#Canada #Giant Eagle #Couche-Tard #Laval #GetGo

Alimentation Couche-Tard Completes Acquisition of GetGo Café + Market

Alimentation Couche-Tard Inc., a prominent leader in the convenience store sector, has made headlines by securing clearance from the U.S. Federal Trade Commission (FTC) for its acquisition of GetGo Café + Market. This strategic move is set to significantly enhance Couche-Tard's footprint across various states, enabling the company to tap into the growing market for convenience retail.

The acquisition will officially bring GetGo, which boasts approximately 3,500 employees and operates around 270 locations in states such as Pennsylvania, Maryland, West Virginia, Ohio, and Indiana, into Couche-Tard's extensive network. Couche-Tard, which is also known for its Circle K stores, anticipates closing the deal in the coming days, showcasing their commitment to expanding their reach and offerings.

A New Chapter for GetGo

Under Couche-Tard's management, GetGo will be carved out as a separate business unit, ensuring that it retains the essence of its brand and operational culture. Mike Maraldo, a 33-year veteran from Giant Eagle and the current Vice President of Operations for GetGo, will lead this new unit. Maraldo’s expertise and deep-rooted knowledge of the operational nuances of GetGo position him well to continue the brand's legacy of excellence.

Alex Miller, the President and CEO of Couche-Tard, expressed his enthusiasm about integrating GetGo into their business model. In a recent statement, he highlighted the brand's reputation for outstanding food offerings, a strong store experience, and a dedicated workforce focused on customer satisfaction. Miller stated, “We are very pleased to welcome them to the Couche-Tard team, looking forward to supporting and enabling their continued growth and success.”

Continued Commitment to the GetGo Brand

In a bid to maintain continuity during this transition, management and essential support staff from GetGo will remain based at Giant Eagle's headquarters in Cranberry Township, Pennsylvania. This setup assures that the existing brand ethos and operational excellence will not be disrupted as they move forward under the Couche-Tard umbrella.

One of the most beloved aspects of GetGo that will continue post-acquisition is the myPerks loyalty program, a unique offering that resonates well with customers and has been integral to the brand's appeal. Bill Artman, the President and CEO of Giant Eagle, expressed confidence that Couche-Tard is a natural fit for GetGo, citing their understanding of consumer needs and commitment to the brand as vital to sustaining its success.

Regulatory Compliance and Future Plans

As part of the acquisition agreement, Couche-Tard has agreed to divest 35 sites, which include 34 Circle K locations and one GetGo property, to fully comply with regulatory requirements. This strategic divestiture not only meets FTC expectations but also paves the way for a smooth transition and continued growth for both Couche-Tard and GetGo.

Couche-Tard is known globally, operating across 29 countries and territories with nearly 17,000 convenience stores and employing around 146,000 individuals. With an expansive network bolstered by well-known brands, including Couche-Tard and Circle K, the company is positioned as one of the largest independent convenience store operators in the U.S., as well as a leader in fuel retail in numerous regions, including Canada and Europe.

Conclusion

The successful acquisition of GetGo Cafe + Market exemplifies Couche-Tard's strategic expansion and commitment to enhancing its store offerings to better serve customers. By focusing on maintaining GetGo’s operational identity while integrating into its successful corporate structure, Couche-Tard aims to continue delivering a superior convenience shopping experience. As this acquisition unfolds, stakeholders and customers alike eagerly anticipate what's next for both Couche-Tard and the GetGo brand in the competitive convenience retail market.