7-Eleven to Close Hundreds of North American Stores Amid Strategic Shift
Convenience store giant 7-Eleven plans to close 645 locations in North America during the 2026 fiscal year, significantly outpacing the 205 new stores it intends to open. According to earnings filings from its Japan-based parent company, Seven & i Holdings, these closures include conversions to wholesale fuel stores, a segment that has grown to over 900 locations. The decision comes as the company faces economic headwinds, including stubborn inflation and soaring energy prices exacerbated by the ongoing conflict between the U.S., Israel, and Iran. These factors have softened personal consumption, particularly among low-income households. While North American operations contract, Seven & i expects net growth in other regions, such as Japan. The company projects a 9.4% revenue decline for the current fiscal year. Under new CEO Stephen Hayes Dacus, Seven & i is pursuing a transformation strategy focused on enhancing fresh food offerings and expanding its 7NOW delivery service to drive future growth despite the challenging retail environment.
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7-Eleven to Close Hundreds of North American Stores Amid Strategic Shift
Convenience store giant 7-Eleven plans to close 645 locations in North America during the 2026 fiscal year, significantly outpacing the 205 new stores it intends to open. According to earnings filings from its Japan-based parent company, Seven & i Holdings, these closures include conversions to wholesale fuel stores, a segment that has grown to over 900 locations. The decision comes as the company faces economic headwinds, including stubborn inflation and soaring energy prices exacerbated by the ongoing conflict between the U.S., Israel, and Iran. These factors have softened personal consumption, particularly among low-income households. While North American operations contract, Seven & i expects net growth in other regions, such as Japan. The company projects a 9.4% revenue decline for the current fiscal year. Under new CEO Stephen Hayes Dacus, Seven & i is pursuing a transformation strategy focused on enhancing fresh food offerings and expanding its 7NOW delivery service to drive future growth despite the challenging retail environment.
AP News