Alimentation Couche-Tard took its case for its $47 billion takeover of Seven & i straight to the Japanese public on Thursday, marking a change in strategy by the low-key Canadian firm in response to what it described as months of stonewalling by the 7-Eleven owner.

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.

Alimentation Couche-Tard has taken its $47 billion takeover bid for Seven i directly to the Japanese public, shifting tactics after months of limited engagement from the 7-Eleven owner. The Canadian company,