7-Eleven is the largest convenience store franchise in the world. With over 46,000 stores, it surpassed McDonald's in 2007. Operating in 16 countries, 7-Eleven stores are most prevalent in the United States, Japan, Hong Kong and Canada. Originating in Dallas, Texas in 1927 by an employee of the Southland Ice Company named John Jefferson Green, the original stores sold very basic items, namely milk, eggs and bread. The store eliminated the need for customers to travel long distances to buy these kitchen staples. In 1946, the chain's name was changed to 7-Eleven, which reflected its hours of operation of 7a.m. to 11 p.m. In 1962, some stores began experimenting with a 24-hour schedule, which persists today.