GPM Takes Ownership of Admiral Petroleum C-stores, Tobacco Shops

RICHMOND, Va. — GPM Investments LLC and its affiliates have sealed the deal on the acquisition of 137 convenience stores with fuel and 33 discount tobacco shops in Michigan and Indiana from Admiral Petroleum Co.

GPM will continue to operate these stores under the current Admiral and Admiral Discount Tobacco brand names. The acquisition further develops GPM’s existing portfolio in the Midwest region, the company stated.

"The Admiral store employees have served customers with dedication and enthusiasm. We are eager to remain on the same path of service with passion and commitment," said Chris Giacobone, chief operating officer at GPM. "Bringing the Admiral employees into the GPM family was very important to our leadership team and we look forward to our continued growth with these new stores."

Coopersville, Mich.-based Admiral began c-store operations in Greenville, Mich., in the 1950's. Some of the first locations are still in business. The company is known as being one of the first c-store operators to sell milk, bread and eggs. In 1995 it opened the Admiral Discount Tobacco division.

GPM stated that it plans to stay on the same trajectory of "putting the customer first" while continuing to expand and enhance their goals for this new store group.

Headquartered in Richmond, GPM Investments operates or supplies stores in Connecticut, Delaware, Illinois, Indiana, Iowa, Kentucky, Maryland, Michigan, Nebraska, New Jersey, North Carolina, Ohio, Pennsylvania, Rhode Island, South Carolina, Tennessee and Virginia.