Alimentation Couche-Tard (OTCMKTS:ANCTF) is a global leader in the ownership and operation of convenience stores and fuel retail outlets. The company’s core business model centers on providing everyday essentials, from gasoline and diesel fuels to a wide range of grocery, snack and beverage offerings. Building on a vertically integrated supply chain, Couche-Tard sources fuel wholesale and refines strategic logistics to ensure consistent product availability. Its convenience store operations extend to merchandise categories such as fresh food, coffee, automated car washes and proprietary private‐label items designed to enhance customer loyalty and drive in‐store traffic.
Founded in 1980 in Laval, Quebec, Couche-Tard initially grew through organic expansion before embarking on an ambitious acquisition strategy that propelled it into international markets. A pivotal moment came in 2003 with the acquisition of Circle K, an established North American convenience store chain, which laid the groundwork for a unified global brand. Over the years, Couche-Tard has completed numerous transactions, including the integration of European and Asian retail networks. These strategic moves have sharpened the company’s competitive edge, enabling economies of scale in procurement, distribution and marketing.
Couche-Tard’s product portfolio encompasses a broad spectrum of convenience retail offerings. In fuel retailing, the company partners with major oil suppliers to provide high-quality gasoline and diesel under both national and private labels. In‐store, customers can select from freshly prepared sandwiches and pastries, hot beverages brewed to order, and a variety of packaged snacks and beverages. The chain also operates loyalty programs and mobile applications that facilitate contactless payments, personalized promotions and real-time inventory updates, reflecting the company’s ongoing investment in digital innovation and customer experience enhancements.
Today, Alimentation Couche-Tard serves millions of customers daily across more than 20,000 retail outlets spanning North America, Europe, Asia and the Middle East. Under the leadership of President and Chief Executive Officer Brian Hannasch, the company maintains a commitment to responsible retailing, focusing on sustainability initiatives such as reducing greenhouse gas emissions, optimizing energy use and minimizing single-use plastics. Couche-Tard’s board of directors and executive team continue to prioritize disciplined expansion, operational efficiency and robust governance practices as they steer the company toward long-term value creation.
