7-Eleven plans to close 444 U.S. stores due to declining sales, particularly in cigarettes.

7-Eleven plans to close 444 U.S. locations due to declining sales, particularly in cigarette sales linked to reduced smoking rates and increased vaping. This closure represents only about 3.4% of its 13,000 North American stores. The decision follows a challenging retail landscape, with other chains like CVS and Walgreens also reducing their number of locations. The specific stores affected and the status of displaced employees remain undisclosed.