7-Eleven Planning Major US Store Closures in 2026

Key Details 7-Eleven's North American operator plans to close 645 locations during fiscal year 2026, far exceeding the 205 new store openings expected during the same period. The convenience chain, operated by Japan-based Seven & i Holdings Co., will convert many closed locations into wholesale fuel stores. The company already operates more than 900 wholesale fuel locations across North America as of December 2025. Why It Matters These closures reflect broader challenges facing convenience retailers. Consumer spending has softened, particularly among lower-income households struggling with persistent inflation and rising gas prices. Seven & i reported that the North American economy remained robust overall, but personal consumption began weakening during fiscal 2025. Bigger Picture 7-Eleven operates over 13,000 locations across the US and Canada out of 86,000 stores globally. The company has closed underperforming locations regularly over the years. Seven & i expects overall revenue to decline 9.4% in the current fiscal year to approximately 59.5 billion dollars. The company is pursuing growth through fresh food investments, expanded delivery services, and new leadership under CEO Stephen Hayes Dacus, who took the helm last spring.