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larger operators weren ’ t interested in . So , for example , they would go to a one-horse town and develop a gas station . In fact , one of their most successful verticals is pizza . I believe they ’ re the fourth largest pizza chain in the country , which is incredible considering they operate out of a gas station .
“ I spent the best part of a decade working with Casey ’ s , bringing them into Arkansas , which is where I ’ m originally from . While I ’ ve also worked in the upstream oil and gas business , buying and selling rights , royalties , and leases , the experience of working at Casey ’ s , as well as Circle K , another convenience store chain , enabled me to experience service provision that promotes a strong focus on quality .
“ There are around 150,000 gas stations nationwide in the United States ,” Blake continues , “ and 60-to-70 percent of those are still mom-and-pop independently owned and operated . While there are major chains in certain areas , the market is still fragmented . Many of the independents don ’ t have a succession plan in place , which is where SQRL came in .
“ I saw an opportunity in the market to acquire those types of gas stations that could benefit from a strong service model . From impeccable cleanliness to the offer to carry groceries to the car , a clean , safe , and inviting environment coupled with a strong service model are the foundations for SQRL ’ s offering .”
Indeed , as Blake enthuses , SQRL ’ s vision is to ‘ rebuild America one corner store at a time .’ The company is revolutionizing the convenience store industry through laserprecision tactical service models . Some stations are full-service at the pump and inside , while many of the products offered are
The secret to SQRL is that we genuinely care . We care about the environment , the future , the communities that we go into , and about people proprietarily sourced and interspersed with locally grown business .
Following a recent acquisition , SQRL has added a further 210 stores to its portfolio . “ We ’ re entering some new states as a result and while it ’ s a time of great chaos , it ’ s also a period of great growth , which is a real blessing ,” he explains . With a presence in 14 states , SQRL ’ s unique offering continues to set it apart from the competition . “ I believed it was possible to operate a footprint of gas stations across rural America by means of delivering consistent exceptional service combined with a local flavor . While the brand remains the same across the board , each store boasts individuality .
“ Alongside this , an intrinsic part of our vision is to be as sustainable as possible . Obviously , EVs and charging stations are at the forefront of conversation , and while
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