Inflation and War-Related Energy Costs

7‑Eleven said it will close 645 stores across the United States in fiscal 2026, a large-scale reduction the company frames as a move to shutter underperforming locations while reallocating investment toward bigger, higher‑performing and fuel‑focused outlets. The announcement, made as the convenience retailer updates its footprint for the coming year, comes amid a broader company strategy to emphasize larger, food‑forward formats that prioritize fresh food, drinks and prepared meals over small neighborhood stores with weak sales.