Toshifumi Suzuki, the businessman who helped turn 7-Eleven into a global retail giant, has died at the age of 93.
Seven & i Holdings said Suzuki died of heart failure at his home in Tokyo on May 18.
Suzuki played a major role in building Japan’s modern convenience store culture through the expansion of 7-Eleven stores, locally known as “conbini.”
Under his leadership, the chain introduced services beyond food and drinks, including ATM banking, utility bill payments and document printing.
Today, 7-Eleven operates more than 80,000 stores worldwide and remains the largest convenience store chain in Japan.
The first Japanese 7-Eleven outlet opened in 1974 following a franchise agreement with the American company.
Later, the Japanese business took control of the original US-based company after it faced financial difficulties in the 1990s.
Born in Nagano in 1932, Suzuki graduated from Chuo University and later joined retail company Ito-Yokado before leading the expansion of Seven & i Holdings.
During his career, he also oversaw business growth into banking and department stores.
The company said funeral ceremonies were held privately with family members, while a public memorial service will be announced later.
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