American 7-Elevens are getting a Japanese makeover. Seven & I Holdings CEO Ryuichi Isaka is driving efforts to expand the company’s U.S. presence by taking after Japan’s successful convenience store model. Japan’s 7-Elevens are known for their fresh food offerings and affordability, but mainly do well because of their overall product range. To replicate this success, Isaka wants to re-work American convenience stores with the ability to offer fresh food daily, as well as seasonal and regionally tailored products that cater to local tastes. However, this plan may come at a cost, potentially requiring mergers and acquisitions that could lead to a reduction in the number of its convenience store chains operating in the U.S. market. (Food & Wine)
