7-Eleven Franchisees: New ID System is Making Life Easier

SACRAMENTO, Calif. -- New technology often means new glitches, but it's been smooth sailing for 7-Eleven's new age verification system since it rolled out on Monday, reports the Sacramento Bee. Store operators have reported that the new verification method, which scans a 2-D code on the back of a driver's license or ID card to verify birth date and card validity, has functioned well from the start.

"On the first day, we were amazed at how much easier it is for employees to just simply scan [identification cards] on our register screen, and it reads 'OK,' meaning you could sell (merchandise) to the person," said Jay Brar, president of the Sacramento Valley 7-Eleven Franchise Owners Association. Brar added that new system is "a huge relief" and is more convenient than the previous manual method.

Brar also noted that the system provides extra protection to store operations. "Our livelihood depends on it," he said. "We have to be very careful with identification. We have to see it. Otherwise, we are looking at penalties for selling [to minors]."

The technology does not store personal identification about customers, according to 7-Eleven. If the California launch continues to go well, the company plans to implement the system nationwide starting in mid-May.

"I haven't heard of any problems yet, but the real hope for me is to see where we are in two weeks," Keith Jones, senior director of regulatory affairs for 7-Eleven, told the Bee. "If we're still OK, then we can go ahead and roll it out nationwide."

The c-store chain partnered with the California Office of Traffic Safety on the new program. 7-Eleven will also participate in the agency's anti-drunk driving "RUOK?" campaign, which seeks to educate Californians about the hazards of driving under the influence.