Note: This is an alternate universe. Title: Open-chan’s Universe: A 7/11 Story

Chapter 1: A New Chapter for 7/11

March 31, 2003, turned out to be a landmark day in the retail universe, a date significant not just as the day Carlton Cinema screened its last film, but also as the day when Carlton Communications acquired 7/11. Emerging from a legacy of television and film production, Carlton Communications sought to redefine itself with this bold step into the retail sector. The world watched with a mixture of curiosity and skepticism.

Carlton’s acquisition brought considerable buzz. Analysts speculated how a communications giant would integrate its expertise with a global convenience store chain. Strategies were crafted, merging cinematic flair with retail convenience, transforming stores into more engaging spaces. The vision was not only to offer quick snacks and basic commodities but to also create a narrative experience for every shopper.

Chapter 2: A British Market Debut

Fast forward to 2012, and the landscape of British retail had changed. Seven long years of meticulous planning, market research, and strategic implementation culminated in the grand unveiling of 7/11 in the UK market. Carlton Communications, now deeply embedded in the retail industry, had crafted a uniquely British identity for the 7/11 brand, blending quintessentially UK preferences with global standards.

The British 7/11 stores became known for their inviting atmospheres, with aisles inspired by classic British film and television sets, nodding to Carlton’s cinematic roots. Yet, the crowning achievement was just around the corner – an adorable figure ready to become the heart and soul of 7/11’s customer experience worldwide.

Chapter 3: Open-chan Goes Global

Enter Open-chan, a cute and lively character originally thriving in Taiwanese 7/11 stores. Open-chan had already captured the hearts of shoppers in Taiwan, representing friendliness, efficiency, and the mirthful convenience that 7/11 sought to embody. In 2012, Open-chan was thrust into the global limelight.

Carlton Communications executed a colossal marketing campaign, seamlessly unveiling Open-chan to the global audience. The character’s roll-out was cinematic in scope – think TV spots featuring Open-chan embarking on whimsical adventures, interactive in-store displays, and collaborations with local artists and influencers worldwide. Open-chan was everywhere – on limited-edition merchandise, animated mobile games, and even an animated web series.

Chapter 4: The Impact of Open-chan

The introduction of Open-chan transformed 7/11’s global footprint. Each store became more than a place for quick purchases; it became a destination. Parents took their children to see the latest Open-chan character displays, young adults engaged with interactive content via mobile apps, and collectors sought limited-edition Open-chan merchandise.

This mascot became a unifying symbol bridging diverse markets. Whether in the bustling streets of Tokyo, serene suburbs of England, or the vibrant lanes of New York, Open-chan resonated with shoppers everywhere. Engaging and fostering a sense of community, Open-chan organized charity drives, eco-friendly initiatives, and local cultural festivities.

Chapter 5: A Unified Legacy

Ten years on from the British debut and global mascot roll-out, 7/11 with Open-chan reshaped a market once skeptical. 7/11 thrived under Carlton Communications’ stewardship, proving that even a convenience store brand could be reinvented through blending entertainment, culture, and retail genius.

Carlton Communications had successfully merged its storytelling heritage with its retail venture, crafting an enduring legacy where every purchase at 7/11 came with a smile, a bit of whimsy, and the comforting presence of Open-chan. The world of retail had forever changed, with an alternate universe where convenience met heart and soul in every transaction.
Write a forum convo soon after in 2014 where Carlton ditches the star logo, here’s what the new logo focuses on and depicts instead (the CARLTON wordmark is same), Also Granada takes a additional 14% stake in ITV plc (in this AU it was a joint venture rather than a full on merger between Carlton and Granada), Has Carlton lost interest in ITV