GetGo to Become Part of Circle K Network as Giant Eagle Sells to Couche-Tard
CLEVELAND - Alimentation Couche-Tard Inc., the Canadian-based global leader in convenience and mobility, has reached a definitive agreement to acquire GetGo Café + Market, a chain of convenience stores operated by Giant Eagle, Inc. This significant transaction, announced on Aug. 19, 2024, marks a pivotal shift for both companies as they navigate the evolving retail landscape. The acquisition, which includes approximately 270 GetGo locations across Pennsylvania, Ohio, West Virginia, Maryland, and Indiana, is expected to close in 2025, pending regulatory approval and other closing conditions. The sale is poised to impact roughly 3,500 GetGo employees, all of whom will be retained under Couche-Tard's ownership.
GetGo has earned a strong reputation for its innovative, food-first approach to convenience retail. The stores offer a diverse range of high-quality, made-to-order foods, attracting a loyal customer base that appreciates the unique blend of quick service and gourmet options. From open-concept stores to stand-alone kiosks, GetGo has implemented various models tailored to meet the needs of its diverse clientele. The acquisition deal also includes a partnership between Couche-Tard and Giant Eagle to maintain and potentially expand the myPerks loyalty program, which is highly popular among customers of both GetGo and Giant Eagle supermarkets.
"We are excited to welcome GetGo into the Couche-Tard family," said Brian Hannasch, President and CEO of Couche-Tard. "As we learn more about the GetGo business, it is clear that it has built a strong and passionate customer base with high-quality stores staffed by talented and engaged teams. We have deep respect for its management and people as well as its outstanding food and loyalty programs. We look forward to growing together as we learn from and continue GetGo's innovative approaches to serving its local customers and communities."
Bill Artman, CEO of Giant Eagle, emphasized that the sale will allow the company to refocus on its core supermarket and pharmacy businesses. "This enhances our focus on our core supermarket and pharmacy businesses, strengthening Giant Eagle and better enabling us to make strategic investments in our people, stores, and value proposition," Artman stated. "By matching GetGo with the perfect partner in Couche-Tard, we are confident that this transition will create tremendous opportunities for our team members and customers."
The strategic move by Giant Eagle to divest its GetGo chain comes at a time when the grocery industry is increasingly competitive, with companies vying to strengthen their core operations while also exploring new growth opportunities. For Giant Eagle, which has a long-standing presence in the regional supermarket and pharmacy markets, the decision to sell GetGo is seen as a way to consolidate resources and bolster its position as a leading regional grocer.
Giant Eagle shoppers who frequent GetGo have expressed mixed feelings about the sale. While many are optimistic about the potential for improvements under new ownership, others are concerned about possible changes to the store experience they have grown to love. Karen Mitchell, a regular GetGo customer from Pittsburgh, shared her thoughts. "I love GetGo for their fresh food options and the convenience of grabbing a quick meal on my way to work. I hope Couche-Tard keeps that same quality and doesn't change too much," she said.
Similarly, Cleveland resident Michael Davis, who visits GetGo several times a week, expressed his appreciation for the store's services. "When they opened GetGo near my house, the first thing I noticed was the atmosphere. The gas savings were the second big thing for me. It feels like a community, and I hope the new owners recognize that," Davis remarked.
For many customers, the myPerks loyalty program has been a key factor in their continued patronage of both Giant Eagle and GetGo. The program allows customers to earn points on purchases, which can be redeemed for discounts on fuel, groceries, and more. As part of the acquisition, Couche-Tard and Giant Eagle have committed to maintaining and potentially expanding the myPerks program. This partnership aims to unlock even more value and discounts for customers while ensuring a seamless transition during the change in ownership.
The financial terms of the transaction have not been disclosed, but it was confirmed that the acquisition will be financed through Couche-Tard's available cash and existing credit facilities, including its U.S. Commercial Paper Program. The sale marks Couche-Tard's continued expansion in the U.S. market, where it already operates under the well-known Circle K banner. The acquisition of GetGo aligns with Couche-Tard's strategy to enhance its footprint in the convenience store and fuel sectors while integrating innovative foodservice offerings.
Couche-Tard's decision to retain all GetGo employees has been met with relief by many, as it promises continuity in the customer experience that GetGo patrons have come to expect. "The fact that they’re keeping the current staff is a big deal for me," said Amber Taylor, a Columbus resident who frequents GetGo. "It means I’ll still see the same familiar faces when I stop by for my morning coffee, and that’s important."
The sale of GetGo is expected to close sometime in 2025, following regulatory approval. Until then, customers can continue to enjoy the same products and services at GetGo locations, including the ongoing use of myPerks rewards. As the transition unfolds, both companies remain committed to delivering value to their customers and communities.
Additional news coverage on this, from other local networks, can be found at the following sources:
PR Newswire, "Alimentation Couche-Tard to Acquire GetGo Café + Market Stores from Giant Eagle," published on Aug. 19, 2024. Available online.
WPXI, "Giant Eagle to Sell GetGo; Here’s What That Means for Your myPerks Rewards," published on Aug. 19, 2024. Available online.
KDKA Radio, "Giant Eagle Selling GetGo Locations to Owners of Circle K," published on Aug. 19, 2024. Available online.
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