Couche-Tard Names New Coo

Alimentation Couche-Tard Inc.'s chief operating officer, Real Plourde, stepped down last month from his role at the Canadian retailer, and Brian Hannasch, senior vice president, U.S. Operations, was named as successor to Plourde in his role of COO.

Plourde will remain executive vice president and an executive committee member for the operator of nearly 5,900 c-stores across North America.

"I carefully weighed and prepared this change, which meets two key objectives: I will be free to devote more time to personal ventures, while continuing to actively contribute to the company's strategic direction," Plourde said in a statement.

A 25-year Couche-Tard veteran, the company said Plourde's leadership and deep knowledge of the convenience store industry was a key factor in allowing the company to attain its preeminent position in Canada and the U.S.

"We are delighted that Mr. Plourde agreed to remain in an active capacity as a member of the executive committee. As a result, we can still tap into his tremendous experience and knowledge of the convenience industry," Alain Bouchard, president and CEO, said in a statement. Hannasch joined Couche-Tard in 2001 as part of the Bigfoot Food Stores acquisition, when he held the position of vice president of operations. He has since held a range of vice president and senior vice president roles.

Before joining Couche-Tard, Hannasch spent 13 years with Amoco and BP in various downstream positions.