI and vendors have blossomed into a partnership based on mutual respect and understanding. These relationships are vital, not just for the here and now, but as a foundation for the future. We’ve paved a road that others can travel on, a road lined with the prospects of growth, innovation, and shared success.

As I pass the baton to the new Executive Vice Chair, Mr. Nick Bhuller, I do so with a sense of fulfillment and hope. The journey doesn’t end here; it merely takes a new turn. I won’t be at the helm, but I’ll be there, among you, as a Board member, as a colleague, and as a friend. The seeds we’ve sown together need nurturing to blossom, and I have no doubt that the NCASEF Board and all our franchisees will continue this good work.

Let’s keep the dialogue flowing, the partnerships thriving, and our collective vision alive. As I step into a new role, I do so with the confidence that NCASEF is in capable hands. Together, we’ve laid a solid foundation. Now, it’s up to all of us to keep building upon it, to reach new heights, and explore new horizons.

I extend my deepest gratitude to each one of you. It’s been an honor and a privilege to serve alongside Chairman Sukhi Sandhu, the officers, and the NCASEF Board. Here’s to continued success, growth, and collaboration.