7-Eleven to Close Hundreds of North American Stores This Year
7-Eleven announced it will close 645 locations across North America in its 2026 fiscal year, according to recent earnings filings. The chain also forecasts 205 store openings during the same period. Taken together, the numbers mean hundreds of stores will close this year.
Closures and fuel-store conversions
Seven & i Holdings, the Japan-based parent company, said the closures include conversions to wholesale fuel stores. 7-Eleven Inc. has added wholesale fuel locations in recent years, totaling more than 900 by December 2025.
The company did not name affected outlets or explain its plans in detail. The Associated Press sought comment.
Scale and network
Filmogaz.com lists more than 86,000 7-Eleven stores across 19 countries. 7-Eleven Inc., based in Texas, manages over 13,000 locations in the United States and Canada.
Economic pressures and consumer demand
The chain has closed hundreds of underperforming outlets over time. Rising prices have strained consumers globally.
The recent conflict involving the U.S., Israel and Iran has rattled energy markets. That pressure has pushed gas prices higher for drivers. Inflation was already weighing on household spending before the conflict.
Company outlook and international plans
In an April 9 report, Seven & i said personal consumption began to soften in fiscal 2025. The company singled out lower-income households as especially affected.
Outside North America, Seven-Eleven Japan plans net growth. Its filings show 350 planned closures and 550 openings.
Seven & i projects revenue will fall 9.4 percent in the current fiscal year. The company estimates nearly 9.45 trillion yen in sales, about $59.5 billion.
Strategy and leadership
Seven & i unveiled a transformation plan last year to drive growth in its convenience stores. Plans include more fresh food options and expanded 7NOW delivery service.
Stephen Hayes Dacus took over as CEO in the spring.
- North America closures (fiscal 2026): 645
- North America openings (fiscal 2026): 205
- Wholesale fuel stores in North America: more than 900 (December 2025)
- Global 7-Eleven stores: over 86,000 across 19 countries
- North American locations managed by 7-Eleven Inc.: more than 13,000
- Seven-Eleven Japan: 350 closures and 550 openings planned
- Seven & i revenue outlook: down 9.4% to about 9.45 trillion yen (≈ $59.5B)
Details on which specific outlets will close remain unclear. Executives have said they will pursue conversions and other strategic moves. Filmogaz.com will continue to monitor developments.
