Alimentation Couche-Tard is a Canadian multinational operator of convenience stores and fuel retail outlets, best known for its Circle K brand. Founded in 1980 by Alain Bouchard and headquartered in Laval, Quebec, the company has grown through organic expansion and strategic acquisitions to become one of the largest convenience store operators in the world. Its core offerings include grab-and-go food items, beverages, automotive fuel, and ancillary services such as car washes and loyalty programs.
The company’s retail network spans North America, Europe and parts of Asia, with over 8,000 sites operating under a variety of banners including Circle K, Couche-Tard, Ingo and On the Run. Couche-Tard’s store formats range from urban express outlets to highway service centres, catering to a mix of daily commuters and long-distance travellers. In recent years, the firm has invested in private-label product lines, mobile payment solutions and digital loyalty initiatives to enhance customer engagement and improve transactional convenience.
International expansion has been driven by landmark acquisitions. In 2012, the company acquired the downstream assets of Statoil Fuel & Retail in Europe, significantly bolstering its presence across the Nordics and the Baltics. A subsequent transaction in 2017 brought CST Brands into its North American portfolio, further extending its reach across the United States and Mexico. These moves have reinforced Couche-Tard’s strategy of growth through scale, brand unification and cross-border integration.
Since 2014, Brian Hannasch has served as president and chief executive officer, overseeing global operations and driving the company’s digital transformation efforts. Under his leadership, Couche-Tard has prioritized sustainability initiatives, including investments in electric vehicle charging infrastructure at select sites. With a leadership team supported by regional presidents and a board of directors drawn from the retail and energy sectors, Alimentation Couche-Tard continues to pursue a balanced approach to market growth, innovation and operational efficiency.
AI Generated. May Contain Errors.