7-Eleven to Shutter Hundreds of Stores Across US and Canada

Convenience store chain plans more closures than openings in 2026 amid market shifts.

Apr. 15, 2026 at 6:13pm

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A photorealistic studio still-life photograph featuring a single, polished metal key resting on a clean, monochromatic background, symbolizing the closure of a 7-Eleven store.The closure of hundreds of 7-Eleven stores across North America reflects the evolving retail landscape and consumer shopping behaviors.Panama City Today

The 7-Eleven convenience store chain is expected to close hundreds of locations across the United States and Canada this year, outpacing the 205 new stores it plans to open in the region. The latest projections mark a significant shift for the company as it navigates changing consumer habits and market conditions.

Why it matters

The planned closures highlight the challenges facing traditional brick-and-mortar retail, especially in the convenience store sector, as consumer shopping behaviors evolve. The 7-Eleven brand has long been a ubiquitous presence, so these closures could impact local communities and reshape the competitive landscape.

The details

7-Eleven, one of the largest convenience store chains globally, has not provided an exact number for the planned store closures. However, the company has confirmed that the number of locations it expects to shutter this year will exceed the 205 new stores it intends to open across the U.S. and Canada. The closures are part of the company's ongoing efforts to optimize its portfolio and adapt to shifting market dynamics.

  • 7-Eleven plans to open 205 new stores in the U.S. and Canada in 2026.
  • The number of 7-Eleven store closures in 2026 is expected to exceed the 205 new openings.

The players

7-Eleven

A major convenience store chain with locations across the United States and Canada.

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The takeaway

The planned 7-Eleven store closures reflect the broader challenges facing traditional brick-and-mortar retail, as consumer shopping habits continue to evolve. This shift could have significant implications for local communities and the competitive landscape in the convenience store sector.