Japan-Style 7-Elevens Are Coming to the U.S. — Find Out What’s on the Menu
If you’ve ever been down a TikTok rabbit hole, you’ve probably stumbled upon videos of Japan’s 7-Eleven stores, or konbini, packed with unique and elevated foods that put our convenience store snacks to shame. And now, the Japanese-owned chain is working to bring some of those viral favorites stateside, with a menu shift aimed at bringing new and improved international flavors to the U.S. So, I’m breaking down what you need to know about the new Japan-style 7-Elevens, the must-try viral items all over social media and what you can expect to see in stores soon.
What is the news about the Japan style 7-Elevens?
While 7-Eleven has long been a staple in the U.S. (founded in 1927 in Texas), it hasn't always been smooth sailing. The chain struggled with bankruptcy in the early 90s. And like many convenience stores across the country, it has faced challenges in maintaining profitability.
In February, Bloomberg reported that Ryuichi Isaka, CEO of Seven & I Holdings (7-Eleven’s parent company since 2005), aimed to expand the company in the United States. He emphasized the need to shift 7-Eleven’s business model away from its traditional reliance on gasoline and processed snacks. Instead, they would focus on fresh food as the cornerstone of the brand's identity.
“We believe that we need to change our business model from one that relies on gasoline and cigarettes to one in which customers choose us based on our products,” Isaka told Bloomberg. To achieve this, the company is building a robust supply chain capable of delivering fresh food daily to U.S. stores, along with seasonal and regionally tailored offerings.
Why are Japan's 7-Elevens so popular?
Japan’s 7-Elevens, known as konbini (convenience stores), are nothing short of legendary. First introduced in 1974 in Tokyo, they became a massive hit. The country now has the highest number of storefronts in the world. In Japan, convenience stores are an essential part of daily life. They offer convenience in not just food but other ways like ATMs, bill payments and WiFi.
Unlike their American counterparts, these stores are known for offering high-quality, fresh and often gourmet foods that have captivated both locals and tourists alike. TikTok has played a huge role in spreading the konbini model, with countless videos showcasing the incredible range of items available:
Viral favorites include:
Onigiri, rice balls filled with various savory fillings
Syrup and butter stuffed pancakes
Tamago sando, egg or fruit and cream sandwiches
Peelable fruit gummy candies
Milk tea
Pudding
To-go ice cream cones (in unique flavors like grape and creme br?lée)
7-Elevens also offer individual portion sizes, English translations and microwavable options. It’s no wonder people can’t get enough!
What to expect in the new Japan style 7-Elevens
So, what can American customers expect from this exciting new menu shift? 7-Eleven is rolling out a range of items that are sure to delight fans of the original konbini. Some of these include chicken teriyaki rice balls, everything breakfast sandwiches, miso ramen and sweet chili crisp wings. Also, look out for the Mangonada donuts with Tajin, barbecue pork sliders and chicken curry bowls.
“We are constantly evolving the fresh food assortment in our stores, tailoring the offerings at each location to meet the needs and preferences of local customers,” a 7-Eleven spokesperson told TODAY.com. “Our team draws inspiration from around the world to introduce new items…that can be found at select 7-Eleven, Speedway and Stripes stores across the country.”
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