Key Facts
• Steven Hayes Deykas became CEO of Seven & i Holdings in May 2025.
• Domestic convenience store sales growth lags competitors: 0–2% vs. 2–7%.
• New strategy aims to add 1,000 stores in Japan by fiscal year 2030.
• Plans include expanding fresh bread and tea offerings in stores.
• Investment in existing stores will focus on equipment and layout upgrades.
• Global operations span 86,000 stores, leveraging scale for cost efficiency.
• Japanese-style egg sandwiches to be introduced in North America.
• Canadian acquisition proposal in 2022 caused management disruption; withdrawn in July 2025.
• CEO aims to raise corporate value through strategic execution, not just defense against activists.
Summary
Steven Hayes Deykas, CEO of Seven & i Holdings since May 2025, is addressing challenges in Japan’s convenience store market, where sales growth trails competitors. He plans to enhance product development and invest in store upgrades, aiming to add 1,000 domestic stores by 2030 and expand offerings like fresh bread and tea. Globally, the company leverages its 86,000-store network for cost efficiency and plans to introduce Japanese-style egg sandwiches in North America. Despite past acquisition risks, Deykas focuses on boosting corporate value through strategic initiatives.
