A wave of closures is sweeping through the U.S. convenience sector. In 2025, major chains are closing hundreds of stores, signaling a dramatic change in how and where people choose to shop.
Industry data shows that retail closures are outpacing new openings by more than two to one, raising questions about the future of neighborhood convenience.
High Stakes
The stakes are rising for workers and communities across North America. As foot traffic declines and consumer habits change, companies are forced to make tough decisions.
According to Forbes, in 2025, retail closures are expected to surpass 15,000 locations nationwide, which is more than double the previous year’s total. This trend is changing the retail landscape and putting thousands of jobs at risk.
Convenience Legacy
This store has long been a fixture in North America, with a history dating back to the 1920s. The chain pioneered the modern convenience store, expanding rapidly across the U.S., Canada, and Mexico.
However, over the decades, it struggled with economic downturns and industry upheavals, becoming synonymous with quick, accessible shopping.
Mounting Pressures
Recent years have brought mounting pressures for the store and its competitors. Inflation, shifting consumer preferences, and declining tobacco sales have squeezed margins.
The rise of online shopping and delivery apps has further eroded traditional foot traffic, forcing retailers to change their strategies and store footprints.
7-Eleven
In a pivotal move, 7-Eleven has announced that it will close 592 stores across North America by the end of 2025. The company now aims to focus on higher-performing locations and adapt to changing market realities.
“We will close underperforming stores in accordance with the Fundamental Store Optimization Program,” said CFO Yoshimichi Maruyama during an earnings call.
Regional Fallout
The closures will impact communities across the U.S., Canada, and Mexico. Many affected stores are in urban and suburban areas where 7-Eleven has been a staple for decades.
Local franchisees and customers are now facing uncertainty as familiar stores disappear, changing daily routines and neighborhood dynamics.
Human Cost
7-Eleven’s reasons for closing U.S. stores are declining foot traffic, fewer cigarette sales, and shifting consumer preferences, according to The Street.
Hundreds of employees are losing their jobs as a direct result of the closures. Layoffs are expected to reach at least 200 workers, with many more indirectly affected. For some, 7-Eleven was a long-term employer and community hub, making the loss deeply personal.
Competitor Moves
7-Eleven’s retrenchment comes as rivals like Walmart and Albertsons also close underperforming locations across the country.
Meanwhile, chains like Aldi are expanding, often acquiring and rebranding closed stores. The competitive landscape is changing quickly, with consolidation and new formats challenging traditional convenience models.
Macro Trends
The broader retail sector is undergoing a transformation. Analysts say that this is because of a long-term trend toward fewer, larger, and more specialized stores.
The convenience sector, which was once defined by ubiquity, is now focusing on efficiency, technology, and differentiated offerings to survive.
New Store Formats
Amid the closures, 7-Eleven is investing in a new generation of “New Standard” stores.
These larger locations feature expanded food options, in-store seating, and electric vehicle charging stations. The company plans to open over 600 of these sites by 2027, signaling a shift toward experience-driven retail.
“We plan to open 125 of these new stores in 2025, and we are ramping up and growing our pipeline with plans to open over 500 of these new stores by 2027,” according to 7-Eleven CEO Joe DePinto.
Franchisee Frustration
Some franchisees have expressed frustration over the closures, citing a lack of transparency and support.
The sudden loss of locations disrupts local businesses and leaves franchise owners scrambling to adapt. Many are calling for clearer communication and assistance from corporate leadership.
Ownership in Flux
Ownership and leadership at 7-Eleven have faced many difficulties. Recent years saw a takeover attempt by Alimentation Couche-Tard and a potential management buyout.
These moves show ongoing debates about the company’s direction and the confidence of major shareholders.
Comeback Strategy
Despite setbacks, 7-Eleven is pushing for a comeback. The company is doubling down on foodservice, technology, and store innovation.
Plans include opening 1,300 new stores in North America by 2030 and preparing for a potential IPO in 2026, aiming to restore growth and relevance.
Expert Skepticism
Meanwhile, industry experts remain cautious. Some question whether 7-Eleven’s new formats can compete with fast-casual chains or if the company can successfully retrain staff for expanded foodservice roles.
Others have warned that the pace of change may not be fast enough to offset losses.
What’s Next?
Looking ahead, the big question is whether 7-Eleven’s transformation will succeed.
Will new store formats and a streamlined footprint attract customers back, or will the closures mark a long-term decline? The answer could reshape the future of convenience retail.
Policy Implications
The wave of closures raises policy questions about urban planning and food access.
In some areas, the loss of convenience stores could create “food deserts,” prompting calls for local governments to support alternative retail options or incentivize new entrants.
International Ripple
7-Eleven’s changes are being closely watched abroad. The company’s Japanese parent, Seven & i Holdings, is using North America as a testing ground for new concepts.
Success or failure here could influence global strategies and expansion plans in other markets.
Legal and Environmental
Store closures often trigger legal disputes over leases and labor contracts.
Environmental advocates also note that closing sites can become blighted properties, raising concerns about urban decay and the need for responsible redevelopment.
Cultural Shifts
The decline of legacy convenience stores reflects broader cultural shifts. Younger consumers increasingly prefer delivery, healthier options, and digital experiences.
The traditional corner store must evolve or risk disappearing forever.
Retail’s New Reality
The 7-Eleven story is a microcosm of retail’s new reality: adapt or contract.
As the sector reinvents itself, the fate of familiar brands will depend on their ability to innovate, connect with communities, and anticipate the next wave of change.