The Canadian owner of Circle K will continue its friendly pursuit of Seven & i, executives said, sounding confident that they can overcome antitrust issues that could block the prospective acquisition in the U.

Canada’s Alimentation Couche-Tard has reiterated its determination to acquire Seven & i Holdings, although the operator of Japan’s top convenience store chain has rejected its offer.

Canadian convenience store and gas station operator Alimentation Couche-Tard Inc. said it could increase its offer to acquire long-time rival Seven & i Holdings Co., but only if the latter engages in takeover talks.