7-Eleven Japan founder Toshifumi Suzuki dies aged 93

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Toshifumi Suzuki, the businessman who helped make 7-Eleven a worldwide success, has passed away at the age of 93.

Tadashi Suzuki, the founder of 7-Eleven Japan, died of heart failure at his home in Tokyo on May 18th, according to Seven & i Holdings, the company that owns 7-Eleven.

Seven & i Holdings Co., Ltd. is deeply saddened to announce the passing of Toshifumi Suzuki, Honorary Advisor, who died of heart failure on May 18, 2026. The company expresses its sincere appreciation for the support and kindness he received during his life and career.

Suzuki’s funeral was a private affair, respecting his family’s preferences. A memorial service will be announced and held at a later time.

7-Eleven Japan founder dies aged 93

Although Masatoshi Suzuki didn’t actually found 7-Eleven, he’s largely credited with building the company into the successful global brand it is today.

In the 1960s, Suzuki began working for the Japanese retailer Ito-Yokado and played a key role in bringing 7-Eleven to Japan. He partnered with the American 7-Eleven company to open the first store in Tokyo in 1974. Many people doubted whether the convenience store concept would succeed in Japan, but Suzuki demonstrated its potential.

Thanks to his guidance, 7-Eleven stores in Japan transformed from basic convenience stores into essential neighborhood centers. Customers could now handle tasks like paying bills, accessing ATMs, printing, and grabbing fresh food at any time of day or night.

7-Eleven became incredibly popular in Japan, and the Japanese business eventually surpassed the original American stores in both size and profit. Eventually, the Japanese company bought the American 7-Eleven, making 7-Eleven a global company led by its Japanese operations.

When Suzuki retired in 2016, 7-Eleven had become the biggest convenience store chain in the world, operating tens of thousands of locations across the globe.

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2026-05-25 12:48