Couche-Tard Seeks Engagement with Seven & i on Takeover

Alimentation Couche-Tard Inc. is actively pursuing a takeover of Seven & i Holdings Co., aiming to engage its shareholders in discussions about the $50 billion bid for the owner of 7-Eleven stores. Despite concerns from Seven & i regarding US antitrust issues, Couche-Tard's CEO Alex Miller expressed a commitment to a friendly negotiation process and is exploring other acquisition opportunities while awaiting more substantial talks. Recently, Couche-Tard's founder, Alain Bouchard, held private meetings with key Seven & i shareholders in Tokyo to discuss the benefits of the deal and potential modifications to the offer if allowed access to financial data. In response to the ongoing negotiations, Seven & i has made strategic changes, including appointing a new CEO and planning a significant share buyback, which may influence the discussions. Couche-Tard hopes these developments will lead to a resolution, as shareholders express impatience with the slow progress. The backdrop of a growing global convenience store market adds pressure for both firms to reach a deal soon.