Who Founded Kwik Trip
Kwik Trip was founded by Donald and Barbara LaMothe in 1965 in Eau Claire, Wisconsin. The couple opened their first small convenience store with a focus on fresh food and fuel.
Early Growth of the Company
The business expanded steadily under the LaMothe family, emphasizing private-label products and tight store operations. Kwik Trip later became Kwik Trip, Inc., and grew into one of the largest privately held convenience store chains in the United States.
Company Structure and Ownership Today
Kwik Trip remains privately held by the founding family and its employees. The company operates hundreds of locations across Wisconsin, Minnesota, Iowa, and Illinois, and is known for its employee ownership model and centralized distribution system.
Key Facts About the Kwik Trip Founder
Donald LaMothe started with a single store and built a regional brand focused on value and freshness. The company is headquartered in La Crosse, Wisconsin, and continues to be led by members of the LaMothe family.
