7-Eleven began franchising in China in the 1990s and expanded to Shanghai in 2009 when Taiwan-based President Chain Store took over management rights. As the late entrant in Shanghai, 7-Eleven differentiated its offering with quick meal counters, prepared foods, and a city cafe. Franchising allows 7-Eleven to expand its brand nationally while reducing competitors, and gives franchisees a proven business model, training, and support but with less freedom and shared profits.