Kum & Go, Thorntons Join Growth Energy's Ranks

WASHINGTON, D.C. — Growth Energy added two more leading fuel and convenience store retailers to its ranks of associate members: Kum & Go LC and Thorntons Inc.

"We are thrilled to welcome Kum & Go and Thorntons to the Growth Energy team," said Emily Skor, CEO of Growth Energy. "We have been working with both retailers through the Prime the Pump program to increase the availability of higher ethanol blends, like E15 and E85, across the country.

"Kum & Go and Thorntons are leaders and innovators within the retail fuel space, and have time and again demonstrated a commitment to expanding consumer choice at the pump, and providing their customers with a first-class experience. We are proud to add them to our membership, and look forward to continuing to drive positive change in the fuel industry together," she added.

Last year, West Des Moines-based Kum & Go partnered with Growth Energy to expand the company's offering of higher ethanol blends, like E15. The c-store chain first began offering E15 in April 2015 at a Windsor Heights, Iowa, store, CSNews Online previously reported.

"We have a strong tradition of implementing sustainability within our business and being at the forefront of innovation. Kum & Go was among the first to introduce 10-percent ethanol blends, and began including E85 as a fuel option in 1997. Higher ethanol blends are typically less expensive at the pump, and reduce the number of pollutants in fuel," stated Kum & Go's Vice President of Fuels Jim Pirolli.

"Having blends like E15 and E85 in our portfolio allows us to offer customers a quality product at a great value. Joining Growth Energy is the next step in continuing to bring the benefits of ethanol to our customers," the executive added.

Based in Louisville, Ky., Thorntons began selling E15 fuel at 43 Chicago-area locations in March 2016 under its trademarked Unleaded15 brand name. The move was applauded by Growth Energy.

"Our goal is to provide our customers with the best possible fuel options. Higher ethanol blends typically offer lower cost, improved engine performance, and reduced greenhouse gas emissions. We will continue to work with Growth Energy to expand access for higher blends to meet our customers’ growing demand," said Jeff Gallic, Thornton's vice president of fuel supply.

E15 contains up to 15-percent ethanol and up to 85-percent gasoline.  

Washington, D.C.-headquartered Growth Energy is a representative of the producers and supporters of ethanol and other alternative fuels.