Five key challenges facing convenience stores in 2026

The convenience retail industry entered 2026 with specific operational goals, but global volatility has forced a shift in expectations. The war with Iran has caused intermittent fuel supply disruptions and raised the costs of goods, while tariffs and inflation continue to put pressure on both customers’ and businesses’ wallets. Retailers are grappling with high-stakes conditions that will define their performance through the winter.

A primary focus for the industry is the performance of Mauricio Leyva, who took over as CEO of 7-Eleven in August. Leyva faces a demanding schedule, including preparing the company for a planned North American IPO in 2027. He must also manage the retailer’s primary strategic objective, which centers on accelerating 7-Eleven’s remodels- and franchise-focused North Star plan and building momentum around the company’s goal to become a food-focused destination.

Because this represents his first tenure in the convenience sector, stakeholders are looking for immediate signs of his influence on store-level execution. Success for Mauricio Leyva in 2026 likely hinges on his ability to build credibility for the company’s long-term transformation rather than hitting every individual growth target immediately.

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The growth of super regional chains remains a defining trend of the current fiscal year. Rather than slowing down, companies like Iowa-based Casey’s are aggressively pursuing footprints in new states, including a push into Texas. QuikTrip is similarly broadening its reach into Utah and Michigan, while Wawa and Sheetz continue to establish themselves throughout the Midwest.

This expansion is occurring alongside a wave of consolidation. Smaller operators with fewer than 100 stores are frequently selling their assets to larger competitors, which provides more territory for these bigger chains to either acquire or build from scratch. The result is a changing map of national convenience accessibility.

Retailers are increasingly integrating artificial intelligence into inventory management, checkout systems, and forecourt operations. The promise is that these tools will make organizations more nimble and improve decision-making capabilities. However, the industry is also facing legal risks associated with this technology.

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Several retailers currently face lawsuits over allegations of collusion and price fixing involving AI-powered fuel pricing algorithms. Additionally, federal regulators have begun scrutinizing the use of personalized pricing models. The industry must determine which technological investments yield actual profit and which pose regulatory risks.

Retailers are currently attempting to mitigate these challenges by refining loyalty programs and expanding fresh food options.