Arco/ampm

Overview: ampm is a prominent convenience store chain in the United States, closely associated with ARCO-branded gasoline stations. The first ampm store was launched in Southern California in 1978 by ARCO, aiming to provide a one-stop destination for fuel and convenience retailing[1][2]. Today, ampm locations are typically co-located with ARCO stations, offering a broad range of products and services to motorists and local communities.

Products: ampm stores offer a wide selection of convenience items, including fresh food (hot dogs, sandwiches, bakery goods), snacks, beverages, coffee, fountain drinks, and proprietary food brands. Many stores feature hot food counters, self-serve beverage stations, and branded products such as "ampm Too Much Good Stuff" snacks. The stores also sell automotive supplies, lottery tickets, and basic groceries, catering to both travelers and local customers[2][6].

Market Position: ampm is a leading player in the convenience retail sector, particularly in the Western United States. With over 1,200 locations as of 2025, ampm maintains a strong presence in California, Oregon, Washington, Arizona, and Nevada[2][6]. The brand is recognized for its value pricing, high-traffic locations, and integration with ARCO fuel stations. ampm competes with other major convenience store chains such as 7-Eleven and Circle K, leveraging its fuel partnership and proprietary food offerings to differentiate itself.

Growth: ampm has experienced steady growth since its inception, expanding through both corporate and franchise models. The brand has benefited from strategic acquisitions and ownership changes, including ARCO's acquisition by BP in 2000 and the subsequent sale of ARCO and ampm assets to Tesoro (now Marathon Petroleum) in 2013[1][2]. Recent years have seen continued expansion into new markets, with new store openings in high-growth areas and ongoing investment in store modernization and foodservice innovation[6][7].

Real Estate: ampm stores are typically located on high-visibility, high-traffic corners, often adjacent to major roadways and intersections. The preferred site format includes a fuel station, convenience store (ranging from 2,500 to 4,000 square feet), ample parking, and easy ingress/egress. Real estate development focuses on urban, suburban, and highway-adjacent sites with strong daytime and residential populations. The company actively seeks new locations and partners for expansion, with dedicated real estate and development teams overseeing site selection, acquisition, and construction[6][7].