7-Eleven, the popular convenience store chain, is set to shutter a significant number of its locations this year. Recent financial reports reveal that the North American operator of 7-Eleven plans to close 645 stores in the 2026 fiscal year, surpassing the 205 new locations it aims to open during the same period.
Seven & i Holdings, the Japanese parent company of 7-Eleven, mentioned that these closures will involve the conversion of some stores to wholesale fuel outlets. Financial data indicates that 7-Eleven has been steadily expanding its network of wholesale fuel stores in North America, with over 900 such locations by December 2025.
Although the company has not provided specific details on the closures or the affected locations, it has a global presence with more than 86,000 stores in 19 countries. In North America, 7-Eleven Inc., based in Texas, oversees a network of over 13,000 stores in the United States and Canada.
The decision to close stores comes amid challenging economic conditions, including rising prices impacting consumers worldwide. Factors such as the conflict between the U.S. and Iran have led to increased energy costs, contributing to soaring gas prices for consumers.
Inflation has been a persistent issue even before the recent economic challenges. Seven & i highlighted in its latest report that personal consumption in North America softened in the 2025 fiscal year, particularly among low-income households, due to ongoing inflationary pressures.
While closures are planned for some regions, Seven & i’s subsidiaries outside of North America are expected to see a net increase in store count. For instance, Seven-Eleven Japan anticipates closing 350 stores but opening 550 new locations, according to financial filings.
The company projects a 9.4% decline in revenue for the current fiscal year, amounting to an estimated nearly 9.45 trillion yen (about $81.95 billion Cdn). In response to these challenges, Seven & i has been pursuing growth opportunities, including enhancing its convenience store offerings by investing in fresh food options and expanding its “7NOW” delivery service.
These strategic changes coincide with new leadership at Seven & i, with Stephen Hayes Dacus assuming the role of CEO in the spring of last year.