Mergers & Acquisitions

Alimentation Couche-Tard Inc. has appointed Claude Tessier as its CFO, effective Jan. 28. The leader in the Canadian convenience store industry, Couche-Tard is the largest independent convenience store operator in the United States terms of number of company-operated stores.

The industry veteran joins Couche-Tard from Canadian grocer Sobeys Inc., where he was president of the IGA Operations Business Unit.

A timely acquisition helped Coach Inc.’s post a sales gain in the second quarter — its first quarterly increase in 10 quarters.

The handbag and accessories retailer’s total sales increased 4.0% in the quarter ended December 26, to $1.27 billion, up from $1.22 billion in the year ago period.

In the name of creating a more efficient and focused organization, Staples announced several key senior leadership moves while its acquisition of rival Office Depot appears in jeopardy.

Shira Goodman, currently president, North American commercial, has been named president, North American operations with responsibility for Staples’ business-to-business, online and retail operations across the United States and Canada.

Starbucks Corp. is still hot for tea, but it’s not feeling too warm and cozy about its Teavana "tea bar" format, which debuted in New York City about two years ago. The concept sought to elevate the tea-drinking experience, much the way Starbucks did for coffee, and featured an array of tea-related beverages and food items in a comfortable environment that encouraged people to linger.

In the name of creating a more efficient and focused organization, Staples announced several key senior leadership moves while its acquisition of rival Office Depot appears in jeopardy.

Shira Goodman, currently president, North American commercial, has been named president, North American operations with responsibility for Staples’ business-to-business, online and retail operations across the United States and Canada.

Troutdale, Ore. -- Time Equities announced the expansion of its Northwest portfolio with the acquisition of Columbia Gorge Premium Outlets, located in Troutdale, Oregon for $28,425,000.

Oakbrook, Illinois -- Retail Properties of America announced that it has acquired two-properties to add to its portfolio, which include Merrifield Town Center II and Shoppes at Hagerstown, both located in the greater Washington, D.C./Baltimore area. The properties were acquired through an off-market transaction, on an unencumbered basis, for a combined purchase price of $72.7 million.

Oakbrook Terrace, Illinois -- Mid-America Real Estate Corporation’s Investment Sales team brokered the sale of Broadway Commons in Rochester, Minnesota. Austin, Texas-based Epic Real Estate Partners purchased the 140,578-sq. ft. property.

Broadway Commons is located at the northeast corner of South Broadway and US Highway 52. The center features national tenants including Bed Bath & Beyond, Dress Barn, DSW, Famous Footwear and Michael’s.

Fort Worth, Texas -- Trademark Property Co. announced Phil Pearson has joined the firm as VP of leasing. A 30-year industry veteran, Pearson will help manage multiple leasing projects for Trademark. Pearson will work with potential tenants, development partners and construction representatives to coordinate the entire leasing process. He will create and maintain relationships with national retailers, restaurants, brokers and consultants.