Alimentation Couche-Tard Inc., a global leader in convenience and mobility, recently opened a state-of-the-art distribution center (DC) in Otsego, MN. This 266,000-square-foot facility is the first of three new DCs scheduled to open in the coming months, marking a significant step in the company's ongoing efforts to strengthen its supply chain and optimize merchandise delivery. The Otsego DC will support nearly 500 Holiday Station stores and Circle K locations throughout the Twin Cities and the Upper Midwest. Circle K is a current member of Food Shippers of America (FSA).

The Otsego DC represents a major milestone in Couche-Tard's multi-year effort to build a more agile, flexible, and efficient North American supply chain. Operated by McLane Company, Inc., another FSA member and one of the nation's leading third-party logistics (3PL) providers, the site employs approximately 150 associates. Circle K and McLane have recently formed a logistics partnership for supply chain optimization.

"This facility is a key part of our effort to build world-class distribution capabilities that support our stores and deliver a more consistent and rewarding experience for our customers," says Trey Powell, Senior Vice President of Global Merchandising at Couche-Tard. "With the support of valued partners like McLane and Ryan Companies, we're creating a more integrated and aligned supply chain, improving speed, accuracy, and availability, and executing our merchandising initiatives with greater quality and efficiency."

The Otsego distribution center will supply Holiday and Circle K stores with national and private-brand packaged snacks, candy, beverages, tobacco and nicotine products, and other convenience items not typically supported via direct-store delivery, as well as prepared food items central to the company's "Fresh Food Fast" program.

Two additional distribution centers in Hazelwood, MO, and Lockbourne, OH, will open in December and January, respectively. Once all three facilities are operational, they will support approximately 1,600 stores across 14 states, driving operational efficiencies across their respective regions. Couche-Tard already operates similar distribution facilities in Texas, Arizona and Quebec. With the addition of these three new DCs, approximately 3,200 stores across North America will be supported by some form of self-distribution.

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