C-Store M&A Activity Strong in First Half of 2026
The convenience store (c-store) mergers and acquisitions market has shown robust activity in the first half of 2026, according to a report from Corner Capital Markets. Global M&A deal value reached approximately $1.6 trillion in Q1—the strongest quarter in five years—indicating growing lender participation and improved financial conditions for deals. In the U.S., there were 22 c-store and fuel distribution acquisitions through June 30, 2026, a pace consistent with previous years but showing signs of consolidation by national players like Sunoco and Cumberland Farms. The largest single acquisition in H1 was Sunoco's purchase of Jernigan Oil Company’s 56 Duck-Thru locations. Corner Capital noted that midsize regional c-store operators are increasingly being acquired, reducing the pool of available targets for buyers. The report suggests continued consolidation could lead to significant competitive shifts across multiple markets if financing costs remain stable.
Topics: Corner Capital Market report c-store industry M&A market trends