Couche-Tard Seeks to Reassure Investors on Seven & i Approach

Canada’s Alimentation Couche-Tard Inc. is trying to assure shareholders that management hasn’t lost sight of operations amid fragile talks over a potential takeover of rival Seven & i Holdings Co.

The parent company of the Circle K chain has been pursuing Seven & i for months, bidding almost $50 billion for it, but has been rebuffed. The Japanese owner of 7-Eleven stores has raised concerns over antitrust issues in the US and launched an overhaul of its business, arguing that it can produce better returns over the long run as a standalone company.

Couche-Tard shares are down 13% this year ...