This session will include a brief update on M&A activity in the rapidly consolidating petroleum marketing and convenience store industries and a discussion of what is driving valuations in the current marketplace. The session will also include insights from Paul Steen, Managing Director at First Reserve, the private equity fund that owns Refuel, a convenience retail chain based in Charleston, SC with 200+ locations in the Southeast U.S. Paul will discuss what the key factors were behind First Reserve’s desire to acquire a platform in the convenience retail industry, their experience thus far and how choosing the right private equity partner can fuel growth of your business and shareholder value. In addition, Travis Smith, Chief Development Officer of Refuel, will provide color on what it’s like to operate a business in the industry with a very well-capitalized and experienced private equity fund as an owner and financial partner. There will be ample time for participants to ask questions.