Ohio Convenience & Fuel Retail Groups Merge in Strategic Move

COLUMBUS, Ohio — The Ohio Petroleum Marketers and Convenience Store Association (OPMCA) and the Ohio Association of Convenience Stores (OACS) are strategically merging together to become Ohio Energy and Convenience Association (OECA).

Officially debuting in January 2022, OECA will continue to deliver superior value to both organizations' members and will build an agile, best-in-class trade association focused on tomorrow's transportation fuels challenges, the association stated.

"We are thrilled the members of OPMCA endorsed the merger with OACS. This monumental merger will allow the industry to speak with a single, unified voice about top priorities in a changing paradigm," said Ryan Howard, chief operating officer, truenorth, and Board Chairman for OPMCA. "Together, we will become a more forceful advocate for Ohio's energy and convenience industry."

The Ohio Energy and Convenience Association will become an affiliate member of the Ohio Council of Retail Merchants, which will be responsible for the day-to-day operations of the association.

"The Ohio Petroleum Marketers and Convenience Store Association and the Ohio Association of Convenience Stores were trailblazers," said Gordon Gough, president and CEO, Ohio Council of Retail Merchants. "Decade after decade, these statewide trade groups distinguished themselves with steadfast advocacy, superior education, and valuable research. The energy and convenience industry are vital to our state's economy and is essential for all Ohioans. The Council is eager to serve this new, forward-looking group."

Jennifer Rhoads, longtime OPMCA president and CEO, will pursue other professional opportunities following the initial merger transition.   

"We pulled together key energy and convenience leaders from across Ohio. We rolled up our sleeves and mapped out a modern organization to promote public policy initiatives that will accelerate long-term industry growth," said Jeff Erb, general manager of Saneholtz-McKarns Inc., president of the OACS Board of Directors and member of the Ohio Council of Retail Merchants Board of Directors. "This new association will have access to the strategic direction and political acumen of the Ohio Council of Retail Merchants and, as a result, will be positioned to become one of the most influential energy and convenience trade associations in the country."