Couche-Tard in Talks for U.S. Store Sale Amid $47B Seven & i Takeover Bid

Canada’s Alimentation Couche-Tard (ACT) is exploring a potential sale of its U.S. stores to ease regulatory concerns as it pursues a $47 billion acquisition of Japan’s Seven & i Holdings, the parent company of 7-Eleven.

A Couche-Tard spokesperson confirmed discussions with third parties, emphasizing a “clear path” to regulatory approval and a strong proposal to Seven & i. The move aims to facilitate the deal amid expected scrutiny from authorities.

Seven & i, in response, appointed its first foreign CEO, Stephen Dacus, who faces the challenge of restructuring the company to counter ACT’s takeover attempt. While Dacus acknowledged ongoing talks with Couche-Tard, he highlighted significant regulatory hurdles in merging the two retail giants.

Couche-Tard, which operates Circle K convenience stores worldwide, is seeking strategic measures to secure approval and expand its global presence. If successful, the acquisition would reshape the convenience store industry, creating one of the largest retail networks.

The outcome of the negotiations remains uncertain as Seven & i evaluates its options under its new leadership.