7-Eleven Is Closing 645 Stores — The Five-Year Decline Most Customers Don't See
7-Eleven has plans to close 645 convenience store locations across North America. While that number is sparking headlines, most customers don't know about the bigger picture, which reveals a steady five-year decline that has reshaped the iconic chain.
645 7-Eleven Locations Will Close in North America
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On April 13, 2026, ABC News reported that 7-Eleven's parent company, Seven & i Holdings, plans to significantly reduce its store count by the end of fiscal year 2026. According to the company’s fourth-quarter earnings documents, it will shut down 645 convenience stores across North America. Some of the locations being closed will be converted into wholesale fuel stores that operate as gas suppliers without as much staff as a full convenience store.
The closures are part of 7-Eleven's work to change how it operates by focusing on larger stores with more food options and space to sit and eat. The company also plans to open 205 new wholesale locations in North America during fiscal year 2026. But those aren't counted in the company's official store count, so they don't offset the planned 645 closures. Ultimately, the company believes that closing underperforming stores and shifting to new store formats will improve its bottom line.
7-Eleven's Store Count Has Been Declining for Five Years
ABC News' report on 7-Eleven's fiscal year 2026 plans shows that the intended closures are part of a long-lasting trend for the iconic company. This upcoming round will mark the fifth-straight year that more 7-Eleven locations have been closed than opened. The outlet noted that 373 convenience stores were shut down in fiscal year 2025 and 474 the previous year.
Fortunately for people who want to see the brand continue to thrive, it all appears to be part of parent company Seven & i Holdings' plans to streamline how it operates. ABC News' report noted that 7-Eleven has plans to open 1,300 wholesale locations in North America by 2030. Additionally, it noted that other chains like Wawa and Casey's General Stores have succeeded by embracing a similar strategy.