The popular convenience store chain 7-Eleven is preparing to shutter hundreds of locations throughout North America in the coming year.
Financial documents released last week reveal that the company’s North American division intends to shut down 645 stores during fiscal 2026 — significantly more than the 205 new locations scheduled to open during the same period.
Seven & i Holdings Co., the Japanese corporation that owns the convenience store brand, explained that these shutdowns “include the conversion to wholesale fuel stores.” Company records indicate that 7-Eleven Inc. has consistently expanded its wholesale fuel operations across North America in recent years, reaching over 900 such locations by December 2025.
The corporation has not yet provided detailed explanations for the store closures or identified which specific locations will be affected. The Associated Press has requested additional information.
The company’s website shows that more than 86,000 7-Eleven outlets operate in 19 nations worldwide. 7-Eleven Inc., the Texas-based division handling North American operations, manages over 13,000 stores throughout the United States and Canada.
The convenience retailer has previously shuttered hundreds of poorly performing outlets, and these new closures come during a period when elevated prices are putting pressure on consumers globally. The ongoing conflict involving the U.S. and Israel against Iran has particularly disrupted energy markets, leading to increased gasoline costs for drivers.
Economic pressures existed even before the current conflict began. Regarding North America specifically, Seven & i noted in its April 9 financial report that “although the economy remained robust, personal consumption also began to soften” during the 2025 fiscal year — “particularly among low-income households, as inflation continued to weigh on spending.”
International expansion for Seven & i’s subsidiaries outside North America will exceed closures — Seven-Eleven Japan plans to shut 350 locations while opening 550 new stores, according to financial documents.
Seven & i anticipates a 9.4% decline in revenue for the current fiscal year, projecting approximately 9.45 trillion yen (roughly $59.5 billion) in total earnings.
The corporation has been exploring new growth strategies and last year announced a comprehensive transformation initiative designed to enhance its convenience store services. Among its objectives, Seven & i stated it would increase investment in fresh food options and expand its “7NOW” delivery platform.
These developments are occurring under new management, as Stephen Hayes Dacus assumed the role of Seven & i’s CEO last spring.
