Kum & Go's Building Bonanza

WEST DES MOINES, Iowa -- Early this year, Kum & Go LC, the West Des Moines, Iowa-based operator of more than 400 convenience stores in 11 states, announced plans for a major expansion into the Colorado Pikes Peak region. The chain is investing between $90 million and $100 million over the next five years — with eight new stores built in 2012 alone.

"Colorado came together because of the demographic, growth, population and competitive landscape," David Miller, vice president of marketing for Kum & Go, told CSNews Online, explaining that Colorado is only one part of the company's ongoing expansion plans. "We are building more than 40 stores alone throughout the states we exist in during 2012, including Colorado."

All of the new stores showcase Kum & Go's newest prototype design and footprint, with the average store spanning approximately 5,000 square feet. Currently, 50 stores in the company's portfolio feature this new design, which includes a number of sustainable and green elements; many are also LEED certified.

"We have moved more toward making sure we deliver sustainability for our stores and customers, and deliver against our brand promise of sustainability," Miller noted.

The chain aims to recycle as many construction materials as possible, and uses white rubber roofs to reflect heat and save energy at its newest stores. The bathroom fixtures use low-flow motion sensors, and the stores incorporate skylights. Additionally, the chain is almost at 100 percent LED lighting in these new locations.

As of press time, five stores were LEED certified, with 27 under review and 19 registered for certification.

"The stores are almost 20 percent more efficient, and 20 percent of the materials used are recycled," Miller said. "Also, more than 20 percent of the material is sourced within 500 miles."