Convenience store merchandise distributor International Wholesale Supply has acquired the direct-to-store delivery division of fellow c-store supplier Mid America Distribution, the companies announced last week.
IWS specializes in full-service merchandising and direct-ship programs for several convenience categories, including e-cigarettes, hemp derivatives and general merchandise products such as cell phone accessories, apparel and sunglasses. Mid America’s assortment includes apparel, electronics, home and outdoor gear, and bulk snacks and beverages.
IWS, which operates in 10 Midwestern states, according to its website, now runs Mid America’s direct-store-delivery divisions from its distribution center and headquarters in St. Louis, according to the announcement. Mid America will keep a corporate office in Dodge Center, Minnesota, and will continue to serve consumers online.
"Mid America presents many growth opportunities, and we are excited to welcome them to the IWS team and into the MMCI Holdings Group of Companies," said Gedas Gudenas, CEO of MMCI Holdings, IWS’s parent company. "We believe this division of Mid America is a great cultural and strategic fit as we continue expanding our service offerings across the Travel Center, Grocery, and Convenience Store markets."
General merchandise is often an overlooked category in convenience as foodservice, beverages and fuel have received most of the industry’s attention in recent years. Experts have said that in order to boost the category, c-store retailers must make their general merchandise aisles visible, offer both unique items as well as everyday essentials, and tap into seasonal products.
Although it’s unclear how President Donald Trump’s tariffs may impact the c-store industry, general merchandise could face exposure due to the array of products in the category produced outside the U.S.
