Why 7‑Eleven is closing hundreds of stores across the United States

7-Eleven is moving forward with its plan to reduce its North American footprint by 645 locations during the current fiscal year, including the closure of 200 underperforming stores.

The convenience store giant continues to implement its strategy to streamline operations across North America. In April, industry publication C-Store Dive reported that, according to Seven & I Holdings’ fourth-quarter earnings report, the company plans to close 645 stores during fiscal year 2026, which runs from March 1, 2026, through February 28, 2027.

Why is 7-Eleven closing hundreds of stores?

In its first-quarter business update, the company said that 200 of the 645 locations will close because of poor performance. Another 350 stores will be converted into wholesale distribution locations.

According to C-Store Dive, the remaining 95 stores will close for reasons unrelated to performance, including franchise terminations and other contractual matters.

At the same time, 7-Eleven is sticking to its plan to open 205 new stores during fiscal year 2026. The company opened 30 locations during the first quarter. Last April, it also announced plans to remodel more than 7,000 stores by 2030.

7-Eleven is becoming more selective

C-Store Dive reported last year that, as the company’s planned initial public offering now targets 2027, 7-Eleven is expected to become even more selective about which stores it keeps in operation.

That strategy has been underway for several years, with the chain consistently closing more stores than it opens. During fiscal year 2025, the company closed 373 locations and opened 122. In fiscal year 2024, it closed 474 stores and opened 315. The previous fiscal year, it closed 227 locations while opening 182. In fiscal year 2022, the company closed 234 stores and opened 188.

The industry publication also noted that the chain is placing a strong emphasis on adding larger-format stores, which are more likely to include gas pumps or quick-service restaurants. In addition, the company aims to bring its successful food service program from Japan to North America.

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