An independent store is a small, independently-owned store. The neighbourhood "Mom and Pop" convenience store fits this category.

A chain store is part of a larger organization (e.g., 7-11). The ownership of more than one chain of retail stores by a single organization is referred to as portfolio retailing. For example, PepsiCo owns KFCยฎ and Taco Bellยฎ.

A franchise is owned and operated by an individual, but the name is owned by a large corporation (e.g., McDonald'sยฎ). Both the storeowner and the organization are subject to specific terms outlined in a franchise contract.