Seven & i Holdings, the parent company of 7-Eleven convenience stores, has detailed plans to close 645 stores in the U.S. during its fiscal year 2026, as part of a broader restructuring initiative aimed at optimizing its store portfolio and streamlining operations [1]. According to the company's latest quarterly earnings report, 200 unprofitable stores are slated for closure, with 45 already closed to date [1]. In addition to closures, Seven & i Holdings plans to convert 350 stores to wholesale fuel sites, with 72 conversions completed as of the first quarter, and to transition 390 stores to franchises, with 43 conversions already executed [1].
Despite the significant pullback, the company is also pursuing selective expansion, planning to open 205 new stores this year, 30 of which have opened in the first quarter [1]. Furthermore, Seven & i Holdings intends to remodel 200 stores in the second half of the fiscal year [1]. The net effect of these initiatives will see the total number of 7-Eleven stores in the U.S. decrease from 12,712 as of February to 12,272 by year-end, representing a net reduction of 440 stores [1]. In late 2024, the company reported having 13,145 locations [1].
The restructuring comes amid softer performance in the company's North American business, with declines in customer traffic cited as a contributing factor [1]. Seven & i Holdings has not disclosed which specific locations will be affected by the closures [1].
CONCLUSION
Seven & i Holdings' decision to close hundreds of 7-Eleven stores and restructure its U.S. network signals a significant shift in strategy amid declining customer traffic. The net reduction in store count and focus on conversions and remodels are likely to have a high market impact, reflecting the company's efforts to optimize operations and address performance challenges.