Whitehall/Montague, MI — A well-known local business name is undergoing a big change. McCormick Convenience Stores, a family-run chain with five locations across the White Lake area, has been sold to American Gas & Oil (AGO), a fuel retailer based in Sparta, Michigan. The sale, which took place in July 2024, includes not only the gas stations but also The Lunch Box deli locations and McCormick Transport, according to public posts from a McCormick family representative.
Residents first noticed changes after new CITGO-branded fuel canopies appeared at the Montague McCormick station on Fruitvale Road this week. Photos quickly circulated on social media, leading to community questions about whether McCormick had been sold.
In response, Cody McCormick confirmed the transition publicly on Facebook:
“We sold to American Gas and Oil out of Sparta in July. All 5 McCormick C-Stores, as well as The Lunch Box and McCormick Transport. It is branded CITGO… We still have the same employees as well as our famous cookies and cinnamon rolls!”
AGO now operates 57 store locations throughout Michigan and uses CITGO as its fuel supplier, which explains the rapid rebranding effort now underway in Whitehall, Montague, New Era, Rothbury, and Twin Lake.
What Will Change
- Fuel will now be sold under the CITGO brand
- Store systems and pricing will switch to AGO/CITGO
- Exterior signs and fuel canopies are being updated
What Will Stay the Same
- Local employees remain in place
- McCormick baked goods and food offerings continue
- Gift cards and refill programs still honored during transition
- Community engagement expected to continue
According to Cody McCormick, customers can continue using McCormick gift cards, mugs, and popcorn buckets, which will be transferred to new AGO/CITGO systems.
“We completely understand the confusion and frustration — it’s a big transition for us all. However, the 2025 McCormick cups with refill deals and popcorn buckets will be honored,” he said.
About AGO (American Gas & Oil)
Based in Sparta, Michigan, AGO is a regional convenience store operator that has expanded steadily over the past decade through acquisitions across West and Central Michigan. Their current portfolio includes CITGO and Marathon-branded fuel stations, along with a growing convenience store footprint.
Community Reactions
Feedback from area residents shows mixed emotions — many express loyalty to the McCormick name and concern about losing a local business, while others note this may bring new investment and upgrades to stores.
How do you feel about McCormick becoming CITGO — are you hopeful, concerned, or just curious to see what happens next?
Understanding TIFA, Brownfield, and LDFA: Tools for Community Investment
