Japan and the U.S. are cramped... Seven-Eleven, Poland's Top Convenience Store Chain, Advances Investment Plan

Seven & I, the operator of Seven-Eleven, is pursuing a deal to acquire shares in Zabka, Poland's leading convenience store chain. If finalized, this would mark a shift away from the Japan and U.S.-centered business model, accelerating expansion into Europe. Bloomberg reports that Seven & I is negotiating to invest billions of yen for a stake in Zabka Group. While confirming ongoing talks, the company stressed no decisions have been made. The news sent Seven & I's shares up 5% in early trading on Monday, the largest rise since April last year. Zabka's stock also surged 16% the previous day, hitting a record high with a market cap of around $8.7 billion. Analysts suggest the deal could boost Europe expansion plans, as Seven & I targets a 30-country presence by 2030, aiming to diversify beyond Japan's limited growth potential. The company is evaluating a double-digit stake in Zabka, though Zabka has not commented. Europe is now seen as a key market for Seven-Eleven, with Poland as the fourth European country in its expansion plan. Zabka, which grew by adopting the Seven-Eleven model, has expanded to over 13,000 stores in Poland and recently entered Romania. Analysts note that with global players' support, Zabka's international expansion could accelerate significantly. Zabka's CEO also expressed openness to new strategic investors, aiming to become Europe's leading convenience store chain. Zabka's stock has risen 42% this year, doubling the WIG20 index's gains.