7-Eleven To Close Over 600 Stores In 2026 — Here’s Why
on Apr 14, 2026
7-Eleven To Close Hundreds Of Stores In The United States
7-Eleven is undergoing a major restructuring across the United States that will see the closing of hundreds of stores. The convenience store chain intends to expand and upgrade its remaining locations, focusing on food service.
7-Eleven is one of the world’s largest convenience store chains. The stores typically offer everyday essentials including snacks, beverages, packaged foods, and basic household items.
Founded in the United States, 7-Eleven has grown into a global brand with a particularly large presence in North America and Asia. The brand currently has more than 86,000 locations across 19 countries. Many locations are open 24 hours a day.
7-Eleven To Implement Major Changes
The company said it plans to shut down about 645 locations during fiscal year 2026, as part of an effort to phase out underperforming stores and replace them with larger, higher-volume sites. These locations will close between March 1, 2026 and February 28, 2027.
In its most recent fiscal Q4, Seven & i, 7-Eleven’s Japanese parent company, reported a decline in operating profit of about 15% year over year, falling to roughly $726 million.
“These food-forward stores are resonating with our customers and driving [average sales per store day] about 18% higher than our system average,” 7-Eleven President Stan Reynolds said.
Some 7-Eleven locations are “hybrid” stores, meaning they include both a convenience store and a gas station. Some convenience stores will reportedly close while the fuel pumps continue operating.
7-Eleven To Revamp Its Current Strategy
The strategy centers on a shift toward a “food-forward” convenience model, with new and remodeled stores emphasizing fresh prepared meals, hot food, and expanded beverage options. The store aims to move beyond the traditional grab-and-go format.
The change comes as competition intensifies from chains that have successfully built reputations around convenience-store dining (including Wawa, Sheetz, and Buc-ee’s).
Despite the closures, 7-Eleven said it will continue opening new stores to fit this new model.
