Major Convenience Store Chain Shutters 645 Locations in Revamp Strategy

7-Eleven will close 645 U.S. locations during its 2026 fiscal year, which ends February 28, 2027. Company president Stan Reynolds announced the move on the chain’s recent fourth-quarter earnings call.

Scope and timeline

The Japan-based owner, Seven & i Holdings, will also shutter more than 400 sites across Japan, Australia, and China. Filmogaz.com reported no full list of affected addresses has been released.

The changes follow more than 600 closures in 2024 and 2025. The chain still operates more than 12,000 stores across North America.

Why stores are closing

Executives say smaller format outlets are most at risk. The company is prioritizing larger, food-focused locations instead.

As part of this revamp, the Major Convenience Store Chain Shutters 645 Locations in a move to reposition its portfolio. The Revamp Strategy emphasizes bigger stores and higher-value offerings.

New and remodeled locations

7-Eleven plans to open or renovate more than 500 stores between 2025 and 2027. The company calls the concept “food-forward” and says these sites perform better.

Those food-forward stores produce about 18% higher average sales per store day than the system average, according to company remarks.

Menu and format changes

Redesigned outlets will expand prepared foods, beverages, and international-inspired menu items. Examples mentioned include milk bread, egg sandwiches, and miso ramen.

Some existing sites may convert to wholesale fuel stores under a portfolio-optimization plan. Broader product assortments will be part of the new store standard.

Competitive and financial context

7-Eleven aims to better compete with rivals like Wawa, Sheetz, and Buc-ee’s. The strategy focuses on larger food destinations and higher transaction values.

Parent company Seven & i Holdings is pursuing a separate U.S. listing. An initial public offering has been delayed until next year at the earliest.

Rising fuel costs linked to geopolitical tensions have increased pressure to cut costs. Executives say more efficiency may be needed to attract investors.

Local footprint and brand

The chain remains a major national player and is approaching its 100th anniversary. It is still widely known for Slurpees, Big Bite hot dogs, and quick snacks.

In some local markets, such as Syracuse, the company operates more than a dozen sites, including Speedway-branded gas stations.