Dive Brief:

• The Kent Companies, which now operates over 100 convenience stores across the Southwest and Southeast U.S., has acquired 13-location c-store retailer DC Oil Company for an undisclosed amount, according to a Wednesday announcement.
• All 13 Chevron Texaco-branded c-stores are located in Alabama, and the acquisition marks Kent’s arrival in the Yellowhammer State — the company’s eighth state of operation, according to the announcement.
• The deal continues what’s been a busy past year on the acquisition front for Kent. Since the start of 2023, the company has purchased a combined 28 stores across three states via three acquisitions.

Dive Insight:

With 104 convenience stores in its network after acquiring DC Oil, Kent has grown its footprint by about a third over the past year as it continues to establish itself as a key c-store player in the southwest and southeast. The company acquired 14 c-stores in Florida last March, and one location in Texas in October.

All 13 c-stores included in the deal will retain the Chevron-Texaco fuel branding. Besides those locations, Kent will also acquire DC’s fuel transportation fleet and portfolio of dealer accounts. Kent already has a well-established dealer business, supplying fuel to more than 150 dealer sites across six states.

“Our plan to maintain Chevron Texaco fuel ensures a seamless transition for our guests while the rebranding to Kent Kwik represents our commitment to delivering exceptional quality and convenience,” Bill Kent, owner of The Kent Companies, said in the announcement. 

Moving forward, Kent said it plans to continue expanding with new stores in Alabama and elsewhere in the Southeast.

For Birmingham, Alabama-based DC Oil, owner David Collins is leaving the c-store and fueling industries after 34 years in the business. Collins hinted in the announcement that his employees will be transferred to Kent.

“My biggest concern when choosing a buyer was my employees,” Collins said. “I am confident now that I made the right decision.”

Midland, Texas-based The Kent Companies operates its stores — in addition to several restaurants and tire shops — across Texas, Oklahoma, Alabama, Tennessee, North Carolina, South Carolina, New Mexico and Florida. Its c-store banners include Kent Kwik Convenience Stores, Bountyland and Tom Thumb Food Stores among others.