7-Eleven, operated in North America by 7-Eleven Inc. and owned by Japan-based Seven & i Holdings Co, announced plans to close 645 stores in North America during the 2026 fiscal year, according to recent earnings filings. This number of closures will significantly outpace the 205 new locations the company expects to open in the same period [1]. The closures include some stores being converted to wholesale fuel outlets, a segment that has grown to over 900 locations as of December 2025 [1].
The company did not provide specific reasons for the closures or details on which locations will be affected. However, Seven & i Holdings has a history of closing underperforming stores, and the latest round of cuts comes as consumers face higher prices and inflation, particularly impacting low-income households in North America. Seven & i's April 9 report noted that while the economy remained robust, personal consumption began to soften in the 2025 fiscal year due to ongoing inflationary pressures [1].
Globally, 7-Eleven operates over 86,000 stores across 19 countries, with more than 13,000 locations in the U.S. and Canada. Outside North America, Seven & i subsidiaries are expected to see net growth, with Seven-Eleven Japan planning to close 350 stores but open 550 new ones [1].
Seven & i projects a 9.4% decline in revenue for the current fiscal year, estimating total revenue at nearly 9.45 trillion yen (about $59.5 billion) [1]. The company is pursuing a transformation plan to boost growth, including investments in fresh food offerings and the expansion of its '7NOW' delivery service. These strategic changes are taking place under the leadership of Stephen Hayes Dacus, who became CEO last spring [1].
CONCLUSION
7-Eleven's decision to close hundreds of North American stores signals significant challenges from inflation and shifting consumer spending. The company's focus on new growth strategies and leadership changes highlights its efforts to adapt to a changing market environment. The closures are expected to have a high market impact given the scale and the company's prominent position in the convenience sector.