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7-Eleven Convenience Stores Could Soon Be Canadian
Japanese Owner Receives Buyout Offer
Couche-Tard Makes Bid for 7-Eleven
Seven & i Holdings Co., Ltd., the Japanese owner of 7-Eleven convenience stores, has received a buyout offer from Alimentation Couche-Tard Inc. (Couche-Tard), the Canadian owner of Circle K convenience stores.
The offer values 7-Eleven at approximately 297 billion Canadian dollars (23 billion US dollars).
Potential Merger Could Create a Global Convenience Store Giant
If the deal goes through, it would create a global convenience store giant with over 60,000 stores in 26 countries.
Couche-Tard is reportedly interested in 7-Eleven's strong presence in Japan and its potential for growth in other Asian markets.
7-Eleven Has Been Struggling in Japan
Seven & i Holdings has been struggling in recent years to grow its 7-Eleven business in Japan.
The company has been facing increased competition from other convenience store chains and has been impacted by the decline in foot traffic due to the COVID-19 pandemic.
Deal Could Face Regulatory Scrutiny
The deal could face regulatory scrutiny in both Japan and the United States.
Regulators may be concerned about the potential anti-competitive effects of the merger, especially in markets where 7-Eleven and Circle K have a significant presence.
Conclusion
The proposed buyout of 7-Eleven by Couche-Tard is a major development in the convenience store industry.
If the deal goes through, it would create a global convenience store giant with significant market power.
However, the deal faces potential regulatory hurdles and it remains to be seen whether it will be approved.