Kum & Go Adds More Stores in QuikTrip's Backyard

TULSA, Okla. -- Kum & Go is presenting a challenge to main competitor QuickTrip with two new convenience stores in Tulsa, Okla., home of QuikTrip's headquarters, according to a Tulsa World report. QuikTrip has approximately 70 stores in the area, including one currently under construction.

The larger-format stores occupy 5,000 square feet and feature more fresh food, beverages and amenities in a higher-end format than traditional Kum & Go stores. Each store also has 20 fueling stations that offer diesel, gasoline and flex-fuel E85.

The new stores, located at 4728 S. Yale Ave. and 1111 W. 81st St., leave Kum & Go with 27 stores in the metro Tulsa market and 52 throughout Oklahoma. The West Des Moines, Iowa-based c-store chain entered the region in 2004 when it purchased the Tulsa-based Git-n-Go chain's 76 stores, and committed to providing QuikTrip with stiff competition.

"We're excited to bring our newest store design to Tulsa," Kum & Go President and CEO Kyle J. Krause said in a statement. "This store layout has been created with our customers in mind. From fresh, made-from-scratch food options, to a wide selection in products, all aspects of our stores have been configured to focus on delivering fast, friendly customer service."

More c-store chains are turning to a larger format to increase profits from in-store sales as gas margins shrink, according to the report. Kum & Go's Go Fresh Market concept now offers made-to-order pizzas, sandwiches, breakfast items and baked goods made fresh daily.