UNITED STATES SECURITIES AND EXCHANGE COMMISSION 

Washington, D.C. 20549

FORM 10-K

(Mark One)

For the fiscal year ended December 31, 2019

OR

For the transition period from                             to                            

Commission File No. 001-35711

CROSSAMERICA PARTNERS LP

(Exact name of registrant as specified in its charter)

 

Securities registered pursuant to Section 12(b) of the Act:

Securities registered pursuant to Section 12(g) of the Act: None

Indicate by check mark if the registrant is a well-known seasoned issuer, as defined in Rule 405 of the Securities Act. Yes ☐ No ☒

Indicate by check mark if the registrant is not required to file reports pursuant to Section 13 or Section 15(d) of the Act. Yes ☐ No ☒

Indicate by check mark whether the registrant (1) has filed all reports required to be filed by Section 13 or 15(d) of the Securities Exchange Act of 1934 during the preceding 12 months (or for such shorter period that the registrant was required to file such reports), and (2) has been subject to such filing requirements for the past 90 days. Yes ☒ No ☐

Indicate by check mark whether the registrant has submitted electronically every Interactive Data File required to be submitted pursuant to Rule 405 of Regulation S-T (§232.405 of this chapter) during the preceding 12 months (or for such shorter period that the registrant was required to submit such files). Yes ☒ No ☐

Indicate by check mark whether the registrant is a large accelerated filer, an accelerated filer, a non-accelerated filer, a smaller reporting company, or an emerging growth company. See the definitions of “large accelerated filer,” “accelerated filer,” “smaller reporting company,” and “emerging growth company” in Rule 12b-2 of the Exchange Act.

Large accelerated filer ☐  Accelerated filer ☒  Non-accelerated filer ☐  Smaller reporting company ☐  Emerging growth company ☐

If an emerging growth company, indicate by check mark if the registrant has elected not to use the extended transition period for complying with any new or revised financial accounting standards provided pursuant to Section 13(a) of the Exchange Act. ☐

Indicate by check mark whether the registrant is a shell company (as defined in Rule 12b-2 of the Exchange Act). Yes ☐ No ☒

The aggregate market value of our common units based on the closing price on the New York Stock Exchange on June 28, 2019, the last business day of the registrant’s most recently completed second fiscal quarter, held by non-affiliates of the registrant was approximately $309.0 million.

As of February 21, 2020, the registrant had outstanding 37,023,114 common units.

Documents Incorporated by Reference: None.

 

---

 

TABLE OF CONTENTS

 

 

 

 

 

---

 

PART I

COMMONLY USED DEFINED TERMS

 

The following is a list of certain acronyms and terms generally used in the industry and throughout this document:

 

1

---

 

2

---

 

3

---

 

 

4

---

 

CAUTIONARY STATEMENT REGARDING FORWARD-LOOKING STATEMENTS

This report includes forward-looking statements, including in the section entitled “Management’s Discussion and Analysis of Financial Condition and Results of Operations.” Forward-looking statements include the information concerning our possible or assumed future results of operations, business strategies, financing plans, competitive position, credit ratings, distribution growth, potential growth opportunities, potential operating performance improvements, potential improvements in return on capital employed, the effects of competition and the effects of future legislation or regulations. You can identify our forward-looking statements by the words “anticipate,” “estimate,” “believe,” “continue,” “could,” “intend,” “may,” “plan,” “potential,” “predict,” “seek,” “should,” “will,” “would,” “expect,” “objective,” “projection,” “forecast,” “guidance,” “outlook,” “effort,” “target” and similar expressions. Such statements are based on our current plans and expectations and involve risks and uncertainties that could potentially affect actual results. These forward-looking statements include, among other things, statements regarding:

In general, we based the forward-looking statements included in this report on our current expectations, estimates and projections about our company and the industry in which we operate. We caution you that these statements are not guarantees of future performance and involve risks and uncertainties we cannot predict. We anticipate that subsequent events and market developments will cause our estimates to change. In addition, we based many of these forward-looking statements on assumptions about future events that may prove to be inaccurate. Accordingly, our actual outcomes and results may differ materially from what we have expressed or forecasted in the forward-looking statements. Any differences could result from a variety of factors, including the following:

5

---

 

You should consider the areas of risk described above, as well as those set forth in the section entitled “Risk Factors” included in this Form 10-K, in connection with considering any forward-looking statements that may be made by us and our businesses generally. We cannot assure you that anticipated results or events reflected in the forward-looking statements will be achieved or will occur. The forward-looking statements included in this report are made as of the date of this report. We undertake no obligation to publicly release any revisions to any forward-looking statements, to report events or to report the occurrence of unanticipated events after the date of this report.

6

---

 

ITEM 1. BUSINESS

Overview

We were formed as a Delaware limited partnership in 2011 primarily engaged in the wholesale distribution of motor fuel and the ownership and leasing of real estate used in the retail distribution of motor fuel. Through September 2019, we also generated revenues from the operation of company operated retail sites.

On November 19, 2019, subsidiaries of DMP purchased from subsidiaries of Circle K: 1) 100% of the membership interests in the sole member of the General Partner; 2) 100% of the IDRs issued by the Partnership; and 3) an aggregate of 7,486,131 common units of the Partnership. Joseph V. Topper, Jr. is the founder and, since November 19, 2019, chairman of the Board.

Through its control of DMP, the Topper Group controls the sole member of our General Partner and has the ability to appoint all of the members of the Board and to control and manage the operations and activities of the Partnership. As of February 21, 2020, the Topper Group also has beneficial ownership of a 47.7% limited partner interest in the Partnership. 

Our principal executive office address is 600 Hamilton Street, Suite 500, Allentown, PA 18101, and our telephone number is (610) 625-8000. Our common units trade on the NYSE under the ticker symbol “CAPL.”

The financial statements reflect the consolidated results of the Partnership and its wholly owned subsidiaries. Our primary operations are conducted by the following consolidated wholly owned subsidiaries:

 

We conduct our business through two operating segments, Wholesale and Retail. As of December 31, 2019, we distributed motor fuel to approximately 1,300 sites located in 31 states.

Available Information

Our internet website is www.crossamericapartners.com. Information on this website is not part of this Form 10-K. Annual reports on our Form 10-K, quarterly reports on our Form 10-Q and our current reports on Form 8-K filed with (or furnished to) the SEC are available on this website under the “Investor Relations” tab and are free of charge, soon after such material is filed or furnished. In this same location, we also post our corporate governance guidelines, code of ethics and business conduct and the charters of the committees of our Board. These documents are available in print to any unitholder that makes a written request to CrossAmerica Partners L.P. Attn: Corporate Secretary, 600 Hamilton Street, Suite 500, Allentown, Pennsylvania 18101.

Operations

Wholesale Segment

Our primary operation is the wholesale distribution of motor fuel. Our Wholesale segment generated 2019 revenues of $2.0 billion. The wholesale segment includes the wholesale distribution of motor fuel to lessee dealers, independent dealers, commission agents, DMS, Circle K and, through September 2019, company operated retail sites. We have exclusive motor fuel distribution contracts with lessee dealers who lease the property from us. We also have exclusive distribution contracts with independent dealers to distribute motor fuel but do not collect rent from the independent dealers. Similar to lessee dealers, we have motor fuel distribution agreements with DMS and Circle K and collect rent from both.

7

---

 

We are one of the ten largest independent distributors by motor fuel volume in the United States for ExxonMobil, BP and Shell, and we also distribute Chevron, Sunoco, Valero, Gulf, Citgo, Marathon and Phillips 66-branded motor fuels (approximately 82% of the motor fuel we distributed during 2019 was branded). We receive a fixed mark-up per gallon of motor fuel on approximately 82% of gallons sold to our customers. The remaining gallons are primarily DTW priced contracts with our customers. These contracts provide for variable, market-based pricing. An increase in DTW gross profit results from the acquisition cost of wholesale motor fuel declining at a faster rate as compared to the rate that retail motor fuel prices decline. Conversely, our DTW motor fuel gross profit declines when the cost of wholesale motor fuel increases at a faster rate as compared to the rate that retail motor fuel prices increase.

Regarding our supplier relationships, a majority of our total gallons of motor fuel purchased are subject to Terms Discounts for prompt payment and other rebates and incentives, which are recorded within cost of sales. Prompt payment discounts are based on a percentage of the purchase price of motor fuel. As such, the dollar value of these discounts increases and decreases corresponding with motor fuel prices. Therefore, in periods of lower wholesale motor fuel prices, our gross profit is negatively affected, and, in periods of higher wholesale motor fuel prices, our gross profit is positively affected (as it relates to these discounts). Based on our current volumes, we estimate a $10 per barrel change in the price of crude oil would impact our overall annual wholesale motor fuel gross profit by approximately $2 million related to these payment discounts.

The following table highlights the aggregate volume of motor fuel distributed by our Wholesale segment to each of our principal customer groups (in millions):

 

 

Independent Dealer Sites

 

Lessee Dealer Sites

 

8

---

 

DMS Sites

 

Circle K Sites

 

Rental Income

We also generate revenues through leasing or subleasing our real estate. We own or lease real and personal property and we lease or sublease that property to tenants, the substantial majority of which are wholesale customers as described above. As such, we manage our real estate leasing activities congruently with our Wholesale segment. We own approximately 61% of our properties that we lease to our dealers or utilize in our retail business. Our lease agreements with third-party landlords have an average remaining lease term of 5.8 years as of December 31, 2019. Not all of the rental income we earn is a qualifying source of income under Section 7704(d) of the Internal Revenue Code. For example, while Circle K owned our General Partner, rental income from Circle K was not qualifying income. Rental income from DMS is qualifying income because the Topper Group owns less than 10% of DMS.

The following table presents rental income (in millions), including rental income from commission agents that is included in the Retail segment, and the number of sites from which rental income was generated:

 

CST Fuel Supply

In 2015, we purchased a 17.5% limited partner interest in CST Fuel Supply. We receive pro rata distributions from CST Fuel Supply related to CST Marketing and Supply’s distribution of motor fuel to the majority of CST’s legacy U.S. retail sites.

See “Item 7. Management’s Discussion and Analysis of Financial Condition and Results of Operations—Recent Developments” for a discussion of the CST Fuel Supply Exchange.

9

---

 

Retail Segment

Our Retail segment generated 2019 revenues of $456 million. The Retail segment includes the retail sale of motor fuel at retail sites operated by commission agents and through September 2019, the sale of convenience merchandise items and the retail sale of motor fuel at company operated retail sites.

Subsequent to an acquisition, we evaluate the eventual long-term operation of each retail site acquired: (a) to be converted into a lessee dealer; (b) to be operated as a company operated retail site; or (c) other strategic alternatives, including selling the site. By converting retail sites into lessee dealers, we continue to benefit from motor fuel distribution volumes as well as rental income from lease or sublease arrangements while reducing operating expenses.

In June 2019, we entered into master fuel supply and master lease agreements with Applegreen. During the third quarter of 2019, we dealerized 46 company operated Upper Midwest sites.

As a result, we have not had any company operated sites since September 30, 2019. See “Item 7. Management’s Discussion and Analysis of Financial Condition and Results of Operations—Recent Developments” for discussion of the Partnership entering into an agreement to acquire retail and wholesale assets from the Topper Group and certain other parties by the end of the second quarter of 2020.

Commission Sites

 

Company Operated Sites

 

10

---

 

The following chart depicts how motor fuel is procured and distributed to our customer groups and how convenience merchandise items were procured and distributed to our company operated retail sites. The chart also depicts the relationship of our real estate activities to our customer groups.

 

Recent Developments

See “Item 7. Management’s Discussion and Analysis of Financial Condition and Results of Operations—Recent Developments” for a discussion of completed and anticipated transactions affecting our business in 2020 and forward.

Business Strategy and Objective

Our primary business objective is to generate sufficient cash flows from operations to make quarterly cash distributions to our unitholders and, over time, to increase our quarterly cash distributions. The amount of any distribution is subject to the discretion of the Board, and the Board may modify or revoke the cash distribution policy at any time. Our Partnership Agreement does not require us to pay any distributions.

Our business strategy to achieve our objective of paying and, over time, increasing our quarterly cash distributions, is focused on the following key initiatives:

 

11

---

 

We believe our competitive strengths will allow us to capitalize on our strategic opportunities, including:

 

Supplier Arrangements

We distribute Branded Motor Fuel under the Exxon, Mobil, BP, Shell, Chevron, Sunoco, Valero, Gulf, Citgo, Marathon and Phillips 66 brands to our customers. Branded Motor Fuels are purchased directly or indirectly through Circle K from major integrated oil companies and refiners under supply agreements. For 2019, our Wholesale segment purchased approximately 26%, 22%, 15% and 12% of its motor fuel from ExxonMobil, BP, Circle K and Motiva, respectively. We generally purchase the motor fuel at the supplier’s applicable terminal rack price, which typically changes daily. Certain suppliers offer volume rebates or incentive payments to drive volumes and provide an incentive for branding new locations. Certain suppliers require that all or a portion of any such incentive payments be repaid to the supplier in the event that the sites are rebranded within a stated number of years. We also purchase unbranded motor fuel for distribution at a rack price. As of December 31, 2019, our supply agreements had a weighted-average remaining term of approximately 6.1 years.

From the time of the November 2017 Jet-Pep Assets acquisition through October 31, 2018, we purchased motor fuel for our Jet-Pep Assets from Circle K at Circle K’s cost plus terminal and administration fees of $0.015 per gallon. Circle K’s cost to supply these sites included price fluctuations associated with index-based motor fuel pricing for pipeline delivery and the generation and sale of RINs. Effective November 1, 2018, we amended our contract with Circle K such that our cost is based on a rack-based price, which reduces our exposure to price fluctuations inherent in the previous pricing methodology. We completed the upgrades of dispensers and the rebranding of substantially all these sites to a major fuel supplier in the third quarter of 2019 and anticipate continuing to see a positive impact on volume and fuel margin.

Competition

Our Wholesale segment competes with other motor fuel distributors. Major competitive factors for us include, among others, customer service, price and quality of service and availability of products.

The convenience store industry is highly competitive and characterized by ease of entry and constant change in the number and type of retailers offering products and services of the type we sold in our retail sites. We compete with other retail site chains, independently owned retail sites, motor fuel stations, supermarkets, drugstores, discount stores, dollar stores, club stores and hypermarkets. Major competitive factors include, among others, location, ease of access, product and service selection, motor fuel brands, pricing, customer service, store appearance, and cleanliness.

Seasonality

Our business exhibits substantial seasonality due to our wholesale and retail sites being located in certain geographic areas that are affected by seasonal weather and temperature trends and associated changes in retail customer activity during different seasons. Historically, sales volumes have been highest in the second and third quarters (during the summer activity months) and lowest during the winter months in the first and fourth quarters.

Trade Names, Service Marks and Trademarks

We are a wholesale distributor of motor fuel for various major integrated oil companies and are licensed to market/resell motor fuel under their respective motor fuel brands.

We are not aware of any facts that would negatively affect our continuing use of any trademarks, trade names or service marks.

12

---

 

Environmental Laws and Regulations

We are subject to extensive federal, state and local environmental laws and regulations, including those relating to USTs, the release or discharge of materials into the air, water and soil, waste management, pollution prevention measures, storage, handling, use and disposal of hazardous materials, the exposure of persons to hazardous materials, greenhouse gas emissions, and characteristics, composition, storage and sale of motor fuel and the health and safety of our employees. We incorporate by reference into this section our disclosures included in Note 2 under the captions “Environmental Matters” and “Asset Retirement Obligations” and Note 10 under the caption “Asset Retirement Obligations” to the financial statements.

Other Regulatory Matters

Our retail sites were subject to regulation by federal, state, and/or local agencies and to licensing and regulations by state and local health, sanitation, safety, fire and other departments relating to the development and operation of retail sites, including regulations relating to zoning and building requirements and the preparation and sale of food.

Our retail sites were also subject to federal, state and/or local laws governing such matters as wage rates, overtime, working conditions and citizenship requirements. At the federal, state and local levels, there are proposals under consideration from time to time to increase minimum wage rates and modify or restrict immigration policies.

Employees

The General Partner manages our operations and activities, Under the Transitional Omnibus Agreement, employees of Circle K provided management services to us through December 31, 2019. As of December 31, 2019, pursuant to the Circle K Omnibus Agreement, 104 employees of Circle K provided substantial management services to us.

On January 1, 2020, certain employees of Circle K became employees of the Topper Group, and together with existing employees of the Topper Group, have provided similar services to the Partnership under the Topper Group Omnibus Agreement.

 

ITEM 1A. RISK FACTORS

If any of the following risks were to occur, our business, financial condition or results of operations could be materially and adversely affected. In that case, we might not be able to pay distributions on our common units, the trading price of our common units could decline and you could lose all or part of your investment. Also, please read “Cautionary Statement Regarding Forward-Looking Statements.”

Limited partner interests are inherently different from the capital stock of a corporation although many of the business risks to which we are subject are similar to those that would be faced by a corporation engaged in a similar business.

Risks Relating to Our Industry and Our Business

We may not have sufficient distributable cash from operations to enable us to pay our quarterly distribution following the establishment of cash available for distribution and payment of fees and expenses.

We may not have sufficient cash each quarter to pay quarterly distribution at current levels or at all.

The amount of cash we can distribute on our common units principally depends upon the amount of cash we generate from our operations, which will fluctuate from quarter to quarter based on, among other things:

13

---

 

In addition, the actual amount of cash we will have available for distribution will depend on other factors such as:

Incurring additional debt may significantly increase our interest expense and financial leverage and issuing additional limited partner interests may result in significant unitholder dilution and would increase the aggregate amount of cash required to maintain the cash distribution rate which could materially decrease our ability to pay distributions. Consequently, there is no guarantee that we will distribute quarterly cash distributions to our unitholders in any quarter.

The amount of cash we have available for distribution to unitholders depends primarily on our cash flow rather than on our profitability, which may prevent us from making cash distributions, even during periods when we record net income.

The amount of cash we have available for distribution depends primarily on our cash flow, and not solely on profitability, which will be affected by non-cash items. As a result, we may make cash distributions during periods when we record losses for financial accounting purposes and may not make cash distributions during periods when we record net income for financial accounting purposes.

If we are unable to make acquisitions on economically acceptable terms, our future growth and ability to increase distributions to unitholders will be limited.

Our strategy to grow our business and increase distributions to unitholders is dependent on our ability to make acquisitions that result in an increase in cash flow. Our growth strategy is based, in large part, on our expectation of ongoing divestitures of retail and wholesale fuel distribution assets by industry participants. We may be unable to make accretive acquisitions for any of the following reasons:

If we are unable to make acquisitions on economically acceptable terms, our future growth and ability to increase distributions to unitholders will be limited. In addition, if we consummate any future acquisitions, our capitalization and results of operations may change significantly. We may also consummate acquisitions, which at the time of consummation we believe will be accretive, but ultimately may not be accretive and may in fact result in a decrease in distributable cash flow per unit as a result of incorrect assumptions in our evaluation of such acquisitions, unforeseen consequences, or other external events beyond our control. If any of these events occurred, our future growth could be adversely affected.

14

---

 

Any acquisitions are subject to substantial risks that could adversely affect our business, financial condition and results of operations and reduce our ability to make distributions to unitholders.

Any acquisitions involve potential risks, including, among other things:

In addition, our ability to purchase or lease additional sites involves certain potential risks, including the inability to identify and acquire suitable sites or to negotiate acceptable leases or subleases for such sites and difficulties in adapting our distribution and other operational and management systems to an expanded network of sites.

Our reviews of businesses or assets proposed to be acquired are inherently imperfect because it generally is not practicable to perform a perfect review of businesses and assets involved in each acquisition. Even a detailed review of assets and businesses may not necessarily reveal existing or potential problems, nor will it permit a buyer to become sufficiently familiar with the assets or businesses to fully assess their deficiencies and potential. For example, inspections may not always be performed on every asset, and environmental problems, such as groundwater contamination, are not necessarily observable even when an inspection is undertaken. Unitholders will not have the opportunity to evaluate the economic, financial and other relevant information that we will consider in determining the application of our funds and other resources toward the acquisition of certain businesses or assets.

15

---

 

Volatility in crude oil and wholesale motor fuel costs affect our business, financial condition and results of operations and our ability to make distributions to unitholders.

For 2019, motor fuel revenues accounted for 93% of our total revenues and motor fuel gross profit accounted for 50% of total gross profit. Wholesale motor fuel costs are directly related to, and fluctuate with, the price of crude oil. Volatility in the price of crude oil, and subsequently wholesale motor fuel prices, is caused by many factors, including general political, regulatory and economic conditions, acts of war, terrorism or armed conflict, instability in oil producing regions, particularly in the Middle East and South America, and the value of U.S. dollars relative to other foreign currencies, particularly those of oil producing nations. In addition, the supply of motor fuel and our wholesale purchase costs could be adversely affected in the event of a shortage or oversupply of product, which could result from, among other things, interruptions of fuel production at oil refineries, new supply sources, sustained increases or decreases in global demand or the fact that our motor fuel contracts do not guarantee an uninterrupted, unlimited supply of motor fuel.

Significant increases and volatility in wholesale motor fuel costs could result in lower gross profit dollars, as an increase in the retail price of motor fuel could impact consumer demand for motor fuel and convenience merchandise and could result in lower wholesale motor fuel gross profit dollars. Dramatic increases in oil prices reduce retail motor fuel gross profits because wholesale motor fuel costs typically increase faster than retailers are able to pass them along to customers. In addition, significant decreases in oil prices and the corresponding decreases in wholesale motor fuel sales prices can result in lower revenues and gross profit margins, as our wholesale motor fuel gross profits include discounts from our suppliers calculated as a percentage of the cost of wholesale motor fuel. As the market prices of crude oil, and, correspondingly, the market prices of wholesale motor fuel, experience significant and rapid fluctuations, we attempt to pass along wholesale motor fuel price changes to our customers through retail price changes; however, we are not always able to do so immediately. The timing of any related increase or decrease in sales prices is affected by competitive conditions in each geographic market in which we operate. As such, our revenues and gross profit for motor fuel can increase or decrease significantly and rapidly over short periods of time and potentially adversely impact our business, financial condition, results of operations and ability to make distributions to our unitholders. The volatility in crude oil and wholesale motor fuel costs and sales prices makes it extremely difficult to forecast future motor fuel gross profits or predict the effect that future wholesale costs and sales price fluctuations will have on our operating results and financial condition.

Seasonality in wholesale motor fuel costs and sales, as well as merchandise sales, affect our business, financial condition and results of operations and our ability to make distributions to unitholders.

Oil prices, wholesale motor fuel costs, motor fuel sales volumes, motor fuel gross profits and merchandise sales often experience seasonal fluctuations. For example, consumer demand for motor fuel typically increases during the summer driving season and typically falls during the winter months. Travel, recreation and construction are typically higher in these months in the geographic areas in which we operate, increasing the demand for motor fuel and merchandise that we sell. Therefore, our revenues are typically higher in the second and third quarters of our fiscal year. A significant change in any of these factors, including a significant decrease in consumer demand (other than typical seasonal variations), could materially affect our motor fuel and merchandise volumes, motor fuel gross profit and overall customer traffic, which in turn could have a material adverse effect on our business, financial condition, results of operations and cash available for distribution to our unitholders.

The failure to complete our acquisition of certain retail and wholesale assets from the Topper Group and certain other parties in a timely manner or at all could negatively impact the trading price of our common units and have an adverse effect on our business, financial condition, results of operations and cash available for distribution to our unitholders.

In January 2020, in connection with the Partnership’s strategic decision to reestablish retail capability, the Partnership entered into an asset purchase agreement with the Topper Group and certain other parties to acquire certain retail and wholesale assets (the “Retail Acquisition”). The Retail Acquisition is expected to close prior to the end of the second quarter of 2020 and is subject to customary closing conditions.

Although reestablishing a retail capability is expected to provide us with the strategic flexibility to maximize the value of all of our assets and pursue a greater variety of acquisitions, there can be no assurance that we will realize the expected benefits or strategic objectives of the Retail Acquisition, even if the Retail Acquisition is consummated as planned.

A failure to complete the Retail Acquisition may result in negative publicity, negative impressions of us in the financial markets and investment community and negative responses from customers, partners and other third parties. There can be no assurance that our business, financial condition, results of operations and cash available for distribution to our unitholders will not be adversely affected, as compared to our condition prior to the announcement of the Retail Acquisition, if the Retail Acquisition is not consummated.

16

---

 

Both the wholesale motor fuel distribution and the retail motor fuel industries are characterized by intense competition and fragmentation, and our failure to effectively compete could adversely affect our business, financial condition and results of operations and reduce our ability to make distributions to unitholders.

The markets for distribution of wholesale motor fuel and the sale of retail motor fuel are highly competitive and fragmented, which results in narrow margins. We have numerous competitors, and some may have significantly greater resources and name recognition than we do. We rely on our ability to provide value added reliable services and to control our operating costs to maintain our margins and competitive position. If we were to fail to maintain the quality of our services, any or all of our wholesale customers could choose alternative distribution sources and expected retail customers could purchase from other retailers, each decreasing our margins. Furthermore, there can be no assurance that major integrated oil companies will not decide to distribute their own products in direct competition with us or that large wholesale customers will not attempt to buy directly from the major integrated oil companies. The occurrence of any of these events could have a material adverse effect on our business, results of operations and our ability to make distributions to our unitholders.

Changes in credit or debit card expenses could reduce our gross profit, especially on motor fuel sold at company-operated retail sites.

We expect a significant portion of sales at our company-operated retail sites will involve payment using credit or debit cards. We expect to be assessed fees as a percentage of transaction amounts and not as a fixed dollar amount or percentage of our gross profits. Higher motor fuel prices result in higher credit and debit card expenses, and an increase in credit or debit card use or an increase in fees would have a similar effect. Therefore, credit and debit card fees charged on motor fuel purchases that are more expensive as a result of higher motor fuel prices are not necessarily accompanied by higher gross profits. In fact, such fees may cause lower gross profits. Lower gross profits on motor fuel sales caused by higher fees may decrease our overall gross profit and could have a material adverse effect on our business, financial condition, results of operations and cash available for distribution to our unitholders.

New entrants or increased competition in the convenience store industry could result in reduced gross profits.

Upon consummation of the Retail Acquisition, we expect to compete with numerous other convenience store chains, independent convenience stores, supermarkets, drugstores, discount warehouse clubs, motor fuel service stations, mass merchants, fast food operations and other similar retail outlets. Several non-traditional retailers, including supermarkets and club stores, compete directly with convenience stores.

General economic, financial and political conditions that are largely out of our control could adversely affect our business, financial condition and results of operations and reduce our ability to make distributions to unitholders.

Recessionary economic conditions, higher interest rates, higher motor fuel and other energy costs, inflation, increases in commodity prices, higher levels of unemployment, higher consumer debt levels, higher tax rates and other changes in tax laws or other economic factors may affect consumer spending or buying habits, and could adversely affect the demand for motor fuel and convenience items we will sell at our retail sites. Unfavorable economic conditions, higher motor fuel prices and unemployment levels can affect consumer confidence, spending patterns and miles driven, with many customers “trading down” to lower priced products in certain categories when unfavorable conditions exist. These factors can lead to sales declines in both motor fuel and general merchandise, and in turn have an adverse impact on our business, financial condition and results of operations.

A tightening of credit in the financial markets or an increase in interest rates may make it more difficult for wholesale customers and suppliers to obtain financing and, depending on the degree to which it occurs, there may be a material increase in the nonpayment or other nonperformance by our customers and suppliers. Even if our credit review and analysis mechanisms work properly, we may experience financial losses in our dealings with these third parties. A material increase in the nonpayment or other nonperformance by our wholesale customers and/or suppliers could adversely affect our business, financial condition, results of operations and cash available for distribution to our unitholders.

Examples of other general economic, financial and political conditions could include:

17

---

 

The nature of these types of risks, which are often unpredictable, makes them difficult to plan for, or otherwise mitigate, and they are generally uninsurable, which compounds their potential impact on our business.

Terrorist attacks and threatened or actual war or armed conflict may adversely affect our business.

Our business is affected by general economic conditions and fluctuations in consumer confidence and spending, which can decline as a result of numerous factors outside of our control. Terrorist attacks or threats, whether within the United States or abroad, rumors or threats of war, actual conflicts involving the United States or its allies, or military or trade disruptions impacting our suppliers or our customers may adversely impact our operations. Specifically, strategic targets such as energy related assets may be at greater risk of future terrorist attacks than other targets in the United States. These occurrences could have an adverse impact on energy prices, including prices for motor fuels, and an adverse impact on our operations. Any or a combination of these occurrences could have a material adverse effect on our business, financial condition, results of operations and cash available for distribution to our unitholders.

Changes in consumer behavior and travel as a result of changing economic conditions, labor strikes or otherwise could adversely affect our business, financial condition and results of operations and reduce our ability to make distributions to unitholders.

In the retail motor fuel industry, customer traffic is generally driven by consumer preferences and spending trends, growth rates for commercial truck traffic and trends in travel and weather. Changes in economic conditions generally, or in the regions in which we operate, could adversely affect consumer spending patterns and travel in our markets. In particular, weakening economic conditions may result in decreases in miles driven and discretionary consumer spending and travel, which affect spending on motor fuel and convenience items. In addition, changes in the types of products and services demanded by consumers or labor strikes in the construction industry or other industries that employ customers who visit retail sites, may adversely affect our sales and gross profit. Additionally, negative publicity or perception surrounding motor fuel suppliers could adversely affect reputation and brand image, which may negatively affect our motor fuel sales and gross profit. Similarly, advanced technology and increased use of hybrid cars or cars using alternative fuels would reduce demand for motor fuel. Our success depends on our ability to anticipate and respond in a timely manner to changing consumer demands and preferences while continuing to sell products and services that remain relevant to the consumer and thus generally have a positive impact overall merchandise gross profit.

We will be subject to extensive government laws and regulations concerning store merchandise items and operations upon consummation of the Retail Acquisition, and the cost of compliance with such laws and regulations can be material.

Our business and properties will be subject to extensive local, state and federal governmental laws and regulations relating to, among other things, the sale of alcohol, tobacco and money orders, and public accessibility requirements. The cost of compliance with these laws and regulations can have a material adverse effect on our operating results and financial condition. In addition, failure to comply with local, state, provincial and federal laws and regulations to which our operations will be subject may result in penalties and costs that could adversely affect our business and our operating results.

In certain areas where our retail sites will be located, state or local laws limit the retail sites’ hours of operation or their sale of alcoholic beverages, tobacco products, possible inhalants and lottery tickets, in particular to minors. Failure to comply with these laws could adversely affect our revenues and results of operations because these state and local regulatory agencies have the power to revoke, suspend or deny applications for and renewals of permits and licenses relating to the sale of these products or to seek other remedies, such as the imposition of fines or other penalties. Moreover, these laws may impact our sales volumes in general, as customers who purchase certain products such as alcoholic beverages typically buy other products when they shop. Laws that curtail the consumer’s ability to buy certain products at our retail sites may curtail consumer demand for other products that we sell.

We are subject to extensive government laws and regulations concerning our employees, and the cost of compliance with such laws and regulations can be material.

Regulations related to wages and other compensation affect our business. Any appreciable increase in applicable employment laws and regulations, including the statutory minimum wage, exemption levels or overtime regulations could result in an increase in labor costs and such cost increase, or the penalties for failing to comply with such statutory minimums, could adversely affect our business, financial condition, results of operations and cash available for distribution to our unitholders.

18

---

 

Further, the Patient Protection and Affordable Care Act and related reforms make and will continue to make sweeping and fundamental changes to the U.S. health care system. This law requires us to provide additional health insurance benefits to the employees providing services to us, or health insurance coverage to additional employees, and as a result may increase our costs and expenses. In addition, we are directly and indirectly affected by new tax legislation and regulation and the interpretation of tax laws and regulations. This includes potential changes in tax laws or the interpretation of tax laws relating to incentive compensation such as profit interests. Changes in such legislation, regulation or interpretation could have an adverse effect on our incentive compensation structures, which could affect our ability to recruit, develop and retain talented executives and could have a material adverse effect on our business, financial condition, results of operations and cash available for distribution to our unitholders.

Any changes in the employment, benefit plan, tax or labor laws or regulations described above or new regulations proposed from time to time, could have a material adverse effect on our employment practices, our business, financial condition, results of operations and cash available for distribution to our unitholders.

We are subject to extensive federal, state and local environmental laws, and the cost of complying with such laws may be material.

Our operations are subject to a variety of environmental laws and regulations, including those relating to emissions to the air (such as the federal Clean Air Act), discharges into water (such as the federal Clean Water Act), releases of hazardous and toxic substances and remediation of contaminated sites (such as the Comprehensive Environmental Response Compensation and Liability Act of 1980 (“CERCLA”)), and similar state and local laws and regulations.

Under CERCLA, we may, as the owner or operator, be liable for the costs of removal or remediation of contamination at our current locations or our former locations, whether or not we knew of, or were responsible for, the presence of such contamination. In particular, as an owner of motor fueling stations, and expected operator of such stations, we face risks relating to petroleum product contamination that other retail site operators not engaged in such activities would not face. The remediation costs and other costs required to clean up or treat contaminated sites could be substantial. Contamination on and from our current, former or anticipated locations may subject us to liability to third parties or governmental authorities for injuries to persons, property or natural resources and may adversely affect our ability to sell or rent our properties or to borrow money using such properties as collateral.

CERCLA also provides that persons who dispose of or arrange for the disposal or treatment of hazardous or toxic substances at third-party sites may also be liable for the costs of removal or remediation of such substances at these disposal sites although such sites are not owned by such persons. Our historic and anticipated operation of many locations and the disposal of contaminated soil and groundwater wastes generated during cleanups of contamination at such locations could expose us to such liability.

Pursuant to the Resource Conservation and Recovery Act of 1976, as amended, the EPA has established a comprehensive regulatory program for the detection, prevention, investigation and cleanup of leaking underground storage tanks. State or local agencies are often delegated the responsibility for implementing the federal program or developing and implementing equivalent state or local regulations. Compliance with existing and future environmental laws regulating such tanks and systems may require significant expenditures. We pay fees to state “leaking UST” trust funds in states where they exist. These state trust funds are expected to pay or reimburse us for remediation expenses related to contamination associated with USTs subject to their jurisdiction. Such payments are always subject to a deductible paid by us, specified per incident caps and specified maximum annual payments, which vary among the funds.

Additionally, such funds may have eligibility requirements that not all of our current or anticipated sites will meet. To the extent state funds or other responsible parties do not pay or delay payments for remediation, we will be obligated to make these payments, which, in the aggregate, could have a material adverse effect on our business, financial condition, results of operations and cash available for distribution to our unitholders. We can give no assurance that these funds or responsible third parties are or will continue to remain viable.

Motor fuel operations present risks of soil and groundwater contamination. In the future, we may incur substantial expenditures for remediation of contamination that has not been discovered at locations which we may acquire. We regularly monitor our facilities for environmental contamination and record liabilities on our financial statements to cover potential environmental remediation and compliance costs when probable to occur and reasonably estimable. However, we can make no assurance that the liabilities we have recorded are the only environmental liabilities relating to our current and former locations, that material environmental conditions not known to us do not exist, that future laws or regulations will not impose material environmental liability on us or that our actual environmental liabilities will not exceed our reserves. In addition, failure to comply with any environmental regulations, including the Clean Air Act, the Clean Water Act or CERCLA, or an increase in regulations could have a material adverse effect on our business, financial condition, results of operations and cash available for distribution to our unitholders.

19

---

 

Laws, regulations, technological, political and scientific developments regarding climate change and fuel efficiency may decrease demand for motor fuel.

Developments aimed at reducing greenhouse gas emissions’ contribution to climate change may decrease the demand or increase the cost for our major product, petroleum-based motor fuel. Attitudes toward this product and its relationship to the environment may significantly affect our effectiveness in marketing our product and sales. Government efforts to steer the public toward non-petroleum-based fuel dependent modes of transportation may foster a negative perception toward motor fuel or increase costs for our product, thus affecting the public’s attitude toward our primary product. New technologies that increase fuel efficiency or offer alternative vehicle power sources or laws or regulations to increase fuel efficiency, reduce consumption or offer alternative vehicle power sources may result in decreased demand for petroleum-based motor fuel. A number of new legal incentives, regulatory requirements and executive initiatives, including the Clean Power Plan (“CPP”), the Affordable Clean Energy (“ACE”) rule that the Environmental Protection Agency (the “EPA”) has proposed to replace the CPP, and various government subsidies such as the extension of certain tax credits for renewable energy, have made these alternative forms of energy more competitive. We may also incur increased costs for our product, which we may not be able to pass along to our customers. These developments could potentially have a material adverse effect on our business, financial condition, results of operations and cash available for distribution to our unitholders.

Changes in U.S. trade policy, including the imposition of tariffs and the resulting consequences, may have a material adverse impact on our business, operating results and financial condition.

 

The U.S. government has indicated its intent to adopt a new approach to trade policy and in some cases to renegotiate, or potentially terminate, certain existing bilateral or multi-lateral trade agreements. For example, the U.S. government reached a new trade agreement with the Canadian and Mexican governments to replace the North America Free Trade Agreement (“NAFTA”) with the United States-Mexico-Canada Agreement (“USMCA”).

 

The U.S. has also initiated tariffs on certain foreign goods and has raised the possibility of imposing significant, additional tariff increases or expanding the tariffs to capture other types of goods. In response, certain foreign governments have imposed retaliatory tariffs on goods that their countries import from the U.S. Changes in U.S. trade policy could result in one or more foreign governments adopting responsive trade policies that make it more difficult or costly for us to do business in or import our products from those countries. This in turn could require us to increase prices to our customers, which may reduce demand, or, if we are unable to increase prices, result in lowering our margin on products sold.

 

We cannot predict the extent to which the U.S. or other countries will impose quotas, duties, tariffs, taxes or other similar restrictions upon the import or export of our products in the future, nor can we predict future trade policy or the terms of any renegotiated trade agreements and their impact on our business. The adoption and expansion of trade restrictions, the occurrence of a trade war, or other governmental action related to tariffs or trade agreements or policies has the potential to adversely impact demand for our products, our costs, our customers, our suppliers, and the U.S. economy, which in turn could have a material adverse effect on our business, operating results and financial condition.

Unfavorable weather conditions could adversely affect our business, financial condition and results of operations and reduce our ability to make distributions to unitholders.

Upon consummation of the Retail Acquisition, our retail sites will be located in regions throughout the U.S. that are susceptible to certain severe weather events, such as hurricanes, flooding, severe thunderstorms, snowstorms, tornadoes and extreme heat and cold. Inclement weather conditions could damage our facilities, our suppliers or could have a significant impact on consumer behavior, travel and retail site traffic patterns as well as our ability to operate our retail sites. We could also be affected by regional occurrences, such as energy shortages or increases in energy prices, fires or other natural disasters. Besides these more obvious consequences of severe weather, our ability to insure these locations and the related cost of such insurance could have a material adverse effect on our business, financial condition, results of operations and cash available for distribution to our unitholders.

 

Additionally, many studies have discussed the relationship between GHG emissions and climate change. One consequence of climate change noted in many of these reports is the increased severity of extreme weather, such as increased hurricanes and floods. Such events could adversely affect our operations through water damage, powerful winds or increased costs for insurance. Climate change also continues to attract considerable public and scientific attention. Recently, litigation has been filed against companies in the energy industry related to climate change. Should such suits succeed, we could face additional compliance costs or litigation risks.

20

---

 

We could be adversely affected if we are not able to attract and retain a strong management team.

We are dependent on our ability to attract and retain a strong management team. If, for any reason, we are not able to attract and retain qualified senior personnel, our business, financial condition, results of operations and cash flows could be adversely affected. We also are dependent on our ability to recruit qualified retail site and field managers. Failure to attract and retain these individuals at reasonable compensation levels could have a material adverse effect on our business, financial condition, results of operations and cash available for distribution to our unitholders.

We depend on four principal suppliers for the majority of our motor fuel. A disruption in supply or a change in our relationship with any one of them could adversely affect our business, financial condition and results of operations and reduce our ability to make distributions to unitholders.

ExxonMobil, BP, Circle K and Motiva collectively supplied approximately 75% of our motor fuel purchases in 2019. We purchased approximately 26%, 22%, 15% and 12% of our motor fuel from ExxonMobil, BP, Circle K and Motiva, respectively. A change of motor fuel suppliers, a disruption in supply or a significant change in pricing with any of these suppliers could have a material adverse effect on our business, financial condition, results of operations and cash available for distribution to our unitholders.

Negative events or developments associated with our branded suppliers could have an adverse impact on our revenues.

We believe that the success of our operations is dependent, in part, on the continuing favorable reputation, market value, and name recognition associated with the Branded Motor Fuel sold through our Wholesale Segment and Retail Segment. Erosion of the value of those brands could have an adverse impact on the volumes of motor fuel we distribute, which in turn could have a material adverse effect on our business, financial condition, results of operations and ability to make distributions to our unitholders.

We rely on our suppliers to provide trade credit terms to adequately fund our ongoing operations.

Our business is impacted by the availability of trade credit to fund motor fuel purchases and inventory purchases of our retail sites. An actual or perceived downgrade in our liquidity or operations could cause our suppliers to seek credit support in the form of additional collateral, limit the extension of trade credit or otherwise materially modify their payment terms. Any material changes in the payments terms, including payment discounts, or availability of trade credit provided by our principal suppliers could have a material adverse effect on our business, financial condition, results of operations and cash available for distribution to our unitholders.

We could be adversely affected by the creditworthiness and performance of our customers, supplies and contract counterparties.

We are exposed to risk related to the creditworthiness and performance of our customers, suppliers and contract counterparties. As of December 31, 2019, we had outstanding accounts receivable totaling $36.5 million. This amount primarily consisted of vendor rebates due from our suppliers, credit card receivables, receivables arising from the sale of fuel and other products to independent franchised or licensed fuel station operators as well as amounts receivable from other industrial and commercial clients. Contracts with longer payment cycles or difficulties in enforcing contracts or collecting accounts receivable could lead to material fluctuations in our cash flows and could adversely impact our business, financial condition and results of operations.

Given the number and significance of the agreements in which Circle K is our counterparty, we could be adversely affected if Circle K were not to perform or cause delay in closing the remaining asset exchange transactions or CST Fuel Supply Exchange.

21

---

 

Pending or future litigation could adversely affect our financial condition and results of operations. Litigation and publicity concerning motor fuel or food quality, health and other issues could result in significant liabilities or litigation costs and cause consumers to avoid our retail sites.

Retail site businesses can be adversely affected by litigation and complaints from customers or government agencies resulting from motor fuel or food quality, illness or other health or environmental concerns or operating issues stemming from one or more locations. Additionally, we may become a party to litigation pertaining to individual personal injury, off-specification motor fuel, products liability, consumer protection laws, contract disputes, wage and hour unemployment claims and other legal actions in the ordinary course of our business and we are occasionally exposed to industry-wide or class-action claims arising from the products we carry or industry-specific business practices. Adverse publicity about these allegations may negatively affect us, regardless of whether the allegations are true, by discouraging customers from purchasing motor fuel, merchandise or food at one or more of our retail sites. We could also incur significant liabilities if a lawsuit or claim results in a decision against us. Even if we are successful in defending such litigation, our litigation costs could be significant, and the litigation may divert time and money away from our operations and adversely affect our performance. Our defense costs and any resulting damage awards may not be fully covered by our insurance policies.

The dangers inherent in the storage and transport of motor fuel could cause disruptions and could expose us to potentially significant losses, costs or liabilities.

We store motor fuel in storage tanks at our retail sites. These operations are subject to significant hazards and risks inherent in storing and transporting motor fuel. These hazards and risks include, but are not limited to, fires, explosions, traffic accidents, spills, discharges and other releases, any of which could result in distribution difficulties and disruptions, environmental pollution, governmentally imposed fines or cleanup obligations, personal injury or wrongful death claims and other damage to our properties and the properties of others. Any such event could have a material adverse effect on our business, financial condition, results of operations and cash available for distribution to our unitholders.

We depend on third-party transportation providers for the transportation of all of our motor fuel. Thus, a change or shortage of providers or a significant change in our relationship or commercial terms with any of these providers could adversely affect our business, financial condition and results of operations and reduce our ability to make distributions to unitholders.

All of the motor fuel we distribute is transported from motor fuel terminals to gas stations by third-party carriers. A change or shortage of transportation providers, a disruption in service or a significant change in our relationship or commercial terms with any of these transportation carriers could have a material adverse effect on our business, financial condition, results of operations and cash available for distribution to our unitholders.

We are subject to federal, state and local laws and regulations that govern the product quality specifications of the motor fuel that we distribute and sell.

Various federal, state and local agencies have the authority to prescribe specific product quality specifications to the sale of commodities. Changes in product quality specifications, such as reformulated fuels mandates, reduced sulfur content in refined petroleum products or other more stringent requirements for fuels, could reduce our ability to procure products and result in a decrease to our sales volume, require us to incur additional handling costs, and/or require the expenditure of capital. If we are unable to procure product or recover these costs through increased sales, our ability to meet our financial obligations could be adversely affected. Failure to comply with these regulations could result in substantial penalties.

Our motor fuel sales in our Wholesale segment are generated under contracts that must be renegotiated or replaced periodically. If we are unable to successfully renegotiate or replace these contracts, then our business, financial condition and results of operations and ability to make distributions to unitholders could be adversely affected.

Our Wholesale segment’s motor fuel sales are generated under contracts that must be periodically renegotiated or replaced. We may be unable to renegotiate or replace these contracts when they expire, and the terms of any renegotiated contracts may not be as favorable as the contracts they replace. Whether these contracts are successfully renegotiated or replaced is often times subject to factors beyond our control. Such factors include fluctuations in motor fuel prices, counterparty ability to pay for or accept the contracted volumes and a competitive marketplace for the services offered by us. If we cannot successfully renegotiate or replace our contracts or must renegotiate or replace them on less favorable terms, sales from these arrangements could decline, which could have a material adverse effect on our business, financial condition, results of operations and cash available for distribution to our unitholders.

22

---

 

Further, we have contracts with certain multi-site lessee dealers, including Applegreen, that provide for the ability for each party to sever or recapture a certain number of sites from the contract. If sites are severed, we will seek to replace the dealer, but it is possible that the agreement with any new dealer may not provide for an equivalent fuel margin and/or rental income stream, which could have a material adverse effect on our business, financial condition, results of operations and cash available for distribution to our unitholders. Upon closing on the acquisition of certain retail and wholesale assets from the Topper Group and certain other parties (as further discussed in Note 25 to the financial statements) and reestablishing a retail capability, it is also possible that we will operate the site until the dealer is replaced or indefinitely.

We rely on our information technology systems and network infrastructure to manage numerous aspects of our business, and a disruption of these systems could adversely affect our business, financial condition and results of operations and reduce our ability to make distributions to unitholders.

We depend on our information technology (“IT”) systems and network infrastructure to manage numerous aspects of our business and provide analytical information to management. These systems are an essential component of our business and growth strategies, and a serious disruption to them could significantly limit our ability to manage and operate our business efficiently. These systems are vulnerable to, among other things, damage and interruption from power loss or natural disasters, computer system and network failures, loss of telecommunications services, physical and electronic loss of data, security breaches and computer viruses, which could result in a loss of sensitive business information, systems interruption or the disruption of our business operations. To protect against unauthorized access or attacks, we have implemented infrastructure protection technologies and disaster recovery plans, but there can be no assurance that a technology systems breach or systems failure, which may nonetheless occur and go undetected, will not have a material adverse effect on our business, financial condition, results of operations and cash available for distribution to our unitholders.

Our business and our reputation could be adversely affected by the failure to protect sensitive customer, employee or vendor data, whether as a result of cyber security attacks or otherwise, or to comply with applicable regulations relating to data security and privacy.

In the normal course of our business as a motor fuel and merchandise retailer, we obtain large amounts of personal data, including credit and debit card information from our customers. While we have invested significant amounts in the protection of our IT systems and maintain what we believe are adequate security controls over individually identifiable customer, employee and vendor data provided to us, a breakdown or a breach in our systems that results in the unauthorized release of individually identifiable customer or other sensitive data could nonetheless occur.

Cyber-attacks are rapidly evolving and becoming increasingly sophisticated. A successful cyber-attack resulting in the loss of sensitive customer, employee or vendor data could adversely affect our reputation, results of operations, financial condition and liquidity, and could result in litigation against us or the imposition of penalties. Moreover, a security breach could require that we expend significant additional resources to upgrade further the security measures that we employ to guard against cyber-attacks.

Further, complying with continually evolving regulations associated with the protection of credit and debit card information is costly and taking these measures does not necessarily provide an offsetting financial benefit to us. Failure to comply with these regulations could subject us or our dealers to fines or other regulatory sanctions (potentially including discontinuing operations) and potentially to lawsuits. The cost of compliance and the ramifications of non-compliance could have a material adverse effect on our business, financial condition, results of operations and cash available for distribution to our unitholders.

In addition, new laws and regulations governing data privacy and the unauthorized disclosure of confidential information, including recent California legislation, pose increasingly complex compliance challenges and potentially elevate our costs. Any failure by us to comply with these laws and regulations, including as a result of a security or privacy breach, could result in significant penalties and liabilities for us. Additionally, if we acquire a company that has violated or is not in compliance with applicable data protection laws, we may incur significant liabilities and penalties as a result.

Our debt levels and debt agreement covenants may limit our flexibility in obtaining additional financing and in pursuing other business opportunities.

We have a significant amount of debt. As of December 31, 2019, we had $519.0 million of total debt and $92.0 million of availability under our revolving credit facility. Our level of indebtedness could have important consequences to us, including the following:

23

---

 

Our ability to service our indebtedness will depend upon, among other things, our future financial and operating performance, which will be affected by prevailing economic conditions and financial, business, regulatory and other factors, some of which are beyond our control. If our operating results are not sufficient to service our current or future indebtedness, we will be forced to take actions, such as reducing distributions, reducing or delaying our business activities, acquisitions, investments and/or capital expenditures, selling assets, restructuring or refinancing our indebtedness, or seeking additional equity capital or bankruptcy protection. We may not be able to affect any of these actions on satisfactory terms, or at all.

Our credit facility contains operating and financial restrictions that may limit our business, financing activities and ability to make distributions to unitholders.

The operating and financial restrictions and covenants in our credit facility and any future financing agreements could adversely affect our ability to finance future operations or capital needs or to engage, expand or pursue our business activities. For example, our credit facility may restrict our ability to:

Our credit facility will limit our ability to pay distributions upon the occurrence of the following events, among others:

24

---

 

Our ability to comply with the covenants and restrictions contained in our credit facility may be affected by events beyond our control, including prevailing economic, financial and industry conditions. If market or other economic conditions deteriorate, our ability to comply with these covenants may be impaired. If we violate any of the restrictions, covenants, ratios or tests in our credit facility, the debt issued under the credit facility may become immediately due and payable, and our lenders’ commitment to make further loans to us may terminate. We might not have, or be able to obtain, sufficient funds to make these accelerated payments. In addition, our obligations under our credit facility will be secured by substantially all of our assets, and if we are unable to repay our indebtedness under our credit facility, the lenders could seek to foreclose on such assets.

We do not expect to own all of the land on which our retail sites and certain facilities will be located, which could result in increased costs and disruptions to our operations.

We do not expect to own all of the land on which our retail sites and certain facilities will be located, and we expect to lease a portion of such sites from third parties under long-term arrangements with various expiration dates. As such, we are subject to the possibility that we are unable to renew such leases or are only able to do so with increased costs or more onerous terms, which could have a material adverse effect on our business, financial condition, results of operations and cash available for distribution to our unitholders.

We may not be able to lease sites we own or sub-lease sites we lease on favorable terms and any such failure could adversely affect our business, financial condition and results of operations and reduce our ability to make distributions to unitholders.

We may lease and/or sub-lease certain sites to lessee dealers, commission agents, Circle K or to DMS where the rent expense is more than the lease payments. If we are unable to obtain tenants on favorable terms for sites we own or lease, the lease payments we receive may not be adequate to cover our rent expense for leased sites and may not be adequate to ensure that we meet our debt service requirements. We cannot provide any assurance that the margins on our wholesale distribution of motor fuels to these sites will be adequate to offset unfavorable lease terms. The occurrence of these events could have a material adverse effect on our business, financial condition, results of operations and cash available for distribution to our unitholders.

The operations at sites we own or lease are subject to inherent risk, operational hazards and unforeseen interruptions and insurance may not adequately cover any such exposure. The occurrence of a significant event or release that is not fully insured could adversely affect our business, financial condition and results of operations and reduce our ability to make distributions to unitholders.

The presence of flammable and combustible products at our sites provides the potential for fires and explosions that could destroy both property and human life. Furthermore, our operations are subject to unforeseen interruptions such as natural disasters, adverse weather and other events beyond our control. Motor fuels also have the potential to cause environmental damage if improperly handled or released. If any of these events were to occur, we could incur substantial losses and/or curtailment of related operations because of personal injury or loss of life, severe damage to and destruction of property and equipment, and pollution or other environmental damage.

We are not fully insured against all risks incident to our business. We may be unable to maintain or obtain insurance of the type and amount we desire at reasonable rates. As a result of market conditions, premiums and deductibles for certain of our insurance policies have increased and could escalate further. In some instances, certain insurance could become unavailable or available only for reduced amounts of coverage. If we were to incur a significant liability for which we were not fully insured, it could have a material adverse effect on our business, financial condition, results of operations and cash available for distribution to our unitholders.

25

---

 

We are relying on DMI to indemnify us for any costs or expenses that we incur for environmental liabilities and third-party claims, regardless of when a claim is made, that are based on environmental conditions in existence prior to the closing of the IPO at our Predecessor Entity’s sites. To the extent escrow accounts, insurance and/or payments from DMI are not sufficient to cover any such costs or expenses, our business, financial condition and results of operations and ability to make distributions to unitholders could be adversely affected.

The Circle K Omnibus Agreement provides that DMI must indemnify us for any costs or expenses that we incur for environmental liabilities and third-party claims, regardless of when a claim is made, that are based on environmental conditions in existence prior to the closing of the IPO at our Predecessor Entity’s sites. Such indemnification survives the termination of the Circle K Omnibus Agreement. DMI is the beneficiary of escrow accounts created to cover the cost to remediate certain environmental liabilities. In addition, DMI maintains insurance policies to cover environmental liabilities and/or, where available, participates in state programs that may also assist in funding the costs of environmental liabilities. There are certain sites that were acquired by us in connection with the IPO with existing environmental liabilities that are not covered by escrow accounts, state funds or insurance policies. To the extent escrow accounts, insurance and/or payments from DMI are not sufficient to cover any such costs or expenses, our business, liquidity and results of operations could be adversely affected.

We are relying on Circle K to indemnify us for any costs or expenses that we incur for environmental liabilities and third-party claims, regardless of when a claim is made, that are based on environmental conditions in existence prior to the closing of the Closed Asset Exchange Transactions. To the extent escrow accounts, insurance and/or payments from Circle K are not sufficient to cover any such costs or expenses, our business, financial condition and results of operations and ability to make distributions to unitholders could be adversely affected.

The Asset Exchange Agreement and related agreements provide that Circle K must indemnify us for any costs or expenses that we incur for environmental liabilities and third-party claims, regardless of when a claim is made, that are based on environmental conditions in existence prior to the closing of the Closed Asset Exchanges. Such indemnification survives the termination of the Circle K Omnibus Agreement. Circle K is the beneficiary of escrow accounts created to cover the cost to remediate certain environmental liabilities. In addition, Circle K maintains insurance policies to cover environmental liabilities and/or, where available, participates in state programs that may also assist in funding the costs of environmental liabilities. To the extent escrow accounts, insurance and/or payments from Circle K are not sufficient to cover any such costs or expenses, our business, liquidity and results of operations could be adversely affected.

Risks Inherent in our Structure

The Topper Group controls us and may have conflicts of interest with us.

The Topper Group controls and manages the operations and activities of the Partnership, including the election of our Board; decisions regarding mergers, consolidations or acquisitions, the sale of all or substantially all of our assets and other matters affecting our capital structure; and other significant decisions that could impact our financial results and the amount of cash available for distribution to our unitholders. In addition, the Topper Group may compete directly with us for future acquisitions, which may conflict with our core strategy to grow our business and increase distributions to unitholders. As long as the Topper Group controls the sole member of our General Partner, it will effectively control our decisions, operations and activities.

The Topper Group controls the sole member of our General Partner, which has sole responsibility for conducting our business and managing our operations. Our General Partner and its affiliates, including the Topper Group, have conflicts of interest with us and limited fiduciary duties and they may favor their own interests to the detriment of us and our unitholders.

The Topper Group controls the sole member of our General Partner and therefore has the ability to appoint all of the directors of our Board. Although our General Partner has a legal duty to manage us in good faith, the General Partner and its executive officers (as employees of the Topper Group) have a fiduciary duty to manage our General Partner in a manner beneficial to its owner, the Topper Group. Furthermore, certain officers of our General Partner are directors of our Board or officers of affiliates of our General Partner. Therefore, conflicts of interest may arise between us and our unitholders, on the one hand, and our General Partner and its affiliates, including the Topper Group, on the other hand. In resolving these conflicts of interest, under the Partnership Agreement, our General Partner may favor its own interests and the interests of the Topper Group over our interests and the interests of our common unitholders. These conflicts include the following situations, among others:

26

---

 

The Topper Group or the Board may modify or revoke our cash distribution policy at any time at their discretion. Our Partnership Agreement does not require us to pay any distributions at all.

The Board has adopted a cash distribution policy pursuant to which we intend to distribute quarterly an amount at least equal to the minimum quarterly distribution of $0.4375 per unit on all of our units to the extent we have sufficient cash from our operations after the establishment of reserves and the payment of our expenses. However, the Topper Group, as the owner of our General Partner, or the Board may change such policy at any time at their discretion and could elect not to pay distributions for one or more quarters. In addition, our credit facility includes specified restrictions on our ability to make distributions.

Our Partnership Agreement does not require us to pay any distributions at all. Accordingly, investors are cautioned not to place undue reliance on the permanence of our distribution policy in making an investment decision. Any modification or revocation of our cash distribution policy could substantially reduce or eliminate the amounts of distributions to our unitholders. The amount of distributions we make, if any, and the decision to make any distribution at all will ultimately be determined by the Topper Group as the owner of all of the membership interests in the sole member of our General Partner, whose interests may differ from those of our common unitholders.

We rely on the employees of the Topper Group to provide key management services to our business pursuant to the Topper Group Omnibus Agreement. If our Topper Group Omnibus Agreement were to be terminated, we may not be able to find suitable replacements to perform such services for us without interruption to our business or increased costs.

Under our Topper Group Omnibus Agreement, the Topper Group provides us with the personnel necessary to support our management, administrative and operating services, including accounting, tax, legal, internal audit, risk management and compliance, environmental compliance and remediation management oversight, treasury, information technology and other administrative functions, as well as the management and operation of our wholesale distribution and retail business. If our Topper Group Omnibus Agreement is terminated, we may suffer interruptions to our business or increased costs to replace these services.

27

---

 

The liability of the Topper Group and Couche-Tard is limited under our Topper Group Omnibus Agreement and Circle K Omnibus Agreement and we have agreed to indemnify the Topper Group and Couche-Tard against certain liabilities, which may expose us to significant expenses.

The Topper Group Omnibus Agreement and the Circle K Omnibus Agreement provide that we must indemnify the Topper Group and Couche-Tard for certain liabilities, including any liabilities incurred by the Topper Group and Couche-Tard attributable to the operating and administrative services provided to us under the agreement, other than liabilities resulting from the Topper Group’s or Couche-Tard’s bad faith, fraud, or willful misconduct, as applicable.

Our General Partner has and intends to limit its liability regarding our obligations.

Our General Partner has and intends to limit its liability under contractual arrangements between us and third parties so that the counterparties to such arrangements have recourse only against our assets, and not against our General Partner or its assets. Our General Partner may therefore cause us to incur indebtedness or other obligations that are nonrecourse to our General Partner. Our Partnership Agreement provides that any action taken by our General Partner to limit its liability is not a breach of our General Partner’s fiduciary duties, even if we could have obtained more favorable terms without the limitation on liability. In addition, we are obligated to reimburse or indemnify our General Partner to the extent that it incurs obligations on our behalf. Any such reimbursement or indemnification payments would reduce the amount of cash otherwise available for distribution to our unitholders.

If we distribute a significant portion of our cash available for distribution to our partners, our ability to grow and make acquisitions could be limited.

We may determine to distribute a significant portion of our cash available for distribution to our unitholders. In addition, we expect to rely primarily upon external financing sources, including commercial bank borrowings and the issuance of debt and equity securities, to fund our acquisitions and expansion capital expenditures. To the extent we are unable to finance growth externally, distributing a significant portion of our cash available for distribution may impair our ability to grow.

In addition, if we distribute a significant portion of our cash available for distribution, our growth may lag behind the growth of businesses that reinvest all of their cash to expand ongoing operations. To the extent we issue additional units in connection with any acquisitions or expansion capital expenditures, the payment of distributions on those additional units may increase the risk that we will be unable to maintain or increase our per unit distribution level. There are no limitations in our Partnership Agreement or our credit facility on our ability to issue additional common units, provided there is no default under the credit facility. The incurrence of additional commercial borrowings or other debt to finance our growth strategy would result in increased interest expense, which, in turn, may impact the cash available for distribution to our unitholders.

Our Partnership Agreement replaces, eliminates and modifies, as applicable, the duties, including the fiduciary duties, of our General Partner, the Board or any committee thereof, and modifies the burden of proof in any action brought against the General Partner, the Board or any committee thereof.

Our Partnership Agreement contains provisions that modify the duties of the General Partner, including the fiduciary duties of the General Partner, and restricts the remedies available to unitholders for actions taken by our General Partner that might otherwise constitute breaches of fiduciary duty under Delaware partnership law. For example, our Partnership Agreement:

28

---

 

By purchasing a common unit, a unitholder is treated as having consented to the provisions in the Partnership Agreement, including the provisions discussed above.

Our General Partner’s affiliates, including the Topper Group, may compete with us.

Our Partnership Agreement provides that our General Partner will be restricted from engaging in any business activities other than acting as our General Partner and those activities incidental to its ownership interest in us. Except as provided in the Topper Group Omnibus Agreement, affiliates of our General Partner are not prohibited from engaging in other businesses or activities, including those that might be in direct competition with us.

Pursuant to the terms of our Partnership Agreement, the doctrine of corporate opportunity, or any analogous doctrine, does not apply to our General Partner, the Topper Group or any of their affiliates, including their executive officers and directors. Any such person or entity that becomes aware of a potential transaction, agreement, arrangement or other matter that may be an opportunity for us will not have any duty to communicate or offer such opportunity to us. Any such person or entity will not be liable to us or to any limited partner for breach of any fiduciary duty or other duty by reason of the fact that such person or entity pursues or acquires such opportunity for itself, directs such opportunity to another person or entity or does not communicate such opportunity or information to us. This may create actual and potential conflicts of interest between us and affiliates of our General Partner and result in less than favorable treatment of us and our unitholders. Conflicts of interest may arise in the future between us and our unitholders, on the one hand, and the affiliates of our General Partner and the Topper Group, on the other hand. In resolving these conflicts, the Topper Group may favor its own interests over the interests of our unitholders.

29

---

 

Holders of our common units have limited voting rights and are not entitled to elect our General Partner or the directors of the Board, which could reduce the price at which the common units will trade.

Unlike the holders of common stock in a corporation, unitholders have only limited voting rights on matters affecting our business and, therefore, limited ability to influence management’s decisions regarding our business. Unitholders will have no right on an annual or ongoing basis to elect or remove the members of our Board. The Board, including the independent directors, is chosen entirely by the Topper Group, as a result of its ownership of all the membership interests in the sole member of our General Partner, and not by our unitholders. Unlike publicly traded corporations, we will not conduct annual meetings of our unitholders to elect directors or conduct other matters routinely conducted at annual meetings of stockholders of corporations. As a result of these limitations, the price at which the common units will trade could be diminished because of the absence or reduction of a takeover premium in the trading price.

Even if holders of our common units are dissatisfied, they may not be able to remove our General Partner.

If our unitholders are dissatisfied with the performance of our General Partner, they will have limited ability to remove our General Partner. The vote of the holders of at least 66 2⁄3% of all outstanding common units voting together as a single class is required to remove our General Partner. As of February 21, 2020, the Topper Group beneficially owned approximately 47.7% of our outstanding common units.

Our General Partner interest or the control of our General Partner may be transferred to a third party without unitholder consent.

Our General Partner may transfer its General Partner interest to a third party in a merger or in a sale of all or substantially all of its assets without the consent of our unitholders. Furthermore, our Partnership Agreement does not restrict the ability of the Topper Group to transfer its membership interests in the sole member of our General Partner to a third party. The new members of our General Partner would then be in a position to replace the Board and executive officers of our General Partner with their own designees and thereby exert significant control over the decisions taken by the Board and executive officers of our General Partner. This effectively permits a “change of control” without the vote or consent of the unitholders.

Our General Partner has a call right that may require unitholders to sell their common units at an undesirable time or price.

If at any time our General Partner and its affiliates hold more than 80% of the common units, our General Partner will have the right, but not the obligation, which it may assign to any of its affiliates or to us, to acquire all, but not less than all, of the common units held by unaffiliated persons at a price equal to the greater of (1) the average of the daily closing price of the common units over the 20 trading days preceding the date that is three days before notice of exercise of the call right is first mailed and (2) the highest per-unit price paid by our General Partner or any of its affiliates for common units during the 90-day period preceding the date such notice is first mailed. As a result, unitholders may be required to sell their common units at an undesirable time or price and may not receive any return or a negative return on their investment. Unitholders may also incur a tax liability upon a sale of their units. Our General Partner is not obligated to obtain a fairness opinion regarding the value of the common units to be repurchased by it upon exercise of the call right. There is no restriction in our Partnership Agreement that prevents our General Partner from issuing additional common units and exercising its call right. If our General Partner exercised its call right, the effect would be to take us private and, if the units were subsequently deregistered, we would no longer be subject to the reporting requirements of the Exchange Act. As of February 21, 2020, the Topper Group beneficially owned approximately 47.7% of our outstanding common units.

The market price of our common units could be adversely affected by sales of substantial amounts of our common units in the public or private markets, including sales by the Topper Group or other large holders.

As of February 21, 2020, we had 37,023,114 common units outstanding. Sales by the Topper Group or other large holders of a substantial number of our common units in the public or private markets, or the perception that such sales might occur, could have a material adverse effect on the price of our common units or could impair our ability to obtain capital through an offering of equity securities. In addition, we have agreed to provide registration rights to the Topper Group. Under our Partnership Agreement and pursuant to a registration rights agreement that we have entered into, the Topper Group has registration rights relating to the offer and sale of any units that it holds, subject to certain limitations.

We may issue unlimited additional units without unitholder approval, which would dilute existing unitholder ownership interests.

Our Partnership Agreement does not limit the number of additional limited partner interests, including limited partner interests that rank senior to the common units that we may issue at any time without the approval of our unitholders. The issuance of additional common units or other equity interests of equal or senior rank could have the following effects:

30

---

 

Our General Partner’s discretion in establishing cash reserves may reduce the amount of cash available for distribution to unitholders.

The Partnership Agreement requires our General Partner to deduct from operating surplus cash reserves that it determines are necessary to fund our future operating expenditures. The General Partner may reduce cash available for distribution by establishing cash reserves for the proper conduct of our business, to comply with applicable law or agreements to which we are a party or to provide funds for future distributions to partners. These cash reserves will affect the amount of cash available for distribution to unitholders.

Our Partnership Agreement restricts the voting rights of unitholders owning 20% or more of our common units.

Our Partnership Agreement restricts unitholders’ voting rights by providing that any units held by a person or group that owns 20% or more of any class of units then outstanding, other than our General Partner and its affiliates, their transferees and persons who acquired such units with the prior approval of the Board, cannot vote on any matter.

Management fees and cost reimbursements due to our General Partner and the Topper Group for services provided to us or on our behalf will reduce cash available for distribution to our unitholders. The amount and timing of such reimbursements will be determined by our General Partner.

Prior to making any distribution on our common units, we will pay the Topper Group the management fee and reimburse our General Partner and the Topper Group for all out-of-pocket third-party expenses they incur and payments they make on our behalf, pursuant to the Topper Group Omnibus Agreement. Our Partnership Agreement provides that our General Partner will determine in good faith the expenses that are allocable to us. In addition, pursuant to the Topper Group Omnibus Agreement, the Topper Group will be entitled to reimbursement for certain expenses that they incur on our behalf. Our Partnership Agreement does not limit the amount of expenses for which our General Partner and the Topper Group may be reimbursed. The reimbursement of expenses and payment of fees, if any, to our General Partner and the Topper Group will reduce the amount of cash available to pay distributions to our unitholders.

Unitholders may have liability to repay distributions and in certain circumstances may be personally liable for the obligations of the Partnership.

Under certain circumstances, unitholders may have to repay amounts wrongfully returned or distributed to them. Under Section 17-607 of the Delaware Revised Uniform Limited Partnership Act (the “Delaware Act”), we may not make a distribution to our unitholders if the distribution would cause our liabilities to exceed the fair value of our assets. Delaware law provides that for a period of three years from the date of the impermissible distribution, limited partners who received the distribution and who knew at the time of the distribution that it violated Delaware law will be liable to the limited partnership for the distribution amount. Liabilities to partners on account of their partnership interests and liabilities that are non-recourse to the Partnership are not counted for purposes of determining whether a distribution is permitted.

It may be determined that the right, or the exercise of the right by the limited partners as a group, to (i) remove or replace our General Partner, (ii) approve some amendments to our Partnership Agreement or (iii) take other action under our Partnership Agreement constitutes “participation in the control” of our business. A limited partner that participates in the control of our business within the meaning of the Delaware Act may be held personally liable for our obligations under the laws of Delaware, to the same extent as our General Partner. This liability would extend to persons who transact business with us under the reasonable belief that the limited partner is a General Partner. Neither our Partnership Agreement nor the Delaware Act specifically provides for legal recourse against our General Partner if a limited partner were to lose limited liability through any fault of our General Partner.

31

---

 

The NYSE does not require a publicly traded partnership like us to comply with certain of its corporate governance requirements.

Our common units are listed on the NYSE. Because we are a publicly traded partnership, the NYSE does not require us to have, and we do not intend to have, a majority of independent directors on our Board or to establish and maintain a compensation committee or a nominating and corporate governance committee. Additionally, any future issuance of additional common units or other securities, including to our affiliates, will not be subject to the NYSE’s shareholder approval rules that apply to a corporation.

Accordingly, unitholders will not have the same protections afforded to corporations (other than “controlled companies”) that are subject to all of the NYSE corporate governance requirements.

An increase in interest rates may cause the market price of our common units to decline and a significant increase in interest rates could adversely affect our ability to service our indebtedness.

Like all equity investments, an investment in our common units is subject to certain risks. Borrowings under the credit facility will bear interest at variable rates. If market interest rates increase, such variable-rate debt will create higher debt service requirements, which could adversely affect our cash flow and ability to make cash distributions. In exchange for accepting these risks, investors may expect to receive a higher rate of return than would otherwise be obtainable from lower-risk investments. Accordingly, as interest rates rise, the ability of investors to obtain higher risk-adjusted rates of return by purchasing government-backed debt securities may cause a corresponding decline in demand for riskier investments generally, including yield-based equity investments such as publicly traded limited partnership interests. Reduced demand for our common units resulting from investors seeking other more favorable investment opportunities may cause the trading price of our common units to decline.

The interest rate on our credit facility is variable; therefore, we have exposure to movements in interest rates. A significant increase in interest rates could adversely affect our ability to service our indebtedness. The increased cost could make the financing of our business activities more expensive. These added expenses could have an adverse effect on our financial condition, results of operations and cash available for distribution to our unitholders.

LIBOR, the interest rate benchmark used as a reference rate on our variable rate credit facility, is expected to be phased out after 2021, when private-sector banks are no longer required to report the information used to set the rate. Without this data, LIBOR may no longer be published, or the lack of quality and quantity of data may cause the rate to no longer be representative of the market. At this time, no consensus exists as to what rate or rates will become accepted alternatives to LIBOR, although the U.S. Federal Reserve, in connection with the Alternative Reference Rates Committee, a steering committee comprised of large U.S. financial institutions, is considering replacing U.S. dollar LIBOR with the Secured Overnight Financing Rate (“SOFR”). SOFR is a more generic measure than LIBOR and considers the cost of borrowing cash overnight, collateralized by U.S. Treasury securities. Given the inherent differences between LIBOR and SOFR or any other alternative benchmark rate that may be established, there are many uncertainties regarding a transition from LIBOR, including but not limited to the need to amend all contracts with LIBOR as the referenced rate and how this will impact the Partnership’s cost of variable rate debt. The Partnership will also need to consider new contracts and if they should reference an alternative benchmark rate or include suggested fallback language, as published by the Alternative Reference Rates Committee. The consequences of these developments with respect to LIBOR cannot be entirely predicted and span multiple future periods but could result in an increase in the cost of our variable rate debt which may be detrimental to our financial position or operating results.

32

---

 

Tax Risks

Our tax treatment depends in large part on our status as a partnership for U.S. federal income tax purposes and our otherwise not being subject to a material amount of U.S. federal, state and local income or franchise tax. If the IRS were to treat us as a corporation for U.S. federal income tax purposes or if we were to otherwise be subject to a material amount of additional entity level income, franchise or other taxation for U.S. federal, state or local tax purposes, then our cash available for distribution to our unitholders would be substantially reduced.

The anticipated after-tax benefit of an investment in our common units depends largely on our being treated as a partnership for U.S. federal income tax purposes. First, a partnership is exempt from U.S. federal income tax, and the partnership’s income is instead allocated to the partners for inclusion on their tax returns. Second, under the Tax Cuts and Jobs Act, the partner may also deduct from the partnership’s taxable income allocable to such partner an amount equal to 20% of such qualified business income (subject to certain limits), resulting in a lower effective tax rate for the partner with respect to the partnership’s income. A publicly traded partnership, such as us, may be treated as a corporation, instead of being treated as a partnership, for U.S. federal income tax purposes unless 90% or more of its gross income for every taxable year it is publicly traded consists of qualifying income. Based on our current operations we believe that we will be able to satisfy this requirement and, thus, be treated as a partnership, rather than a corporation, for U.S. federal income tax purposes. However, a change in our business, or a change in current law, could also cause us to be treated as a corporation for U.S. federal income tax purposes or otherwise subject us to entity-level taxation.

If we were required to be treated as a corporation for U.S. federal income tax purposes or otherwise subject to entity-level taxation, then we would pay U.S. federal income tax on our taxable income at the corporate tax rate which, under current law, is 21%. We would also likely pay state and local income tax at varying rates. Distributions to our unitholders would generally be taxed again as either a dividend (to the extent of our current and accumulated earnings and profits) and/or as taxable gain after recovery of a unitholder’s U.S. federal income tax basis in their units, and no income, gains, losses, deductions or credits would flow through to our unitholders. Because a U.S. federal income tax would be imposed upon us as a corporation, our cash available for distribution to our unitholders would be substantially reduced. Thus, treatment of us as a corporation would result in a material reduction in the anticipated cash flow and after-tax return to our unitholders.

At the state level, were we to be subject to federal income tax, we would also be subject to the income tax provisions of many states. Moreover, because of widespread state budget deficits and other reasons, several states are evaluating ways to independently subject partnerships to entity-level taxation through the imposition of state income taxes, franchise taxes and other forms of taxation. Imposition of any additional such taxes on us or an increase in the existing tax rates would reduce the cash available for distribution to our unitholders.

Our Partnership Agreement provides that if a law is enacted or existing law is modified or interpreted in a manner that results in us becoming subject to either: (a) entity-level taxation for U.S. federal, state, local and/or foreign income and/or withholding tax purposes to which we were not subject prior to such enactment, modification or interpretation, and/or (b) an increased amount of one or more of such taxes (including as a result of an increase in tax rates), then the minimum quarterly distribution amounts and the target distribution amounts may be adjusted (i.e., reduced) to reflect the impact of that law on us.

We have subsidiaries that are treated as corporations for U.S. federal income tax purposes and are subject to entity-level U.S. federal, state and local income and franchise tax.

We conduct a portion of our operations and business through one or more direct and indirect subsidiaries that are treated as C corporations for federal income tax purposes (including LGWS). We may elect to conduct additional operations through these corporate subsidiaries in the future. These corporate subsidiaries are subject to corporate-level taxes, at the corporate tax rate, which is currently 21%, and will also likely be subject to state (and possibly local) income tax at varying rates, on their taxable income. Any such entity level taxes will reduce the cash available for distribution to us and, in turn, to unitholders. If the IRS were to successfully assert that these corporations have more tax liability than we anticipate or legislation were enacted that increased the corporate tax rate, our cash available for distribution to unit holders would be further reduced. Distributions from any such C corporation will generally be taxed again to unitholders as dividend income to the extent of current and accumulated earnings and profits of such C corporation. The maximum federal income tax rate applicable to qualified dividend income that is allocable to individuals is 20%. An individual unitholders’ share of dividend and interest income from LGWS or other C corporation subsidiaries would constitute portfolio income that could not be offset by the unitholders’ share of our other losses or deductions.

33

---

 

A significant amount of our income is attributable to our leasing of real property to DMS. If DMS were to become related to us for U.S. federal income tax purposes, the real property rents that we receive from DMS would no longer constitute qualifying income and we would likely be treated as a corporation for U.S. federal income tax purposes.

A significant amount of our qualifying income is composed of real property rents from DMS attributable to the sites that DMS leases from us. In general, any real property rents that we receive from a tenant or sub-tenant of ours in which we, directly or indirectly, own or are treated as owning by reason of the application of certain constructive ownership rules: (a) at least 10% of such tenant’s or sub-tenant’s stock (voting power or value) in the case where such tenant or sub-tenant is a corporation for U.S. federal income tax purposes, or (b) an interest of at least 10% of such tenant’s or sub-tenant’s assets or net profits in the case where such tenant or sub-tenant is not a corporation for U.S. federal income tax purposes (as would be the case with respect to DMS), would not constitute qualifying income. After applying certain constructive ownership rules, we will be treated as owning the 5% interest in the assets and net profits of DMS that Joseph V. Topper, Jr. actually and constructively owns. If we were considered to directly or indirectly own an interest of 10% or more of the assets or net profits of DMS, then the real property rents that we receive from DMS would no longer constitute qualifying income in which case, based on our current operations, we would likely no longer qualify to be treated as a “partnership” (and instead would be treated as a corporation) for U.S. federal income tax purposes.

Our and DMS’ governing documents contain transfer restrictions designed to prevent us from being treated as directly or indirectly owning by reason of the application of constructive ownership rules an interest of 10% or more of DMS’ assets or net profits. We received an opinion of counsel at the closing of the IPO that transfer restrictions are generally enforceable under Delaware law, but a court could determine that these restrictions are inapplicable or unenforceable.

See Note 25 to the financial statements regarding the acquisition of retail and wholesale assets from the Topper Group and certain other parties, at which time these contracts with DMS will be terminated.

The tax treatment of publicly traded partnerships or an investment in our common units could be subject to potential legislative, judicial or administrative changes and differing interpretations, possibly on a retroactive basis.

The present U.S. federal income tax treatment of publicly traded partnerships, including us, or of an investment in our common units may be modified by administrative, legislative or judicial changes or differing interpretations at any time. For example, from time to time, members of Congress propose and consider such substantive changes to the existing federal income tax laws that affect publicly traded partnerships. If successful, these proposals or other similar proposals could eliminate the qualifying income exception upon which we rely for our treatment as a partnership for U.S. federal income tax purposes.

Any modification to the U.S. federal income tax laws may be applied retroactively and could make it more difficult or impossible for us to be treated as a partnership for U.S. federal income tax purposes. We are unable to predict whether any of these changes or other proposals will ultimately be enacted. Any such changes could negatively impact the value of an investment in our common units.

If the IRS contests the U.S. federal income tax positions we take, the market for our common units may be adversely impacted and the costs of any contest will reduce our cash available for distribution to our unitholders. We have not requested any ruling from the IRS with respect to our treatment as a partnership for U.S. federal income tax purposes or any other U.S. federal income tax matter affecting us. The IRS may adopt positions that differ from the conclusions of our counsel expressed in our disclosures or from the positions we take. It may be necessary to resort to administrative or court proceedings to sustain some or all of our counsel’s conclusions or the positions we take, and such positions may not ultimately be sustained. A court may not agree with some or all of our counsel’s conclusions or the positions we take. Any contest with the IRS may materially and adversely impact the market for our common units and the price at which they trade. In addition, the costs of any contest with the IRS, which will be borne indirectly by our unitholders and our General Partner, will result in a reduction in cash available for distribution.

Our unitholders are required to pay taxes on their share of income from us even if they do not receive any cash distributions from us. A unitholder's share of our taxable income, and its relationship to any distributions we make, may be affected by a variety of factors, including our economic performance, transactions in which we engage or changes in law and may be substantially different from any estimate we make in connection with a unit offering.

Our unitholders are required to pay U.S. federal income taxes and, in some cases, state and local taxes, on their allocable share of our taxable income and gain even if they do not receive any cash distributions from us. Our unitholders may not receive cash distributions from us equal to their share of our taxable income or even equal to the actual tax due with respect to that income.

34

---

 

A unitholder’s share of our taxable income, and its relationship to any distributions we make, may be affected by a variety of factors, including our economic performance, which may be affected by numerous business, economic, regulatory, legislative, competitive and political uncertainties beyond our control, and certain transactions in which we might engage. For example, we may engage in transactions that produce substantial taxable income allocations to some or all of our unitholders without a corresponding increase in cash distributions to our unitholders, such as a sale or exchange of assets, the proceeds of which are reinvested in our business or used to reduce our debt, or an actual or deemed satisfaction of our indebtedness for an amount less than the adjusted issue price of the debt. A unitholder’s ratio of its share of taxable income to the cash received by it may also be affected by changes in law. For instance, under the Tax Cuts and Jobs Act, the net interest expense deductions of certain business entities, including us, are limited to 30% of such entity’s “adjusted taxable income,” which is generally taxable income with certain modifications. If the limit applies, a unitholder’s taxable income allocations will be more (or its net loss allocations will be less) than would have been the case absent the limitation.

From time to time, in connection with an offering of our common units, we may state an estimate of the ratio of federal taxable income to cash distributions that a purchaser of our common units in that offering may receive in a given period. These estimates depend in part on factors that are unique to the offering with respect to which the estimate is stated, so the expected ratio applicable to other common units will be different, and in many cases less favorable, than these estimates. Moreover, even in the case of common units purchased in the offering to which the estimate relates, the estimate may be incorrect, due to the uncertainties described above, challenges by the IRS to tax reporting positions which we adopt, or other factors. The actual ratio of taxable income to cash distributions could be higher or lower than expected, and any differences could be material and could materially affect the value of our common units.

Unitholders may be subject to limitation on their ability to deduct interest expense incurred by us.

In general, we are entitled to a deduction for interest paid or accrued on indebtedness properly allocable to our trade or business during our taxable year. However, under the Tax Cuts and Jobs Act, for taxable years beginning after December 31, 2017, our deduction for “business interest” is limited to the sum of our business interest income and 30% of our “adjusted taxable income.” For purposes of this limitation, our adjusted taxable income is computed without regard to any business interest expense or business interest income, and in the case of taxable years beginning before January 1, 2022, any deduction allowable for depreciation, amortization or depletion.

Tax gain or loss on the disposition of our common units could be more or less than expected.

If a unitholder sells common units, the unitholder will recognize a gain or loss equal to the difference between the amount realized and that unitholder’s tax basis in those common units. Distributions per common unit in excess of a unitholder’s allocable share of our net taxable income result in a decrease in that unitholder’s tax basis in its common units. The amount of this decreased tax basis, with respect to the units sold will, in effect, become taxable income to that unitholder, if that unitholder sells such units at a price greater than that unitholder’s tax basis in those units, even if the sales price received is less than the original cost. Furthermore, a substantial portion of the amount realized, whether or not representing gain, may be taxed as ordinary income due to potential recapture of depreciation and amortization deductions and certain other items. In addition, because the amount realized includes a unitholder’s share of our non-recourse liabilities, if a unitholder sells units, that unitholder may incur a tax liability in excess of the amount of cash received from the sale.

Tax-exempt organizations and non-U.S. persons face unique tax issues from owning common units that may result in adverse tax consequences to them.

Investment in our common units by an organization that is exempt from U.S. federal income tax, such as employee benefit plans, individual retirement accounts and non-U.S. persons raises issues unique to them. For example, a substantial amount of our U.S. federal taxable income and gain constitute gross income from an unrelated trade or business and the amount thereof allocable to a tax-exempt organization would be taxable to such organization as unrelated business taxable income. Distributions to a non-U.S. person that holds our common units will be reduced by U.S. federal withholding taxes imposed at the highest applicable U.S. federal income tax rate and such non-U.S. person will be required to file U.S. federal income tax returns and pay U.S. federal income tax, to the extent not previously withheld, on his, her or its allocable share of our taxable income and gain.

Under the recently enacted Tax Cuts and Jobs Act, if a unitholder sells or otherwise disposes of a common unit, the transferee is required to withhold 10% of the amount realized by the transferor unless the transferor certifies that it is not a foreign person, and we are required to deduct and withhold from the transferee amounts that should have been withheld by the transferee but were not withheld. However, the Department of the Treasury and the IRS have determined that this withholding requirement should not apply to any disposition of a publicly traded interest in a publicly traded partnership (such as us) until regulation or other guidance have been issued clarifying the application of this withholding requirement to dispositions of interests in publicly traded partnerships. Accordingly, while this new withholding requirement does not currently apply to interests in us, there can be no assurance that such requirement will not apply in the future.

35

---

 

Any tax-exempt organization or a non-U.S. person should consult its tax advisor before investing in our common units.

Our unitholders are subject to state and local income taxes and return filing requirements in states and localities where they do not live as a result of investing in our common units.

In addition to U.S. federal income taxes, our unitholders will likely be subject to other taxes, such as state and local income taxes, unincorporated business taxes and estate, inheritance or intangible taxes that are imposed by the various jurisdictions in which we do business or own property, even if they do not live in any of those jurisdictions. Our unitholders will likely be required to file state and local income tax returns and pay state and local income taxes in some or all of these various jurisdictions. Further, our unitholders may be subject to penalties for failure to comply with those requirements. We currently conduct business in 31 states (see “Item 2. Properties”). Each unitholder must assess the need to file and pay income tax in these states on their allocated share of partnership taxable income. We may own property or conduct business in other states, localities or foreign countries in the future. It is the responsibility of each unitholder to file all U.S. federal, state, local and foreign tax returns. In certain states, tax losses may not produce a tax benefit in the year incurred and also may not be available to offset income in subsequent tax years. Some states may require us, or we may elect, to withhold a percentage of income from amounts to be distributed to a unitholder not otherwise exempt from withholding, who is not a resident of the state. Withholding, the amount of which may be greater or less than a particular unitholders’ income tax liability to the state, generally does not relieve a nonresident unitholder from the obligation to file a state income tax return. Amounts withheld may be treated as if distributed to unitholders for purposes of determining the amounts distributed by us. Our counsel has not rendered an opinion on the state, local or non-U.S. tax consequences of an investment in our common units.

We will treat each purchaser of our common units as having the same tax benefits without regard to the actual common units purchased. The IRS may challenge this treatment, which could adversely affect the value of the common units.

Because we cannot match transferors and transferees of common units, we will adopt depreciation and amortization positions that may not conform to all aspects of existing Treasury Regulations. A successful IRS challenge to those positions could adversely affect the amount of U.S. federal income tax benefits available to our unitholders. It also could affect the timing of these tax benefits or the amount of gain for U.S. federal income tax purposes from any sale of common units and could have a negative impact on the value of our common units or result in audit adjustments to a unitholder’s U.S. federal income tax returns.

We prorate our items of income, gain, loss and deduction for U.S. federal income tax purposes and allocate them between transferors and transferees of our common units each month based upon the ownership of our common units on the first business day of each month and as of the opening of the applicable exchange on which our common units are listed, instead of on the basis of the date a particular common unit is transferred. The IRS may challenge this treatment, which could change the allocation of items of income, gain, loss and deduction among our unitholders.

We generally prorate our items of income, gain, loss and deduction between transferors and transferees of our common units each month based upon the ownership of our common units on the first day of each month, instead of on the basis of the date a particular common unit is transferred. Treasury Regulations allow a similar monthly convention, but such regulations do not specifically authorize the use of the proration method we have adopted. If the IRS were to successfully challenge our proration method, we may be required to change the allocation of items of income, gain, loss and deduction among our unitholders.

If a unitholder loans their common units to a short seller to cover a short sale of common units, they may be considered to have disposed of those common units for U.S. federal income tax purposes. If so, the unitholder would no longer be treated for U.S. federal income tax purposes as a partner with respect to those common units during the period of the loan and they may recognize gain or loss from such deemed disposition.

Because a unitholder whose common units are loaned to a “short seller” to cover a short sale of common units may be considered as having disposed of the loaned common units, the unitholder may no longer be treated for federal income tax purposes as a partner with respect to those common units during the period of the loan to the short seller and the unitholder may recognize gain or loss from such disposition. Moreover, during the period of the loan of common units to the short seller, any of our income, gain, loss or deduction with respect to such common units may not be reportable by the respective unitholder, and any cash distributions received by the unitholder as to those common units could be fully taxable to them as ordinary income. Unitholders desiring to assure their status as partners and avoid the risk of gain recognition from a loan to a short seller are urged to consult a tax advisor to discuss whether it is advisable to modify any applicable brokerage account agreements to prohibit their brokers from loaning their common units.

36

---

 

We have adopted certain valuation methodologies that may result in a shift of income, gain, loss and deduction between our General Partner and the unitholders. The IRS may challenge this treatment, which could adversely affect the value of the common units.

When we issue additional units or engage in certain other transactions, our General Partner will determine the fair market value of our assets and allocate any unrealized gain or loss attributable to our assets to the capital accounts of our unitholders and our General Partner. Although we may from time to time consult with professional appraisers regarding valuation matters, including the valuation of our assets, our General Partner will make many of the fair market value determinations of our assets using a methodology based on the market value of our common units as a means to measure the fair market value of our assets. Our methodology may be viewed as understating or overstating the value of our assets. In that case, there may be a shift of income, gain, loss and deduction between certain unitholders and our General Partner, which may be unfavorable to such unitholders. The IRS may challenge our valuation methods and allocations of income, gain, loss and deduction between our General Partner and certain of our unitholders.

A successful IRS challenge to these methods or allocations could adversely affect the amount of taxable income, gain or loss being allocated to our unitholders for U.S. federal income tax purposes. It also could affect the amount of taxable gain from our unitholders’ sale of common units and could have a negative impact on the value of the common units or result in audit adjustments to our unitholders’ U.S. federal income tax returns without the benefit of additional deductions.

 

If the IRS makes audit adjustments to our income tax returns for tax years beginning after 2017, it (and some states) may assess and collect any resulting taxes (including any applicable penalties and interest) directly from us, in which case we may require our unitholders and former unitholders to reimburse us for such taxes (including any applicable penalties or interest) or, if we are required to bear such payment, our cash available for distribution to our unitholders might be substantially reduced.

Pursuant to the Bipartisan Budget Act of 2015, if the IRS makes audit adjustments to our income tax returns for tax years beginning after 2017, it (and some states) may assess and collect any resulting taxes (including any applicable interest and penalties) directly from us. We will generally have the ability to shift any such tax liability to our General Partner and our unitholders in accordance with their interests in us during the year under audit, but there can be no assurance that we will be able to do so (or will choose to do so) under all circumstances, or that we will be able to (or choose to) effect corresponding shifts in state income or similar tax liability resulting from the IRS adjustment in states in which we do business in the year under audit or in the adjustment year. If we make payments of taxes, penalties and interest resulting from audit adjustments, we may require our unitholders and former unitholders to reimburse us for such taxes (including any applicable penalties or interest) or, if we are required to bear such payment, our cash available for distribution to our unitholders might be substantially reduced. Additionally, we may be required to allocate an adjustment disproportionately among our unitholders, causing the publicly traded units to have different capital accounts, unless the IRS issues further guidance.

In the event the IRS makes an audit adjustment to our income tax returns and we do not or cannot shift the liability to our unitholders in accordance with their interests in us during the year under audit, we will generally have the ability to request that the IRS reduce the determined underpayment by reducing the suspended passive loss carryovers of our unitholders (without any compensation from us to such unitholders), to the extent such underpayment is attributable to a net decrease in passive activity losses allocable to certain partners. Such reduction, if approved by the IRS, will be binding on any affected unitholders.

ITEM 1B. UNRESOLVED STAFF COMMENTS

None.

ITEM 2. PROPERTIES

The following table shows the aggregate number of sites we owned or leased by customer groups at December 31, 2019:

 

 

37

---

 

We conduct business at sites located in Alabama, Arkansas, Colorado, Delaware, Florida, Georgia, Illinois, Indiana, Kentucky, Louisiana, Maine, Maryland, Massachusetts, Michigan, Minnesota, Mississippi, New Hampshire, New Jersey, New Mexico, New York, North Carolina, Ohio, Pennsylvania, Rhode Island, South Carolina, South Dakota, Tennessee, Texas, Virginia, West Virginia and Wisconsin.

The following table provides a history of our sites acquired, changes between customer groups or sold during 2019:

 

 

Our principal executive offices are in Allentown, Pennsylvania in approximately 25,000 square feet of leased office space.

ITEM 3. LEGAL PROCEEDINGS

We are from time to time party to various lawsuits, claims and other legal proceedings that arise in the ordinary course of business. These actions typically seek, among other things, compensation for alleged personal injury, breach of contract, property damages, environmental damages, employment-related claims and damages, punitive damages, civil penalties or other losses, or injunctive or declaratory relief. With respect to all such lawsuits, claims and proceedings, we record a reserve when it is probable that a liability has been incurred and the amount of loss can be reasonably estimated. In addition, we disclose matters for which management believes a material loss is at least reasonably possible. None of these proceedings, separately or in the aggregate, are expected to have a material adverse effect on our consolidated financial position, results of operations or cash flows. In all instances, management has assessed the matter based on current information and made a judgment concerning its potential outcome, giving due consideration to the nature of the claim, the amount and nature of damages sought and the probability of success. Management’s judgment may prove materially inaccurate, and such judgment is made subject to the known uncertainties of litigation.

Additional information regarding legal proceedings is included in Note 15 to the financial statements.

ITEM 4. MINE SAFETY DISCLOSURES

Not applicable.

38

---

 

PART II

ITEM 5. MARKET FOR REGISTRANT’S COMMON EQUITY, RELATED STOCKHOLDER MATTERS AND ISSUER PURCHASES OF EQUITY SECURITIES

As of February 21, 2020, we had 37,023,114 common units outstanding, held by approximately 17 holders of record. Our common units are listed and trade on the NYSE under the symbol “CAPL.” Included in the number of common units outstanding are 9,210,137 common units currently owned by the Topper Group, which cannot be transferred absent registration with the SEC or an available exemption from the SEC’s registration requirements.

 

Cash Distribution Policy

General

The Board has adopted a policy to make cash distributions per unit each quarter, in an amount determined by the Board following the end of such quarter. In general, we expect that cash distributed for each quarter will equal cash generated from operations less cash needed for maintenance capital expenditures, accrued but unpaid expenses (including the management fee to the Topper Group), reimbursement of expenses incurred by our General Partner, debt service and other contractual obligations and reserves for future operating and capital needs or for future distributions to our partners. We expect that the Board will reserve excess cash, from time to time, in an effort to sustain or permit gradual or consistent increases in quarterly distributions. Restrictions in our credit facility could limit our ability to pay distributions upon the occurrence of certain events. See “Item 7. Management’s Discussion and Analysis of Financial Condition and Results of Operations—Liquidity and Capital Resources—Credit Facility.” The Board may also determine to borrow to fund distributions in quarters when we generate less cash available for distribution than necessary to sustain or grow our cash distributions per unit. The factors that we believe will be the primary drivers of our cash generated from operations are changes in demand for motor fuels, the number of sites to which we distribute motor fuels, the margin per gallon we are able to generate at such sites and the profitability of sites we own and lease.

Our cash distribution policy, established by our General Partner, is to distribute each quarter an amount at least equal to the minimum quarterly distribution of $0.4375 per unit on all units ($1.75 per unit on an annualized basis). The distribution declared by the Board on January 22, 2020 was $0.5250 per unit (or $2.10 per unit on an annualized basis). Our General Partner may determine at any time that it is in the best interest of our Partnership to modify or revoke our cash distribution policy. Modification of our cash distribution policy may result in distributions of amounts less than, or greater than, our minimum quarterly distribution, and revocation of our cash distribution policy could result in no distributions at all. In addition, our credit facility includes certain restrictions on our ability to make cash distributions.

IDRs

IDRs represent the right to receive an increasing percentage (15.0%, 25.0% and 50.0%) of our quarterly distributions from operating surplus after the minimum quarterly distribution and the target distribution levels (as described under Minimum Quarterly Distribution below) have been achieved. As of December 31, 2019, DMP held our IDRs and had the right to transfer these rights at any time. As of December 31, 2019, the current distribution per unit exceeded the 15% threshold.

See “Item 7. Management’s Discussion and Analysis of Financial Condition and Results of Operations—Recent Developments” for a discussion of the elimination of the IDRs, which closed on February 6, 2020.

Minimum Quarterly Distribution

If cash distributions to our unitholders exceed $0.5031 per unit in any quarter, our unitholders and the holders of our IDRs, would receive distributions according to the following percentage allocations:

 

 

We expect to continue the practice of paying quarterly cash distributions, though the timing, declaration, amount and payment of future distributions to unitholders will fall within the discretion of the Board. Our indebtedness also restricts our ability to pay distributions. As such, there can be no assurance we will continue to pay distributions in the future.

39

---

 

Unregistered Sales of Equity Securities and Use of Proceeds

Through February 21, 2020, we issued an aggregate of 9,210,137 common units to Circle K and DMP (now all owned by DMP) as consideration for asset purchases, partial settlement of the management fee and the elimination of the IDRs, which closed on February 6, 2020. These units are restricted and cannot be transferred absent registration with the SEC or an available exemption from the SEC’s registration requirements. These issuances were made in reliance on Section 4(a)(2) of the Securities Act of 1933, as amended.

Common Unit Repurchase Program

We made no common unit repurchases during the quarter ended December 31, 2019.

Management Fee Issuance

As approved by the independent conflicts committee of the Board, the Partnership and Circle K mutually agreed to settle, from time to time, a portion of the full amount due under the terms of the Circle K Omnibus Agreement in newly issued common units representing limited partner interests in the Partnership. These issuances of common units were made in reliance on Section 4(a)(2) of the Securities Act of 1933, as amended. We issued the following common units to CST or Circle K for the periods presented below under the terms of the Circle K Omnibus Agreement. As a result of the GP Purchase, the Topper Group now owns these units.

 

All charges allocated to us by Circle K under the Circle K Omnibus Agreement since the first quarter of 2018 have been paid by us in cash.

ITEM 6. SELECTED FINANCIAL DATA

The following selected financial data reflect the operating data for the periods and as of the dates indicated.

To ensure a full understanding, you should read the selected financial data presented below in conjunction with “Management’s Discussion and Analysis of Financial Condition and Results of Operations” and the financial statements and accompanying notes included in this Form 10-K.

40

---

 

The financial data below are presented in thousands.

 

 

 

 

41

---

 

 

 

ITEM 7. MANAGEMENT’S DISCUSSION AND ANALYSIS OF FINANCIAL CONDITION AND RESULTS OF OPERATIONS

The following MD&A is intended to help the reader understand our results of operations and financial condition. This section is provided as a supplement to and should be read in conjunction with Items 1, 1A and 8 (which includes our consolidated financial statements) contained in this report.

MD&A is organized as follows:

Purchase of the General Partner by the Topper Group

As a result of the GP Purchase, on November 19, 2019, subsidiaries of DMP purchased from subsidiaries of Circle K: 1) 100% of the membership interests in the sole member of the General Partner; 2) 100% of the IDRs issued by the Partnership; and 3) an aggregate of 7,486,131 common units of the Partnership. Joseph V. Topper, Jr. is the founder and, since November 19, 2019, chairman of the Board.

Through its control of DMP, the Topper Group controls the sole member of our General Partner and has the ability to appoint all of the members of the Board and to control and manage the operations and activities of the Partnership. As of February 21, 2020, the Topper Group also has beneficial ownership of a 47.7% limited partner interest in the Partnership (see “Recent Developments” below for disclosure regarding the elimination of the IDRs).

Recent Developments

Equity Restructuring

On January 15, 2020, the Partnership entered into an Equity Restructuring Agreement (the “Equity Restructuring Agreement”) with the General Partner and Dunne Manning CAP Holdings II LLC (“DM CAP Holdings”), a wholly owned subsidiary of DMP.

 

Pursuant to the Equity Restructuring Agreement, all of the outstanding IDRs of the Partnership, all of which were held by DM CAP Holdings, were cancelled and converted into 2,528,673 newly-issued common units representing limited partner interests in the Partnership based on a value of $45 million and calculated using the 20 business day volume weighted average trading price of our common units ended five business days prior to the execution of the Equity Restructuring Agreement (the “20-day VWAP”).

 

This transaction closed on February 6, 2020, after the record date for the distribution payable on the Partnership’s common units with respect to the fourth quarter of 2019.

 

Simultaneously with the Equity Restructuring Closing, the General Partner executed and delivered the Second Amended and Restated Agreement of Limited Partnership of the Partnership (the “Second Amended and Restated Partnership Agreement”) to give effect to the Equity Restructuring Agreement.

42

---

 

 

The Second Amended and Restated Partnership Agreement amended and restated the First Amended and Restated Agreement of Limited Partnership of the Partnership, dated as of October 30, 2012, as amended, in its entirety to, among other items, (i) reflect the cancellation of the IDRs and (ii) eliminate certain legacy provisions that no longer apply, including provisions related to the IDRs and subordinated units of the Partnership that were formerly outstanding.

 

The terms of the Equity Restructuring Agreement were approved by the independent conflicts committee of the Board.

CST Fuel Supply Exchange Agreement

On November 19, 2019, the Partnership entered into an Exchange Agreement (the “CST Fuel Supply Exchange Agreement”) with Circle K. Pursuant to the CST Fuel Supply Exchange Agreement, Circle K has agreed to transfer to the Partnership 45 owned and leased convenience store properties (the “Properties”) and related assets (including fuel supply agreements) relating to such Properties, and U.S. wholesale fuel supply contracts covering 387 additional sites (the “DODO Sites”), and, in exchange, the Partnership has agreed to transfer to Circle K 100% of the limited partnership units in CST Fuel Supply LP that are owned by the Partnership, which represent 17.5% of the outstanding units of CST Fuel Supply LP (collectively, the “CST Fuel Supply Exchange”).

The assets being exchanged by Circle K include (a) fee simple title to all land and other real property and related improvements owned by Circle K at the Properties, (b) Circle K’s leasehold interest in all land and other real property and related improvements leased by Circle K at the Properties, (c) all buildings and other improvements and permanently attached machinery, equipment and other fixtures located on the Properties, (d) all tangible personal property owned by Circle K and located on the Properties, including all underground storage tanks located on the Properties, and owned by Circle K, (e) all of Circle K’s rights under the dealer agreements related to the Properties and the DODO Sites, (f) Circle K’s rights under the leases to the leased Properties and all tenant leases and certain other contracts related to the Properties, (g) all fuel inventory owned by Circle K and stored in the underground storage tanks at locations operated by dealers that are independent commission marketers, (h) all assignable permits related to the Properties and related assets owned by Circle K, (i) all real estate records and related registrations and reports and other books and records of Circle K to the extent relating to the Properties, and (j) all goodwill and other intangible assets associated with the foregoing assets (collectively, the “Assets”).  The Partnership will also assume certain liabilities associated with the Assets.

The closing of the CST Fuel Supply Exchange is expected to occur in the first quarter of 2020 and is subject to the satisfaction or waiver of customary closing conditions. The CST Fuel Supply Exchange Agreement contains customary representations, warranties, agreements and obligations of the parties, including covenants regarding the conduct by Circle K with respect to the Assets prior to closing. The Partnership and Circle K have agreed to indemnify each other for, among other things, breaches of their respective representations and warranties contained in the CST Fuel Supply Exchange Agreement for a period of 18 months after the date of closing (except for certain fundamental representations and warranties, which survive until the expiration of the applicable statute of limitations) and for breaches of their respective covenants and for certain liabilities assumed or retained by the Partnership or Circle K, respectively. The respective indemnification obligations of each of the Partnership and Circle K to the other are subject to the limitations set forth in the CST Fuel Supply Exchange Agreement. The CST Fuel Supply Exchange Agreement may be terminated, among other ways, by mutual written consent of the Partnership and Circle K.

In connection with the execution of the CST Fuel Supply Exchange Agreement, the Partnership and Circle K also entered into an Environmental Responsibility Agreement, dated as of November 19, 2019 (the “ERA”), which agreement sets forth the parties’ respective liabilities and obligations with respect to environmental matters relating to the Properties. As further described in the ERA, Circle K will retain liability for known environmental contamination or non-compliance at the Properties, and the Partnership will assume liability for unknown environmental contamination and non-compliance at the Properties.

The terms of the CST Fuel Supply Exchange Agreement were approved by the independent conflicts committee of the Board.

We are in the process of amending our credit facility to allow for the divestiture of our investment in CST Fuel Supply.

 

43

---

 

Retail and Wholesale Acquisition

 

On January 15, 2020, in connection with the Partnership’s strategic reorientation to add retail capability, the Partnership entered into an asset purchase agreement (“Asset Purchase Agreement”) with the sellers (“Sellers”) signatories thereto, including DMS and certain of DMS’s affiliates, with respect to the acquisition (the “Retail Acquisition”) by the Partnership from the Sellers of the retail operations at 172 sites, wholesale fuel distribution to 114 sites, including 55 third-party wholesale dealer contracts, and leasehold interests in at least 53 sites, for an aggregate consideration of $21 million in cash and 842,891 in newly-issued common units valued at $15 million and calculated based on the 20-day VWAP. The Partnership will also acquire for cash the inventory related to the sites. The Partnership expects to finance the aggregate cash consideration with borrowings under its credit facility.

 

In addition, the parties agreed to perform Phase I environmental site assessments with respect to certain sites. The Sellers agreed to retain liability for known environmental contamination or non-compliance at certain sites, and the Partnership agreed to assume liability for unknown environmental contamination and non-compliance at certain sites.

 

The closing of the transactions contemplated by the Asset Purchase Agreement is expected to occur prior to the end of the second quarter of 2020 (such date, the “Retail Acquisition Closing”) and is subject to closing conditions and purchase price adjustments customary in comparable transactions. In addition, the Asset Purchase Agreement contains customary representations and warranties of the parties as well as indemnification obligations by Sellers and the Partnership, respectively, to each other. The indemnification obligations must be asserted within 18 months of the Retail Acquisition Closing and are limited to an aggregate of $7.2 million for each party.

 

In connection with the Retail Acquisition Closing, the Partnership will assume certain contracts with third parties and affiliates necessary for the continued operation of the sites, including agreements with dealers and franchise agreements. Further, the Partnership will enter into ten-year master leases with certain affiliates of the Topper Group, with an aggregate annual rent of $6.5 million payable by the Partnership. Additionally, DMS will no longer be a customer or lessee of the Partnership as we will terminate the contracts with DMS upon closing on this transaction.

 

The terms of the Asset Purchase Agreement were approved by the independent conflicts committee of the Board.

 

With this transaction, we will not only be adding wholesale fuel contracts to our portfolio but will be adding retail assets and a retail capability that will enable the Partnership to pursue a broader range of acquisition opportunities and provides greater flexibility for optimizing the class of trade for each asset in our portfolio.

Topper Group Omnibus Agreement

On January 15, 2020, the Partnership entered into an Omnibus Agreement, effective as of January 1, 2020 (the “Topper Group Omnibus Agreement”), among the Partnership, the General Partner and DMI. The terms of the Topper Group Omnibus Agreement were approved by the conflicts committee of the Board, which is composed of the independent directors of the Board.

 

Pursuant to the Topper Group Omnibus Agreement, DMI has agreed, among other things, to provide, or cause to be provided, to the General Partner for the benefit of the Partnership, at cost without markup, certain management, administrative and operating services, which services were previously provided by Circle K under the Transitional Omnibus Agreement, dated as of November 19, 2019, among the Partnership, the General Partner and Circle K.

 

The Topper Group Omnibus Agreement will continue in effect until terminated in accordance with its terms. The Topper Group has the right to terminate the Topper Group Omnibus Agreement at any time upon 180 days’ prior written notice, and the General Partner has the right to terminate the Topper Group Omnibus Agreement at any time upon 60 days’ prior written notice.

44

---

 

Asset Exchange Transaction with Circle K

On December 17, 2018, as approved by the independent conflicts committee of the Board, we entered into an Asset Exchange Agreement (the “Asset Exchange Agreement”) with Circle K. Pursuant to the Asset Exchange Agreement, the parties have agreed to exchange (i) certain assets of CrossAmerica related to 56 convenience and fuel retail stores currently leased and operated by Circle K pursuant to a master lease that CrossAmerica previously purchased jointly with or from CST (the “master lease properties”), and 17 convenience and fuel retail stores currently owned and operated by CrossAmerica located in the U.S. Upper Midwest (collectively, including the master lease properties, the “CAPL Properties”), having an aggregate fair value of approximately $184.5 million, for (ii) certain assets of Circle K related to 192 (162 fee and 30 leased) company-operated convenience and fuel retail stores (the “CK Properties”), having an aggregate fair value of approximately $184.5 million. The existing fuel supply arrangements for the 56 master lease properties will remain unchanged. The estimated positive net impact to our annual EBITDA following the close of all tranches is $7 to $8 million.

The assets being exchanged by CrossAmerica include (i) its fee simple title to all land and other real property and related improvements owned by CrossAmerica at the CAPL Properties, (ii) all buildings and other improvements located on the CAPL Properties, (iii) all tangible personal property owned by CrossAmerica and primarily used in connection with the operation of the CAPL Properties, including all underground storage tanks located on such properties and owned by CrossAmerica, (iv) CrossAmerica’s rights under certain contracts related to the CAPL Properties, (v) all in-store cash, inventory owned by CrossAmerica and assignable permits owned or held by CrossAmerica at the 17 convenience store sites owned and operated by CrossAmerica, (vi) all real estate records and related registrations and reports relating exclusively to the CAPL Properties, and (vii) all goodwill and other intangible assets associated with the foregoing assets (collectively, the “CAPL Assets”). The assets being exchanged by Circle K include (a) its fee simple title to all land and other real property and related improvements owned by Circle K at the CK Properties, (b) all buildings and other improvements located on the CK Properties, (c) all tangible personal property owned by Circle K and primarily used in connection with the operation of the CK Properties, including all underground storage tanks located on such properties and owned by Circle K, (d) Circle K’s rights under the dealer agreements and agent agreements to be entered into and assigned to CrossAmerica relating to each CK Property that will be dealerized as contemplated by the Asset Exchange Agreement, (e) Circle K’s rights under certain contracts related to the CK Properties, (f) all real estate records and related registrations and reports relating exclusively to the CK Properties, and (g) all goodwill and other intangible assets associated with the foregoing assets (collectively, the “CK Assets”). CrossAmerica will also assume certain liabilities associated with the CK Assets, and Circle K will assume certain liabilities associated with the CAPL Assets.

The CK Properties will be assigned to CrossAmerica in multiple tranches after Circle K has executed a dealer agreement or agent agreement, as applicable, with respect to each CK Property to be included in a tranche and the applicable dealer or agent has assumed possession and operating control of such property. As a result, it is expected that the exchange of assets pursuant to the Asset Exchange Agreement will occur in a series of separate tranche closings over a period of up to 24 months as Circle K enters into such dealer agreements or agent agreements. At each separate closing, CK Properties and related CK Assets will be exchanged for CAPL Properties and related CAPL Assets of approximately equivalent value. After the final tranche closing, any net valuation difference will be paid by the party owing such amount to the other.

Each separate closing is subject to the satisfaction or waiver of customary closing conditions. The Asset Exchange Agreement contains customary representations, warranties, agreements and obligations of the parties, including covenants regarding the conduct by CrossAmerica and Circle K with respect to the CAPL Properties and the CK Properties, respectively, prior to closing. CrossAmerica and Circle K have generally agreed to indemnify each other for breaches of the representations, warranties and covenants contained in the Asset Exchange Agreement for a period of 18 months after the date of the final closing (or for certain specified losses, until the expiration of the applicable statute of limitations). Except for such specified losses, the respective indemnification obligations of each of CrossAmerica and Circle K to the other will not apply to the first $1.845 million of losses and the aggregate indemnification obligations will not exceed $39.9 million. The Asset Exchange Agreement may be terminated by mutual written consent of CrossAmerica and Circle K.

In connection with the execution of the Asset Exchange Agreement, CrossAmerica and Circle K also entered into an Environmental Responsibility Agreement (the “ERA”), which agreement sets forth the parties’ respective liabilities and obligations with respect to environmental matters relating to the CAPL Properties and the CK Properties. Generally, (i) each party will retain liability for known contamination at the sites it is transferring to the other party and (ii) each party will assume liability for unknown contamination at the sites it is receiving from the other party, except that the ERA does not affect any liability that Circle K currently has under the existing master lease of the master lease properties.

45

---

 

First Asset Exchange

On May 21, 2019, the closing of the first separate tranche of asset exchanges under the Asset Exchange Agreement occurred (the “First Asset Exchange”). In this First Asset Exchange, Circle K transferred to the Partnership 60 (52 fee and 8 leased) U.S. company-operated convenience and fuel retail stores having an aggregate fair value of approximately $58.1 million, and the Partnership transferred to Circle K all 17 of the Upper Midwest properties and the real property for eight of the master lease properties having an aggregate fair value of approximately $58.3 million.

Second Asset Exchange

On September 5, 2019, the closing of the second separate tranche of asset exchanges under the Asset Exchange Agreement occurred (the “Second Asset Exchange”). In this Second Asset Exchange, Circle K transferred to the Partnership 56 (51 fee and 5 leased) U.S. company-operated convenience and fuel retail stores having an aggregate fair value of approximately $50.2 million, and the Partnership transferred to Circle K the real property for 19 of the master lease properties having an aggregate fair value of approximately $51.4 million.

In connection with the closing of the First Asset Exchange and the Second Asset Exchange (collectively, the “Closed Asset Exchange Transactions”), the stores transferred by Circle K were dealerized as contemplated by the Asset Exchange Agreement and Circle K’s rights under the dealer agreements and agent agreements that were entered into in connection therewith were assigned to the Partnership. Additionally, at the closing of the First Asset Exchange, LGW, a wholly-owned subsidiary of the Partnership, and Circle K entered into a Sub-Jobber Agreement, dated as of May 21, 2019 (the “Sub-Jobber Agreement”), pursuant to which Circle K will supply fuel to LGW for resale to the dealers at the stores that Circle K transferred to the Partnership in the Closed Asset Exchange Transactions. While there is no minimum or maximum quantity of products that LGW is required to purchase from Circle K, for each store location covered by the Sub-Jobber Agreement, LGW must purchase from Circle K all of the requirements for motor fuel at the stores covered by the Sub-Jobber Agreement, except in certain limited circumstances described in the Sub-Jobber Agreement. The term of the Sub-Jobber Agreement will expire on May 21, 2024, unless earlier terminated by either party in accordance with the terms of the Sub-Jobber Agreement. Circle K also has the right to grant temporary extensions of the Sub-Jobber Agreement of up to 180 days per extension.

After each subsequent separate “tranche” closing under the Asset Exchange Agreement, the Sub-Jobber Agreement will be amended by agreement of LGW and Circle K to add the store locations acquired by the Partnership at such closing to the Sub-Jobber Agreement.

On February 25, 2020, the closing of the third separate tranche of asset exchanges under the Asset Exchange Agreement occurred. In this tranche, Circle K transferred to the Partnership ten (all fee) U.S. company-operated convenience and fuel retail stores having an aggregate fair value of approximately $11.0 million, and the Partnership transferred to Circle K the real property for five of the master lease properties having an aggregate fair value of approximately $10.3 million.

The remaining tranches are anticipated to close in the first half of 2020.

See Note 3 to the financial statements for additional information.

Dealerization of Our Midwest Company Operated Sites

In June 2019, we entered into master fuel supply and master lease agreements with Applegreen. During the third quarter of 2019, we dealerized 46 company operated Upper Midwest sites. The master fuel supply and master lease agreements have an initial 10-year term with four 5-year renewal options. Base rent generally increases by 1.5% annually, including during the renewal options. Applegreen has the right to sever up to 10 specifically identified sites, for which notice must be provided prior to the end of the first year, and the effective date will be after the second year. Applegreen has the right to sever up to eight of the remaining 36 sites with proper notice. We have committed to making certain EMV upgrades at these 46 sites by October 1, 2020.

As a result of this transition, we have not had any company operated sites since September 30, 2019. See “Retail and Wholesale Acquisition” above for information regarding the acquisition of retail and wholesale assets from the Topper Group and certain other parties.

46

---

 

New Credit Facility

On April 1, 2019, we entered into a new credit agreement, which provides the following key benefits:

On November 19, 2019, we further amended our credit facility to allow for the GP Purchase.

See Note 11 to the financial statements for additional information.

Significant Factors Affecting our Profitability

The Significance of Crude Oil and Wholesale Motor Fuel Prices on Our Revenues, Cost of Sales and Gross Profit

Wholesale segment

The prices paid to our motor fuel suppliers for wholesale motor fuel (which affects our cost of sales) are highly correlated to the price of crude oil. The crude oil commodity markets are highly volatile, and the market prices of crude oil, and, correspondingly, the market prices of wholesale motor fuel, experience significant and rapid fluctuations. We receive a fixed mark-up per gallon on approximately 82% of gallons sold to our customers. The remaining gallons are primarily DTW priced contracts with our customers. These contracts provide for variable, market-based pricing that results in motor fuel gross profit effects similar to retail motor fuel gross profits (as crude oil prices decline, motor fuel gross profit generally increases, as discussed in our Retail segment below). The increase in DTW gross profit results from the cost of wholesale motor fuel declining at a faster rate as compared to the rate that retail motor fuel prices decline. Conversely, our DTW motor fuel gross profit declines when the cost of wholesale motor fuel increases at a faster rate as compared to the rate that retail motor fuel prices increase.

From the time of the November 2017 Jet-Pep acquisition through October 31, 2018, we purchased motor fuel for our Jet-Pep Assets from Circle K at Circle K’s cost plus terminal and administration fees of $0.015 per gallon. Circle K’s cost to supply these sites included price fluctuations associated with index-based motor fuel pricing for pipeline delivery and the generation and sale of RINs. Effective November 1, 2018, we amended our contract with Circle K such that our cost is based on a rack-based price, which reduces our exposure to price fluctuations inherent in the previous pricing methodology. We completed the upgrades of dispensers and the rebranding of substantially all these sites to a major fuel supplier in the third quarter of 2019 and anticipate continuing to see a positive impact on volume and fuel margin.

Regarding our supplier relationships, a majority of our total gallons purchased are subject to Terms Discounts. The dollar value of these discounts increases and decreases corresponding to motor fuel prices. Therefore, in periods of lower wholesale motor fuel prices, our gross profit is negatively affected, and, in periods of higher wholesale motor fuel prices, our gross profit is positively affected (as it relates to these discounts).

Retail segment

We attempt to pass along wholesale motor fuel price changes to our retail customers through “at the pump” retail price changes; however, market conditions do not always allow us to do so immediately. The timing of any related increase or decrease in “at the pump” retail prices is affected by competitive conditions in each geographic market in which we operate. As such, the prices we charge our customers for motor fuel and the gross profit we receive on our motor fuel sales can increase or decrease significantly over short periods of time.

Changes in our average motor fuel selling price per gallon and gross margin are directly related to the changes in crude oil and wholesale motor fuel prices. Variations in our reported revenues and cost of sales are, therefore, primarily related to the price of crude oil and wholesale motor fuel prices and generally not as a result of changes in motor fuel sales volumes, unless otherwise indicated and discussed below.

47

---

 

We typically experience lower retail motor fuel gross profits in periods when the wholesale cost of motor fuel increases, and higher retail motor fuel gross profits in periods when the wholesale cost of motor fuel declines.

See “Recent Developments—Dealerization of Our Remaining Company Operated Sites” in Item 7 and Note 21 to the financial statements for information on the dealerization of our remaining company operated sites in the third quarter of 2019. As a result of this transition, we have not had any company operated sites since September 30, 2019.

Seasonality Effects on Volumes

Our business is subject to seasonality due to our wholesale and retail sites being located in certain geographic areas that are affected by seasonal weather and temperature trends and associated changes in retail customer activity during different seasons. Historically, sales volumes have been highest in the second and third quarters (during the summer months) and lowest during the winter months in the first and fourth quarters.

Impact of Inflation

Inflation affects our financial performance by increasing certain of our operating expenses and cost of goods sold. Operating expenses include labor costs, leases, and general and administrative expenses. While our Wholesale segment benefits from higher Terms Discounts as a result of higher fuel costs, inflation could negatively impact our operating expenses. Although we have historically been able to pass on increased costs through price increases, there can be no assurance that we will be able to do so in the future.

Acquisition and Financing Activity

Our results of operations and financial condition are also impacted by our acquisition and financing activities as summarized below.

2017

2018

2019

Adoption of ASC 842 on Lease Accounting

As further discussed in Notes 2 and 21 to the financial statements, we adopted ASC 842 effective January 1, 2019, and as a result, our results for 2019 are not directly comparable to the results for 2018. Most significantly, payments on our previous failed sale-leaseback obligations were characterized as principal and interest expense in periods prior to 2019. Starting in 2019, these payments are characterized as rent expense. These payments for the Wholesale and Retail segments amounted to approximately $6.7 million and $0.5 million for 2018, respectively. Of the total payments, $5.5 million was classified as interest expense for the 2018. See “Results of Operations—Non-GAAP Financial Measures” for additional information.

48

---

 

Execution of Master Fuel and Lease Agreements with a Third-Party Multi-Site Operator

In June 2018, we executed master fuel supply and master lease agreements with a third-party multi-site operator of retail motor fuel stations, to which we transitioned 43 sites in Florida from DMS in the third quarter of 2018. The master fuel supply and master lease agreements have an initial 10-year term with four 5-year renewal options.

During the second quarter of 2018, in connection with this transition, we accrued a $3.8 million contract termination payment, which was paid to DMS during the third quarter of 2018. This payment was approved by the independent conflicts committee of our Board. Additionally, we recorded a $2.4 million charge primarily to write off deferred rent income related to our recapture of these sites from the master lease agreement with DMS. These charges are included in loss on dispositions and lease terminations, net in the statement of income.

FTC-Required Divestitures

In November 2017, we and Circle K jointly acquired the Jet-Pep Assets and in December 2017, Circle K acquired Holiday. As a result of agreements entered into in connection with these acquisitions, the FTC issued orders requiring us to divest specific sites to FTC-approved third-party buyers. Accordingly, we divested two sites in July 2018 that were acquired in the Jet-Pep Assets acquisition and nine Upper Midwest Sites in September 2018 in connection with Circle K’s acquisition of Holiday. Since this was a forced divestiture of assets for us, as approved by the independent conflicts committee of the Board, Circle K agreed to compensate us with an amount representing the difference between the value of the nine Upper Midwest Sites and the proceeds of the sale to FTC approved third-party buyers, amounting to $6.3 million. Circle K’s payment to us was received during the fourth quarter of 2018. This payment was accounted for as a transaction between entities under common control and thus recorded as a contribution to partners’ capital, net of income taxes.

These sites were divested in September 2018, after the June 15, 2018 deadline specified in the FTC orders. As a result, Couche-Tard and/or the Partnership may be subject to civil penalties, up to a maximum allowed by law of $41,000 per day per violation of the FTC divestiture orders. Circle K has agreed to indemnify us for any such penalties and associated legal costs and as such, we have not accrued any liability.

Acquisition of Jet-Pep Assets

On November 28, 2017, we closed on the acquisition of the real property and the fuel supply business of 101 commission operated retail sites, including 92 fee simple sites, the leasehold interest in five real property sites and the fuel supply business to four independent commission sites, all located in Alabama, from Jet-Pep, Inc. and affiliated entities, for an aggregate cash consideration of $75.6 million, including working capital. On the same day, Circle K closed on the acquisition of certain related retail and terminal assets from Jet-Pep, Inc. and affiliated entities.

Separation Benefits and Retention Bonuses

During 2017, the Partnership recognized a $5.4 million charge for certain severance and benefit costs associated with certain officers and other employees of CST Services who provided services to the Partnership and who terminated employment upon the consummation of the CST Merger, which constituted a change in control, as defined in the EICP and CST’s severance plans.

In addition, certain participants in the EICP received retention bonuses that were paid in annual installments that began in July 2017 and continued through July 2019. The Partnership recorded a $1.0 million charge during 2017 in connection with the payments made by Circle K in July 2017. In addition, the Partnership recognized charges of $0.1 million, $0.8 million and $0.7 million in 2019, 2018 and 2017, respectively, for the payments made in July 2018 and July of 2019.

We also incurred a $1.7 million charge in 2017 related to additional EICP severance payments.

During 2019, we dealerized the remaining 46 company operated sites in the third quarter of 2019. As a result of communicating a plan to exit the company operated business, we recorded separation benefit costs totaling $0.4 million in the first quarter of 2019, which is anticipated to be paid in the first quarter of 2020.

Separation benefit and retention bonus costs are included in general and administrative expenses and are included in other long-term liabilities as we will reimburse Circle K. See Note 13 for additional information.

49

---

 

Results of Operations

We have omitted discussion of the earliest of the three years covered by our consolidated financial statements presented in this Annual Report because that disclosure was already included in our Annual Report on Form 10-K for the fiscal year ended December 31, 2018, filed with the SEC on February 26, 2019. You are encouraged to reference Part II, Item 7, within that report, for a discussion of our financial condition and results of operations for the year ended December 31, 2018 as compared to the year ended December 31, 2017.

Consolidated Income Statement Analysis

Below is an analysis of our consolidated statements of income and provides the primary reasons for significant increases and decreases in the various income statement line items from period to period. Our consolidated statements of income are as follows (in thousands):

 

 

Year Ended December 31, 2019 Compared to Year Ended December 31, 2018

Consolidated Results

Operating revenues decreased $296 million or 12%, while operating income increased $8.3 million or 24%.

Operating revenues

Significant items impacting these results prior to the elimination of intercompany revenues were:

50

---

 

Intersegment revenues

We present the results of operations of our segments on a consistent basis with how our management views the business. Therefore, our segments are presented before intersegment eliminations (which consist of motor fuel sold by our Wholesale segment to our Retail segment). As a result, in order to reconcile to our consolidated change in operating revenues, a discussion of the change in intersegment revenues is included in our consolidated MD&A discussion.

Our intersegment revenues decreased $120 million (28%), primarily attributable to the 2018 divestitures mandated by FTC orders, the conversion of commission sites included in our Retail segment to lessee dealer sites included in the Wholesale segment, the divestiture of 17 company operated Upper Midwest sites in May 2019 in connection with the asset exchange with Circle K, the dealerization of 46 company operated Upper Midwest sites in the third quarter of 2019 and the changes in wholesale prices discussed above.

Cost of sales

Cost of sales decreased $278 million (12%) as a result of the decrease in wholesale motor fuel prices and volume decreases discussed above. See “Segment Results” for additional gross profit analyses.

Operating expenses

See “Segment Results” for additional operating expenses analyses.

General and administrative expenses

General and administrative expenses decreased $1.1 million (6%) primarily attributable to a $0.4 million decrease in acquisition-related costs, $0.5 million decrease due to the dealerization of the remaining company operates sites in the third quarter of 2019 and a $0.5 million decrease in legal fees. These decreases were partially offset by a $0.8 million increase in equity compensation expense as a result of more equity awards outstanding and the vesting of all outstanding awards as a result of the GP Purchase.

Depreciation, amortization and accretion expense

Depreciation, amortization and accretion expense decreased $11.5 million (17%) primarily due to an $8.9 million impairment charge recorded in 2018 related to the two Jet-Pep sites and the nine Upper Midwest sites required to be divested per FTC order as well as a $1.6 million reduction related to removing the property and equipment associated with our previous sale-leaseback transactions from our balance sheet as part of our transition adjustment in connection with the adoption of ASC 842 (see Note 2 to the financial statements for additional details). We recorded $4.5 million of impairment charges related to assets held for sale and certain vacant land sites during 2019. The remaining reduction is primarily driven by assets becoming fully depreciated or amortized.

51

---

 

Loss on dispositions and lease terminations, net

During 2019, we recorded a $0.5 million loss on the sale of inventory to Applegreen in connection with the dealerization of the company operated Upper Midwest sites. In addition, we recorded a $0.6 million loss to write off deferred rent income related to DMS giving notice to sever 12 sites in early 2020 from the master lease with us. As a result of replacing dispensers in Alabama as a part of the rebranding effort of those sites, we recorded a $1.0 million loss on disposal. Partially offsetting these losses was a $0.5 million net gain on sales of assets.

During 2018, in connection with the transition of 43 sites in Florida from DMS to a third-party multi-site operator of retail motor fuel stations, we recorded a $3.8 million charge for a contract termination payment paid to DMS. Additionally, we recorded a $2.4 million charge primarily to write off deferred rent income related to our recapture of these sites from the master lease agreement with DMS.

Interest expense

Interest expense decreased $5.9 million (18%) due to a $5.5 million reduction relating to the adoption of ASC 842 and the resulting recharacterization of lease payments on our sale-leaseback transactions from principal and interest expense for periods prior to 2019 to rent expense starting in 2019. See Note 2 to the financial statements for additional information.

Income tax benefit

We recorded an income tax benefit of $1.2 million and $2.7 million for 2019 and 2018, respectively. The benefits were primarily driven by less income being generated by our taxable subsidiaries. See Note 19 for additional information.

IDR distributions

IDR distributions decreased $1.0 million as a result of the lower distribution per common unit in 2019 as compared to 2018.

Segment Results

We present the results of operations of our segments consistent with how our management views the business. Therefore, our segments are presented before intersegment eliminations (which consist of motor fuel sold by our Wholesale segment to our Retail segment). These comparisons are not necessarily indicative of future results.

52

---

 

Wholesale

The following table highlights the results of operations and certain operating metrics of our Wholesale segment. The narrative following these tables provides an analysis of the results of operations of that segment (thousands of dollars, except for the number of distribution sites and per gallon amounts):

 

 

53

---

 

Year Ended December 31, 2019 Compared to Year Ended December 31, 2018

The results were driven by:

Motor fuel gross profit

The $1.9 million (3%) increase in motor fuel gross profit was primarily due to a $1.5 million improvement in our fuel margin from sites in our Alabama market driven by the rebranding of these sites beginning November 1, 2018 and the concurrent change in terms under our subjobber agreement with Circle K. In addition, the Closed Asset Exchange Transactions generated incremental fuel margin, partially offset by a $1.8 million reduction in Terms Discounts in 2019 as compared to 2018 due to the decrease in motor fuel prices. The average daily spot price of WTI crude oil decreased 13% to $56.98 per barrel for 2019 compared to $65.23 per barrel for 2018. See “Significant Factors Affecting our Profitability—The Significance of Crude Oil and Wholesale Motor Fuel Prices on Our Revenues, Cost of Sales and Gross Profit.” Volume declined 4% as a result of the 2018 divestitures mandated by FTC orders and the termination or non-renewal of fuel supply contracts (a significant number of which were low margin).

Rent and other gross profit

Rent and other gross profit decreased $3.8 million (6%) primarily as a result of the new lease accounting guidance. Lease payments on our previous sale-leaseback transactions totaling $6.7 million were characterized as principal and interest expense in 2018, whereas such payments were characterized as rent expense in 2019. Partially offsetting this decline was the incremental rent margin from the Closed Asset Exchange Transactions with Circle K, the impact of converting commission sites in the Retail segment to lessee dealer sites in the Wholesale segment and the dealerization of 46 company operated Upper Midwest sites in the third quarter of 2019.

Operating expenses

Operating expenses increased $2.5 million (8%) primarily as a result of higher insurance costs and a general increase in operating expenses driven by the increase in the number of controlled sites due particularly to the Closed Asset Exchange Transactions and the dealerization of 46 company operated Upper Midwest sites in the third quarter of 2019.

54

---

 

Retail

The following table highlights the results of operations and certain operating metrics of our Retail segment. The narrative following these tables provides an analysis of the results of operations of that segment (thousands of dollars, except for the number of retail sites, gallons sold per day and per gallon amounts):

 

 

55

---

 

Year Ended December 31, 2019 Compared to Year Ended December 31, 2018

Gross profit decreased $17.1 million, while operating expenses declined $11.9 million.

These results were impacted by:

Gross profit

Operating expenses

Operating expenses decreased $11.9 million (37%) due primarily to the 2018 divestitures of seven company operated sites in the Upper Midwest and two commission sites mandated by FTC orders, the divestiture of 17 company operated Upper Midwest sites in May 2019 in connection with the first tranche of the asset exchange with Circle K, the conversion of commission sites in our Retail segment to lessee dealer sites in our Wholesale segment and the dealerization of 46 company operated Upper Midwest sites in the third quarter of 2019.

Non-GAAP Financial Measures

We use non-GAAP financial measures EBITDA, Adjusted EBITDA, Distributable Cash Flow and Distribution Coverage Ratio. EBITDA represents net income available to us before deducting interest expense, income taxes and depreciation, amortization and accretion (which includes certain impairment charges). Adjusted EBITDA represents EBITDA as further adjusted to exclude equity funded expenses related to incentive compensation and the Circle K Omnibus Agreement, gains or losses on dispositions and lease terminations, net, certain discrete acquisition related costs, such as legal and other professional fees and severance expenses associated with recently acquired companies, and certain other discrete non-cash items arising from purchase accounting. Distributable Cash Flow represents Adjusted EBITDA less cash interest expense, sustaining capital expenditures and current income tax expense. Distribution Coverage Ratio is computed by dividing Distributable Cash Flow by the weighted average diluted common units and then dividing that result by the distributions paid per limited partner unit.

EBITDA, Adjusted EBITDA, Distributable Cash Flow and Distribution Coverage Ratio are used as supplemental financial measures by management and by external users of our financial statements, such as investors and lenders. EBITDA and Adjusted EBITDA are used to assess our financial performance without regard to financing methods, capital structure or income taxes and the ability to incur and service debt and to fund capital expenditures. In addition, Adjusted EBITDA is used to assess the operating performance of our business on a consistent basis by excluding the impact of items which do not result directly from the wholesale distribution of motor fuel, the leasing of real property, or the day to day operations of our retail site activities. EBITDA, Adjusted EBITDA, Distributable Cash Flow and Distribution Coverage Ratio are also used to assess the ability to generate cash sufficient to make distributions to our unitholders.

56

---

 

We believe the presentation of EBITDA, Adjusted EBITDA, Distributable Cash Flow and Distribution Coverage Ratio provides useful information to investors in assessing the financial condition and results of operations. EBITDA, Adjusted EBITDA, Distributable Cash Flow and Distribution Coverage Ratio should not be considered alternatives to net income or any other measure of financial performance or liquidity presented in accordance with U.S. GAAP. EBITDA, Adjusted EBITDA, Distributable Cash Flow and Distribution Coverage Ratio have important limitations as analytical tools because they exclude some but not all items that affect net income. Additionally, because EBITDA, Adjusted EBITDA, Distributable Cash Flow and Distribution Coverage Ratio may be defined differently by other companies in our industry, our definitions may not be comparable to similarly titled measures of other companies, thereby diminishing their utility.

The following table presents reconciliations of EBITDA, Adjusted EBITDA, and Distributable Cash Flow to net income, the most directly comparable U.S. GAAP financial measure, for each of the periods indicated (in thousands, except for per unit amounts):

 

 

57

---

 

 

The table below shows approximate adjustments to our Net income available to limited partners, EBITDA, Adjusted EBITDA, Distributable Cash Flow and Distribution Coverage for 2018 as if ASC 842 had been applied (in thousands, except for per unit amounts).

The following table reconciles our segment Adjusted EBITDA to Consolidated Adjusted EBITDA presented in the table above (in thousands):

 

 

58

---

 

Liquidity and Capital Resources

Liquidity

Our principal liquidity requirements are to finance our operations, fund acquisitions, service our debt and pay distributions to our unitholders and IDR distributions. We expect our ongoing sources of liquidity to include cash generated by our operations and borrowings under the revolving credit facility and, if available to us on acceptable terms, issuances of equity and debt securities. We regularly evaluate alternate sources of capital, including sale-leaseback financing of real property with third parties, to support our liquidity requirements.

Our ability to meet our debt service obligations and other capital requirements, including capital expenditures, acquisitions, and partnership distributions, will depend on our future operating performance, which, in turn, will be subject to general economic, financial, business, competitive, legislative, regulatory and other conditions, many of which are beyond our control. As a normal part of our business, depending on market conditions, we will, from time to time, consider opportunities to repay, redeem, repurchase or refinance our indebtedness. Changes in our operating plans, lower than anticipated sales, increased expenses, acquisitions or other events may cause us to seek additional debt or equity financing in future periods.

We believe that we will have sufficient cash flow from operations, borrowing capacity under the revolving credit facility and access to capital markets and alternate sources of funding to meet our financial commitments, debt service obligations, contingencies, anticipated capital expenditures and partnership distributions. However, we are subject to business and operational risks that could adversely affect our cash flow. A material decrease in our cash flows would likely produce an adverse effect on our borrowing capacity as well as our ability to issue additional equity and/or debt securities and/or maintain or increase distributions to unitholders. See Note 11 to the financial statements for a discussion of the New Credit Agreement we entered into on April 1, 2019.

Cash Flows

The following table summarizes cash flow activity (in thousands):

 

 

Operating Activities

Net cash provided by operating activities decreased $17.4 million for 2019 compared to 2018, primarily attributable to the settling of $14.2 million of omnibus charges with Circle K. Also, we settled $3.3 million of omnibus charges in common units in 2018, whereas all omnibus charges were settled in cash in 2019.

As is typical in our industry, our current liabilities exceed our current assets as a result of the longer settlement of real estate and motor fuel taxes as compared to the shorter settlement of receivables for fuel, rent and merchandise.

Investing Activities

We incurred capital expenditures of $24.6 million for 2019. The increase from 2018 was largely driven by the dispenser upgrades and rebranding of sites in our Alabama market, as well as capital expenditures to rebuild certain sites in Florida impacted by Hurricane Michael. Additionally, in 2019, we received $3.1 million in proceeds related to the first and second tranches of the asset exchange with Circle K as a result of the inventory divested at the 17 company operated sites and the security deposits from dealers transferred by Circle K to us. We also received $4.9 million of proceeds on sales of assets.

In 2018, we received $6.6 million of proceeds on sales, largely driven by the FTC-mandated divestiture of 11 properties in the third quarter of 2018. We also incurred $13.7 million in capital expenditures.

Financing Activities

In 2019, we paid $73.0 million in distributions and made net borrowings on our credit facility of $21.0 million.

In 2018, we paid $77.2 million in distributions and made net repayments on our credit facility of $8.0 million. We also received $6.3 million from Circle K as a compensating payment related to the nine Upper Midwest sites required to be divested by FTC order. See Notes 7 and 13 to the financial statements for additional information.

59

---

 

Distributions

Distribution activity for 2019 was as follows:

 

 

The amount of any distribution is subject to the discretion of the Board, which may modify or revoke our cash distribution policy at any time. Our Partnership Agreement does not require us to pay any distributions. As such, there can be no assurance we will continue to pay distributions in the future.

IDRs

We distributed $0.5 million and $1.6 million to Circle K with respect to the IDRs in 2019 and 2018, respectively. See “Recent Developments—Equity Restructuring” for a discussion of the elimination of the IDRs, which closed on February 6, 2020.

Debt

As of December 31, 2019, our consolidated debt and finance lease obligations consisted of the following (in thousands):

 

 

Our revolving credit facility is secured by substantially all of our assets. Our borrowings under the revolving credit facility had a weighted-average interest rate of 3.73% as of December 31, 2019 (LIBOR plus an applicable margin, which was 2.00% as of December 31, 2019). Letters of credit outstanding at December 31, 2019 totaled $5.4 million. The amount of availability under the revolving credit facility at February 21, 2020, after taking into consideration debt covenant restrictions, was $79.0 million. The New Credit Agreement also contains certain financial covenants. For each quarter ending on or after September 30, 2019, we are required to maintain a consolidated leverage ratio for the most recently completed four fiscal quarters of 4.75 to 1.00. Such threshold is increased to 5.50 to 1.00 for the quarter during a specified acquisition period (as defined in the New Credit Agreement). Upon the occurrence of a qualified note offering (as defined in the New Credit Agreement), the consolidated leverage ratio when not in a specified acquisition period is increased to 5.25 to 1.00, while the specified acquisition period threshold remains 5.50 to 1.00. Upon the occurrence of a qualified note offering, we are also required to maintain a consolidated senior secured leverage ratio (as defined in the New Credit Agreement) for the most recently completed four fiscal quarter period of not greater than 3.75 to 1.00. Such threshold is increased to 4.00 to 1.00 for the quarter during a specified acquisition period. We are also required to maintain a consolidated interest coverage ratio (as defined in the New Credit Agreement) of at least 2.50 to 1.00. As of December 31, 2019, we were in compliance with these financial covenants.

 

See Note 11 for additional information on the New Credit Agreement we entered into on April 1, 2019.

60

---

 

Capital Expenditures

We make investments to expand, upgrade and enhance existing assets. We categorize our capital requirements as either sustaining capital expenditures, growth capital expenditures or acquisition capital expenditures. Sustaining capital expenditures are those capital expenditures required to maintain our long-term operating income or operating capacity. Acquisition and growth capital expenditures are those capital expenditures that we expect will increase our operating income or operating capacity over the long term. We have the ability to fund our capital expenditures by additional borrowings under our revolving credit facility or, if available to us on acceptable terms, issuing additional equity, debt securities or other options, such as the sale of assets. With the significant decline in energy prices since 2014, access to the capital markets has tightened for the energy and MLP industries as a whole, which has impacted our cost of capital and our ability to raise equity and debt financing at favorable terms. Our ability to access the capital markets may have an impact on our ability to fund acquisitions. We may not be able to complete any offering of securities or other options on terms acceptable to us, if at all.

The following table outlines our capital expenditures and acquisitions for 2019, 2018 and 2017 (in thousands):

 

 

As noted previously, the increase in capital expenditures was largely driven by dispenser upgrades and rebranding of sites in the Alabama market as well as capital expenditures to rebuild certain sites in Florida impacted by Hurricane Michael.

Contractual Obligations

Our contractual obligations as of December 31, 2019 are summarized below (in thousands):

 

New Credit Agreement

As discussed previously, we entered into a new credit agreement on April 1, 2019 that matures April 25, 2024. See Note 11 to the financial statements for additional information.

Interest Payments on Debt

Such amounts include estimates of interest expense related to our credit facility assuming a 3.7% interest rate.

Finance Lease Obligations

We have certain retail site properties under finance leases. Finance lease obligations in the table above include both principal and interest. See Note 11 to the financial statements for additional information.

Operating Lease Obligations

The operating lease obligations include leases for land, office facilities and retail sites. Operating lease obligations reflected in the table above include all operating leases that have initial or remaining non-cancelable terms in excess of one year and are not reduced by minimum rentals to be received by us under subleases. In addition, such amounts do not reflect contingent rentals that may be incurred in addition to minimum rentals.

61

---

 

Our principal executive offices are in Allentown, Pennsylvania, in an office space leased by the Topper Group, for which the rent is charged to us as a cost under the Topper Group Omnibus Agreement. Future lease payments on this office lease are included within operating lease obligations.

See Note 12 to the financial statements for additional information.

Other Liabilities

Other liabilities include asset retirement obligations described in Note 10 to the financial statements and exclude other liabilities whose payment period or amount is not determinable. For purposes of reflecting amounts for asset retirement obligations in the table above, we have made our best estimate of expected payments based on information available as of December 31, 2019.

For 2020, the amount includes an estimated cost of $2.2 million for certain EMV upgrades that the Partnership has committed to making at 46 Upper Midwest sites by October 1, 2020. See Note 21 to the financial statements for additional information.

For 2020 and 2021, the amount includes $4.6 million in omnibus charges that will be settled with Circle K. See Note 13 to the financial statements for additional information.

Under the terms of various supply agreements, the Partnership is obligated to minimum volume purchases measured in gallons of motor fuel. Future minimum volume purchase requirements are 464 million gallons in 2020, reducing to 252 million gallons in 2024. Future minimum volume purchase requirements from 2025 through 2029 total 979 million gallons. The aggregate dollar amount of the future minimum volume purchase requirements is dependent on the future weighted average wholesale cost per gallon charged under the applicable supply agreements. The amounts and timing of the related payment obligations cannot reasonably be estimated reliably. As a result, payment of these amounts has been excluded from the table above. See Note 15 to the financial statements for additional information.

Off-Balance Sheet Arrangements

The Circle K Omnibus Agreement contingently requires us to perform environmental remediation work as further discussed in Note 13 to the financial statements. We also have operating leases and motor fuel purchase commitments as previously discussed in “Contractual Obligations” and in Notes 12 and 15 to the financial statements.

Other Matters Impacting Liquidity and Capital Resources

Concentration of Customers

In 2019, we distributed approximately 8% of our total wholesale distribution volumes to DMS and DMS accounted for approximately 7% of our rental income. In 2019, we distributed 6% of our total wholesale distribution volume to Circle K retail sites that are not supplied by CST Fuel Supply and received 14% of our rental income from Circle K. For more information regarding transactions with DMS and Circle K, see Note 13 to the financial statements.

Acquisition of Jet-Pep Assets

On November 28, 2017, we acquired certain assets of Jet-Pep, Inc. and affiliated companies located in Alabama for approximately $75.6 million, including working capital.

Contingencies

Environmental Matters

See Note 14 to the financial statements for a discussion of our environmental matters.

Legal Matters

See Note 15 to the financial statements for a discussion of our legal matters.

Quarterly Results of Operations

See Note 23 to the financial statements for financial and operating quarterly data for each quarter of 2019 and 2018.

62

---

 

Outlook

As noted previously, the prices paid to our motor fuel suppliers for wholesale motor fuel (which affects our costs of sales) are highly correlated to the price of crude oil. The crude oil commodity markets are highly volatile, and the market prices of crude oil, and, correspondingly, the market prices of wholesale motor fuel, experience significant and rapid fluctuations, which affect our motor fuel gross profit. See “Significant Factors Affecting our Profitability—The Significance of Crude Oil and Wholesale Motor Fuel Prices on Our Revenues, Cost of Sales and Gross Profit” for additional information.

Our results for 2020 are anticipated to be impacted by the following:

We will continue to evaluate acquisitions on an opportunistic basis. Additionally, we will pursue acquisition targets that fit into our strategy. Whether we will be able to execute acquisitions will depend on market conditions, availability of suitable acquisition targets at attractive terms, acquisition related compliance with customary regulatory requirements, and our ability to finance such acquisitions on favorable terms and in compliance with our debt covenant restrictions.

New Accounting Policies

For information on recent accounting pronouncements impacting our business, see Note 2 to the financial statements.

Critical Accounting Policies Involving Critical Accounting Estimates

We prepare our financial statements in conformity with U.S. GAAP. The preparation of these financial statements requires us to make estimates and assumptions that affect the reported amounts of assets and liabilities and disclosure of contingent assets and liabilities at the date of the financial statements and the reported amount of revenues and expenses during the reporting period. Actual results could differ from those estimates. See Note 2 to the financial statements for a summary of our significant accounting policies.

Critical accounting policies are those we believe are both most important to the portrayal of our financial condition and results, and require our most difficult, subjective or complex judgments, often because we must make estimates about the effect of matters that are inherently uncertain. Judgments and uncertainties affecting the application of those policies may result in materially different amounts being reported under different conditions or using different assumptions. We believe the following policies to be the most critical in understanding the judgments that are involved in preparing our financial statements.

Revenue Recognition

In May 2014, the FASB issued ASU 2014-09–Revenue from Contracts with Customers (ASC 606), which results in comprehensive new revenue accounting guidance, requires enhanced disclosures to help users of financial statements better understand the nature, amount, timing, and uncertainty of revenue that is recognized, and develops a common revenue standard under U.S. GAAP and International Financial Reporting Standards. Specifically, the core principle of the guidance is that an entity should recognize revenue to depict the transfer of promised goods or services to customers in an amount that reflects the consideration to which the entity expects to be entitled in exchange for those goods and services. This guidance was effective January 1, 2018 and we applied the modified retrospective method of adoption. There was no material impact on the financial statements other than disclosures. This guidance applies to over 90% of our revenues as the only primary revenue stream outside the scope of this guidance is rental income.

63

---

 

Revenues from the delivery of motor fuel are recorded at the time of delivery to our customers, by which time the price is fixed, title to the products has transferred and payment has either been received or collection is reasonably assured, net of applicable discounts and allowances. Incremental costs incurred to obtain certain contracts with customers are deferred and amortized over the contract term and are included in other noncurrent assets on the balance sheets. Amortization of such costs are classified as a reduction of operating revenues.

Revenues from the sale of convenience store products are recognized at the time of sale to the customer.

Revenues from leasing arrangements for which we are the lessor are recognized ratably over the term of the underlying lease.

In transactions in which we sell and lease back property, we apply guidance from ASC 606 in determining whether the transfer of the property should be accounted for as a sale. Specifically, we assess if we have satisfied a performance obligation by transferring control of the property.

See Note 21 for additional information on our revenues and related receivables.

Accounts receivable primarily result from the sale of motor fuels to customers and rental fees for retail sites. The majority of our accounts receivable relate to motor fuel sales that can generally be described as high volume and low margin activities. Credit is extended to a customer based on an evaluation of the customer’s financial condition. In certain circumstances collateral may be required from the customer. Receivables are recorded at face value, without interest or discount.

The provision for bad debts is generally based upon a specific analysis of aged accounts while also factoring in any new business conditions that might impact the historical analysis, such as market conditions and bankruptcies of particular customers. Bad debt provisions are included in general and administrative expenses.

We review all accounts receivable balances on at least a quarterly basis and provide an allowance for doubtful accounts based on historical experience and on a specific identification basis.

LGW collects motor fuel taxes, which consist of various pass-through taxes collected from customers on behalf of taxing authorities and remits such taxes directly to those taxing authorities. LGW’s accounting policy is to exclude the taxes collected and remitted from wholesale revenues and cost of sales and account for them as liabilities. LGWS’s retail sales and cost of sales include motor fuel taxes as the taxes are included in the cost paid for motor fuel and LGWS has no direct responsibility to collect or remit such taxes to the taxing authorities.

Asset Acquisitions and Business Combinations

When closing on an acquisition, we must first determine whether substantially all of the fair value of the set of gross assets acquired is concentrated in a single identifiable asset or a group of similar identifiable assets. If this threshold is met, the set is not a business. If this threshold is not met, we determine whether the set meets the definition of a business.

A business is defined as an integrated set of assets and activities that is capable of being conducted and managed for the purpose of providing a return to investors or other owners, members or participants. A business typically has inputs, processes applied to those inputs and outputs that are used to generate a return to investors, but outputs are not required for a set to be a business. A business must include, at a minimum, an input and a substantive process that together significantly contribute to the ability to create outputs.

We account for asset acquisitions (i.e. transactions involving the acquisition of a set of assets that does not meet the definition of a business) in accordance with the guidance under ASC 805-50 and other applicable guidance. Asset acquisitions are generally accounted for by allocating the cost of the acquisition to the individual assets acquired and liabilities assumed on a relative fair value basis. Two of the key differences in accounting for transactions as asset acquisitions as compared to business combination are summarized below:

We account for business combinations in accordance with the guidance under ASC 805–Business Combinations. The purchase price is recorded for assets acquired and liabilities assumed based on fair value. The excess of the fair value of the consideration conveyed over the fair value of the net assets acquired is recorded as goodwill.

The income statement includes the results of operations for each acquisition from their respective date of acquisition.

64

---

 

Whether we account for a transaction as an asset acquisition or a business combination, determining the fair value of these items requires management’s judgment, the utilization of independent valuation experts and involves the use of significant estimates and assumptions with respect to the timing and amounts of future cash inflows and outflows, discount rates, market prices and asset lives, among other items. The judgments made in the determination of the estimated fair value assigned to the assets acquired, the liabilities assumed and any noncontrolling interest in the investee, as well as the estimated useful life of each asset and the duration of each liability, can materially impact the financial statements in periods after acquisition, such as through depreciation and amortization.

Goodwill

Goodwill represents the excess of the fair value of the consideration conveyed to acquire a business over the fair value of the net assets acquired. Goodwill is not amortized, but instead is tested for impairment at the reporting unit level at least annually, and more frequently if events and circumstances indicate that the goodwill might be impaired. The annual impairment testing date of goodwill is October 1.

In performing our annual impairment analysis, ASC 350–20, Intangibles–Goodwill and Other, allows us to use qualitative factors to determine whether it is more likely than not (likelihood of more than 50%) that the fair value of a reporting unit is less than its carrying amount, including goodwill. We consider macroeconomic conditions such as developments in equity and credit markets, industry and market conditions such as the competitive environment, cost factors such as changes in our cost of fuel, our financial performance and our unit price.

If, after assessing the totality of events or circumstances, we determine that it is more likely than not that the fair value of a reporting unit exceeds its carrying amount, no further testing is necessary. However, if we determine that it is more likely than not that the fair value of a reporting unit is less than its carrying amount, then we perform the goodwill impairment test.

In the goodwill impairment test, the reporting unit’s carrying amount (including goodwill) and its fair value are compared. If the estimated fair value of a reporting unit is less than the carrying value, an impairment charge is recognized for the deficit up to the amount of goodwill recorded.

At December 31, 2019 and 2018, we had goodwill totaling $88.8 million. Of the December 31, 2019 balance, $74.2 million was assigned to the wholesale reporting unit and $14.6 million was assigned to the retail reporting unit. After assessing the totality of events and circumstances, we determined that it is more likely than not that the fair value of our reporting units exceed their carrying amounts and therefore goodwill is not impaired at December 31, 2019 or 2018.

Asset Retirement Obligations

When we install or acquire USTs, we recognize the estimated future cost to remove our USTs over their estimated useful lives. We record a discounted liability for the fair value of an asset retirement obligation with a corresponding increase to the carrying value of the related long-lived asset at the time a UST is installed. We depreciate the amount added to property and equipment and recognize accretion expense in connection with the discounted liability over the remaining life of the UST.

We base our estimates of such future costs on our prior experience with removal and include normal and customary costs we expect to incur associated with UST removal. We compare our cost estimates with our actual removal cost experience on an annual basis, and when the actual costs we experience exceed our original estimates, we will recognize an additional liability for estimated future costs to remove the USTs. Because these estimates are subjective and are currently based on historical costs with adjustments for estimated future changes in the associated costs, the dollar amount of these obligations could change as more information is obtained.

As of December 31, 2019 and 2018, our liabilities related to the removal of USTs were $35.8 million and $32.9 million, respectively. A 10% change in our estimate of anticipated future costs for removal of USTs as of December 31, 2019 would change our asset retirement obligation by approximately $3.2 million. See Note 10 under the caption “Asset Retirement Obligations” to the financial statements.

Environmental Liabilities

As of December 31, 2019 and 2018, our environmental reserves were $3.4 million and $3.6 million, respectively. These environmental reserves represent our estimates for future expenditures for remediation and related litigation associated with contaminated retail sites as a result of releases (e.g. overfills, spills and releases) and are based on current regulations, historical results and certain other factors.

65

---

 

Environmental liabilities that we have recorded are based on internal and external estimates of costs to remediate retail sites. Factors considered in the estimates of the liability are the expected cost and the estimated length of time to remediate each contaminated site. Estimated remediation costs are not discounted because the timing of payments cannot be reasonably estimated. Reimbursements under state trust fund programs are recognized when received because such amounts are insignificant. The adequacy of the liability is evaluated quarterly and adjustments are made based on updated experience at existing retail sites, newly identified retail sites and changes in governmental policy. A 10% change in our estimate of future costs related to environmental liabilities recorded as of December 31, 2019 would change our environmental liabilities and operating expenses by $0.3 million. See Note 14 to the financial statements for additional information.

Tax Matters

As a limited partnership, we are not subject to federal and state income taxes. Income tax attributable to our taxable income, which may differ significantly from income for financial statement purposes, is assessed at the individual level of the unit holder. We are subject to a statutory requirement that non-qualifying income, as defined by the Internal Revenue Code, cannot exceed 10% of total gross income for the calendar year. If non-qualifying income exceeds this statutory limit, we would be taxed as a corporation. The non-qualifying income did not exceed the statutory limit in any period.

Certain activities that generate non-qualifying income are conducted through our wholly owned taxable corporate subsidiary, LGWS. Current and deferred income taxes are recognized on the earnings of LGWS. Deferred income tax assets and liabilities are recognized for the future tax consequences attributable to temporary differences between the financial statement carrying amounts of existing assets and liabilities and their respective tax bases and are measured using enacted tax rates.

Valuation allowances are initially recorded and reevaluated each reporting period by assessing the likelihood of the ultimate realization of a deferred tax asset. We consider a number of factors in assessing the realization of a deferred tax asset, including the reversal of temporary differences, projections of future taxable income and ongoing prudent and feasible tax planning strategies. The amount of deferred tax assets ultimately realized may differ materially from the estimates utilized in the computation of valuation allowances and may materially impact the financial statements in the future.

As a result of a reassessment of the positive and negative evidence supporting whether or not a valuation allowance for deferred tax assets is needed, we released the entire $3.7 million valuation allowance in 2017. See Note 19 to the financial statements for additional information.

ITEM 7A. QUANTITATIVE AND QUALITATIVE DISCLOSURES ABOUT MARKET RISK

Market Risk

We purchase gasoline and diesel fuel from several suppliers at costs that are subject to market volatility. These purchases are generally made pursuant to contracts or at market prices established with the supplier. We do not currently engage in hedging activities for these purchases due to our pricing structure that allows us to generally pass on price changes to our customers and related parties.

Interest Rate Risk

As of December 31, 2019, we had $519.0 million outstanding on our revolving credit facility. Our outstanding borrowings bear interest at LIBOR plus an applicable margin, which was 2.00% at December 31, 2019. Our borrowings had a weighted-average interest rate at December 31, 2019 of 3.73%. A one percentage point change in our average rate would impact annual interest expense by approximately $5.2 million.

Commodity Price Risk

We have not historically hedged or managed our price risk with respect to our commodity inventories (gasoline and diesel fuel), as the time period between the purchases of our motor fuel inventory and the sales to our customers is very short.

From the time of the November 2017 Jet-Pep Assets acquisition through October 31, 2018, we purchased motor fuel for our Jet-Pep Assets from Circle K at Circle K’s cost plus terminal and administration fees of $0.015 per gallon. Circle K’s cost to supply these sites included price fluctuations associated with index-based motor fuel pricing for pipeline delivery and the generation and sale of RINs. Effective November 1, 2018, we amended our contract with Circle K such that our cost is based on a rack-based price, which reduces our exposure to price fluctuations inherent in the previous pricing methodology. We completed the upgrades of dispensers and the rebranding of substantially all these sites to a major fuel supplier in the third quarter of 2019 and anticipate continuing to see a positive impact on volume and fuel margin.

66

---

 

Regarding our supplier relationships, a majority of our total gallons purchased are subject to Terms Discounts for prompt payment and other rebates and incentives, which are recorded within cost of sales. Prompt payment discounts are based on a percentage of the purchase price of motor fuel. As such, the dollar value of these discounts increases and decreases corresponding with motor fuel prices. We have not historically hedged or managed our price risk with respect to these Terms Discounts. Based on our current volumes, we estimate a $10 per barrel change in the price of crude oil would impact our annual wholesale motor fuel gross profit by approximately $2 million related to these payment discounts.

Foreign Currency Risk

Our operations are located in the U.S., and therefore are not subject to foreign currency risk.

ITEM 8. FINANCIAL STATEMENTS

MANAGEMENT’S REPORT ON INTERNAL CONTROL OVER FINANCIAL REPORTING

The SEC, as required by Section 404 of the Sarbanes-Oxley Act, adopted rules requiring companies to file reports with the SEC to include a management report on such company’s internal control over financial reporting in its Form 10-K. In addition, our independent registered public accounting firm must attest to our internal control over financial reporting.

The management of CrossAmerica is responsible for establishing and maintaining adequate internal control over financial reporting. This internal control system was designed to provide reasonable assurance to the company’s management and Board regarding the preparation and fair presentation of published financial statements. All internal control systems, no matter how well designed, have inherent limitations. Therefore, even those systems determined to be effective can provide only reasonable assurance with respect to financial statement preparation and presentation. CrossAmerica management assessed the effectiveness of the company’s internal control over financial reporting as of December 31, 2019. In making this assessment, it used the criteria set forth by the Committee of Sponsoring Organizations of the Treadway Commission (COSO) in Internal Control-Integrated Framework, 2013 version. Based on our assessment, we believe that, as of December 31, 2019, the Partnership’s internal control over financial reporting is effective based on those criteria.

Attestation Report of the Independent Registered Public Accounting Firm

Grant Thornton LLP, our independent registered public accounting firm, has audited our internal control over financial reporting as of December 31, 2019. Their report dated February 25, 2020, expressed an unqualified opinion on our internal control over financial reporting.

67

---

 

REPORT OF INDEPENDENT REGISTERED PUBLIC ACCOUNTING FIRM

Board of Directors, General Partner and Limited Partners

CrossAmerica Partners LP

Opinion on the financial statements

We have audited the accompanying consolidated balance sheets of CrossAmerica Partners LP (a Delaware partnership) and subsidiaries (the “Partnership”) as of December 31, 2019 and 2018, the related consolidated statements of income, equity and comprehensive income, and cash flows for each of the three years in the period ended December 31, 2019, and the related notes (collectively referred to as the “financial statements”). In our opinion, the financial statements present fairly, in all material respects, the financial position of the Partnership as of December 31, 2019 and 2018, and the results of its operations and its cash flows for each of the three years in the period ended December 31, 2019, in conformity with accounting principles generally accepted in the United States of America.

We also have audited, in accordance with the standards of the Public Company Accounting Oversight Board (United States) (“PCAOB”), the Partnership’s internal control over financial reporting as of December 31, 2019, based on criteria established in the 2013 Internal Control—Integrated Framework issued by the Committee of Sponsoring Organizations of the Treadway Commission (“COSO”), and our report dated February 25, 2020 expressed an unqualified opinion.

Change in accounting principle

As discussed in Note 2 to the consolidated financial statements, the Partnership has changed its method of accounting for leases effective January 1, 2019 due to the adoption of Accounting Standards Codification (ASC) Topic 842 – Leases.

Basis for opinion

These financial statements are the responsibility of the Partnership’s management. Our responsibility is to express an opinion on the Partnership’s financial statements based on our audits. We are a public accounting firm registered with the PCAOB and are required to be independent with respect to the Partnership in accordance with the U.S. federal securities laws and the applicable rules and regulations of the Securities and Exchange Commission and the PCAOB.

We conducted our audits in accordance with the standards of the PCAOB. Those standards require that we plan and perform the audit to obtain reasonable assurance about whether the financial statements are free of material misstatement, whether due to error or fraud. Our audits included performing procedures to assess the risks of material misstatement of the financial statements, whether due to error or fraud, and performing procedures that respond to those risks. Such procedures included examining, on a test basis, evidence supporting the amounts and disclosures in the financial statements. Our audits also included evaluating the accounting principles used and significant estimates made by management, as well as evaluating the overall presentation of the financial statements. We believe that our audits provide a reasonable basis for our opinion.

/s/ GRANT THORNTON LLP

We have served as the Partnership’s auditor since 2011.

Arlington, Virginia

February 25, 2020

68

---

 

REPORT OF INDEPENDENT REGISTERED PUBLIC ACCOUNTING FIRM

Board of Directors, General Partner and Limited Partners

CrossAmerica Partners LP

Opinion on internal control over financial reporting

We have audited the internal control over financial reporting of CrossAmerica Partners LP (a Delaware partnership) and subsidiaries (the “Partnership”) as of December 31, 2019, based on criteria established in the 2013 Internal Control—Integrated Framework issued by the Committee of Sponsoring Organizations of the Treadway Commission (“COSO”). In our opinion, the Partnership maintained, in all material respects, effective internal control over financial reporting as of December 31, 2019, based on criteria established in the 2013 Internal Control—Integrated Framework issued by COSO.

We also have audited, in accordance with the standards of the Public Company Accounting Oversight Board (United States) (“PCAOB”), the consolidated financial statements of the Partnership as of and for the year ended December 31, 2019, and our report dated February 25, 2020 expressed an unqualified opinion on those financial statements.

Basis for opinion

The Partnership’s management is responsible for maintaining effective internal control over financial reporting and for its assessment of the effectiveness of internal control over financial reporting, included in the accompanying Management’s Report on Internal Control over Financial Reporting. Our responsibility is to express an opinion on the Partnership’s internal control over financial reporting based on our audit. We are a public accounting firm registered with the PCAOB and are required to be independent with respect to the Partnership in accordance with the U.S. federal securities laws and the applicable rules and regulations of the Securities and Exchange Commission and the PCAOB.

We conducted our audit in accordance with the standards of the PCAOB. Those standards require that we plan and perform the audit to obtain reasonable assurance about whether effective internal control over financial reporting was maintained in all material respects. Our audit included obtaining an understanding of internal control over financial reporting, assessing the risk that a material weakness exists, testing and evaluating the design and operating effectiveness of internal control based on the assessed risk, and performing such other procedures as we considered necessary in the circumstances. We believe that our audit provides a reasonable basis for our opinion.

Definition and limitations of internal control over financial reporting

A company’s internal control over financial reporting is a process designed to provide reasonable assurance regarding the reliability of financial reporting and the preparation of financial statements for external purposes in accordance with generally accepted accounting principles. A company’s internal control over financial reporting includes those policies and procedures that (1) pertain to the maintenance of records that, in reasonable detail, accurately and fairly reflect the transactions and dispositions of the assets of the company; (2) provide reasonable assurance that transactions are recorded as necessary to permit preparation of financial statements in accordance with generally accepted accounting principles, and that receipts and expenditures of the company are being made only in accordance with authorizations of management and directors of the company; and (3) provide reasonable assurance regarding prevention or timely detection of unauthorized acquisition, use, or disposition of the company’s assets that could have a material effect on the financial statements.

Because of its inherent limitations, internal control over financial reporting may not prevent or detect misstatements. Also, projections of any evaluation of effectiveness to future periods are subject to the risk that controls may become inadequate because of changes in conditions, or that the degree of compliance with the policies or procedures may deteriorate.

/s/ GRANT THORNTON LLP

Arlington, Virginia

February 25, 2020

69

---

 

CROSSAMERICA PARTNERS LP

CONSOLIDATED BALANCE SHEETS

(Thousands of Dollars, except unit data)

 

 

See Notes to Consolidated Financial Statements.

 

70

---

 

CROSSAMERICA PARTNERS LP

CONSOLIDATED STATEMENTS OF INCOME

(Thousands of Dollars, except unit and per unit amounts)

 

 

See Notes to Consolidated Financial Statements.

 

71

---

 

CROSSAMERICA PARTNERS LP

CONSOLIDATED STATEMENTS OF CASH FLOWS

(Thousands of Dollars)

 

 

See Notes to Consolidated Financial Statements.

 

72

---

 

CROSSAMERICA PARTNERS LP

CONSOLIDATED STATEMENTS OF EQUITY AND COMPREHENSIVE INCOME

(Thousands of Dollars, except unit amounts)

 

 

See Notes to Consolidated Financial Statements.

 

73

 

---

CROSSAMERICA PARTNERS LP

NOTES TO CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS

Note 1. DESCRIPTION OF BUSINESS

Purchase of the General Partner by the Topper Group

On November 19, 2019, subsidiaries of DMP purchased from subsidiaries of Circle K: 1) 100% of the membership interests in the sole member of the General Partner; 2) 100% of the IDRs issued by the Partnership; and 3) an aggregate of 7,486,131 common units of the Partnership. Joseph V. Topper, Jr. is the founder and, since November 19, 2019, chairman of the Board.

Through its control of DMP, the Topper Group controls the sole member of our General Partner and has the ability to appoint all of the members of the Board and to control and manage the operations and activities of the Partnership. As of February 21, 2020, the Topper Group also has beneficial ownership of a 47.7% limited partner interest in the Partnership. 

Description of Business

Our business consists of:

The financial statements reflect the consolidated results of the Partnership and its wholly owned subsidiaries. Our primary operations are conducted by the following consolidated wholly owned subsidiaries:

Note 2. SIGNIFICANT ACCOUNTING POLICIES

Principles of Consolidation

These consolidated financial statements were prepared in accordance with U.S. GAAP. These financial statements include the consolidated accounts of CrossAmerica and subsidiaries. All intercompany accounts and transactions have been eliminated in consolidation.

Use of Estimates

The preparation of financial statements in conformity with U.S. GAAP requires management to make estimates and assumptions that affect the reported amounts of assets and liabilities at the date of the financial statements and the reported amounts of revenues and expenses during the reporting periods. Actual results and outcomes could differ from those estimates and assumptions. On an ongoing basis, management reviews its estimates based on currently available information. Changes in facts and circumstances could result in revised estimates and assumptions.

74

 

---

CROSSAMERICA PARTNERS LP

NOTES TO CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS

Cash and Cash Equivalents

We consider all short-term investments with maturity of three months or less at the date of purchase to be cash equivalents. Cash and cash equivalents are stated at cost, which, for cash equivalents, approximates fair value due to their short-term maturity. We are potentially subject to financial instrument concentration of credit risk through our cash and cash equivalents. We maintain cash and cash equivalents with several major financial institutions. We have not experienced any losses on our cash equivalents.

Receivables

Accounts receivable primarily result from the sales of motor fuels to customers and rental fees for retail sites. The majority of our accounts receivable relate to our motor fuel sales that can generally be described as high volume and low margin activities. Credit is extended to a customer based on an evaluation of the customer’s financial condition. In certain circumstances collateral may be required from the customer. Receivables are recorded at face value, without interest or discount. Receivables include amounts due from financial institutions for customer credit and debit card transactions.

The provision for bad debts is generally based upon a specific analysis of aged accounts while also factoring in any new business conditions that might impact the historical analysis, such as market conditions and bankruptcies of particular customers. Bad debt provisions are included in general and administrative expenses.

We review all accounts receivable balances on at least a quarterly basis and provide an allowance for doubtful accounts based on historical experience and on a specific identification basis.

Inventories

Motor fuel inventory consists of gasoline, diesel fuel and other petroleum products and is stated at the lower of average cost or net realizable value using the first-in, first-out method. We record inventory from the time of the purchase of motor fuels from third-party suppliers until the retail sale to the end customer.

Asset Acquisitions and Business Combinations

When closing on an acquisition, we must first determine whether substantially all of the fair value of the set of gross assets acquired is concentrated in a single identifiable asset or a group of similar identifiable assets. If this threshold is met, the set is not a business. If this threshold is not met, we determine whether the set meets the definition of a business.

A business is defined as an integrated set of assets and activities that is capable of being conducted and managed for the purpose of providing a return to investors or other owners, members or participants. A business typically has inputs, processes applied to those inputs and outputs that are used to generate a return to investors, but outputs are not required for a set to be a business. A business must include, at a minimum, an input and a substantive process that together significantly contribute to the ability to create outputs.

We account for asset acquisitions (i.e. transactions involving the acquisition of a set of assets that does not meet the definition of a business) in accordance with the guidance under ASC 805-50 and other applicable guidance. Asset acquisitions are generally accounted for by allocating the cost of the acquisition, including acquisition costs, to the individual assets acquired and liabilities assumed on a relative fair value basis.

We account for business combinations in accordance with the guidance under ASC 805–Business Combinations. The purchase price is recorded for assets acquired and liabilities assumed based on fair value. The excess of the fair value of the consideration conveyed over the fair value of the net assets acquired is recorded as goodwill.

The income statement includes the results of operations for each acquisition from their respective date of acquisition.

Whether we account for a transaction as an asset acquisition or a business combination, determining the fair value of assets and liabilities requires management’s judgment, the utilization of independent valuation experts and involves the use of significant estimates and assumptions with respect to the timing and amounts of future cash inflows and outflows, discount rates, market prices and asset lives, among other items. The judgments made in the determination of the estimated fair value assigned to the assets acquired, the liabilities assumed and any noncontrolling interest in the investee, as well as the estimated useful life of each asset and the duration of each liability, can materially impact the financial statements in periods after acquisition, such as through depreciation and amortization.

75

 

---

CROSSAMERICA PARTNERS LP

NOTES TO CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS

Property and Equipment

Property and equipment is recorded at cost, which equals fair value in the case of a business combination or generally approximates fair value in the case of an asset acquisition. Depreciation is recognized using the straight-line method over the estimated useful lives of the related assets, including: 10 to 20 years for buildings and improvements and three to 30 years for equipment. Amortization of leasehold improvements is based upon the shorter of the remaining terms of the leases including renewal periods that are reasonably assured, or the estimated useful lives, which generally range from seven to 10 years.

Expenditures for major renewals and betterments that extend the useful lives of property and equipment are capitalized. Maintenance and repairs are charged to operations as incurred. Gains or losses on the disposition of property and equipment are recorded in the period the sale meets the criteria for recognition.

Intangible Assets

Intangible assets are recorded at fair value in the case of a business combination or at a value that generally approximates fair value in the case of an asset acquisition. Intangible assets associated with wholesale fuel supply contracts and wholesale fuel distribution rights are amortized over 10 years. Trademarks are amortized over five years. Covenants not to compete are amortized over the shorter of the contract term or five years. Intangible assets associated with above and below market leases in which we are the lessor are amortized over the applicable lease term. Intangible assets with finite useful lives are amortized over their respective estimated useful lives and reviewed for impairment if we believe that changes or triggering events have occurred that could have caused the carrying value of the intangible assets to exceed its fair value. Intangible assets with indefinite lives are not amortized but are tested for impairment annually or more frequently if events and circumstances indicate that the intangible assets might be impaired.

Impairment of Assets

Long-lived assets, which include property and equipment and finite-lived intangible assets, are tested for recoverability whenever events or changes in circumstances indicate that the carrying amount of the asset may not be recoverable. A long-lived asset is not recoverable if its carrying amount exceeds the sum of the undiscounted cash flows expected to result from its use and eventual disposition. If a long-lived asset is not recoverable, an impairment loss is recognized for the amount by which the carrying amount of the long-lived asset exceeds its fair value, with fair value determined based on discounted estimated net cash flows or other appropriate methods.

Goodwill

Goodwill represents the excess of cost over the fair value of net assets of businesses acquired. Goodwill is not amortized, but instead is tested for impairment at the reporting unit level at least annually, and more frequently if events and circumstances indicate that the goodwill might be impaired. The annual impairment testing date of goodwill is October 1.

In performing our annual impairment analysis, ASC 350–20, Intangibles–Goodwill and Other, allows us to use qualitative factors to determine whether it is more likely than not (likelihood of more than 50%) that the fair value of a reporting unit is less than its carrying amount, including goodwill.

If, after assessing the totality of events or circumstances, we determine that it is more likely than not that the fair value of a reporting unit exceeds its carrying amount, no further testing is necessary. However, if we determine that it is more likely than not that the fair value of a reporting unit is less than its carrying amount, then we perform the goodwill impairment test.

In the goodwill impairment test, the reporting unit’s carrying amount (including goodwill) and its fair value are compared. If the estimated fair value of a reporting unit is less than the carrying value, an impairment charge is recognized for the deficit up to the amount of goodwill recorded.

No goodwill was impaired for any period presented.

76

 

---

CROSSAMERICA PARTNERS LP

NOTES TO CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS

Investment in CST Fuel Supply

ASU 2016-15–Statement of Cash Flows (ASC 230): Classification of Certain Cash Receipts and Cash Payments (a consensus of the Emerging Issues Task Force) was effective January 1, 2018. This ASU provides guidance on cash flow presentation of various specific transactions. We apply the cumulative earnings approach in presenting our cash flows from our investment in CST Fuel Supply. Distributions received are considered returns on investment and classified as cash inflows from operating activities. See Note 25 for information regarding the exchange of this investment for certain assets owned by Circle K.

Debt Issuance Costs

Debt issuance costs that are incurred in connection with the issuance of debt are deferred and amortized to interest expense using the straight-line method (which approximates the effective interest method) over the contractual term of the underlying indebtedness. Debt issuance costs are classified as a reduction of the associated liability.

Environmental Matters

Liabilities for future remediation costs are recorded when environmental assessments from governmental regulatory agencies and/or remedial efforts are probable and the costs can be reasonably estimated. Other than for assessments, the timing and magnitude of these accruals generally are based on the completion of investigations or other studies or a commitment to a formal plan of action. Environmental liabilities are based on best estimates of probable undiscounted future costs using currently available technology and applying current regulations, as well as our own internal environmental policies. Environmental liabilities are difficult to assess and estimate due to uncertainties related to the magnitude of possible remediation, the timing of such remediation and the determination of our obligation in proportion to other parties. Such estimates are subject to change due to many factors, including the identification of new retail sites requiring remediation, changes in environmental laws and regulations and their interpretation, additional information related to the extent and nature of remediation efforts and potential improvements in remediation technologies. Amounts recorded for environmental liabilities have not been reduced by possible recoveries from third parties.

Asset Retirement Obligations

We record a liability, which is referred to as an asset retirement obligation, at fair value for the estimated cost to remove underground storage tanks (USTs) used to store motor fuel at owned and leased retail sites at the time we incur that liability, which is generally when the UST is installed or upon entering the lease. We record a discounted liability for the fair value of an asset retirement obligation with a corresponding increase to the carrying value of the related long-lived asset. We depreciate the amount added to property and equipment and recognize accretion expense in connection with the discounted liability over the estimated remaining life of the UST. Accretion expense is reflected in depreciation, amortization and accretion expense. We base our estimates of the anticipated future costs for removal of a UST on our prior experience with removal. Removal costs include the cost to remove the USTs, soil remediation costs resulting from the spillage of small quantities of motor fuel in the normal operations of our business and other miscellaneous costs. We review our assumptions for computing the estimated liability for the removal of USTs on an annual basis. Any change in estimated cash flows is reflected as an adjustment to the liability and the associated asset.

Segment Reporting

We present our segment reporting in accordance with ASC 280–Segment Reporting and engage in both the wholesale and retail distribution of motor fuels, primarily gasoline and diesel fuel. We present our results to our chief operating decision maker segregated between wholesale and retail activities. As a result, we are deemed to conduct our business in two segments: 1) the wholesale segment and 2) the retail segment. The class of customer and gross margins are sufficiently different between these two businesses to warrant two reportable segments. See Note 21 for additional information.

77

 

---

CROSSAMERICA PARTNERS LP

NOTES TO CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS

Revenue Recognition

In May 2014, the FASB issued ASU 2014-09–Revenue from Contracts with Customers (ASC 606), which results in comprehensive new revenue accounting guidance, requires enhanced disclosures to help users of financial statements better understand the nature, amount, timing, and uncertainty of revenue that is recognized, and develops a common revenue standard under U.S. GAAP and International Financial Reporting Standards. Specifically, the core principle of the guidance is that an entity should recognize revenue to depict the transfer of promised goods or services to customers in an amount that reflects the consideration to which the entity expects to be entitled in exchange for those goods and services. This guidance became effective January 1, 2018 and we applied the modified retrospective method of adoption. There was no material impact on the financial statements other than disclosures. This guidance applies to over 90% of our revenues as the only primary revenue stream outside the scope of this guidance is rental income.

Revenues from the delivery of motor fuel are recorded at the time of delivery to our customers, by which time the price is fixed, title to the products has transferred and payment has either been received or collection is reasonably assured, net of applicable discounts and allowances. Incremental costs incurred to obtain certain contracts with customers are deferred and amortized over the contract term and are included in other noncurrent assets on the balance sheets. Amortization of such costs are classified as a reduction of operating revenues.

Revenues from the sale of convenience store products are recognized at the time of sale to the customer.

Revenues from leasing arrangements for which we are the lessor are recognized ratably over the term of the underlying lease.

In transactions in which we sell and lease back property, we apply guidance from ASC 606 in determining whether the transfer of the property should be accounted for as a sale. Specifically, we assess if we have satisfied a performance obligation by transferring control of the property.

See Note 21 for additional information on our revenues and related receivables.

Cost of Sales

We include in our cost of sales all costs we incur to acquire motor fuel and merchandise, including the costs of purchasing, storing and transporting inventory prior to delivery to our customers. A component of our cost of sales is the discount for prompt payment and other rebates, discounts and incentives offered by our suppliers. Prompt payment discounts from suppliers are based on a percentage of the purchase price of motor fuel and the dollar value of these discounts varies with motor fuel prices. Cost of sales does not include any depreciation of our property and equipment, as these amounts are included in depreciation, amortization and accretion expense on our statements of income.

Motor Fuel Taxes

LGW collects motor fuel taxes, which consist of various pass-through taxes collected from customers on behalf of taxing authorities and remits such taxes directly to those taxing authorities. LGW’s accounting policy is to exclude the taxes collected and remitted from wholesale revenues and cost of sales and account for them as liabilities. LGWS’s retail sales and cost of sales include motor fuel taxes as the taxes are included in the cost paid for motor fuel and LGWS has no direct responsibility to collect or remit such taxes to the taxing authorities.

Lease Accounting

We lease certain retail sites from third parties under long-term arrangements with various expiration dates.

Through December 31, 2018, we accounted for leases in accordance with ASC 840–Leases.

We are the lessee in certain sale-leaseback transactions for certain retail sites, and as we have continuing involvement in the underlying retail sites through a sublease with a lessee dealer, the sale-leaseback arrangements were accounted for as financing transactions under ASC 840.

In February 2016, the FASB issued ASU 2016-02–Leases (ASC 842). This standard modifies existing guidance for reporting organizations that enter into leases to increase transparency by recognizing lease assets and lease liabilities on the balance sheet and disclosing key information about leasing arrangements. This guidance was effective for us on January 1, 2019.

78

 

---

CROSSAMERICA PARTNERS LP

NOTES TO CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS

We elected the package of practical expedients permitted under the transition guidance within the new standard, which allows us to not reassess: 1) whether any expired or existing contracts are or contain leases; 2) lease classifications for any expired or existing leases; and 3) initial direct costs for any existing leases. We also elected the practical expedient to not assess whether existing or expired land easements that were not previously accounted for as leases under ASC 840 are or contain a lease under ASC 842. We did not elect the hindsight practical expedient and thus did not reassess the lease term for existing leases. We did not elect the practical expedient to not separate lease components from non-lease components for any classes of assets. We made an accounting policy election to not recognize lease assets and lease liabilities on the balance sheet for leases with an initial term of one year or less. We elected the current period adjustment transition method as permitted by ASU 2018-10 and recorded a cumulative effect adjustment to equity effective January 1, 2019.

There was no impact from the adoption of this ASU on the accounting for our capital (now called finance) lease obligations.

Since our previous sale-leaseback transactions were accounted for as failed sale-leasebacks, we were required to reassess these leases under the new guidance as part of adopting ASC 842. We concluded that control, including the significant risks and rewards of ownership, transferred to the buyer-lessor at the inception of each sale-leaseback transaction, and as a result these leasing transactions do not represent financing obligations under ASC 842. Therefore, these leases are accounted for as operating leases under the new guidance and the $42.0 million of net property and equipment and $76.1 million of sale-leaseback financing obligations recorded on the balance sheet as of December 31, 2018 were removed as part of our transition adjustment effective January 1, 2019. In addition, $5.2 million of deferred tax assets primarily relating to the failed sale-leasebacks were removed from the balance sheet as part of our transition adjustment.

In order to measure our lease liability under our leases as lessee, we are required to discount our minimum rental payments using the rate implicit in the lease, unless such rate cannot be readily determined, in which case our incremental borrowing rate is used. As we do not know the amount of our lessors’ initial direct costs, we are generally unable to determine the rate implicit in our leases. As a result, we generally use our incremental borrowing rate, which is the rate we would have to pay to borrow an amount equal to the lease payments on a collateralized basis over a similar term in a similar economic environment. We considered the rates we paid in previous financing and sale-leaseback transactions, the rates on our borrowings under our prior secured revolving credit facility and mortgage rates on commercial properties for various terms in developing our incremental borrowing rates.

Effective January 1, 2019, we recognized right-of-use assets related to operating leases, inclusive of direct costs of entering leases and below market lease intangible assets and net of deferred rent expense and above market lease liabilities, totaling $133.3 million. We recorded lease liabilities related to operating leases, including related to the sale-leaseback transactions noted above, totaling $135.9 million.

The net adjustment recorded to equity as of January 1, 2019 was a credit of $28.9 million.

The table below summarizes these adjustments to the January 1, 2019 balance sheet (in millions).

Since we are not restating prior periods as part of adopting this guidance, our results for 2019 are not directly comparable to our results for periods before January 1, 2019. Specifically, payments on our failed sale-leaseback obligations were characterized as principal and interest expense in periods prior to January 1, 2019. Beginning on January 1, 2019, these payments are characterized as rent expense and thus reduce gross profit and operating income (primarily from the Wholesale segment) relative to the results reported for periods prior to January 1, 2019.

79

 

---

CROSSAMERICA PARTNERS LP

NOTES TO CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS

See Notes 11, 12 and 21 for additional information.

ASC 842 requires leases be evaluated and classified as either operating or finance for financial reporting purposes. The lease term used for lease evaluation includes option periods only in instances in which the exercise of the option period is reasonably certain. Generally, lease payments are expensed on a straight-line basis over the term of the lease including renewal periods that are reasonably certain at the inception of the lease. In addition to these lease payments, certain leases require additional contingent payments based on sales volume or future inflation, which are expensed as incurred.

Income Taxes

Our wholly owned taxable subsidiaries recognize deferred income tax assets and liabilities for the expected future income tax consequences of temporary differences between financial statement carrying amounts and the related income tax basis.

Income tax attributable to our earnings and losses, excluding the earnings and losses of our wholly owned taxable subsidiaries, are assessed at the individual level of the unitholder. Accordingly, we do not record a provision for income taxes other than for those earnings and losses generated or incurred by our wholly owned taxable subsidiaries.

Tax positions not meeting the more-likely-than-not recognition threshold at the financial statement date may not be recognized or continue to be recognized under the accounting guidance for income taxes. Where required, we recognize interest and penalties for uncertain tax positions in income taxes.

Valuation allowances are initially recorded and reevaluated each reporting period by assessing the likelihood of the ultimate realization of a deferred tax asset. Management considers a number of factors in assessing the realization of a deferred tax asset, including the reversal of temporary differences, projections of future taxable income and ongoing prudent and feasible tax planning strategies. The amount of deferred tax assets ultimately realized may differ materially from the estimates utilized in the computation of valuation allowances and may materially impact the financial statements in the future.

Earnings per Common Unit

In addition to the common units, we have identified the IDRs as participating securities and compute income per unit using the two-class method under which any excess of distributions declared over net income shall be allocated to the partners based on their respective sharing of income specified in the Partnership Agreement. Net income per common unit applicable to limited partners is computed by dividing the limited partners’ interest in net income, after deducting any incentive distributions, by the weighted-average number of outstanding common units.

See Note 25 for disclosure regarding the elimination of the IDRs, which closed on February 6, 2020.

New Accounting Guidance Pending Adoption

Accounting for Financial Instrument Credit Losses

In June 2016, the FASB issued ASU 2016-13, “Measurement of Credit Losses on Financial Instruments.” This standard requires that for most financial assets, losses be based on an expected loss approach which includes estimates of losses over the life of exposure that considers historical, current and forecasted information. Expanded disclosures related to the methods used to estimate the losses as well as a specific disaggregation of balances for financial assets are also required. This standard is effective January 1, 2020 for the Partnership. The Partnership does not expect a material impact on its financial statements.

Simplifying the Accounting for Income Taxes

In December 2019, the FASB issued ASU 2019-12, “Simplifying the Accounting for Income Taxes.” The amendments in this Update simplify the accounting for income taxes by removing certain exceptions to the general principles in ASC 740. The amendments also improve consistent application of and simplify GAAP for other areas of ASC 740 by clarifying and amending existing guidance, such as the accounting for a franchise tax (or similar tax) that is partially based on income. This standard is effective January 1, 2021 for the Partnership. The Partnership is assessing the impact of adopting this guidance on its financial statements.

Concentration Risk

For 2019, 2018 and 2017, we distributed approximately 8%, 11%, and 13% of our total wholesale distribution volume to Dunne Manning Stores LLC (DMS), an entity associated with the family of a member of the Board and DMS accounted for approximately 7%, 15% and 22% of our rental income, respectively.

80

 

---

CROSSAMERICA PARTNERS LP

NOTES TO CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS

In June 2018, we executed master fuel supply and master lease agreements with a third-party multi-site operator of retail motor fuel stations, to which we transitioned 43 sites in Florida from DMS in the third quarter of 2018. The master fuel supply and master lease agreements have an initial 10-year term with four 5-year renewal options. See Note 13 for information relating to our recapture of these sites from the master lease agreement with DMS.

For 2019, 2018 and 2017, we distributed 6%, 7% and 8% of our total wholesale distribution volume to Circle K retail sites that are not supplied by CST Fuel Supply and received 14%, 20% and 20% of our rental income from Circle K, respectively.

For more information regarding transactions with DMS and its affiliates and Circle K, see Note 13.

In 2019, our wholesale business purchased approximately 26%, 22%, 15% and 12% of its motor fuel from ExxonMobil, BP, Circle K and Motiva, respectively. In 2018, our wholesale business purchased approximately 26%, 26%, 13% and 10% of its motor fuel from ExxonMobil, BP, Motiva and Circle K, respectively. In 2017, our wholesale business purchased approximately 28%, 27% and 16% of its motor fuel from ExxonMobil, BP and Motiva, respectively. No other fuel suppliers accounted for 10% or more of our motor fuel purchases during 2019, 2018 or 2017.

Valero supplied substantially all of the motor fuel purchased by CST Fuel Supply during all periods presented. CST Fuel Supply purchased approximately 1.7 billion, 1.6 billion and 1.7 billion gallons of motor fuel from Valero in 2019, 2018 and 2017, respectively.

Note 3. ASSET EXCHANGE TRANSACTION WITH CIRCLE K

On December 17, 2018, as approved by the independent conflicts committee of the Board, we entered into an Asset Exchange Agreement (the “Asset Exchange Agreement”) with Circle K. Pursuant to the Asset Exchange Agreement, the parties have agreed to exchange (i) certain assets of CrossAmerica related to 56 convenience and fuel retail stores currently leased and operated by Circle K pursuant to a master lease that CrossAmerica previously purchased jointly with or from CST (the “master lease properties”), and 17 convenience and fuel retail stores currently owned and operated by CrossAmerica located in the U.S. Upper Midwest (collectively, including the master lease properties, the “CAPL Properties”), having an aggregate fair value of approximately $184.5 million,  for (ii) certain assets of Circle K related to 192 (162 fee and 30 leased) company-operated convenience and fuel retail stores (the “CK Properties”), having an aggregate fair value of approximately $184.5 million  The existing fuel supply arrangements for the 56 master lease properties will remain unchanged.

The assets being exchanged by CrossAmerica include (i) its fee simple title to all land and other real property and related improvements owned by CrossAmerica at the CAPL Properties, (ii) all buildings and other improvements located on the CAPL Properties, (iii) all tangible personal property owned by CrossAmerica and primarily used in connection with the operation of the CAPL Properties, including all underground storage tanks located on such properties and owned by CrossAmerica, (iv) CrossAmerica’s rights under certain contracts related to the CAPL Properties, (v) all in-store cash, inventory owned by CrossAmerica and assignable permits owned or held by CrossAmerica at the 17 convenience store sites owned and operated by CrossAmerica, (vi) all real estate records and related registrations and reports relating exclusively to the CAPL Properties, and (vii) all goodwill and other intangible assets associated with the foregoing assets (collectively, the “CAPL Assets”). The assets being exchanged by Circle K include (a) its fee simple title to all land and other real property and related improvements owned by Circle K at the CK Properties, (b) all buildings and other improvements located on the CK Properties, (c) all tangible personal property owned by Circle K and primarily used in connection with the operation of the CK Properties, including all underground storage tanks located on such properties and owned by Circle K, (d) Circle K’s rights under the dealer agreements and agent agreements to be entered into and assigned to CrossAmerica relating to each CK Property that will be dealerized as contemplated by the Asset Exchange Agreement, (e) Circle K’s rights under certain contracts related to the CK Properties, (f) all real estate records and related registrations and reports relating exclusively to the CK Properties, and (g) all goodwill and other intangible assets associated with the foregoing assets (collectively, the “CK Assets”).  CrossAmerica will also assume certain liabilities associated with the CK Assets, and Circle K will assume certain liabilities associated with the CAPL Assets.

The CK Properties will be assigned to CrossAmerica in multiple tranches after Circle K has executed a dealer agreement or agent agreement, as applicable, with respect to each CK Property to be included in a tranche and the applicable dealer or agent has assumed possession and operating control of such property. As a result, it is expected that the exchange of assets pursuant to the Asset Exchange Agreement will occur in a series of separate tranche closings over a period of up to 24 months as Circle K enters into such dealer agreements or agent agreements. At each separate closing, CK Properties and related CK Assets will be exchanged for CAPL Properties and related CAPL Assets of approximately equivalent value. After the final tranche closing, any net valuation difference will be paid by the party owing such amount to the other.  

81

 

---

CROSSAMERICA PARTNERS LP

NOTES TO CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS

Each separate closing is subject to the satisfaction or waiver of customary closing conditions. The Asset Exchange Agreement contains customary representations, warranties, agreements and obligations of the parties, including covenants regarding the conduct by CrossAmerica and Circle K with respect to the CAPL Properties and the CK Properties, respectively, prior to closing. CrossAmerica and Circle K have generally agreed to indemnify each other for breaches of the representations, warranties and covenants contained in the Asset Exchange Agreement for a period of 18 months after the date of the final closing (or for certain specified losses, until the expiration of the applicable statute of limitations). Except for such specified losses, the respective indemnification obligations of each of CrossAmerica and Circle K to the other will not apply to the first $1.845 million of losses and the aggregate indemnification obligations will not exceed $39.9 million. The Asset Exchange Agreement may be terminated by mutual written consent of CrossAmerica and Circle K.

In connection with the execution of the Asset Exchange Agreement, CrossAmerica and Circle K also entered into an Environmental Responsibility Agreement (the “ERA”), which agreement sets forth the parties’ respective liabilities and obligations with respect to environmental matters relating to the CAPL Properties and the CK Properties. Generally, (i) each party will retain liability for known contamination at the sites it is transferring to the other party and (ii) each party will assume liability for unknown contamination at the sites it is receiving from the other party, except that the ERA does not affect any liability that Circle K currently has under the existing master lease of the master lease properties.

First Asset Exchange

On May 21, 2019, the closing of the first separate tranche of asset exchanges under the Asset Exchange Agreement occurred (the “First Asset Exchange”). In this First Asset Exchange, Circle K transferred to the Partnership 60 (52 fee and 8 leased) U.S. company-operated convenience and fuel retail stores having an aggregate fair value of approximately $58.1 million, and the Partnership transferred to Circle K all 17 of the Upper Midwest properties and the real property for eight of the master lease properties having an aggregate fair value of approximately $58.3 million.

Second Asset Exchange

On September 5, 2019, the closing of the second separate tranche of asset exchanges under the Asset Exchange Agreement occurred (the “Second Asset Exchange”). In this Second Asset Exchange, Circle K transferred to the Partnership 56 (51 fee and 5 leased) U.S. company-operated convenience and fuel retail stores having an aggregate fair value of approximately $50.2 million, and the Partnership transferred to Circle K the real property for 19 of the master lease properties having an aggregate fair value of approximately $51.4 million.

In connection with the closing of the First Asset Exchange and Second Asset Exchange (collectively, the “Closed Asset Exchange Transactions”), the stores transferred by Circle K were dealerized as contemplated by the Asset Exchange Agreement and Circle K’s rights under the dealer agreements and agent agreements that were entered into in connection therewith were assigned to the Partnership. Additionally, at the closing of the First Asset Exchange, LGW and Circle K entered into a Sub-Jobber Agreement, dated as of May 21, 2019 (the “Sub-Jobber Agreement”), pursuant to which Circle K will supply fuel to LGW for resale to the dealers at the stores that Circle K transferred to the Partnership in the Closed Asset Exchange Transactions. While there is no minimum or maximum quantity of products that LGW is required to purchase from Circle K, for each store location covered by the Sub-Jobber Agreement, LGW must purchase from Circle K all of the requirements for motor fuel at the stores covered by the Sub-Jobber Agreement, except in certain limited circumstances described in the Sub-Jobber Agreement. The term of the Sub-Jobber Agreement will expire on May 21, 2024, unless earlier terminated by either party in accordance with the terms of the Sub-Jobber Agreement. Circle K also has the right to grant temporary extensions of the Sub-Jobber Agreement of up to 180 days per extension.

After each subsequent separate “tranche” closing under the Asset Exchange Agreement, the Sub-Jobber Agreement will be amended by agreement of LGW and Circle K to add the store locations acquired by the Partnership at such closing to the Sub-Jobber Agreement.

The purchases and sales were accounted for as transactions between entities under common control. As such, the sites divested were recorded as a charge against equity. The sites acquired were recorded at carryover book basis from Circle K’s balance sheet as a contribution to equity.

82

 

---

CROSSAMERICA PARTNERS LP

NOTES TO CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS

We recorded the following to reflect the divestiture of the CAPL Properties in the Closed Asset Exchange Transactions with the net assets divested recorded through equity (in thousands).

We recorded the following to reflect the acquisition of the CK Properties in the Closed Asset Exchange Transactions with the net assets acquired recorded through equity (in thousands).

In connection with the closing of the First Asset Exchange, we received $2.8 million in cash from Circle K during the second quarter of 2019 as consideration primarily for 1) inventory transferred by us to Circle K at the 17 company operated sites; and 2) security deposits from dealers assigned by Circle K to us. In connection with the closing of the Second Asset Exchange, we received $0.3 million in cash from Circle K during the third quarter of 2019 as consideration primarily for security deposits from dealers assigned by Circle K to us.

On February 25, 2020, the closing of the third separate tranche of asset exchanges under the Asset Exchange Agreement occurred. In this tranche, Circle K transferred to the Partnership ten (all fee) U.S. company-operated convenience and fuel retail stores having an aggregate fair value of approximately $11.0 million, and the Partnership transferred to Circle K the real property for five of the master lease properties having an aggregate fair value of approximately $10.3 million.

The remaining tranches are anticipated to close in the first half of 2020.

83

 

---

CROSSAMERICA PARTNERS LP

NOTES TO CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS

Note 4. ASSETS HELD FOR SALE

We have classified 24 and two sites as held for sale at December 31, 2019 and 2018, respectively. The sites classified as held for sale at December 31, 2019 are expected to be sold within one year of such classification. Assets held for sale were as follows (in thousands):

 

 

The Partnership has reprioritized divesting lower performing assets, which has resulted in an increase in the number of sites classified as held-for-sale at December 31, 2019. See Note 7 for information regarding impairment charges recorded upon such classification.

Note 5. RECEIVABLES

Changes in the allowance for doubtful accounts consisted of the following (in thousands):

 

Notes receivable from lessee dealers totaled $2.1 million and $2.8 million at December 31, 2019 and 2018, respectively, and are included in other current assets and other noncurrent assets on the consolidated balance sheets.

Note 6. INVENTORIES

Inventories consisted of the following (in thousands):

 

 

See Note 3 for information related to the May 2019 closing of the first tranche of the asset exchange with Circle K and Note 21 for additional information related to the dealerization of our company operated sites. Subsequent to these transactions, we no longer operate company operated retail sites and thus no longer have retail site merchandise inventory. See Note 25 for information regarding the acquisition of retail and wholesale assets from the Topper Group and certain other parties. 

84

 

---

CROSSAMERICA PARTNERS LP

NOTES TO CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS

Note 7. PROPERTY AND EQUIPMENT

Property and equipment, net consisted of the following (in thousands):

 

As a result of the adoption of ASC 842, on January 1, 2019, we recorded a transition adjustment removing the $42.0 million of property and equipment, net recorded on the December 31, 2018 balance sheet related to leases previously accounted for as failed sale-leaseback transitions. See Note 2 for additional information.

See Note 3 for additional information on the closings of the first two tranches of the asset exchange with Circle K, which resulted in a $6.4 million reduction of property and equipment, net.

As discussed in Note 11, we lease sites under our Getty Lease, for which the building and equipment components are classified as a finance lease. The right-of-use asset associated with this finance lease is included in the table above and totaled $14.0 million at December 31, 2019, net of accumulated amortization. Amortization of this right-of-use asset is included in depreciation, amortization and accretion expense on the statement of income and amounted to $2.3 million in 2019.

 

Approximately $556.3 million of property and equipment, net was used for leasing purposes at December 31, 2019.

 

Depreciation expense, including amortization of assets recorded under finance lease obligations, was approximately $42.8 million, $49.3 million and $42.5 million for 2019, 2018 and 2017, respectively. Included in these amounts are impairment charges primarily related to sites classified within assets held for sale totaling $4.5 million, $8.1 million and $1.3 million during 2019, 2018 and 2017, respectively.

 

Of the impairment charges recorded in 2018, $8.1 million related to the 11 FTC-required divestitures. The impairment charges include $1.2 million of wholesale fuel distribution rights and $0.3 million of goodwill, most of which relates to the Retail segment.

As part of Circle K’s acquisition of Holiday, the FTC issued a decree in which nine sites were required to be divested to FTC approved third-party buyers (“Upper Midwest Sites”). Since this was a forced divestiture of assets for us, Circle K compensated us with an amount representing the difference between the value of the nine Upper Midwest Sties and the proceeds of the sale to FTC approved third-party buyers, which amounted to $6.3 million. Circle K’s payment to us was received during the fourth quarter of 2018. This payment was accounted for as a transaction between entities under common control and thus recorded as a contribution to partners’ capital, net of income taxes.

In October 2018, Hurricane Michael damaged most of our 45 sites in Florida. As a result, we wrote off property and equipment with a net book value of $2.3 million. We recorded $3.1 million in insurance proceeds and as such, recognized a net gain of $0.8 million in 2018.

During 2017, as approved by the conflicts committee of our Board, we sold 29 properties to Dunne Manning Realty LP, an entity affiliated with Joseph V. Topper, Jr., a member of the Board (DMR), for $18.9 million, resulting in a $0.8 million gain. These sites were generally sites at which we did not supply fuel or represented vacant land.

During 2017, we sold two properties as a result of the FTC’s requirements associated with the CST Merger for $6.7 million, resulting in a gain of $2.2 million. In addition, Circle K agreed to reimburse us for the tax liability incurred on the required sale, resulting in additional proceeds of $0.3 million, which was accounted for as a contribution to partners’ capital.

85

 

---

CROSSAMERICA PARTNERS LP

NOTES TO CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS

During 2017, DMS renewed its contract with one of its customers, triggering a $0.8 million earn-out payment by DMS to us under a contract entered into with DMS at the time of CST acquiring our General Partner in October 2014, which was recorded as a gain.

Note 8. INTANGIBLE ASSETS

Intangible assets consisted of the following (in thousands):

 

As a result of the adoption of ASC 842, on January 1, 2019, we recorded a transition adjustment reclassifying below market lease intangible assets (and above market lease liabilities) to the right-of-use asset. See Note 2 for additional information.

See Note 3 for additional information on the May 2019 and September 2019 closing of the first and second tranche of the asset exchange with Circle K, which resulted in the disposal of $2.1 million of wholesale fuel distribution rights.

Amortization expense, including amortization of above and below market lease intangible assets, which is classified as rent expense, was $10.9 million, $15.4 million (including $2.0 million of impairments primarily related to FTC-required divestitures discussed in Note 7) and $13.6 million for 2019, 2018 and 2017, respectively. Aggregate amortization expense is expected to be $10.6 million, $9.9 million, $9.2 million, $6.5 million and $4.2 million for 2020, 2021, 2022, 2023 and 2024, respectively.

Note 9. GOODWILL

Changes in goodwill during 2019 and 2018 consisted of the following (in thousands):

 

 

As a result of converting our remaining company-operated sites to dealer-operated sites in the third quarter of 2019 and the resulting reduction in future cash flows in the Retail segment and the expected increase in future cash flows that will be received by the Wholesale segment subsequent to the date of conversion, $4.5 million of the goodwill originally assigned to the Retail segment was reassigned to the Wholesale segment. See Note 21 for additional information on the dealerization of our company operated sites.

 

86

 

---

CROSSAMERICA PARTNERS LP

NOTES TO CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS

Note 10. ACCRUED EXPENSES AND OTHER LONG-TERM LIABILITIES

Accrued expenses and other current liabilities consisted of the following (in thousands):

Other long-term liabilities consisted of the following (in thousands):

Asset Retirement Obligations

Environmental laws in the U.S. require the permanent closure of USTs within one to two years after the USTs are no longer in service, depending on the jurisdiction in which the USTs are located. We have estimated that USTs at our owned retail sites will remain in service approximately 30 years and that we will have an obligation to remove those USTs at that time. For our leased retail sites, our lease agreements generally require that we remove certain improvements, primarily USTs and signage, upon termination of the lease, and so an asset retirement obligation is incurred upon entering the lease. There are no assets that are legally restricted for purposes of settling our asset retirement obligations.

A rollforward of our asset retirement obligation is below (in thousands):

 

87

 

---

CROSSAMERICA PARTNERS LP

NOTES TO CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS

 

Note 11. DEBT

Our balances for long-term debt and finance lease obligations are as follows (in thousands):

 

 

As of December 31, 2019, future principal payments on debt and future minimum rental payments on finance lease obligations were as follows (in thousands): 

 

 

Our borrowings under the revolving credit facility had a weighted-average interest rate of 3.73% as of December 31, 2019 (LIBOR plus an applicable margin, which was 2.00% as of December 31, 2019). Letters of credit outstanding at December 31, 2019 and 2018 totaled $5.4 million and $5.2 million, respectively. The amount of availability under the credit facility at December 31, 2019, after taking into consideration debt covenant restrictions, was $92.0 million.

New Credit Agreement

On April 1, 2019, we entered into a credit agreement with the lenders from time to time party thereto and Citizens Bank, N.A., as administrative agent, swing line lender and letter of credit issuer (the “New Credit Agreement”).

The New Credit Agreement replaced our previous credit agreement, dated as of March 4, 2014 (as amended, the “Existing Credit Agreement”), and provided the following key benefits:

88

 

---

CROSSAMERICA PARTNERS LP

NOTES TO CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS

The New Credit Agreement is a $750 million senior secured revolving credit facility, maturing in April 2024. The facility can be increased from time to time upon our written request, subject to certain conditions, up to an additional $300 million. The aggregate amount of the outstanding loans and letters of credit under the New Credit Agreement cannot exceed the combined revolving commitments then in effect. All obligations under the New Credit Agreement are secured by substantially all of the Partnership’s assets.

Borrowings under the credit facility bear interest, at the Partnership’s option, at (1) a rate equal to LIBOR for interest periods of one, two, three or six months (or, if consented to by all lenders, for such other period that is twelve months or a period shorter than one month), plus a margin ranging from 1.50% to 2.50% per annum depending on our consolidated leverage ratio (as defined in the New Credit Agreement) or (2) (a) a base rate equal to the greatest of, (i) the federal funds rate, plus 0.5% per annum, (ii) LIBOR for one month interest periods, plus 1.00% per annum or (iii) the rate of interest established by the agent, from time to time, as its prime rate, plus (b) a margin ranging from 0.50% to 1.50% per annum depending on our consolidated leverage ratio. In addition, we incur a commitment fee based on the unused portion of the credit facility at a rate ranging from 0.25% to 0.45% per annum depending on our consolidated leverage ratio.

We also have the right to borrow swingline loans under the New Credit Agreement in an amount up to $35.0 million. Swingline loans will bear interest at the base rate plus the applicable base rate margin.

Standby letters of credit are permissible under the New Credit Agreement up to an aggregate amount of $65.0 million. Standby letters of credit are subject to a 0.125% fronting fee and other customary administrative charges. Standby letters of credit will accrue a fee at a rate based on the applicable margin of LIBOR loans.

The New Credit Agreement also contains certain financial covenants. For each quarter ending on or after September 30, 2019, we are required to maintain a consolidated leverage ratio for the most recently completed four fiscal quarters of 4.75 to 1.00. Such threshold is increased to 5.50 to 1.00 for the quarter during a specified acquisition period (as defined in the New Credit Agreement). Upon the occurrence of a qualified note offering (as defined in the New Credit Agreement), the consolidated leverage ratio when not in a specified acquisition period is increased to 5.25 to 1.00, while the specified acquisition period threshold remains 5.50 to 1.00. Upon the occurrence of a qualified note offering, we are also required to maintain a consolidated senior secured leverage ratio (as defined in the New Credit Agreement) for the most recently completed four fiscal quarter period of not greater than 3.75 to 1.00. Such threshold is increased to 4.00 to 1.00 for the quarter during a specified acquisition period. We are also required to maintain a consolidated interest coverage ratio (as defined in the New Credit Agreement) of at least 2.50 to 1.00. As of December 31, 2019, we were in compliance with these financial covenants.

In addition to rolling the $516.5 million of borrowings under the Existing Credit Agreement into the New Credit Agreement, we also initially drew $4.8 million and used $0.3 million of cash to pay $2.0 million of accrued interest under the Existing Credit Agreement and to pay $3.1 million of fees and expenses in connection with entering into the New Credit Agreement. Future borrowings will be used to provide ongoing working capital.

The New Credit Agreement prohibits us from making cash distributions to our unitholders if any event of default occurs or would result from the distribution. 

We amended the New Credit Agreement on November 19, 2019 to allow for the GP Purchase.

Finance Lease Obligations

In May 2012, the Predecessor Entity entered into a 15-year master lease agreement with renewal options of up to an additional 20 years with Getty Realty Corporation. Since then, the agreement has been amended from time to time to add or remove retail sites. As of December 31, 2019, we lease 114 sites under this lease with a weighted-average remaining lease term of 7.3 years. We pay fixed rent, which increases 1.5% per year. In addition, the lease requires variable lease payments based on gallons of motor fuel sold.

Because the fair value of the land at lease inception was estimated to represent more than 25% of the total fair value of the real property subject to the lease, the land element of the lease was analyzed for operating or capital treatment separately from the rest of the property subject to the lease. The land element of the lease was classified as an operating lease and all of the other property was classified as a capital lease. This assessment was not required to be reassessed upon adoption of ASC 842. As such, future minimum rental payments are included in both the finance lease obligations table above as well as the operating lease table in Note 12.

The weighted-average discount rate for this finance lease obligation at December 31, 2019 was 3.5%. Interest on this finance lease obligation amounted to $0.8 million for 2019.

89

 

---

CROSSAMERICA PARTNERS LP

NOTES TO CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS

Note 12. OPERATING LEASES

Operating Leases of Retail Sites as Lessee

We lease 391 retail sites from third parties under certain non-cancelable operating leases that expire from time to time through 2033. The weighted-average remaining lease term was 5.8 years as of December 31, 2019.

Lease expense for 2019 as measured under ASC 842 was classified in the statement of income as follows (in thousands):

 

 

Variable lease payments included in the above table are based on inflation, revenues or volumes and totaled $1.8 million for 2019. Short-term lease payments included in the table above that are excluded from the lease liability was $0.6 million for 2019. Cash paid for amounts included in the measurement of lease liabilities under operating leases totaled $25.8 million for 2019.

Lease expense as measured under ASC 840 was $21.5 million and $21.3 million for 2018 and 2017, respectively. Contingent rent expense, based on gallons sold, as measured under ASC 840 was $1.9 million for 2018 and 2017.

As of December 31, 2019, future minimum rental payments under operating leases, excluding variable lease payments or short-term payments, were as follows (in thousands). The weighted-average discount rate as of December 31, 2019 was 6.9%.

 

 

Most lease agreements include provisions for renewals. We generally do not include renewal options in our lease term for purposes of measuring our lease liabilities and right-of-use assets unless the sublease to our customer extends beyond the term of the head lease.

Substantially all these retail sites are then subleased to lessee dealers (including DMS) or commission agents under leases with terms generally ranging from one to ten years and which may include renewal options. Sublease rental income amounted to $38.2 million for 2019.

Operating Leases of Retail Sites as Lessor

Motor fuel stations are leased to tenants under operating leases with various expiration dates ranging through 2033. Most lease agreements include provisions for renewals. We generally do not include renewal options in our lease term. Future minimum rental payments under non-cancelable operating leases with third parties and DMS as of December 31, 2019 were as follows (in thousands):

 

90

 

---

CROSSAMERICA PARTNERS LP

NOTES TO CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS

 

The future minimum rental payments presented above do not include contingent rent based on future inflation, future revenues or volumes of the lessee, or non-lease components for amounts that may be received as tenant reimbursements for certain operating costs.

 

Deferred rent income from straight-line rent relates to the cumulative amount by which straight-line rental income recorded to date exceeds cash rents billed to date under the lease agreement and totaled $7.1 million and $6.3 million at December 31, 2019 and 2018, respectively.

Note 13. RELATED PARTY TRANSACTIONS

Transactions with Circle K

As a result of the GP Purchase, Circle K is no longer a related party from November 19, 2019 forward. However, for comparability purposes, we have disclosed balance sheet disclosures as of December 31, 2019 and income statement amounts for transactions with Circle K for the full year of 2019.

Fuel Sales and Rental Income

We sell wholesale motor fuel under a master fuel distribution agreement to 47 Circle K retail sites and lease real property on 46 retail sites to Circle K under a master lease agreement each having initial 10-year terms. The fuel distribution agreement provides us with a fixed wholesale mark-up per gallon. The master lease agreement is a triple net lease.

Revenues from wholesale fuel sales and real property rental income from Circle K were as follows (in thousands):

 

  

Accounts receivable from Circle K for fuel amounted to $3.1 million and $2.6 million at December 31, 2019 and 2018, respectively.

CST Fuel Supply Equity Interests

CST Fuel Supply provides wholesale motor fuel distribution to the majority of CST’s legacy U.S. retail sites at cost plus a fixed markup per gallon. Since July 1, 2015, we have owned a 17.5% total interest in CST Fuel Supply. We account for the income derived from our equity interest of CST Fuel Supply as “Income from CST Fuel Supply equity interests” on our statements of income, which amounted to $14.8 million, $14.9 million and $14.9 million for 2019, 2018, and 2017, respectively. Accounts receivable from Circle K related to this income amounted to $0.9 million and $1.0 million at December 31, 2019 and 2018, respectively.

Although Circle K is no longer a related party, we continue to hold an interest in CST Fuel Supply and are continuing to recognize income from CST Fuel Supply equity interests since November 19, 2019. See Note 25 for disclosure of the CST Fuel Supply Exchange.

In connection with the CST Merger, the FTC approved a final order requiring the divestiture of certain CST retail fuel stations. As a result, in September 2017, 61 sites were sold to a third party and removed from the fuel distribution agreement between CST Marketing and Supply and CST Services. CST Marketing and Supply no longer supplies fuel to such sites. To compensate for the decrease in the amount of motor fuels sold by CST Marketing and Supply, Circle K agreed to purchase at least 114.9 million gallons annually (the “Annual Commitment”) in addition to the volumes continued to be sold under the fuel distribution agreement to retail fuel stations that remain with Circle K after the divestiture. In addition, should Circle-K fail to purchase all or a portion of the Annual Commitment, Circle K has agreed to make monthly payments to CST Marketing and Supply in the amount of the seller’s margin of $0.05 per gallon under the fuel distribution agreement multiplied by the number of gallons not physically sold pursuant to the Annual Commitment. Consequently, the Partnership, by virtue of its 17.5% ownership interest in CST Fuel Supply, the 100% owner of CST Marketing and Supply, will continue to receive its share from the volumes sold to the 61 retail sites prior to the FTC mandated divestiture. This agreement continues until the fuel distribution agreement between CST Marketing and Supply and CST Services is terminated, which had an initial term of 10 years expiring in December 2024.    

91

 

---

CROSSAMERICA PARTNERS LP

NOTES TO CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS

Purchase of Fuel from Circle K

During 2019, we purchased the fuel supplied to the following sets of sites from Circle K:

In total, we purchased $263.5 million, $191.0 million and $11.3 million for 2019, 2018 and 2017, respectively.

Effective February 1, 2018, Couche-Tard began renegotiating fuel carrier agreements, including our wholesale transportation agreements, with third-party carriers. The independent conflicts committee of our Board approved an amendment to the Circle K Omnibus Agreement effective February 1, 2018 providing for the payment by us to an affiliate of Couche-Tard of a commission based on the volume purchased by us on the renegotiated wholesale transportation contracts. This commission is to compensate such affiliate of Couche-Tard for its services in connection with the renegotiations of our fuel carrier agreements with third-party carriers, which resulted in overall reductions in transportation costs to us. This commission amounted to $0.9 million and $0.5 million for 2019 and 2018, respectively.  

Amounts payable to Circle K related to these fuel purchases and freight commissions totaled $13.9 million and $4.3 million at December 31, 2019 and 2018, respectively.

Circle K Omnibus Agreement and Management Fees

We incurred costs and expenses under the Circle K Omnibus Agreement of $11.6 million (including costs under the Transitional Omnibus Agreement as described below), $11.8 million and $13.9 million for 2019, 2018 and 2017, respectively, including incentive compensation costs and non-cash stock-based compensation expense, which are recorded as a component of operating expenses and general and administrative expenses in the statements of income.

In addition, the Partnership recognized charges for severance, benefit and retention costs allocated by Circle K of $0.1 million and $0.8 million for 2019 and 2018, respectively. Such costs are included in general and administrative expenses in the statements of income.  

On October 29, 2019, the Circle K Omnibus Agreement was amended and restated, effective as of April 29, 2019, to: a) remove references to fixed and variable management fees and call for a simplified quarterly settlement based on actual underlying costs incurred by Circle K; and b) permit for a one-time charge of $183,000 from Circle K to us related to costs incurred by Circle K in connection with the strategic review of our fuel supply.

Amounts payable to Circle K related to expenses incurred by Circle K on our behalf in accordance with the Circle K Omnibus Agreement, including the separation benefits discussed above, totaled $11.5 million and $20.2 million at December 31, 2019 and 2018, respectively. Concurrent with the closing of the GP Purchase, we paid Circle K $14.2 million of omnibus charges. The liability balance at December 31, 2019 includes $9.2 million of omnibus charges that will be paid in eight quarterly payments starting March 31, 2020. As such, $4.6 million is classified within other noncurrent liabilities on the December 31, 2019 balance sheet.

Upon the closing of the GP Purchase, the Partnership entered into a Transitional Omnibus Agreement, dated as of November 19, 2019 (the “Transitional Omnibus Agreement”), among the Partnership, the General Partner and Circle K. Pursuant to the Transitional Omnibus Agreement, Circle K has agreed, among other things, to continue to provide, or cause to be provided, to the Partnership certain management, administrative and operating services, as provided under the Circle K Omnibus Agreement through June 30, 2020 with respect to certain services, unless earlier terminated or unless the parties extend the term of certain services. In addition, from January 1, 2020 until the closing of the CST Fuel Supply Exchange (see Note 25), the General Partner will provide Circle K with certain administrative and operational services, on the terms and conditions set forth in the Transitional Omnibus Agreement.

See Note 25 for disclosure regarding the Topper Group Omnibus Agreement effective January 1, 2020.

92

 

---

CROSSAMERICA PARTNERS LP

NOTES TO CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS

Common Units Issued to Circle K as Consideration for Amounts due Under the Circle K Omnibus Agreement

As approved by the independent conflicts committee of the Board, the Partnership and Circle K mutually agreed to settle, from time to time, some or all of the amounts due under the terms of the Circle K Omnibus Agreement in newly issued common units representing limited partner interests in the Partnership. We issued the following common units to Circle K as consideration for amounts due under the terms of the Circle K Omnibus Agreement:

 

No charges allocated to us by Circle K under the Circle K Omnibus Agreement since the first quarter of 2018 have been settled in common units.

IDR and Common Unit Distributions

We distributed $0.5 million, $1.6 million and $4.3 million to Circle K related to its ownership of our IDRs and $15.7 million, $16.2 million and $17.0 million related to its ownership of our common units during 2019, 2018 and 2017, respectively.

Other Transactions with Circle K

As discussed in Note 7, we sold two properties during 2017 as a result of the FTC’s requirements associated with Couche-Tard’s acquisition of CST. Circle K agreed to reimburse us for the tax liability incurred on the required sale, resulting in additional proceeds of $0.3 million, which was accounted for as a contribution to partners’ capital.

Also as discussed in Note 7, we sold nine properties during 2018 as a result of the FTC’s requirements associated with Couche-Tard’s acquisition of Holiday. Since this was a forced divestiture of assets for us, Circle K compensated us with an amount representing the difference between the value of the nine Upper Midwest Sites and the proceeds of the sale to FTC approved third-party buyers, which amounted to $6.3 million. Circle K’s payment to us was received during the fourth quarter of 2018.

Transactions with Affiliates of Members of the Board

Wholesale Motor Fuel Sales and Real Estate Rentals

Revenues from motor fuel sales and rental income from DMS were as follows (in thousands):

 

 

Accounts receivable from DMS totaled $4.1 million and $5.6 million at December 31, 2019 and 2018, respectively.

 

In March 2019, we entered into an amendment of the master lease and master fuel supply agreements with DMS. These amendments resulted in the following:

During the third quarter of 2019, DMS gave notice to sever 12 sites in January 2020 from the master lease and master fuel supply agreements, resulting in the write-off of deferred rent income of $0.6 million, classified within the loss on dispositions and lease terminations, net line item of the statement of income.

93

 

---

CROSSAMERICA PARTNERS LP

NOTES TO CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS

During the second quarter of 2018, in connection with the transition of 43 sites in Florida from DMS to a third-party multi-site operator of retail motor fuel stations, we accrued a $3.8 million contract termination payment, which was paid to DMS during the third quarter of 2018. This payment was approved by the independent conflicts committee of our Board. Additionally, we recorded a $2.4 million charge primarily to write off deferred rent income related to our recapture of these sites from the master lease agreement with DMS. These charges are included in loss on dispositions and lease terminations, net in the statement of income. See Note 2 for additional information on the agreements entered into with the third-party multi-site operator.

As discussed in Note 7, DMS renewed its contract with one of its customers, triggering a $0.8 million earn-out payment by DMS to us in 2017 under a contract entered into with DMS at the time of CST acquiring our General Partner in October 2014.

Also as discussed in Note 7, we sold 29 properties to DMR during 2017 for $18.9 million, resulting in a gain of $0.8 million.

Revenue from rental income from TopStar, a related party of Mr. Topper, was $0.3 million, $0.3 million and $0.5 million for 2019, 2018 and 2017, respectively.

CrossAmerica leases real estate from the Topper Group. Rent expense paid under these lease agreements was $1.1 million, $1.0 million and $0.9 million for 2019, 2018 and 2017, respectively.

Maintenance and Environmental Costs

Certain maintenance and environmental monitoring and remediation activities are performed by an entity affiliated with Joseph V. Topper, Jr., a member of the Board, as approved by the independent conflicts committee of the Board. We incurred charges with this related party of $1.0 million, $1.8 million and $1.5 million for 2019, 2018 and 2017, respectively. Accounts payable to this related party amounted to $0.1 million and $0.4 million at December 31, 2019 and 2018, respectively. 

Principal Executive Offices

Our principal executive offices are in Allentown, Pennsylvania. We sublease office space from the Topper Group (formerly Circle K) that the Topper Group leases from an affiliate of John B. Reilly, III and Joseph V. Topper, Jr., members of our Board. The management fee charged by Circle K to us under the Circle K Omnibus Agreement incorporates this rental expense, which amounted to $0.7 million for 2019, 2018 and 2017.

Public Relations and Website Consulting Services

We have engaged a company affiliated with a member of the Board for public relations and website consulting services. The cost of these services amounted to $0.1 million for 2019, 2018 and 2017.

Note 14. ENVIRONMENTAL MATTERS

We currently own or lease retail sites where refined petroleum products are being or have been handled. These retail sites and the refined petroleum products handled thereon may be subject to federal and state environmental laws and regulations. Under such laws and regulations, we could be required to remove or remediate containerized hazardous liquids or associated generated wastes (including wastes disposed of or abandoned by prior owners or operators), to remediate contaminated property arising from the release of liquids or wastes into the environment, including contaminated groundwater, or to implement best management practices to prevent future contamination.

We maintain insurance of various types with varying levels of coverage that is considered adequate under the circumstances to cover operations and properties. The insurance policies are subject to deductibles that are considered reasonable and not excessive. In addition, we have entered into indemnification and escrow agreements with various sellers in conjunction with several of their respective acquisitions, as further described below. Financial responsibility for environmental remediation is negotiated in connection with each acquisition transaction. In each case, an assessment is made of potential environmental liability exposure based on available information. Based on that assessment and relevant economic and risk factors, a determination is made whether to, and the extent to which we will assume liability for existing environmental conditions.

94

 

---

CROSSAMERICA PARTNERS LP

NOTES TO CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS

The table below presents a rollforward of our environmental liability (in thousands):

 

At December 31, 2019, we were indemnified by third-party escrow funds, state funds or insurance totaling $2.8 million, which are recorded as indemnification assets and included within other noncurrent assets on the balance sheet. State funds represent probable state reimbursement amounts. Reimbursement will depend upon the continued maintenance and solvency of the state. Insurance coverage represents amounts deemed probable of reimbursement under insurance policies.

The estimates used in these reserves are based on all known facts at the time and an assessment of the ultimate remedial action outcomes. We will adjust loss accruals as further information becomes available or circumstances change. Among the many uncertainties that impact the estimates are the necessary regulatory approvals for, and potential modifications of remediation plans, the amount of data available upon initial assessment of the impact of soil or water contamination, changes in costs associated with environmental remediation services and equipment and the possibility of existing legal claims giving rise to additional claims.

Environmental liabilities related to the sites contributed to the Partnership in connection with our IPO have not been assigned to us and are still the responsibility of the Predecessor Entity. Under the Circle K Omnibus Agreement, the Predecessor Entity must indemnify us for any costs or expenses that we incur for environmental liabilities and third-party claims, regardless of when a claim is made, that are based on environmental conditions in existence prior to the closing of the IPO for contributed sites. Such indemnification survives the termination of the Circle K Omnibus Agreement. As such, these environmental liabilities and indemnification assets are not recorded on the balance sheet of the Partnership.

Similarly, Circle K has indemnified us with respect to known contamination at the sites it has transferred to us under the Asset Exchange Agreement. As such, these environmental liabilities and indemnification assets are not recorded on the balance sheet of the Partnership.

Note 15. COMMITMENTS AND CONTINGENCIES

Purchase Commitments

We have minimum volume purchase requirements under certain of our fuel supply agreements with a purchase price at prevailing market rates for wholesale distributions. The following provides total annual future minimum volume purchase requirements (in thousands of gallons):

 

 

In the event we fail to purchase the required minimum volume for a given contract year, the underlying third party’s exclusive remedies (depending on the magnitude of the failure) are either termination of the supply agreement and/or a financial penalty per gallon based on the volume shortfall for the given year. We did not incur any significant penalties in 2019, 2018 or 2017.

95

 

---

CROSSAMERICA PARTNERS LP

NOTES TO CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS

Litigation Matters

We are from time to time party to various lawsuits, claims and other legal proceedings that arise in the ordinary course of business. These actions typically seek, among other things, compensation for alleged personal injury, breach of contract, property damages, environmental damages, employment-related claims and damages, punitive damages, civil penalties or other losses, or injunctive or declaratory relief. With respect to all such lawsuits, claims and proceedings, we record an accrual when it is probable that a liability has been incurred and the amount of loss can be reasonably estimated. In addition, we disclose matters for which management believes a material loss is at least reasonably possible. None of these proceedings, separately or in the aggregate, are expected to have a material adverse effect on our consolidated financial position, results of operations or cash flows. In all instances, management has assessed the matter based on current information and made a judgment concerning its potential outcome, giving due consideration to the nature of the claim, the amount and nature of damages sought and the probability of success. Management’s judgment may prove materially inaccurate, and such judgment is made subject to the known uncertainties of litigation.

As part of Circle K’s acquisition of Holiday Stationstores, LLC, the FTC issued a decree in which nine sites were required to be divested. These sites were divested in September 2018, after the June 15, 2018 deadline specified in the FTC orders. As a result, Couche-Tard and/or the Partnership may be subject to civil penalties, up to a maximum allowed by law of $41,000 per day per violation of the FTC divestiture orders. Circle K has agreed to indemnify us for any such penalties and associated legal costs, and as such, we have not accrued any liability.    

Note 16. FAIR VALUE MEASUREMENTS

General

We measure and report certain financial and non-financial assets and liabilities on a fair value basis. Fair value is the price that would be received to sell an asset or paid to transfer a liability in an orderly transaction between market participants at the measurement date (exit price). U.S. GAAP specifies a three-level hierarchy that is used when measuring and disclosing fair value. The fair value hierarchy gives the highest priority to quoted prices available in active markets (i.e., observable inputs) and the lowest priority to data lacking transparency (i.e., unobservable inputs). An instrument’s categorization within the fair value hierarchy is based on the lowest level of significant input to its valuation. The following is a description of the three hierarchy levels.

Level 1—Unadjusted quoted prices in active markets that are accessible at the measurement date for identical, unrestricted assets or liabilities. Active markets are considered to be those in which transactions for the assets or liabilities occur in sufficient frequency and volume to provide pricing information on an ongoing basis.

Level 2—Quoted prices in markets that are not active, or inputs which are observable, either directly or indirectly, for substantially the full term of the asset or liability. This category includes quoted prices for similar assets or liabilities in active markets and quoted prices for identical or similar assets or liabilities in inactive markets.

Level 3—Unobservable inputs are not corroborated by market data. This category is comprised of financial and non-financial assets and liabilities whose fair value is estimated based on internally developed models or methodologies using significant inputs that are generally less readily observable from objective sources.

Transfers into or out of any hierarchy level are recognized at the end of the reporting period in which the transfers occurred. There were no transfers between any levels in 2019 or 2018.

As further discussed in Note 18, we have accrued for unvested phantom units as a liability and adjust that liability on a recurring basis based on the market price of our common units each balance sheet date. Such fair value measurements are deemed Level 1 measurements.

Financial Instruments

The fair value of our accounts receivable, notes receivable, and accounts payable approximated their carrying values as of December 31, 2019 and 2018 due to the short-term maturity of these instruments. The fair value of the revolving credit facility approximated its carrying value of $519.0 million as of December 31, 2019 and $498.0 million as of December 31, 2018, due to the frequency with which interest rates are reset and the consistency of the market spread.

96

 

---

CROSSAMERICA PARTNERS LP

NOTES TO CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS

Note 17. PARTNERS’ CAPITAL

We issued common units (net of units withheld for income taxes) as a result of the vesting of phantom units and conversion of profits interests previously issued primarily to Circle K employees who provide services principally to CrossAmerica totaling 50,328 common units in 2019, 40,534 common units in 2018 and 35,993 common units in 2017. See Note 18 for additional information.

See Note 13 for information regarding the issuance of common units to Circle K as payment of a portion of the amounts due under the terms of the Circle K Omnibus Agreement. 

Distributions

Quarterly distribution activity to common unitholders for 2019 was as follows:

 

The amount of any distribution is subject to the discretion of the Board, which may modify or revoke our cash distribution policy at any time. Our Partnership Agreement does not require us to pay any distributions. As such, there can be no assurance we will continue to pay distributions in the future. 

Note 18. EQUITY-BASED COMPENSATION    

Partnership Equity-Based Awards

The maximum number of common units that may be delivered with respect to awards under the Plan is 1,505,000. Generally, the Plan provides for grants of restricted units, unit options, performance awards, phantom units, unit awards, unit appreciation rights, distribution equivalent rights, and other unit-based awards, with various limits and restrictions attached to these awards on a grant-by-grant basis. The Plan is administered by the Board or a committee thereof.

The Board may terminate or amend the Plan at any time with respect to any common units for which a grant has not yet been made. The Board also has the right to alter or amend the Plan or any part of the Plan from time to time, including increasing the number of common units that may be granted, subject to unitholder approval as required by the exchange upon which common units are listed at that time; however, no change in any outstanding grant may be made that would adversely affect the rights of a participant with respect to awards granted to a participant prior to the effective date of such amendment or termination, except that the Board may amend any award to satisfy the requirements of Section 409A of the Internal Revenue Code. The Plan will expire on the tenth anniversary of its approval, when common units are no longer available under the Plan for grants or upon its termination by the Board, whichever occurs first.

The table below summarizes our equity-based award activity:

97

 

---

CROSSAMERICA PARTNERS LP

NOTES TO CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS

The GP Purchase constitutes a change in control under the Partnership’s 2012 Incentive Award Plan and accelerated vesting of all outstanding equity-based awards under the Plan, converting such awards into the same number of common units of the Partnership.

The nonvested phantom units granted to non-employee directors of the Board as a portion of director compensation outstanding as of December 31, 2019, will vest in July 2020. These awards were accompanied by tandem distribution equivalent rights that entitle the holder to cash payments equal to the amount of unit distributions authorized to be paid to the holders of our common units.  

Since we grant awards to non-employee directors of the Board, and since the grants may be settled in cash, unvested phantom units receive fair value variable accounting treatment. As such, they are measured at fair value at each balance sheet reporting date and the cumulative compensation cost recognized is classified as a liability, which is included in accrued expenses and other current liabilities on the consolidated balance sheet. The balance of the accrual was insignificant at December 31, 2019 and 2018.

We record equity-based compensation as a component of general and administrative expenses in the statements of income. Equity-based compensation expense was $0.9 million for 2019, which includes approximately $0.5 million of expense recognized upon the accelerated vesting of awards concurrent with the GP Purchase. Equity-based compensation expense was insignificant for 2018 and 2017.

CST Equity-Based Awards

Before the CST Merger was completed, CST granted equity-based awards of approximately 47,000 in the form of time vested restricted stock units of CST, stock options of CST and market share units of CST in 2017, which were granted to certain employees of CST for services rendered on our behalf. Equity-based compensation expense charged to us under the Circle K Omnibus Agreement amounted to $0.3 million, $0.3 million and $1.7 million for 2019, 2018 and 2017, respectively.

At the completion of the CST Merger, each CST stock option, restricted stock unit and market share unit that was outstanding immediately prior to the completion of the CST Merger, excluding the CST restricted stock units granted in February 2017, whether vested or unvested, became fully vested and converted into the right to receive a cash payment as defined in the CST Merger Agreement. The Partnership was allocated a $0.4 million charge upon the accelerated vesting of these awards, included in the expense amounts for 2017 set forth above.

Note 19. INCOME TAXES

Section 7704 of the Internal Revenue Code provides that publicly traded partnerships are, as a general rule, taxed as corporations. However, an exception, referred to as the “Qualifying Income Exception,” exists under Section 7704(c) with respect to publicly traded partnerships of which 90% or more of the gross income for every taxable year consists of “qualifying income.”

Substantially all of the Partnership’s income is “qualifying income” for federal income tax purposes and, therefore, is not subject to federal income taxes at the partnership level. Accordingly, no provision has been made for income taxes on the qualifying income in the Partnership’s financial statements. Net income for financial statement purposes may differ significantly from taxable income reportable to unitholders as a result of differences between the tax basis and financial reporting basis of assets and liabilities and the taxable income allocation requirements under the Partnership Agreement. Individual unitholders have different investment basis depending upon the timing and price at which they acquired their common units. Further, each unitholder’s tax accounting, which is partially dependent upon the unitholder’s tax position, differs from the accounting followed in the Partnership’s financial statements. Accordingly, the aggregate difference in the basis of the Partnership’s net assets for financial and tax reporting purposes cannot be readily determined because information regarding each unitholder’s tax attributes in the Partnership is not available to the Partnership.

As a limited partnership, we are not subject to federal and state income taxes. However, our corporate subsidiaries are subject to income taxes. The Partnership is subject to the statutory requirement that non-qualifying income, as defined by the Internal Revenue Code, cannot exceed 10% of total gross income for the calendar year. If non-qualifying income exceeds this statutory limit, we would be taxed as a corporation. The Partnership’s non-qualifying income did not exceed the statutory limit in any period presented.

98

 

---

CROSSAMERICA PARTNERS LP

NOTES TO CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS

Certain activities that generate non-qualifying income are conducted through LGWS. LGWS is a tax paying corporate subsidiary of ours that is subject to federal and state income taxes. Current and deferred income taxes are recognized on the earnings of LGWS. Deferred income tax assets and liabilities are recognized for the future tax consequences attributable to temporary differences between the financial statement carrying amounts of existing assets and liabilities and their respective tax bases and are measured using enacted tax rates expected to apply to taxable income in the years in which those temporary differences are expected to be recovered or settled. The effect on deferred tax assets and liabilities of a change in tax rates is recognized in income in the period that includes the enactment date. The Partnership calculates its current and deferred tax provision based on estimates and assumptions that could differ from actual results reflected in income tax returns filed in subsequent years. Adjustments based on filed returns are recorded when identified.

The Tax Cuts and Jobs Act made changes that affect us including (1) reducing the federal corporate income tax rate to 21 percent beginning January 1, 2018, and (2) providing for the immediate expensing for tax purposes for certain qualified depreciable assets placed in service after September 27, 2017. As a result of the rate change, we recognized a net tax benefit of $13.2 million in 2017 due to the reduction of our net deferred tax liability.

Components of income tax expense related to net income were as follows (in thousands):

 

The difference between the actual income tax provision and income taxes computed by applying the U.S. federal statutory rate to earnings (losses) before income taxes is attributable to the following (in thousands):

 

99

 

---

CROSSAMERICA PARTNERS LP

NOTES TO CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS

The tax effects of significant temporary differences representing deferred income tax assets and liabilities were as follows (in thousands):

 

As discussed in Note 2, we removed $5.2 million of deferred tax assets primarily related to our previous sale-leaseback transactions as part of our January 1, 2019 transition adjustment in connection with the adoption of ASC 842. Additionally, we recorded a deferred tax asset relating to operating lease liabilities and a deferred tax liability related to right-of-use assets as a result of this new guidance.

As discussed in Note 3, we removed $4.8 million of net deferred tax liabilities and recorded income taxes payable of $5.1 million with respect to the divested sites in connection with the closing of the First Asset Exchange. We also recorded $2.3 million of net deferred tax assets with respect to the acquired sites in connection with the closing of the First Asset Exchange. Also as discussed in Note 3, we removed $0.2 million of net deferred tax assets and recorded income taxes payable of $2.1 million with respect to the divested sites in connection with the closing of the Second Asset Exchange. We also recorded $2.4 million of net deferred tax assets with respect to the acquired sites in connection with the closing of the Second Asset Exchange. Each of these adjustments was recorded through equity based on accounting guidance for transactions between entities under common control.

A valuation allowance is required when it is more likely than not that all or a portion of a deferred tax asset will not be realized. All available evidence, both positive and negative, must be considered in determining the need for a valuation allowance. Positive evidence considered in our 2017 assessment included: 1) reversals of taxable temporary differences in future tax years; 2) an observable history of reporting taxable income; 3) projections of future taxable income; 4) feasible and prudent tax planning strategies; and 5) the impact of recently enacted tax reform. Under the Tax Cuts and Jobs Act, among other provisions, any net operating losses generated after 2017 can be carried forward indefinitely. This change, in part, allows for the consideration as a future source of taxable income, reversals of deferred tax liabilities related to indefinite lived liabilities. This income is sufficient to offset the indefinite lived asset generated by the reversals and provides additional positive evidence of future income allowing for the release of the valuation allowance. The release resulted in a tax benefit of $3.7 million in 2017.

Changes in the valuation allowance account consisted of the following for 2017 (in thousands):

 

 

100

 

---

CROSSAMERICA PARTNERS LP

NOTES TO CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS

We record an accrual for federal, state and local and uncertain tax positions. The development of these tax positions requires subjective, critical estimates and judgments about tax matters, potential outcomes and timing. Although the outcome of potential tax examinations is uncertain, in management’s opinion, adequate provisions for income taxes have been made for potential liabilities resulting from these reviews. If actual outcomes differ materially from these estimates, they could have a material impact on our financial condition and results of operations. Differences between actual results and assumptions, or changes in assumptions in future periods, are recorded in the period they become known. To the extent additional information becomes available prior to resolution, such accruals are adjusted to reflect probable outcomes.

We did not have unrecognized tax benefits at December 31, 2019 or 2018. Our practice is to recognize interest and penalties related to income tax matters in income tax expense. We had no material interest and penalties for 2019, 2018 and 2017.

We file income tax returns with the U.S. federal government as well as the many state jurisdictions in which we operate. The statute remains open for tax years 2016 through 2019; therefore, these years remain subject to examination by federal, state and local jurisdiction authorities.

Note 20. NET INCOME PER LIMITED PARTNER UNIT

Under the Partnership Agreement, the holders of our IDRs had an interest in distributions from us that are increasing percentages starting at 15% of quarterly distributions out of the operating surplus (as defined in our Partnership Agreement) in excess of $0.5031 per limited partner unit.

In addition to the common units, we have identified the IDRs as participating securities and compute income per unit using the two-class method under which any excess of distributions declared over net income shall be allocated to the partners based on their respective sharing of income as specified in the Partnership Agreement. Net income per unit applicable to limited partners is computed by dividing the limited partners’ interest in net income, after deducting the IDRs, by the weighted-average number of outstanding common units.

See Note 25 for disclosure regarding the elimination of the IDRs, which closed on February 6, 2020.

The following table provides a reconciliation of net income and weighted-average units used in computing basic and diluted net income per limited partner unit for the following periods (in thousands, except unit and per unit amounts):

 

      

101

 

---

CROSSAMERICA PARTNERS LP

NOTES TO CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS

Note 21. SEGMENT REPORTING

We conduct our business in two segments: 1) the Wholesale segment and 2) the Retail segment. The wholesale segment includes the wholesale distribution of motor fuel to lessee dealers, independent dealers, commission agents, DMS, Circle K and, through September 2019, company operated retail sites. We have exclusive motor fuel distribution contracts with lessee dealers who lease the property from us. We also have exclusive distribution contracts with independent dealers to distribute motor fuel but do not collect rent from the independent dealers. Similar to lessee dealers, we have motor fuel distribution agreements with DMS and Circle K and collect rent from both. The Retail segment includes the retail sale of motor fuel at retail sites operated by commission agents and through September 2019, the sale of convenience merchandise items and the retail sale of motor fuel at company operated retail sites. A commission agent is a retail site where we retain title to the motor fuel inventory and sell it directly to our end user customers. At commission agent retail sites, we manage motor fuel inventory pricing and retain the gross profit on motor fuel sales, less a commission to the agent who operates the retail site. Similar to our Wholesale segment, we also generate revenues through leasing or subleasing real estate in our Retail segment.

Unallocated items consist primarily of general and administrative expenses, depreciation, amortization and accretion expense, gains on dispositions and lease terminations, net, and the elimination of the Retail segment’s intersegment cost of revenues from motor fuel sales against the Wholesale segment’s intersegment revenues from motor fuel sales. The profit in ending inventory generated by the intersegment motor fuel sales is also eliminated. Total assets by segment are not presented as management does not currently assess performance or allocate resources based on that data.

The following table reflects activity related to our reportable segments (in thousands):

 

 

102

 

---

CROSSAMERICA PARTNERS LP

NOTES TO CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS

 

Receivables relating to the revenue streams above are as follows (in thousands):

 

Performance obligations are satisfied as fuel is delivered to the customer. Many of our contracts with our customers include minimum purchase volumes measured on a monthly basis, although such revenue is not material. Receivables from fuel are recognized on a per-gallon rate and are generally collected within 10 days of delivery.

The balance of unamortized costs incurred to obtain certain contracts with customers was $6.5 million and $5.7 million at December 31, 2019 and 2018, respectively. Amortization of such costs is recorded against operating revenues and amounted to $1.0 million, $0.9 million and $0.6 million for 2019, 2018 and 2017, respectively

Receivables from rent and other lease-related charges are generally collected at the beginning of the month.

Dealerization of Our Remaining Company Operated Sites

When we convert company owned retail sites from our Retail segment to lessee dealers in our Wholesale segment, we no longer generate revenues from the retail sale of motor fuel or merchandise at these stores subsequent to the date of conversion and we no longer incur retail operating expenses related to these retail sites. However, we continue to supply these retail sites with motor fuel on a wholesale basis pursuant to the fuel supply contract with the lessee dealer. Further, we continue to own or lease the property and earn rental income under lease/sublease agreements with the lessee dealers under triple net leases. The lessee dealer owns all motor fuel and convenience merchandise and retains all gross profit on such operating activities.

In June 2019, we entered into master fuel supply and master lease agreements with Applegreen. During the third quarter of 2019, we dealerized 46 company operated Upper Midwest sites. The master fuel supply and master lease agreements have an initial 10-year term with four 5-year renewal options. Base rent generally increases by 1.5% annually, including during the renewal options. Applegreen has the right to sever up to 10 specifically identified sites, for which notice must be provided prior to the end of the first year, and the effective date will be after the second year. Applegreen has the right to sever up to eight of the remaining 36 sites with proper notice. We have committed to making certain EMV upgrades at these 46 sites totaling approximately $2.2 million by October 1, 2020.

In connection with the conversion of these company operated sites in our Retail segment to lessee dealer sites in our Wholesale segment, we recognized a $0.5 million loss on sale of inventory to Applegreen, classified within the loss on dispositions and lease terminations, net line item of the statement of income. As further discussed in Note 9, we also reassigned $4.5 million of goodwill from the Retail segment to the Wholesale segment.

As a result of this transition, we have not had any company operated sites since September 30, 2019. See Note 25 for information regarding the acquisition of retail and wholesale assets from the Topper Group and certain other parties.

103

 

---

CROSSAMERICA PARTNERS LP

NOTES TO CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS

Note 22. SUPPLEMENTAL CASH FLOW INFORMATION

In order to determine net cash provided by operating activities, net income is adjusted by, among other things, changes in operating assets and liabilities as follows (in thousands):

 

 

 

The above changes in operating assets and liabilities may differ from changes between amounts reflected in the applicable balance sheets for the respective periods due to acquisitions.

Supplemental disclosure of cash flow information (in thousands):

 

 

Supplemental schedule of non-cash investing and financing activities (in thousands):

 

 

104

 

---

CROSSAMERICA PARTNERS LP

NOTES TO CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS

Note 23. QUARTERLY FINANCIAL DATA (UNAUDITED)

The following table summarizes quarterly financial data for 2019 and 2018 (in thousands):

 

Note 24. SEPARATION BENEFITS

As discussed in Note 21, we dealerized the remaining 46 company operated sites in the third quarter of 2019. As a result of communicating a plan to exit the company operated business, we recorded separation benefit costs totaling $0.4 million in the first quarter of 2019, which is anticipated to be paid in the first quarter of 2020.

During the second quarter of 2017, the Partnership recognized a $5.4 million charge for severance and benefit costs associated with certain officers and other employees of CST Services who provided services to the Partnership and who terminated employment upon the consummation of the CST Merger, which constituted a change in control, as defined in the EICP and CST’s severance plans. Such costs are included in general and administrative expenses and were paid by Circle K in 2017.

In addition, certain participants in the EICP received retention bonuses that were paid in annual installments that began in July 2017 and continued through July 2019. The Partnership recorded charges totaling $0.1 million, $0.8 million and $1.7 million related to these payments during 2019, 2018 and 2017, respectively, which were included in general and administrative expenses.

 

We also recognized a $1.7 million charge in 2017 for additional EICP severance payments, also included in general and administrative expenses.

 

Accounts payable and other long-term liabilities at December 31, 2019 and accounts payable to related parties at December 31, 2018 includes all the components above as we will reimburse Circle K. See Note 13 for additional information regarding the timing of reimbursement.

 

The following table presents a rollforward of accrued separation benefits:

 

 

105

 

---

CROSSAMERICA PARTNERS LP

NOTES TO CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS

Note 25. SUBSEQUENT EVENTS AND PENDING TRANSACTIONS

Topper Group Omnibus Agreement

On January 15, 2020, the Partnership entered into an Omnibus Agreement, effective as of January 1, 2020 (the “Topper Group Omnibus Agreement”), among the Partnership, the General Partner and DMI. The terms of the Topper Group Omnibus Agreement were approved by the conflicts committee of the board of directors of the General Partner, which is composed of the independent directors of the Board.

 

Pursuant to the Topper Group Omnibus Agreement, DMI has agreed, among other things, to provide, or cause to be provided, to the General Partner for the benefit of the Partnership, at cost without markup, certain management, administrative and operating services, which services were previously provided by Circle K under the Transitional Omnibus Agreement, dated as of November 19, 2019, among the Partnership, the General Partner and Circle K.

 

The Topper Group Omnibus Agreement will continue in effect until terminated in accordance with its terms. The Topper Group has the right to terminate the Topper Group Omnibus Agreement at any time upon 180 days’ prior written notice, and the General Partner has the right to terminate the Topper Group Omnibus Agreement at any time upon 60 days’ prior written notice.

Equity Restructuring

On January 15, 2020, the Partnership entered into an Equity Restructuring Agreement (the “Equity Restructuring Agreement”) with the General Partner and Dunne Manning CAP Holdings II LLC (“DM CAP Holdings”), a wholly owned subsidiary of DMP, which is controlled by Joseph V. Topper, Jr., the Chairman of the Board.

 

Pursuant to the Equity Restructuring Agreement, all of the outstanding IDRs of the Partnership, all of which were held by DM CAP Holdings, were cancelled and converted into 2,528,673 newly-issued common units representing limited partner interests in the Partnership based on a value of $45 million and calculated using the 20 business day volume weighted average trading price of our common units ended five business days prior to the execution of the Equity Restructuring Agreement (the “20-day VWAP”).

 

This transaction closed on February 6, 2020, after the record date for the distribution payable on the Partnership’s common units with respect to the fourth quarter of 2019.

 

Simultaneously with the Equity Restructuring Closing, the General Partner executed and delivered the Second Amended and Restated Agreement of Limited Partnership of the Partnership (the “Second Amended and Restated Partnership Agreement”) to give effect to the Equity Restructuring Agreement.

 

The Second Amended and Restated Partnership Agreement will amend and restate the First Amended and Restated Agreement of Limited Partnership of the Partnership, dated as of October 30, 2012, as amended, in its entirety to, among other items, (i) reflect the cancellation of the IDRs and (ii) eliminate certain legacy provisions that no longer apply, including provisions related to the IDRs and subordinated units of the Partnership that were formerly outstanding.

 

The terms of the Equity Restructuring Agreement were approved by the independent conflicts committee of the Board.

CST Fuel Supply Exchange Agreement

On November 19, 2019, the Partnership entered into an Exchange Agreement (the “CST Fuel Supply Exchange Agreement”) with Circle K. Pursuant to the CST Fuel Supply Exchange Agreement, Circle K has agreed to transfer to the Partnership 45 owned and leased convenience store properties (the “Properties”) and related assets (including fuel supply agreements) relating to such Properties, and U.S. wholesale fuel supply contracts covering 387 additional sites (the “DODO Sites”), and, in exchange, the Partnership has agreed to transfer to Circle K 100% of the limited partnership units in CST Fuel Supply LP that are owned by the Partnership, which represent 17.5% of the outstanding units of CST Fuel Supply LP (collectively, the “CST Fuel Supply Exchange”).

106

 

---

CROSSAMERICA PARTNERS LP

NOTES TO CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS

The assets being exchanged by Circle K include (a) fee simple title to all land and other real property and related improvements owned by Circle K at the Properties, (b) Circle K’s leasehold interest in all land and other real property and related improvements leased by Circle K at the Properties, (c) all buildings and other improvements and permanently attached machinery, equipment and other fixtures located on the Properties, (d) all tangible personal property owned by Circle K and located on the Properties, including all underground storage tanks located on the Properties, and owned by Circle K, (e) all of Circle K’s rights under the dealer agreements related to the Properties and the DODO Sites, (f) Circle K’s rights under the leases to the leased Properties and all tenant leases and certain other contracts related to the Properties, (g) all fuel inventory owned by Circle K and stored in the underground storage tanks at locations operated by dealers that are independent commission marketers, (h) all assignable permits related to the Properties and related assets owned by Circle K, (i) all real estate records and related registrations and reports and other books and records of Circle K to the extent relating to the Properties, and (j) all goodwill and other intangible assets associated with the foregoing assets (collectively, the “Assets”).  The Partnership will also assume certain liabilities associated with the Assets.

The closing of the CST Fuel Supply Exchange is expected to occur in the first quarter of 2020 and is subject to the satisfaction or waiver of customary closing conditions. The CST Fuel Supply Exchange Agreement contains customary representations, warranties, agreements and obligations of the parties, including covenants regarding the conduct by Circle K with respect to the Assets prior to closing. The Partnership and Circle K have agreed to indemnify each other for, among other things, breaches of their respective representations and warranties contained in the CST Fuel Supply Exchange Agreement for a period of 18 months after the date of closing (except for certain fundamental representations and warranties, which survive until the expiration of the applicable statute of limitations) and for breaches of their respective covenants and for certain liabilities assumed or retained by the Partnership or Circle K, respectively. The respective indemnification obligations of each of the Partnership and Circle K to the other are subject to the limitations set forth in the CST Fuel Supply Exchange Agreement. The CST Fuel Supply Exchange Agreement may be terminated, among other ways, by mutual written consent of the Partnership and Circle K.

In connection with the execution of the CST Fuel Supply Exchange Agreement, the Partnership and Circle K also entered into an Environmental Responsibility Agreement, dated as of November 19, 2019 (the “ERA”), which agreement sets forth the parties’ respective liabilities and obligations with respect to environmental matters relating to the Properties. As further described in the ERA, Circle K will retain liability for known environmental contamination or non-compliance at the Properties, and the Partnership will assume liability for unknown environmental contamination and non-compliance at the Properties.

The terms of the CST Fuel Supply Exchange Agreement were approved by the independent conflicts committee of the Board.

We are in the process of amending our credit facility to allow for the divestiture of our investment in CST Fuel Supply.

Retail and Wholesale Acquisition

 

In connection with the Partnership’s strategic reorientation to add retail capability, also on January 15, 2020, the Partnership entered into an asset purchase agreement (“Asset Purchase Agreement”) with the sellers (“Sellers”) signatories thereto, including DMS and certain of DMS’s affiliates, with respect to the acquisition (the “Retail Acquisition”) by the Partnership from the Sellers of the retail operations at 172 sites, wholesale fuel distribution to 114 sites, including 55 third-party wholesale dealer contracts, and leasehold interests in at least 53 sites, for an aggregate consideration of $21 million in cash and 842,891 in newly-issued common units valued at $15 million and calculated based on the 20-day VWAP. The Partnership will also acquire for cash the inventory related to the sites. The Partnership expects to finance the aggregate cash consideration with borrowings under its credit facility.

 

In addition, the parties agreed to perform Phase I environmental site assessments with respect to certain sites. The Sellers agreed to retain liability for known environmental contamination or non-compliance at certain sites, and the Partnership agreed to assume liability for unknown environmental contamination and non-compliance at certain sites.

 

The closing of the transactions contemplated by the Asset Purchase Agreement is expected to occur prior to the end of the second quarter of 2020 (such date, the “Retail Acquisition Closing”) and is subject to closing conditions and purchase price adjustments customary in comparable transactions. In addition, the Asset Purchase Agreement contains customary representations and warranties of the parties as well as indemnification obligations by Sellers and the Partnership, respectively, to each other. The indemnification obligations must be asserted within 18 months of the Retail Acquisition Closing and are limited to an aggregate of $7.2 million for each party.

 

107

 

---

CROSSAMERICA PARTNERS LP

NOTES TO CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS

In connection with the Retail Acquisition Closing, the Partnership will assume certain contracts with third parties and affiliates necessary for the continued operation of the sites, including agreements with dealers and franchise agreements. Further, the Partnership will enter into ten-year master leases with certain sellers, with an aggregate annual rent of $6.5 million payable by the Partnership. Additionally, DMS will no longer be a customer or lessee of the Partnership as we will terminate the contracts with DMS upon closing on this transaction.

 

The terms of the Asset Purchase Agreement were approved by the independent conflicts committee of the Board.

 

 

108

 

---

 

ITEM 9. CHANGES IN AND DISAGREEMENTS WITH ACCOUNTANTS ON ACCOUNTING AND FINANCIAL DISCLOSURE

None.

ITEM 9A. CONTROLS AND PROCEDURES

(a) Evaluation of Disclosure Controls and Procedures

Our management has evaluated, with the participation of our principal executive officer and principal financial officer, the effectiveness of our disclosure controls and procedures (as defined in Rules 13a-15(f) under the Securities Exchange Act of 1934) as of the end of the period covered by this report, and has concluded that our disclosure controls and procedures were effective as of December 31, 2019.

Internal Control over Financial Reporting

The management report on our internal control over financial reporting appears in Item 8 and is incorporated herein by reference.

 

Grant Thornton LLP’s report on our internal control over financial reporting appears in Item 8 and is incorporated herein by reference.

 

There were no changes in our internal control over financial reporting (as that term is defined in Rules 13a-15(f) and 15d-15(f) under the Exchange Act) that occurred during the quarter ended December 31, 2019, that have materially affected, or are reasonably likely to materially affect, our internal control over financial reporting.

ITEM 9B. OTHER INFORMATION

None.

 

109

 

---

 

PART III

ITEM 10. DIRECTORS, EXECUTIVE OFFICERS AND CORPORATE GOVERNANCE

Management of CrossAmerica Partners LP

Our General Partner manages our operations and activities on our behalf. DMP indirectly owns all of the membership interests in our General Partner. The Topper Group has sole and exclusive authority over our General Partner. All of our executive officers are employed by an affiliate of the Topper Group.

Our General Partner has a Board that oversees our management, operations and activities. Our unitholders are not entitled to elect the directors of the Board or participate in our management or operations. The Topper Group, as the indirect owner of our General Partner, has the right to appoint and remove all members of the Board. Our General Partner owes a fiduciary duty to our unitholders. However, our Partnership Agreement contains provisions that limit the fiduciary duties that our General Partner owes to our unitholders. Our General Partner is liable, as general partner, for all of our debts (to the extent not paid from our assets), except for indebtedness or other obligations that are made specifically nonrecourse to it. Whenever possible, our General Partner intends to incur indebtedness or other obligations that are nonrecourse. Except as described in our Partnership Agreement and subject to its fiduciary duty to act in good faith, our General Partner has exclusive management power over our business and affairs.

Our General Partner does not have any employees. All of the personnel who conduct our business are employed by an affiliate of the Topper Group, and their services are provided to us pursuant to the Topper Group Omnibus Agreement.

Directors and Executive Officers

The Partnership does not directly employ any of the persons responsible for managing or operating the Partnership. We are managed and operated by the Board and the executive officers appointed by our General Partner who are employees of an affiliate of the Topper Group. The following table shows information for the directors of our General Partner and our executive officers appointed by our General Partner.

Directors and Executive Officers of the General Partner

 

 

Our General Partner’s directors hold office until the earlier of their death, resignation, removal or disqualification or until their successors have been elected and qualified. Our executive officers serve at the discretion of the Board. In selecting and appointing directors to the Board, DMP, as the indirect owner of the sole member of our General Partner, does not apply a formal diversity policy or set of guidelines. However, when appointing new directors, the Topper Group as the owner of the sole member of our General Partner, will consider each individual director’s qualifications, skills, business experience and capacity to serve as a director, as described below for each director, and the diversity of these attributes for the Board as a whole.

 

110

 

---

 

Joseph V. Topper, Jr. has served as a director on the Board since October 2012 and was elected Chairman of the Board effective November 19, 2019. Mr. Topper has been the President of Dunne Manning Inc. (“DMI”), a diversified portfolio of companies operating in the wholesale and retail gasoline, real estate and investing industries, since 2015. Mr. Topper served as President and Chief Executive Officer of the General Partner from October 2012 to March 2015. Mr. Topper resigned as President effective March 2015 and his term as Chief Executive Officer ended on September 2015. Mr. Topper also served as Chairman of the Board from October 28, 2012 through September 30, 2014. Mr. Topper has over 25 years of management experience in the wholesale and retail fuel distribution business. In 1987, Mr. Topper purchased his family’s retail fuel business and five years later founded DMI (formerly known as Lehigh Gas Corporation), where he has served as the Chief Executive Officer since 1992. Mr. Topper currently serves as chairman of the board of trustees for Villanova University and the board of directors for Lehigh Valley PBS. He served on the board of directors of CST Brands, Inc. from October 2014 until December 2016. He is the past President of the board of directors for Lehigh Valley PBS and the Lehigh Valley PBS Foundation. He also served as a board member for the Good Shepherd Rehabilitation Hospital in Allentown. Mr. Topper holds a Masters’ degree of Business Administration from Lehigh University and a bachelor’s degree in Accounting from Villanova University. Mr. Topper is also a Certified Public Accountant.

John B. Reilly, III has served as a director on the Board since May 2012 and was elected Vice Chairman of the Board effective November 19, 2019. He was a member of the Partnership’s audit and conflicts committee from October 2014 through November 2019. Mr. Reilly has served as the President of City Center Investment Corp since May 2011. Prior to then, he was President of Landmark Communities and Managing Partner of Traditions of America since 1998. Mr. Reilly has thirty years of experience in commercial and residential real estate development and planning, finance management and law. Mr. Reilly serves as a trustee of Lafayette College and also served as the chairman of the board of trustees for the Lehigh Valley Health Network. He holds a Juris Doctor degree from Fordham University Law School and a bachelor’s degree in economics from Lafayette College. He is a Certified Public Accountant and a member of the Pennsylvania Bar Association.

Justin A. Gannon has served as a director on the Board and Chairman of its audit committee and member of its conflicts committee since October 2014. Mr. Gannon has acted as an independent consultant and private investor since September 2013. From February 2003 through August 2013, He served in various roles at Grant Thornton LLP, including as National Leader of Merger and Acquisition Development from June 2011 through August 2013, Central Region Managing Partner from January 2010 through June 2011, Office Managing Partner in Houston, Texas from August 2007 through June 2011 and Office Managing Partner in Kansas City, Missouri from August 2005 to July 2007. From 1971 through 2002, Mr. Gannon worked at Arthur Andersen LLP, the last 21 years as an audit partner. Since December 2014, Mr. Gannon has served on the board of directors of California Resources Corporation (NYSE: CRC) where he serves as chair of the audit committee and member of the compensation committee. Mr. Gannon served on the board of directors of Vantage Energy Acquisition Corp. (NASDAQ: VEACU) and as chairman of the audit committee and a member of the compensation committee from April 2017 until its dissolution in April 2019. He is a former chairman of the board of directors of American Red Cross Chapters in the Tulsa, Oklahoma and San Antonio, Texas areas. Mr. Gannon received a bachelor’s degree in Accounting from Loyola Marymount University and is a Certified Public Accountant licensed in California (inactive) and Texas.

Mickey Kim has served as a director on the Board and Chairman of its conflicts committee and member of its audit committee since June 2017. Mr. Kim is a Member, Chief Operating Officer and Chief Compliance Officer of Kirr, Marbach & Company, LLC (“KM”), a registered investment adviser. Mr. Kim joined KM in 1986 and has been KM’s Chief Operating Officer since 1996 and Chief Compliance Officer since 2004. Mr. Kim has also served as Vice President, Treasurer and Secretary of Kirr, Marbach Partners Funds, Inc., a registered investment company, since 1998. Prior to his position with KM, Mr. Kim was a Senior Research Analyst at Driehaus Capital Management, a Chicago investment management firm, from 1982 to 1985. Mr. Kim has been a Chartered Financial Analyst (CFA) charterholder since 1985 and passed the Certified Public Accountant examination in 1980. He holds a bachelor’s degree in Accounting from the University of Illinois (1980) and a Masters’ degree in Business Administration from the University of Chicago (1982).

Keenan D. Lynch was appointed director on the Board and Corporate Secretary of the General Partner, effective November 19, 2019 and General Counsel, effective February 24, 2020. Since 2017, he has served as Vice President and General Counsel of DMI, a diversified portfolio of companies operating in the wholesale and retail gasoline, real estate and investing industries. Before joining DMI, he was an associate at Skadden, Arps, Slate, Meagher & Flom LLP. He holds a Bachelor of Arts from Villanova University and a Juris Doctor from the University of Pennsylvania Law School, and an L.L.M. in Taxation from the Villanova University Charles Widger School of Law. 

111

 

---

 

Charles M. Nifong, Jr. was appointed President and Chief Executive Officer of the General Partner, effective November 19, 2019. Prior to assuming his current position, Mr. Nifong was the President of Dunne Manning Stores, Inc., a convenience store operator and wholesale fuel provider. Mr. Nifong served as the Chief Investment Officer and Vice president of Finance for the Partnership from 2013 through 2015. Before joining the Partnership, Mr. Nifong worked for more than nine years in investment banking as a Director at Bank of America Merrill Lynch where he worked on an extensive range of capital markets and mergers and acquisitions advisory assignments. Prior to his career in investment banking, Mr. Nifong served as a Captain in the United States Army in armor and reconnaissance units. Mr. Nifong holds a Bachelor of Chemical Engineering with Highest Honor from the Georgia Institute of Technology and Master of Business Administration from the University of Virginia.

Maura Topper was appointed Director of the Board effective November 19, 2019. She is currently Vice President and Chief Financial Officer of DMI, a diversified portfolio of companies operating in the wholesale and retail gasoline, real estate and investing industries. Prior to joining Dunne Manning in 2014, Ms. Topper graduated from the Masters’ of Business Administration program at Columbia Business School. Prior to that, she served as a Marketing Account Executive at MSG Promotions, Inc. and a senior accountant in the audit practice of Deloitte & Touche LLP in New York. Ms. Topper graduated from Villanova University in 2008 with a Bachelor of Science degree in Accounting and a Bachelor of Science in Business (Finance). From 2012 to 2014, she served as a director on the Board.

Kenneth G. Valosky was appointed director on the Board and a member of its audit committee and conflicts committee effective November 19, 2019. He is Executive Vice President of Villanova University. He joined Villanova University in 2000 as the Chief Financial Officer and has served as its Vice President for Finance, Acting Senior Vice President for Administration and Vice President for Administration and Finance before assuming his current role in 2014. He previously held several senior financial positions at Thomas Jefferson University prior to joining the University in 2000. These positions included Director of Internal Audit and Controller. He began his career as a public accountant with Touche Ross & Co. (a predecessor to Deloitte). Mr. Valosky also served as a trustee and chair of the Stewardship Committee of the Mercy Health System of Southeastern Pennsylvania, trustee and chair of the Finance Committee of Merion Mercy Academy and as a member of the Auditing and Accounting Committee of the Archdiocese of Philadelphia. He received a B.S. in Accountancy, cum laude from Villanova University and an M.S. in Organizational Dynamics from the University of Pennsylvania. He is a Certified Public Accountant, inactive status in the Commonwealth of Pennsylvania.

Jonathan E. Benfield was appointed Interim Chief Financial Officer of the General Partner effective November 19, 2019. Mr. Benfield has over 20 years of public and corporate accounting experience and has served in a variety of roles since joining CrossAmerica in 2012, most recently as Director of Finance. Before joining CrossAmerica, Mr. Benfield worked for four years at PPL Corporation, most recently as Manager of Financial Reporting. He also worked for nine years at Ernst & Young, most recently as Senior Manager in the audit practice. He served on the Board of Trustees of Bally Savings Bank from 2004 to 2012, including as chairman of the board from 2009 to 2012. Mr. Benfield is a Certified Public Accountant and holds a bachelor’s degree in Accounting and Finance from Kutztown University.

David F. Hrinak was appointed Vice President of Operations of the General Partner effective November 19, 2019. Mr. Hrinak previously served as Executive Vice President and Chief Operating Officer of the General Partner from 2014 until June 2017 and served as President of the General Partner from May 2012 to October 2014. He previously served as an officer of DMI from 2005 until the founding of the General Partner and was DMI’s President from September 2010 until May 2012. Mr. Hrinak has more than 36 years of experience in the wholesale and retail fuel distribution business. Prior to joining DMI, Mr. Hrinak was the Branded Wholesale Manager at ConocoPhillips.

Family Relationships

 

Mr. Topper, Chairman of the Board, is the father of Ms. Topper, a director of our General Partner, and the father-in-law of Mr. Lynch, a director of our General Partner and Corporate Secretary, and Ms. Topper is the sister-in-law of Mr. Lynch. There are no other family relationships between any of the directors or executive officers of the Partnership.

112

 

---

 

Director Independence

Section 303A of the NYSE Listed Company Manual provides that limited partnerships are not required to have a majority of independent directors. The Board has adopted a policy that the Board has at all times at least three independent directors or such higher number as may be necessary to comply with the applicable federal securities law requirements. For the purposes of this policy, “independent director” has the meaning set forth in Section 10A(m)(3) of the Exchange Act, any applicable stock exchange rules and the rules and regulations promulgated in the Partnership governance guidelines available on its website www.crossamericapartners.com.

The Board has determined Messrs. Kim, Gannon and Valosky to be independent as defined under the independence standards established by the NYSE and the Exchange Act. These directors, whom we refer to as independent directors, are not officers or employees of our General Partner or its affiliates and have been determined by the Board to be otherwise independent of the Topper Group and its affiliates.

In connection with the change in control effective November 19, 2019, Jean Bernier, Timothy A. Miller, Claude Tessier and Gerardo Valencia, each of whom is a current or retired employee of Couche-Tard, resigned from the Board of the Partnership. Mr. Valencia also resigned as a member of the Board of each subsidiary of the Partnership. The Board had previously determined that former directors Messrs. Bernier, Miller, Tessier and Valencia were not independent because of their current or former employment with Couche-Tard.

Composition of the Board

The Board consists of eight members. The Board holds regular and special meetings at any time as may be necessary. Regular meetings may be held without notice on dates set by the Board from time to time. Special meetings of the Board or meetings of any committee thereof may be held at the request of the Chairman of the Board or a majority of the Board (or a majority of the members of such committee) upon at least two days (if the meeting is to be held in person) or 24 hours (if the meeting is to be held telephonically) prior oral or written notice to the other members of the Board or committee or upon such shorter notice as may be approved by the directors or members of such committee. A quorum for a regular or special meeting will exist when a majority of the members are participating in the meeting either in person or by telephone conference. Any action required or permitted to be taken at a meeting of the Board or at any committee may be taken without a meeting if such action is evidenced in writing and signed by a majority of the members of the Board.

Committees of the Board

The Board has an audit committee and a conflicts committee. The charter for each of the committees can be found in its entirety on the Partnership’s website at www.crossamericapartners.com under the “Corporate Governance” tab in the “Investors” section. As a limited partnership, we are not required by NYSE rules to have a compensation committee or a nominating and corporate governance committee. During 2019, the Board held six meetings before the GP Purchase (Pre-Acquisition”) and two meetings after the GP Purchase (“Post-Acquisition”). Pre-Acquisition seven directors attended all six of the Board meetings with one director attending five and Post-Acquisition each director attended 100% of the Board meetings. Pre-Acquisition two committee members attended 100% of the meetings with one member only attending meetings held in the first three quarters of 2019. Post-Acquisition all committee members attended 100% of the committee meetings while he was a director.

Audit Committee

Effective October 1, 2014, Messrs. Gannon and Reilly have served as members of the audit committee and, on June 28, 2017, Mr. Kim was appointed as member of the audit committee. Effective November 18, 2019, Mr. Reilly resigned from the audit committee and Mr. Valosky was appointed as a member. Mr. Gannon serves as chair. The audit committee is comprised entirely of directors who meet the financial literacy standards of the NYSE and the Exchange Act. The rules and regulations established by the NYSE and the Exchange Act also generally require that our audit committee consist entirely of independent directors. The Board has determined that Messrs. Gannon, Kim and Valosky meet the independence standards required of audit committee members by the NYSE and the Exchange Act and they meet the financial literacy standards of directors who serve on the audit committee, and Mr. Gannon is an “audit committee financial expert” as defined by SEC rules. The audit committee assists the Board in its oversight of the integrity of our financial statements and our compliance with legal and regulatory requirements, Partnership policies and controls, the independent auditor’s qualifications and independence, the performance of the Partnership’s internal audit function and risk assessment and risk management. The audit committee has sole authority with respect to the appointment, retention, compensation, evaluation, oversight of the work and termination of our independent auditors and has the authority to obtain advice and assistance from outside legal, accounting or other advisors as the audit committee deems necessary to carry out its duties and receives appropriate funding, as determined by the audit committee, from the Partnership for such advice and assistance. In 2019, the audit committee held 4 meetings Pre-Acquisition.

113

 

---

 

Conflicts Committee

Effective October 1, 2014, Messrs. Gannon and Reilly have served as members of the conflicts committee, and, on June 28, 2017, Mr. Kim was appointed as chair and member of the conflicts committee. Effective November 18, 2019, Mr. Reilly resigned from the audit committee and Mr. Valosky was appointed as a member. Pursuant to our Partnership Agreement, the members of the conflicts committee may not be officers or employees of our General Partner or directors, officers or employees of its affiliates, must not be holders of any ownership interest in the General Partner or any of its affiliates, other than Partnership units, that is determined by the Board of Directors, after reasonable inquiry, to be likely to have an adverse impact on the ability of such director to fulfill his or her obligations as a member of the conflicts committee, and must meet the independence standards established by the NYSE and the Exchange Act to serve on an audit committee of a board of directors. The Board has determined that Messrs. Kim, Gannon and Valosky qualify to serve on the conflicts committee. The conflicts committee is responsible for reviewing specific matters that the Board believes may involve conflicts of interest between the General Partner and its affiliates and the Partnership. The conflicts committee determines if the resolution of such conflict is fair and reasonable to the Partnership. In 2019, the conflicts committee held 19 meetings Pre-Acquisition and 4 meetings Post-Acquisition.

Meeting of Independent Directors and Communications with Directors

The independent members of the audit committee have met in executive sessions without members of management. The chairman presides over each executive session of the independent directors. Any independent director may request that additional executive sessions of the independent directors be held, and the presiding independent director for the previous session will determine whether to call any such meeting.

Unitholders or interested parties may communicate directly with the Board, any committee of the Board, any independent director, or any one director, by sending written correspondence by mail addressed to the Board, committee or director to the attention of our Corporate Secretary at the following address: c/o Corporate Secretary, CrossAmerica Partners LP, 600 Hamilton Street, Suite 500, Allentown, PA 18101. Communications are distributed to the Board, committee of the Board, or director, as appropriate, depending on the facts and circumstances outlined in the communication. Commercial solicitations or communications will not be forwarded.

Meetings of Unitholders

Our Partnership Agreement provides that the General Partner manages and operates us and that, unlike holders of common stock in a corporation, unitholders only have limited voting rights on matters affecting our business or governance as set forth in our Partnership Agreement. Accordingly, we do not hold annual meetings of unitholders.

Code of Ethics and Business Conduct

The Board has adopted a Code of Ethics and Business Conduct that applies to directors of the General Partner and our executive officers. Our General Partner also expects all employees of the Topper Group providing services to or for the benefit of the Partnership and its operating subsidiaries to adhere to the Code of Ethics and Business Conduct. The Code of Ethics and Business Conduct can be found on CrossAmerica Partners’ website at www.crossamericapartners.com under the “Corporate Governance” tab in the “Investors” section. The Board has also adopted Corporate Governance Guidelines that outline important policies and practices regarding our governance, which can also be found in its entirety on CrossAmerica Partners’ website at www.crossamericapartners.com under the “Corporate Governance” tab in the “Investors” section. Requests for print copies of the Code of Ethics and Business Conduct and/or the Corporate Governance Guidelines may be directed to Investor Relations at info@crossamericapartners.com or to Investor Relations, CrossAmerica Partners LP, 600 Hamilton Street, Suite 500, Allentown, PA 18101 or made by telephone at (610) 625-8005. The information contained on, or connected to, our website is not incorporated by reference into this Annual Report on Form 10-K and should not be considered part of this or any other report that we file with or furnish to the SEC.

Reimbursement of Expenses of Our General Partner

Except as otherwise set forth in our Circle K Omnibus Agreement, our Partnership Agreement requires us to reimburse our General Partner for all direct and indirect expenses it incurs or payments it makes on our behalf and all other expenses reasonably allocable to us or otherwise incurred by our General Partner in connection with operating our business. The Partnership Agreement does not limit the amount of expenses for which our General Partner and its affiliates may be reimbursed. These expenses include (without limitation) salary, bonus, incentive compensation and other amounts paid to persons who perform services for us or on our behalf and expenses allocated to our General Partner by its affiliates. Our General Partner is entitled to determine in good faith the expenses that are allocable to us. Please read “Item 13. Certain Relationships and Related Party Transactions and Director Independence - Circle K Omnibus Agreement.”

114

 

---

 

ITEM 11. EXECUTIVE COMPENSATION

COMPENSATION DISCUSSION AND ANALYSIS

Overview

We do not directly employ or compensate any of our executive officers, including our named executive officers (“NEOs”), or other employees who provide services necessary for managing our business. Under our Partnership Agreement, the General Partner manages our operations and activities on our behalf. Our General Partner also does not directly employ any of its executive officers or other employees. For our fiscal year ending December 31, 2019, certain of our executive officers, including certain of our NEOs, as more fully described below, were employed and compensated by an affiliate of Couche-Tard and its affiliates (referenced collectively as Couche-Tard in this Item 11), and during the portion of 2019 following the GP Purchase certain of our NEOs (as more fully described below) were employed and compensated by an affiliate of the Topper Group.

For 2019, the provision of management services by, and payment to, Couche-Tard for such services through the date of the GP Purchase was governed by the Circle K Omnibus Agreement and thereafter the Transitional Omnibus Agreement. All or a portion of compensation for such management services was allocated for reimbursement under the Circle K Omnibus Agreement and Transitional Omnibus Agreement, depending on the proportion of the respective NEO’s working time devoted to roles in the Partnership. Neither the Partnership nor the General Partner is obligated to pay The Topper Group for its provision of management services for the period during 2019 following the GP Purchase, but we have entered into the Topper Group Omnibus Agreement which will govern the provision of management services by, and the reimbursement of the costs thereof to, an affiliate of the Topper Group for the period beginning January 1, 2020.

Named Executive Officers

For 2019, our NEOs are:

 

 

For purposes of the discussion below, Messrs. Nifong and Hrinak are referred to as the “DMI NEOs” and Messrs. Benfield, Valencia, Smith, Wilkins and Federer are referred to as the “Couche-Tard NEOs.”

The Partnership does not determine the compensation for its NEOs. For 2019, the compensation philosophy and practices of Couche-Tard were used to determine the compensation of the Couche-Tard NEOs and all compensation decisions were in the sole discretion of Couche-Tard. The compensation philosophy and practices of DMI were used to determine the total compensation of the DMI NEOs and all compensation decisions were in the sole discretion of DMI.

115

 

---

 

The compensation philosophies and practices of Couche-Tard insofar as they applied to the Couche-Tard NEOs during 2019 are described below in this Compensation Discussion and Analysis, and the compensation actually paid by Couche-Tard to the Couche-Tard NEOs for their services to the Partnership during 2019 is set out in the accompanying Summary Compensation Table and related compensation tables that follow this Compensation Discussion and Analysis.

The DMI NEOs devoted such portion of their working time to our affairs during 2019 after the GP Purchase as was required for the performance of their duties, whose scope was affected by the continued provision of services by some of the Couche-Tard NEOs after the GP Purchase. As a result, some portion of the working time of the DMI NEOs during 2019 after the GP Purchase was dedicated to services for DMI that were unrelated to our affairs. Because DMI compensated the DMI NEOs during 2019 based on the overall value of the various services that they performed for DMI and because, further, the amount of their compensation from DMI during 2019 did not change following the GP Purchase, we are not able to reliably segregate and identify any specific portion of the compensation awarded to them by DMI as relating solely to services performed for us. Moreover, the 2019 compensation programs of DMI were established before and not in anticipation of the GP Purchase. Accordingly, this Compensation Discussion and Analysis does not describe the compensation philosophies and practices of DMI applicable to the DMI NEOs for 2019, nor is their 2019 compensation from DMI reflected in the related compensation tables that follow. We expect that, in future years, the compensation philosophies and practices of DMI, and the amount paid by DMI to our executive officers, may be an appropriate topic for disclosure as part of our Compensation Discussion and Analysis and related executive compensation tables.

Couche-Tard Compensation

Objectives and Philosophy

The compensation philosophy of Couche-Tard is based on performance and the achievement of predetermined objectives and it is a reflection of the entrepreneurial culture of Couche-Tard, which is a culture where the financial interests of its executives are aligned with the performance of the company and the investors they represent. The compensation strategy includes variable components linked to short term, medium term and long-term performance. Couche-Tard compensation plans and programs for executives are designed to (i) recruit, develop and retain talented executives; (ii) reward exceptional performance as measured by predetermined and quantifiable objectives; (iii) establish a direct relation between the interests of the executives and those of the shareholders of Couche-Tard and the unitholders of the Partnership by favoring the creation of value in the short, medium and long term; (iv) encourage teamwork and promote company values; and (v) support the company’s business strategy. Couche-Tard’s compensation plans and programs are established based on internal principles of equity that take into consideration the role, nature and level of each of the executives as well as external principles of equity such as fair, equitable and competitive compensation terms in comparison to peers as well as those of the market in general.

Elements of Executive Compensation

The three main components of the remuneration of Couche-Tard’s executive compensation program are base salary, annual incentive plan and long-term incentive plan, as shown in the table below.

116

 

---

 

 

 

Base Salary

 

The human resources department of Circle K approved the following annualized base salaries for the 2019 fiscal year:

 

The Summary Compensation Table reflects the portion of the annualized base salary allocated to the Partnership.

Short-Term Incentive Compensation: Annual Incentive Plan

The Couche-Tard Annual Incentive Plan (“AIP”) is one of the key components of the “at-risk” compensation. The AIP is utilized to reward short-term performance achievements and to motivate and reward executives for their contributions toward meeting financial and strategic goals.

117

 

---

 

For the Couche-Tard NEOs, Couche-Tard determined to include, as part of their compensation, the 2019 AIP for the Couche-Tard fiscal year ending on April 26, 2020, including the following performance metrics:

 

Under the AIP, the attainment of performance metrics and the achievement factor are normally determined once the measurement period ends on April 26, 2020. As a result of the change in control triggered by the GP Purchase, however, a pro-rata portion of the bonus for the period from April 29, 2019 through December 31, 2019, became payable at 100% performance and was paid in January 2020. The bonus for the remaining portion of the bonus period will be paid in 2020 after the end of the performance period.

 

 

118

 

---

 

Long-Term Incentive Compensation: Couche-Tard Equity Awards and CrossAmerica Equity Awards

Grants of Couche-Tard Equity Awards

In 2019, the Couche-Tard NEOs received grants of Phantom Stock Units (“Couche-Tard PSUs”), which were granted as a percentage of base salary considering the position held by the executive. Couche-Tard PSUs vest in three years from the grant date and are payable in cash upon vesting. The Couche-Tard PSU payment is subject to two objectives, one related to employment service (35%) and the other based on Couche-Tard’s performance (65%). The performance objectives are determined at the time of the Couche-Tard PSU grant. The performance objectives are based on financial and competitive components. The degree of difficulty in the nature of these performance objectives is such that their attainment is not guaranteed. The Couche-Tard PSU grant price and payment price, as established, may not be less than the weighted average closing price for a board lot of the Couche-Tard Subordinate Voting Shares traded on the Toronto Stock Exchange for the five trading days preceding the date of grant or date of payment, as the case may be. No portion of the Couche-Tard PSU awards were allocated to the Partnership under either the Circle K Omnibus Agreement or the Transitional Omnibus Agreement.

Grants of CrossAmerica Equity Awards

In 2019, 11,565 CrossAmerica equity awards were granted to executive officers in the form of Phantom Performance Units (“CrossAmerica PSUs”) and 16,440 CrossAmerica equity awards were granted to non-employee directors in the form of phantom units for their service to the Board. All outstanding units fully vested at 100% as of November 19, 2019 under the terms of the applicable plan upon the GP Purchase, which constituted a “change in control” for purposes of the awards.

Other Benefits

Messrs. Valencia, Smith and Wilkins were eligible to participate in the Couche-Tard executive retirement plan, a non-qualified plan that provides an annual company contribution equivalent to 8% of the executive base salary into a defined contribution plan. Messrs. Benfield and Federer were also eligible to participate with a 100% employer match of employee contributions up to 7% of base salary. Messrs. Valencia, Smith and Wilkins were eligible to receive the same benefits as those generally available to Circle K executives, including a company vehicle, as well as other Circle K subsidized and voluntary benefit programs, including medical, dental, vision, life and disability insurance and financial planning.

Other Compensation Policies and Practices

Insider Trading Policy

We maintain an insider trading policy (the “Insider Trading Policy”) that governs trading in our units by members of the Board and executive officers of the General Partner and the Topper Group, as well as certain other employees who may have regular access to material non-public information about us. These policies include pre-clearance requirements for all trades and periodic trading “black-out” periods designed with reference to our quarterly financial reporting schedule.

Restrictions on Hedging, Pledging and Other Transactions

Our Insider Trading Policy prohibits “Covered Persons” from (a) speculative transactions such as short sales, puts, calls or other similar derivative transactions, hedging or monetization transactions with respect to Partnership securities; (b) holding securities of the Partnership in a margin account; and (c) pledging Partnership securities as collateral for loans. For purposes of the Insider Trading Policy, Covered Persons are directors of the Partnership and our General Partner, executive officers of the Partnership or DMI or their affiliates, including our General Partner and those employees who have, or have access to, certain financial information regarding the Partnership and are designated as Covered Persons (and in each case their family members and controlled entities within the meaning of the Insider Trading Policy). Transactions that are otherwise prohibited by our Insider Trading Policy may be approved by the Corporate Secretary of the General Partner, as the compliance officer of our Insider Trading Policy. Compliance with these policies is monitored by the Board. A copy of our Insider Trading Policy is available in its entirety on the CrossAmerica Partners’ website at www.crossamericapartners.com under the “Corporate Governance” tab in the “Investors” section.

119

 

---

 

Clawback Policy

We have adopted a “clawback” policy that applies to any bonuses and other incentive and equity compensation awarded to our executive officers. This policy provides that, in the event of a material restatement of the Partnership’s financial results due to material noncompliance with certain financial reporting requirements, the Board, or the appropriate committee of the Board, will review all such incentive compensation and, if such incentive compensation would have been lower had it been calculated based on the restated results, the Board, or the appropriate committee of the Board, will (to the extent permitted by law and as appropriate under the circumstances) use reasonable efforts to seek to recover for the benefit of the Partnership all or a portion of such incentive compensation, subject to a three-year look-back period. In July 2015, the SEC proposed new Rule 10D-1 under the Exchange Act to implement the provisions of Section 954 of the Dodd-Frank Wall Street Reform and Consumer Protection Act of 2012, or the Dodd-Frank Act, which requires the SEC to adopt rules relating to the disclosure of a company’s compensation recovery, or “clawback,” policies in connection with an accounting restatement. Once the SEC issues final rules regarding clawback policies, we intend to review and, if necessary, amend our policy to comply with such rules.

Impact of Regulatory Requirements

Internal Revenue Code—We believe we are a limited partnership and not a corporation for U.S. federal income tax purposes. It is not entirely clear whether the compensation paid to the NEOs is subject to the deduction limitations under Section 162(m) of the Internal Revenue Code. If we are required to be treated as a corporation for U.S. federal income tax purposes, however, the limitations of Section 162(m) would apply in any event, compensation decisions in respect of the NEOs will be made in a manner designed to best incentivize appropriate performance.

Non-Qualified Deferred Compensation—Certain payments under the Partnership’s Executive Income Continuity Plan (the “EICP”) may be subject to the tax rules applicable to non-qualified deferred compensation arrangements of the American Jobs Creation Act of 2004.

Accounting for Stock-Based Compensation—We account for stock-based compensation in accordance with the requirements of ASC 718 for all of our stock-based compensation plans. See Note 18 to the financial statements for a discussion of all assumptions made in the calculation of stock awards to our NEOs.

Risk Assessment

The Couche-Tard HR Committee oversees the risk assessment of the compensation programs, policies and practices for all employees. A discussion of this risk assessment is included in Couche-Tard’s Compensation Discussion and Analysis in Part III of Couche-Tard’s Management Proxy Circular disclosed on July 9, 2019, which is available on the Investors Relations section of the Couche-Tard website at https://corpo.couche-tard.com. An affiliate of the Topper Group will oversee the risk assessment of the compensation programs, policies and practices for all employees in 2020.

Compensation Committee Report*

The members of the Board have reviewed and discussed the Compensation Discussion and Analysis included in this Annual Report on Form 10-K with management and, based on such review and discussions and such other matters the Board deemed relevant and appropriate, the Board has approved the inclusion of the Compensation Discussion and Analysis in this Annual Report on Form 10-K.

 

120

 

---

 

The foregoing compensation committee report is not “soliciting material,” is not deemed filed with the SEC, and is not to be incorporated by reference into any of the Partnership’s filings under the Securities Act, or the Exchange Act, respectively, whether made before or after the date of this annual report on Form 10-K and irrespective of any general incorporation language therein.

Summary Compensation Table

The following table sets forth certain information with respect to compensation of our Couche-Tard NEOs. Except for the management fee we paid to Couche-Tard under the Circle K Omnibus Agreement and the Transitional Omnibus Agreement, we did not pay or reimburse any cash compensation amounts to or for our Couche-Tard NEOs in 2019.

121

 

---

 

 

 

Grants of Plan-Based Awards

The following table provides information regarding grants of plan-based awards to our Couche-Tard NEOs during 2019. All equity awards shown were in the form of CrossAmerica Phantom Performance Units.

 

 

 

122

 

---

 

Outstanding Equity Awards at Year End

All equity awards held by our Couche-Tard NEOs in respect of Partnership service vested upon consummation of the GP Purchase and accordingly no such awards were outstanding at December 31, 2019.

 

Option Exercises and Equity Vested

The following table sets forth information regarding vesting during 2019 of equity awards held by our Couche-Tard NEOs in respect of Partnership service.

 

 

 

Non-Qualified Deferred Compensation

For the fiscal year ended December 31, 2019, Messrs. Valencia, Smith and Wilkins were participants of the Couche-Tard Nonqualified Deferred Compensation Plan (NQP), a non-qualified plan that provides an annual company contribution equivalent to 8% of the executive base salary into a defined contribution account. Messrs. Benfield and Federer were also eligible to participate with a 100% employer match of employee contributions up to 7% of base salary. All contributions to the NQP vest immediately. As applicable, the amounts shown as contributions are reflected in the Summary Compensation Table above, and the amounts shown in the aggregate balance column previously were reported as compensation of the NEO in a summary compensation table for any year for which the NEO was included in that table. Amounts shown below are total contributions and earnings.

 

123

 

---

 

Potential Payments upon Termination or Change in Control

Our executive officers may be entitled to certain payments upon termination of their employment under certain circumstances, in each case, as more fully described below. Any such payments that are to be made in cash will be subject to reimbursement under the Topper Group Omnibus Agreement.

Executive Income Continuity Plan

The Partnership adopted the EICP on May 28, 2014 for all persons who are designated as executive officers of the General Partner by resolution of the Board and any persons who provide management services to the Partnership and are designated as plan participants by the Board (each a “Participant”).

Under the EICP, if a Participant is terminated from providing management services to the Partnership or the General Partner other than due to death, disability, retirement, cause or voluntary resignation (other than for good reason (as defined in the EICP)) (a “Termination”), then such Participant is entitled to receive a severance payment, paid in 12 equal monthly installments, equal to the sum of (i) the Participant’s annual salary as of the date of Termination, plus (ii) the amount of the Participant’s annual target bonus under the applicable annual incentive compensation plan in place at the time the Termination occurs (the sum of (i) and (ii), the “Compensation Amount”). In addition, the Participant (and his dependents, as applicable) will receive the continuation of their medical, dental and other benefits for a period of one year from the date of Termination, all unvested awards under the Partnership’s Plan held by such Participant shall vest immediately upon Termination and the Participant will be entitled to be reimbursed for outplacement services for one year subsequent to the Termination, and, in certain circumstances, reimbursement of relocation expenses and legal fees and expenses. If the Termination of a Participant occurs in connection with, or within 24 months after, a change in control of the Partnership, then the Participant will receive a severance payment, paid in a single lump sum in cash, equal to 2.99 times the Compensation Amount.

Therefore, the table below estimates the amount of compensation and benefits to be provided to each of our Couche-Tard NEOs in the event of Termination of such Couche-Tard NEO’s employment under certain circumstances, pursuant to the current terms of the EICP. These amounts are estimates of the amounts that would have been paid or provided to our Couche-Tard NEOs upon Termination of employment or a change in control had the Termination occurred on December 31, 2019. The actual amounts could only have been determined at the time of such Couche-Tard NEO’s separation from Couche-Tard. Accordingly, if Termination had taken place prior to December 31, 2019, the amounts payable with respect to the short-term incentive program would have been reduced to reflect the pro rata portion of the Couche-Tard NEO’s annual target short-term incentive award.

 

In addition, the Participants would have been entitled to the immediate vest of any outstanding CrossAmerica PSUs, but upon change in control all outstanding CrossAmerica PSUs vested.

 

124

 

---

 

 

 

 

Messrs. Valencia, Smith, Wilkins and Federer waived their rights to EICP benefits upon the change in control that occurred on November 19, 2019, and they are no longer participants under the Plan.

Principal Executive Officer Pay Ratio

We are providing the following information about the relationship of the annual total compensation of individuals providing services in respect to the Partnership and the annual total compensation of Gerardo Valencia, our former Principal Executive Officer (our “PEO”):

 

For the year ended December 31, 2019:

 

 

Based on this information for 2019, we have determined that the ratio of our PEO’s annual total compensation to the annual total compensation of our median employee was 8:1. Our pay ratio figure was calculated in a manner consistent with Item 40(u of Regulation S-K.

 

125

 

---

 

Since Mr. Valencia resigned as our PEO effective November 18, 2019, in determining his annual total compensation as PEO for 2019, the Partnership is permitted to annualize Mr. Valencia’s compensation based on the time he served as PEO in 2019. Consequently, Mr. Valencia’s total compensation for the period he served as PEO has been annualized to determine his annual total compensation shown above. As a result, Mr. Valencia’s total compensation for 2019 for purposes of the pay ratio disclosed in this section is different than the amount reflected as his annual total compensation set forth in the Summary Compensation Table above. The total annual compensation includes Mr. Valencia’s annualized salary as well as the other components listed in the summary compensation table, which were not annualized.

As of October 30, 2019, there were 74 employees of Circle K who provided substantial management services to us. As discussed in this Form 10-K, our PEO is an employee of Circle K, but we are including his annual total compensation in the determination of the PEO pay ratio, as required under SEC rules.

The date we used to identify our median employee changed from October 5, 2018 last year to October 30, 2019 this year to accommodate pay period reporting.

We identified our median employee based on the aggregate salary actually paid during 2019 to these 74 employees.

For purposes of determining aggregate salary, we included the amount of base salary and overtime the employee received during the year and all other pay elements related to base salary including, but not limited to, holiday pay, vacation pay and other paid time off, if any. Aggregate salary amounts did not include any cash bonuses, commissions or other compensation. In making this determination, we annualized these compensation measures for all full-time and part-time permanent employees who were hired in 2019 but were not employed by us for the entire year ended December 31, 2019.

Once we identified our median employee, we then determined that employee’s annual total compensation, including any perquisites and other benefits, in the same manner that we determine the annual total compensation of our Couche-Tard NEOs for purposes of the Summary Compensation Table disclosed above. The annual total compensation of our median employee was determined to be $73,142. This annual total compensation amount for our median employee was then compared to the annualized total compensation of our former PEO for 2019 of $548,870. The elements included in the PEO’s annual total compensation are fully discussed above in the footnotes to the Summary Compensation Table.

Director Compensation

Overview

Set out below is a discussion of compensation paid for 2019 to individuals who served as non-employee members of our Board during any portion of 2019. Board members who were employees providing services in respect of the Partnership did not receive any separate compensation for their Board service.

Director Compensation for 2019

Pre- and Post-GP Purchase, each non-employee director received cash compensation of $45,000 per year (paid on a quarterly basis). The chairman of each of the audit committee and conflicts committee received additional cash compensation of $10,000 for 2019 (paid on a quarterly basis). In addition, each non-employee director received $1,000 per each Board meeting attended or $500 per each Committee meeting attended.

Pre-GP Purchase, on July 18, 2019, Messrs. Reilly, Topper, Kim, Bernier and Gannon received an award of 3,288 Partnership phantom units in an amount equal to $55,000 based on the closing price of the Partnership’s common units on the date of grant as compensation for their service from June 28, 2019 until June 27, 2020. Such phantom units vest one year from date of award and include the payment made by the Partnership of distribution equivalent rights equal to the amount of distributions authorized to be paid to holders of common units of the Partnership. The units fully vested upon the GP Purchase.

Post-GP Purchase, on November 19, 2019, Mr. Valosky received an award of 2,041 Partnership phantom units in an amount equal to $36,165 based on the closing price of the Partnership’s common units on the date of grant as compensation for his service from November 19, 2019 until June 27, 2020. Such phantom units vest one year from date of award and will vest on July 18, 2020, subject to continued service, and include the payment of distribution equivalent rights equal to the amount of distributions authorized to be paid to holders of common units of the Partnership.

Our directors are reimbursed for all out-of-pocket expenses in connection with attending meetings of the Board or its committees. To the extent permitted under Delaware law, each director is fully indemnified by us for actions associated with being a director.

126

 

---

 

The following table provides the compensation amounts for each of our non-employee directors for 2019.

 

 

 

Compensation Committee Interlocks and Insider Participation

None of the directors or executive officers of our General Partner served as members of the compensation committee of another entity that has or had an executive officer who served as a member of our Board during 2019. We do not have a separate compensation committee. Decisions regarding the compensation of our Couche-Tard NEOs for 2019 were made, as applicable, by Couche-Tard as the owner of our General Partner prior to the GP Purchase.

127

 

---

 

ITEM 12. SECURITY OWNERSHIP OF CERTAIN BENEFICIAL OWNERS AND MANAGEMENT AND RELATED UNITHOLDER MATTERS

As of February 21, 2020, the following table sets forth the beneficial ownership of our common units of:

 

 

 

 

 

128

 

---

 

Securities Authorized for Issuance under Equity Compensation Plans

The following table summarizes information about our equity compensation plans as of December 31, 2019:

 

 

See Note 18 to the financial statements for a discussion of the material terms of the Plan.

ITEM 13. CERTAIN RELATIONSHIPS AND RELATED PARTY TRANSACTIONS, AND DIRECTOR INDEPENDENCE

As of February 21, 2020, the Topper Group beneficially owned or controlled 47.7% of the Partnership’s common units and all of the IDRs.

As of February 21, 2020, John B. Reilly, III owned or controlled 2.6% of the Partnership’s common units.

129

 

---

 

The following is a description of related party transactions since January 1, 2019 to which the Partnership was or is a party, in which the amount involved exceeds $120,000 and in which a director, executive officer, holder of more than 5% of our common units or any member of their immediate family had or will have a direct or indirect material interest, other than the arrangements that are described under “Item 12-Potential Payments Upon Termination or Change in Control.” The terms of the transactions and agreements disclosed in this section were determined by and among related parties and, consequently, are not the result of arm’s length negotiations. Such terms are not necessarily at least as favorable to the parties to these transactions and agreements as the terms that could have been obtained from unrelated third parties.

Distributions and Payments to our General Partner and Certain Related Parties

The following table summarizes the distributions and payments to be made by us to our General Partner and certain related parties in connection with the ongoing operation of our business and distributions and payments that would be made by us if we were to liquidate in accordance with the terms of our Partnership Agreement.

Operational Stage

 

 

130

 

---

 

Ownership of Our General Partner

From June 28, 2017 to November 18, 2019, Circle K indirectly owned all of the membership interests of our General Partner. Since November 19, 2019, the Topper Group has indirectly owned all of the membership interests of our General Partner.

Agreements with Circle K and their Affiliates

On October 1, 2014, we entered into certain agreements with Circle K and its affiliates, as described in more detail below.

As a result of the GP Purchase, Circle K is no longer a related party from November 19, 2019 forward. However, consistent with the disclosures in Note 13 of the financial statements, we have disclosed income statement amounts for transactions with Circle K for the full year of 2019.

Circle K Omnibus Agreement

We entered into the Amended and Restated Omnibus Agreement on October 1, 2014, by and among CrossAmerica, the General Partner, DMI, DMS, CST Services and Joseph V. Topper, Jr. The terms of the Circle K Omnibus Agreement were approved by the independent conflicts committee of our Board. Pursuant to the Circle K Omnibus Agreement, CST Services agrees, among other things, to provide, or cause to be provided, to the Partnership certain management services.

Amounts payable to Circle K related to these transactions were $11.5 million at December 31, 2019. Concurrent with the closing of the GP Purchase, we paid Circle K $14.2 million. The liability balance at December 31, 2019 includes $9.2 million that will be paid in eight quarterly payments starting March 31, 2020. As such, $4.6 million is classified within other long-term liabilities on the December 31, 2019 balance sheet.

Upon the closing of the GP Purchase, the Partnership entered into a Transitional Omnibus Agreement, dated as of November 19, 2019 (the “Transitional Omnibus Agreement”), among the Partnership, the General Partner and Circle K. Pursuant to the Transitional Omnibus Agreement, Circle K has agreed, among other things, to continue to provide, or cause to be provided, to the Partnership certain management, administrative and operating services, as provided under the Circle K Omnibus Agreement through June 30, 2020 with respect to certain services, unless earlier terminated or unless the parties extend the term of certain services. In addition, from January 1, 2020 until the closing of the CST Fuel Supply Exchange (see Note 25 to the financial statements), the General Partner will provide Circle K with certain administrative and operational services, on the terms and conditions set forth in the Transitional Omnibus Agreement.

Fuel Sales and Rental Income

We sell wholesale motor fuel under a master fuel distribution agreement to 47 Circle K retail sites and lease real property on 46 retail sites to Circle K under a master lease agreement, each having initial 10-year terms. The fuel distribution agreement provides us with a fixed wholesale mark-up per gallon. The master lease agreement is a triple net lease.

Revenues from motor fuel sales and real property rental income from Circle K were as follows (in thousands):

 

 

Investment in CST Fuel Supply

As further discussed in Note 13 to the financial statements, we have a 17.5% limited partner equity interest in CST Fuel Supply. CST Fuel Supply distributes motor fuel primarily to CST’s retail sites at its cost plus a fixed margin of $0.05 per gallon and has no material net assets. We recorded income from CST Fuel Supply of $14.8 million for 2019.

Purchase of Fuel from Circle K

During 2019, we purchased the fuel supplied to the following sets of sites from Circle K:

131

 

---

 

In total, we purchased $263.5 million of motor fuel from Circle K in 2019.

Effective February 1, 2018, Couche-Tard began renegotiating fuel carrier agreements, including our wholesale transportation agreements, with third-party carriers. The independent conflicts committee of our Board approved an amendment to the Circle K Omnibus Agreement effective February 1, 2018 providing for the payment by us to an affiliate of Couche-Tard of a commission based on the volume purchased by us on the renegotiated wholesale transportation contracts. This commission is to compensate such affiliate of Couche-Tard for its services in connection with the renegotiations of our fuel carrier agreements with third-party carriers, which resulted in overall reductions in transportation costs to us. This commission amounted to $0.9 million for 2019.

CST Fuel Supply Exchange Agreement

On November 19, 2019, the Partnership entered into an Exchange Agreement (the “CST Fuel Supply Exchange Agreement”) with Circle K. Pursuant to the CST Fuel Supply Exchange Agreement, Circle K has agreed to transfer to the Partnership 45 owned and leased convenience store properties (the “Properties”) and related assets (including fuel supply agreements) relating to such Properties, and U.S. wholesale fuel supply contracts covering 387 additional sites (the “DODO Sites”), and, in exchange, the Partnership has agreed to transfer to Circle K 100% of the limited partnership units in CST Fuel Supply LP that are owned by the Partnership, which represent 17.5% of the outstanding units of CST Fuel Supply LP (collectively, the “CST Fuel Supply Exchange”).

In connection with the execution of the CST Fuel Supply Exchange Agreement, the Partnership and Circle K also entered into an Environmental Responsibility Agreement, dated as of November 19, 2019 (the “ERA”), which agreement sets forth the parties’ respective liabilities and obligations with respect to environmental matters relating to the Properties. As further described in the ERA, Circle K will retain liability for known environmental contamination or non-compliance at the Properties, and the Partnership will assume liability for unknown environmental contamination and non-compliance at the Properties.

The terms of the CST Fuel Supply Exchange Agreement were approved by the independent conflicts committee of the Board.

See Note 25 to the financial statements for additional information.

Agreements with the Topper Group and Affiliates

DMI is affiliated with a director of the Board, Mr. Topper.

Management Services and Term. Pursuant to the Topper Group Omnibus Agreement, DMI provides us and our General Partner with management, administrative and operating services, similar to the services provided previously by Circle K under the Circle K Omnibus Agreement. These services include accounting, tax, legal, internal audit, risk management and compliance, environmental compliance and remediation management oversight, treasury, information technology and other administrative functions. The Topper Group provides the Partnership and our General Partner with personnel necessary to carry out these services and any other services necessary to operate the Partnership’s business as requested by the Partnership. We do not have any obligation to directly compensate the officers of our General Partner or employees of the Topper Group; however, the Partnership reimburses the Topper Group under the Topper Group Omnibus Agreement for its services to the General Partner and Partnership, as described in this section.

The Topper Group Omnibus Agreement will continue in effect until terminated in accordance with its terms. The Topper Group has the right to terminate the Topper Group Omnibus Agreement at any time upon 180 days’ prior written notice, and the General Partner has the right to terminate the Topper Group Omnibus Agreement at any time upon 60 days’ prior written notice.

132

 

---

 

Fees and Reimbursements. As indicated previously, we pay the Topper Group a management fee for providing services at cost without markup. Services provided by, or on behalf of, the Topper Group, not outsourced to an independent third party, include accounting; administrative; billing and invoicing; books and record keeping; budgeting, forecasting, and financial planning and analysis; management (including the management and oversight of the MLP’s wholesale motor fuel distribution and real estate business consistent with past practice); operations; payroll; contract administration; maintenance of internal controls; financial reporting, including SEC reporting and compliance; office space; purchasing and materials management; risk management and administration of insurance programs; information technology (includes hardware and software existing or acquired in the future for which title is retained by the Topper Group); in-house legal; compensation, benefits and human resources administration; cash management; corporate finance, treasury credit and debt administration; employee training; and miscellaneous administration and overhead expenses. In addition, the Partnership is required to reimburse the Topper Group for certain outsourced services to be provided by the Topper Group to or on behalf of the Partnership, as set forth in the Topper Group Omnibus Agreement.

General Indemnification; Limitation of Liability. Pursuant to the Topper Group Omnibus Agreement, we are required to indemnify the Topper Group for any liabilities incurred by the Topper Group attributable to the management, administrative and operating services provided to us under the agreement, other than liabilities resulting from the Topper Group’s bad faith, fraud or willful misconduct. In addition, the Topper Group is required to indemnify us for any liabilities we incur as a result of the Topper Group’s bad faith, fraud or willful misconduct in providing management, administrative and operating services under the Topper Group Omnibus Agreement. Other than indemnification claims based on the Topper Group’s bad faith, fraud or willful misconduct, the Topper Group’s liability to us for services provided under the Topper Group Omnibus Agreement cannot exceed $5,000,000 in the aggregate.

Equity Restructuring

On January 15, 2020, the Partnership entered into an Equity Restructuring Agreement (the “Equity Restructuring Agreement”) with the General Partner and Dunne Manning CAP Holdings II LLC (“DM CAP Holdings”), a wholly owned subsidiary of DMP, which is controlled by Joseph V. Topper, Jr., the Chairman of the Board.

 

Pursuant to the Equity Restructuring Agreement, all of the outstanding IDRs of the Partnership, all of which were held by DM CAP Holdings, were cancelled and converted into 2,528,673 newly-issued common units representing limited partner interests in the Partnership based on a value of $45 million and calculated using the 20 business day volume weighted average trading price of our common units ended five business days prior to the execution of the Equity Restructuring Agreement (the “20-day VWAP”).

 

This transaction closed on February 6, 2020, after the record date for the distribution payable on the Partnership’s common units with respect to the fourth quarter of 2019.

 

The terms of the Equity Restructuring Agreement were approved by the independent conflicts committee of the Board.

 

See Note 25 to the financial statements for additional information.

 

Retail and Wholesale Acquisition

 

In connection with the Partnership’s strategic reorientation to add retail capability, also on January 15, 2020, the Partnership entered into an asset purchase agreement (“Asset Purchase Agreement”) with the sellers (“Sellers”) signatories thereto, including DMS and certain of DMS’s affiliates, with respect to the acquisition (the “Retail Acquisition”) by the Partnership from the Sellers of the retail operations at 172 sites, wholesale fuel distribution to 114 sites, including 55 third-party wholesale dealer contracts, and leasehold interests in at least 53 sites, for an aggregate consideration of $21 million in cash and 842,891 in newly-issued common units valued at $15 million and calculated based on the 20-day VWAP. The Partnership will also acquire for cash the inventory related to the sites. The Partnership expects to finance the aggregate cash consideration with borrowings under its credit facility.

 

The closing of the transactions contemplated by the Asset Purchase Agreement is expected to occur prior to the end of the second quarter of 2020 (such date, the “Retail Acquisition Closing”) and is subject to closing conditions and purchase price adjustments customary in comparable transactions. In addition, the Asset Purchase Agreement contains customary representations and warranties of the parties as well as indemnification obligations by Sellers and the Partnership, respectively, to each other. The indemnification obligations must be asserted within 18 months of the Retail Acquisition Closing and are limited to an aggregate of $7.2 million for each party.

 

133

 

---

 

In connection with the Retail Acquisition Closing, the Partnership will assume certain contracts with third parties and affiliates necessary for the continued operation of the sites, including agreements with dealers and franchise agreements. Further, the Partnership will enter into ten-year master leases with certain affiliates of the Topper Group, with an aggregate annual rent of $6.5 million payable by the Partnership. Additionally, DMS will no longer be a customer or lessee of the Partnership as we will terminate the contracts with DMS upon closing on this transaction.

 

The terms of the Asset Purchase Agreement were approved by the independent conflicts committee of the Board.

 

We anticipate our costs under the Topper Group Omnibus Agreement will increase upon the closing of the Asset Purchase Agreement, at which time the costs of additional employees (both above store as well as store level) will begin to be allocated to the Partnership.

 

See Note 25 to the financial statements for additional information.

Lease Agreements for our Principal Executive Offices

Our principal executive offices are in Allentown, Pennsylvania. We sublease office space from the Topper Group (formerly Circle K) that the Topper Group leases from an affiliate of John B. Reilly, III and Joseph V. Topper, Jr., members of our Board. The management fee charged by Circle K to us under the Circle K Omnibus Agreement incorporates this rental expense, which amounted to $0.7 million for 2019.

Agreements with DMS

DMS is an entity affiliated with the family of Mr. Topper.

DMS is an operator of convenience stores that purchases a significant portion of its motor fuel requirements from us on a wholesale basis. DMS also leases certain retail site real estate from us in accordance with a master lease agreement.

Revenues from fuel sales and rental income from DMS were as follows (in thousands):

 

 

Motor fuel is sold to DMS at our cost plus a fixed mark-up per gallon. Accounts receivable from DMS and its affiliates totaled $4.1 million at December 31, 2019.

Wholesale Fuel Supply Agreement with DMS

In connection with the IPO, the Partnership and DMS entered into a PMPA Franchise Agreement pursuant to which the Partnership is the exclusive distributor of motor fuel to all sites operated by DMS for a period of 15 years. We have the right to impose the brand of fuel that is distributed to DMS. There are no minimum volume requirements that DMS is required to satisfy. We charged DMS rack-plus prices for each grade of product in effect at the time title to the product passes to DMS. We have a right of first refusal in connection with any proposed transfer by DMS of its interest in the wholesale supply agreement. The wholesale supply agreement contains cross-default provisions with each lease agreement with DMS.

Lease Agreement with DMS

On May 28, 2014, we entered into a master lease agreement with DMS, with an effective date of June 1, 2014, which consolidated multiple individual leases then in effect between DMS and the Partnership into a single master lease agreement.

134

 

---

 

In March 2019, we entered into an amendment of the master lease and master fuel supply agreements with DMS. These amendments resulted in the following:

During the third quarter of 2019, DMS gave notice to sever 12 sites in January 2020 from the master lease and master fuel supply agreements, resulting in the write-off of deferred rent income of $0.6 million, classified within the loss on dispositions and lease terminations, net line item of the statement of income.

Maintenance and Environmental Costs

Certain maintenance and environmental monitoring and remediation activities are undertaken by Synergy Environmental, Inc., an entity affiliated with Mr. Topper, as approved by the conflicts committee of the Board. We incurred charges with this related party of $1.0 million for 2019. Accounts payable to this related party amounted to $0.1 million at December 31, 2019.

Other Related Party Transactions

The Partnership leases certain motor fuel stations to TopStar, a related party of Mr. Topper, under cancelable operating leases. Rent income under these agreements was $0.5 million for 2019.

The Partnership leases certain motor fuel stations from the Topper Group under cancelable operating leases. Rent expense under these agreements was $1.1 million for 2019.

Review, Approval and Ratification of Related Person Transactions

The Board has adopted a Code of Ethics and Business Conduct that provides that the Board or its authorized committee will periodically review all related person transactions that are required to be disclosed under SEC rules and, when appropriate, initially authorize or ratify all such transactions. In the event that the Board or its authorized committee considers ratification of a related person transaction and determines not to so ratify, the Code of Ethics and Business Conduct provides that our management will make all reasonable efforts to cancel or annul the transaction.

The Code of Ethics and Business Conduct provides that, in determining whether or not to recommend the initial approval or ratification of a related person transaction, the Board or its authorized committee should consider all of the relevant facts and circumstances available, including (if applicable) but not limited to: (i) whether there is an appropriate business justification for the transaction; (ii) the benefits that accrue to us as a result of the transaction; (iii) the terms available to unrelated third parties entering into similar transactions; (iv) the impact of the transaction on a director’s independence (in the event the related person is a director, an immediate family member of a director or an entity in which a director or an immediately family member of a director is a partner, shareholder, member or executive officer); (v) the availability of other sources for comparable products or services; (vi) whether it is a single transaction or a series of ongoing, related transactions; and (vii) whether entering into the transaction would be consistent with the Code of Ethics and Business Conduct.

Director Independence

For a discussion of the independence of the Board, please see “Item 10. Directors, Executive Officers and Corporate Governance Management.”

ITEM 14. PRINCIPAL ACCOUNTANT FEES AND SERVICES

The audit committee of the board of directors of our General Partner selected Grant Thornton LLP, or Grant Thornton, an independent registered public accounting firm, to audit our consolidated financial statements for 2019. The audit committee’s charter requires the audit committee to approve in advance all audit and non-audit services to be provided by our independent registered public accounting firm. All services reported in the audit, audit-related, tax and all other fees categories below with respect to this 2019 Annual Report on Form 10-K were approved by the audit committee.

135

 

---

 

The following table summarizes the aggregate Grant Thornton fees that were allocated to us for independent auditing, tax and related services for each of the last two fiscal years (in thousands):

 

 

 

 

Audit Committee Approval of Audit and Non-audit Services

The audit committee of the board of directors of our General Partner has adopted a pre-approval policy with respect to services which may be performed by Grant Thornton. This policy lists specific audit-related services as well as any other services that Grant Thornton is authorized to perform and sets out specific dollar limits for each specific service, which may not be exceeded without additional audit committee authorization. The audit committee reviews the policy at least annually in order to approve services and limits for the current year. Any service that is not clearly enumerated in the policy must receive specific pre-approval by the audit committee prior to engagement.

136

 

---

 

PART IV

ITEM 15. EXHIBITS AND FINANCIAL STATEMENT SCHEDULES

 

 

2. Financial Statement Schedules and Other Financial Information. No financial statement schedules are submitted because either they are inapplicable or because the required information is included in the financial statements or notes thereto.

3. EXHIBITS. Filed as part of this Form 10-K are the following exhibits:

 

137

 

---

 

138

 

---

 

139

 

---

 

140

 

---

 

 

ITEM 16. FORM 10-K SUMMARY

 

None.

 

141

 

---

 

SIGNATURES

Pursuant to the requirements of Section 13 or 15(d) of the Securities Exchange Act of 1934, the registrant has duly caused this report to be signed on its behalf by the undersigned, thereunto duly authorized.

 

 

Date: February 25, 2020

Pursuant to the requirements of the Securities Exchange Act of 1934, this report has been signed below by the following persons on behalf of the registrant and in the capacities indicated on February 25, 2020.

 

 

142