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Here's a timely article talking about the difference between 7-Eleven stores in North America versus Japan, and why the Canadian company, Alimentation Couche-Tard, wants to buy the Japanese company for $47 billion.

Here's a timely article talking about the difference between 7-Eleven stores in North America versus Japan, and why the Canadian company, Alimentation Couche-Tard, wants to buy the Japanese company for $47 billion.

https://brandondonnelly.com/CEWHSTIkqPzodfwGCaZh

Great post. I have a lot of thoughts about this.

I believe that in the US, reducing/eliminating suburban presence and focusing on cities to reform 7-Eleven’s offering and image is a strong start. Suburbia introduces so many supply chain complexities and costs that simply go away or are significantly reduced in cities.

We also have to change the perception of convenience stores in the US. They’re seen as last resorts, not as destinations. As a result quality is low and emphasis is on accessibility.

7-Elevens in the US don’t invite warmth. Quite the opposite. They tend to be unfriendly and dirty and invite loitering which is perceived as unsavory. Not a problem in Japan and not sure how to solve in the US.