Behind the Numbers: an EMARKETER Podcast artwork

From Japan’s Konbini Culture to America’s Convenience Crisis: 7-Eleven’s Next Move | Reimagining Retail

Behind the Numbers: an EMARKETER Podcast · with Blake Droesch, Sarah Marzano · November 12, 2025 · 18 min

Summary

7-Eleven is expanding stores despite declining foot traffic, requiring a strategic pivot. This episode explores how the convenience giant can innovate, drawing inspiration from Japan's 'konbini' culture, to redefine its growth engine and adapt to evolving consumer behaviors and retail trends. It’s a blueprint for brick-and-mortar retailers facing similar challenges.

Key takeaways

Themes

retail & omnichannelsupply chain & operationsbrand & contentai & automation

Topics covered

convenience store strategykonbini cultureretail innovationomnichannel retailconsumer behavior shiftsurban retail strategiesfoodservice in conveniencedata driven retail

Episode description

On today’s podcast episode, we discuss why 7-Eleven is opening more stores even as foot traffic falls, explore its next engine of growth, and consider some bold moves that could help future-proof the convenience store giant. Listen to the discussion with Vice President of Content and host Suzy Davidkhanian, Senior Analyst Blake Droesch, and Principal Analyst Sarah Marzano. To learn more about our research and get access to PRO+, go to EMARKETER.com Follow us on Instagram at: https://www.instagram.com/emarketer/ For sponsorship opportunities contact us: advertising@emarketer.com For more information visit: https://www.emarketer.com/advertise/ Have questions or just want to say hi? Drop us a line at podcast@emarketer.com For a transcript of this episode click here: https://www.emarketer.com/content/podcast-japan-s-konbini-culture-america-s-convenience-crisis-7-eleven-s-next-move-reimagining-retail © 2025 EMARKETER Nielsen is a global leader in audience measurement, data and analytics. Through our understanding of people and their behaviors across all channels and platforms, we empower our clients with independent and actionable intelligence so they can connect and engage with their global audiences—now and into the future. Learn more at www.nielsen.com

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Frequently asked about this episode

What does this episode say about retail & omnichannel?
7-Eleven’s strategy of opening more stores despite declining foot traffic indicates a focus on increasing market penetration and accessibility, potentially targeting new demographics or underserved urban/suburban areas.
What does this episode say about supply chain & operations?
The Japanese 'konbini' model offers valuable lessons in retail innovation, customer service, and diverse product/service offerings that 7-Eleven can adapt to create a more compelling and relevant in-store experience.
What does this episode say about brand & content?
Future growth for convenience stores like 7-Eleven lies in diversifying beyond traditional offerings to include enhanced foodservice, expanded digital integration for order and delivery, and personalized customer experiences.
What does this episode say about ai & automation?
To future-proof, 7-Eleven must embrace data analytics to understand shifting consumer behaviors and rapidly iterate on store formats, product assortments, and service models to remain competitive.
What does this episode say about retail & omnichannel?
The convergence of online and offline experiences, alongside efficient supply chain optimization, will be crucial for 7-Eleven to meet evolving consumer expectations for convenience and speed.

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