What was the total number of Circle K outlets at the end of 2024?
Circle_K Franchise · 2025 FDDAnswer from 2025 FDD Document
| Outlets at the | Outlets at the | |||
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Net | ||||
| Outlet Type | Year | Start of the Year | End of the Year | Change |
| 2023 | 636 | 639 | +3 | |
| Franchised | 2024 | 639 | 586 | -53 |
| Outlets | 2025 | 586 | 569 | -17 |
| 2023 | 5261 | 5289 | +28 | |
| Company- | 2024 | 5289 | 5477 | +188 |
| Owned** | 2025 | 5477 | 5556 | +79 |
| 2023 | 5897 | 5928 | +31 | |
| Total Outlets | 2024 | 5928 | 6063 | +135 |
| 2025 | 6063 | 6125 | +62 |
Source: Item 20 — OUTLETS AND FRANCHISEE INFORMATION (FDD pages 86–99)
What This Means (2025 FDD)
According to Circle K's 2025 Franchise Disclosure Document, the total number of Circle K outlets at the end of 2024 was 6,063. This number reflects the net change of +135 outlets during 2024, starting with 5,928 outlets at the beginning of the year. This total includes both franchised and company-owned locations.
For a prospective franchisee, this indicates the overall size and growth of the Circle K brand. A large and growing network can offer benefits such as brand recognition and potentially stronger negotiating power with suppliers. However, it's important to note that the number of franchised outlets specifically decreased from 639 to 586 during 2024, while company-owned outlets increased from 5,289 to 5,477. This shift may suggest a strategic focus on company-owned stores rather than franchised locations.
It is important for potential franchisees to investigate the reasons behind these changes in outlet numbers. Understanding the dynamics between franchised and company-owned stores can provide valuable insights into Circle K's long-term strategy and its commitment to supporting its franchisees. Further research and discussions with current franchisees are recommended to gain a comprehensive understanding of the franchise system's health and future prospects.