Casey's buys CEFCO stores, to rebrand nearly 150 Texas locations in southern expansion

Casey's General Stores has announced the purchase of nearly 200 CEFCO stores, including almost 150 in Texas.

The popular Midwest retail chain disclosed the $1.145 billion deal on Friday , in which it bought Fikes Wholesale Inc., owner of CEFCO Convenience Stores. The 148 Texas locations will be converted to Casey's stores, as will the other 50 in Alabama, Florida, and Mississippi.

Casey's buys CEFCO Stores amid expansion

The acquisition is the latest in moves to expand Casey's reach. In a recent call for investors , CEO Darren Rebelez indicated plans for additional locations in the country's southern region.

"This acquisition will quickly expand Casey’s presence in Texas, a very attractive market for Casey's," Rebelez said. "In addition, we'll be able to expand our footprint further into the South, as well."

Fikes and CEFCO president Raymond Smith also praised the deal for its benefits to both customers and employees.

"The acquisition by Casey’s, especially given its reputation and shared values, is an exciting development for Fikes and our employees." Smith said. "I am happy that the CEFCO stores will join a top convenience retailer that will reinvest in the stores and eventually bring Casey’s pizza to many of our customers as well as provide professional opportunities for our employees. We believe Casey’s will be an excellent steward of the CEFCO experience that our loyal customers have come to expect."

While CEFCO is known for its chicken, Rebelez discussed plans to remodel the kitchens to accommodate Casey's famous pizzas. The agreement also included CEFCO's fuel terminal.

The deal is expected to be completed by the end of 2024, after which Casey's will have 170 locations in Texas. Nationwide, the retail chain will claim around 2,900 stores.

Casey's bought Lone Star Food Stores last November

Nearly eight months ago, Casey's General Stores also purchased 22 Lone Star Food Stores in North Texas. The November 2023 deal included all locations within a 60-mile radius of Sherman and retained all existing staff.

Read more: Casey's is coming to Texas with plans to rebrand 22 Lone Star Food Stores

As of July 2024, Casey's was the fifth-largest convenience store chain in the U.S., according to data company ScrapeHero .

This article originally appeared on Austin American-Statesman: Casey's buys CEFCO stores, to rebrand nearly 150 Texas locations in southern expansion