As reported yesterday in a Morgan Keegan/CSP Daily News Flash, the new locations are in Pine Bluff, Hot Springs, Benton and Sheridan, Ark.
"The acquisition of B-B-F Oil Co. complements our existing business," said E-Z Mart CEO Sonja Hubbard. "By expanding our regional presence, E-Z Mart is better able to serve the convenience needs [image-nocss] within these communities."
She told CSP Daily News: "The company is an Arkansas-based family business that has many similarities to E-Z Mart. The locations are within our existing marketing area, are quality locations and [the acquisition] was just a good fit at a good time for us."
The purchase of the new stores will bring E-Z Mart's store count to 306.
Hubbard said the acquired stores will be converted to the E-Z Mart brand, and that some will be remodeled. "The level of remodel or redesign will be site by site, but it is our intent to brand all stores E-Z Mart and add our logo and graphics. We do have longer-term plans to expand a few of the sites and rebuild ones that we feel has strong potential."
She added, "These stores market Exxon-branded fuel, and we plan to retain that brand and image in the forecourt. This is our first experience working with Exxon and look forward to that opportunity."
Addressing E-Z Mart's growth plans, Hubbard said, "We have acquired three other locations this year, rebuilt several and have numerous others either under construction or scheduled. We have been focusing on upgrading our facilities and been investing in the business with an emphasis on higher volume locations. We are definitely interested in smart growth."
When contacted by CSP Daily News, a B-B-F Oil representative would only say that the company has completely withdrawn from the c-store business, although the company's website site lists several remaining c-stores beyond those acquired by E-Z Mart.
Texarkana, Texas-based E-Z Mart--celebrating its 40th anniversary this year--is one of the largest privately held convenience store chains in the nation. It operates c-stores throughout Arkansas, Louisiana, Missouri, Oklahoma and Texas.
Members help make our journalism possible. Become a CSP member today and unlock exclusive benefits, including unlimited access to all of our content. Sign up here.