7-Eleven, the popular convenience store chain, is set to shut down hundreds of its locations this year as part of its operational strategy. The North American operator of 7-Eleven plans to close 645 stores in the upcoming fiscal year, outweighing the 205 new locations it intends to open during the same period.
The company’s parent company, Seven & i Holdings based in Japan, indicated that the closures would involve transitioning some stores into wholesale fuel outlets. Financial reports reveal that 7-Eleven has been consistently expanding its network of wholesale fuel stores in North America, with over 900 locations established by December 2025.
Although specific details or reasons for the closures were not immediately provided, 7-Eleven Inc. manages more than 13,000 stores in the U.S. and Canada, as stated on the company’s website. The decision to close underperforming stores aligns with the company’s past strategies, reflecting the current economic challenges faced by consumers globally, particularly due to escalating energy prices following geopolitical tensions.
The company’s financial outlook for the current fiscal year anticipates a 9.4% decline in revenue, amounting to nearly 9.45 trillion yen (approximately $81.95 billion Cdn). Seven & i is focusing on enhancing its convenience store offerings by investing in fresh food options and expanding its delivery service, “7NOW,” as part of its broader transformation plan outlined last year.
The closure of stores is not limited to North America, as Seven & i subsidiaries worldwide are experiencing a shift in their store portfolios. For instance, Seven-Eleven Japan plans to close 350 stores while opening 550 new locations, according to financial disclosures.
The leadership at Seven & i has also undergone changes, with Stephen Hayes Dacus assuming the role of CEO in the recent past. This leadership transition aligns with the company’s strategic objectives for growth and development in the evolving retail landscape.
