Convenience store operator 7-Eleven Inc. announced on December 20, 2025, that longtime Chief Executive Officer Joe DePinto will retire after 20 years leading the company, closing a chapter marked by rapid expansion and significant modernization of the brand’s North American business. The company said its board has appointed President Stan Reynolds and Executive Vice President and Chief Operating Officer Doug Rosencrans to serve as interim co-CEOs while a permanent successor is identified. The transition signals a generational shift at one of the most recognizable names in U.S. retail.
DePinto’s departure follows two decades in which 7-Eleven strengthened its position as the largest convenience store operator in North America. During his tenure, the company expanded its store footprint, refined its private-label offerings, and navigated major changes in consumer behavior, including the rise of digital payments and mobile-first shopping experiences. The board described the leadership change as a planned transition designed to maintain stability while positioning the company for its next phase of growth.
Industry analysts view the appointment of interim co-CEOs as an effort to balance continuity with flexibility. Reynolds and Rosencrans both bring deep operational experience and familiarity with the company’s franchise-heavy business model, which relies on close coordination between corporate leadership and independent store operators. By sharing the top job temporarily, the board appears focused on ensuring uninterrupted execution of strategy while it conducts a broader search for a long-term chief executive.
Under DePinto, 7-Eleven invested heavily in technology to keep pace with shifting consumer expectations. The company rolled out mobile ordering, loyalty programs, and contactless payment options across much of its U.S. network, reflecting broader trends in retail toward convenience and personalization. These initiatives were designed to increase visit frequency and basket size while capturing more data on customer preferences.
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The retiring CEO also oversaw efforts to refresh store formats and expand food and beverage offerings, areas that have become increasingly important as traditional fuel sales face pressure from electric vehicle adoption and fuel-efficiency gains. Fresh food, beverages, and ready-to-eat items have emerged as key growth drivers for convenience retailers, and 7-Eleven has sought to differentiate itself through product innovation and faster in-store service. Observers say these moves helped the brand remain relevant amid intensifying competition from quick-service restaurants and grocery chains.
The leadership transition comes at a time when brick-and-mortar retailers are contending with rising labor costs, supply chain complexity, and the need for continued digital investment. Convenience stores, in particular, face the challenge of balancing speed and affordability with increasingly sophisticated consumer expectations. As interim leaders, Reynolds and Rosencrans are expected to focus on operational efficiency, supply chain optimization, and deeper use of customer analytics to inform merchandising decisions.
Looking ahead to 2026, 7-Eleven’s strategic priorities are expected to include further integration of digital and physical channels. Loyalty programs and mobile platforms are likely to play a larger role in driving repeat visits, while data-driven insights could influence everything from product assortment to promotional pricing. The company has also indicated that it will continue evaluating store locations and formats to ensure profitability across diverse markets.
The board has not disclosed a timeline for naming a permanent CEO, but the decision to appoint seasoned internal executives suggests a desire for stability during the search process. Governance experts note that interim co-CEO arrangements are often used to preserve institutional knowledge and reassure stakeholders, particularly in large, operationally complex businesses. Franchisees, suppliers, and employees are expected to watch closely for signals about whether the next permanent leader will come from inside the organization or be recruited externally.
DePinto’s retirement marks the end of an era for 7-Eleven in North America, where his leadership coincided with dramatic shifts in how consumers shop for everyday essentials. While the company faces ongoing challenges common to the retail sector, its scale, brand recognition, and operational experience provide a strong foundation for the next leadership team. As Reynolds and Rosencrans assume interim control, attention will turn to how effectively they can sustain momentum while steering the company through a rapidly evolving retail landscape.
