The number of domestic convenience stores operated by Seven-Eleven Japan Co. dropped by 24 in September from the previous month to 20,993, marking the first fall in five years, company officials said Friday.
The figures came a day after its parent, Seven & I Holdings Co., said it would close 1,000 unprofitable outlets and eliminate 3,000 jobs from its other units as the retailer continues structural reforms and cuts back on 24-hour operations.
The fall in the number of stores apparently reflects slowing growth in the industry, with the domestic convenience store market having become saturated.