Circle K acquires historic North Dakota retailer

Dusterhoft Family Stores in Grand Forks transitions ownership with no service disruptions expected.

After serving the Grand Forks, North Dakota, community for nearly half a century, Dusterhoft Family Stores is set to transition to new ownership under Circle K. 

The acquisition was announced by the Dusterhoft family on April 14, with the official changeover scheduled for April 22. Founded in 1977, the company has been a local mainstay in the convenience and fuel retail space, operating two locations that will remain open and continue operations without interruption during the transition.

“For nearly 50 years, the Grand Forks community has been at the heart of everything we do. While we are excited for what lies ahead, it’s incredibly important for us to recognize and thank our loyal customers and employees who have supported us over the years,” said Scott Dusterhoft, Dusterhoft Family Stores’ current owner.

Circle K, originally founded in El Paso, Texas in 1952, has grown into a global brand following its 2003 acquisition by Canadian-based Alimentation Couche-Tard. In Grand Forks, the company already operates several locations under the Circle K and Holiday Stationstore banners, the latter joining the Couche-Tard portfolio through a 2017 acquisition.

The addition of Dusterhoft Family Stores further strengthens the retailer’s regional presence while marking the end of an era for one of Grand Forks’ most enduring family-run businesses.