ITEM 7. MANAGEMENT’S DISCUSSION AND ANALYSIS OF FINANCIAL CONDITION AND RESULTS OF OPERATIONS
The following MD&A is intended to help the reader understand our results of operations and financial condition. This section is provided as a supplement to and should be read in conjunction with Items 1, 1A and 8 (which includes our financial statements) contained in this report.
MD&A is organized as follows:
•
Recent Developments—This section describes significant recent developments.
•
Significant Factors Affecting Our Profitability—This section describes the most significant factors impacting our results of operations.
•
Results of Operations—This section provides an analysis of our results of operations on a consolidated basis and for each of our segments as well as a discussion of non-GAAP financial measures.
•
Liquidity and Capital Resources—This section provides a discussion of our financial condition and cash flows. It also includes a discussion of our debt, capital requirements, other matters impacting our liquidity and capital resources and an outlook for our business.
•
New Accounting Policies—This section describes new accounting pronouncements that we have already adopted, those that we are required to adopt in the future and those that became applicable in the current year as a result of new circumstances.
•
Critical Accounting Policies and Estimates—This section describes the accounting policies and estimates that we consider most important for our business and that require significant judgment.
39
Recent Developments
Amendment and Restatement of CAPL Credit Facility
On March 31, 2023, the Partnership and its subsidiary, LGWS (together with the Partnership, the “Borrowers”), amended and restated the CAPL Credit Facility. As amended, the CAPL Credit Facility provides for an increase of the senior secured revolving credit facility from $750 million to $925 million and extends the maturity date from April 1, 2024 to March 31, 2028. The credit facility can be increased from time to time upon the Partnership’s written request, subject to certain conditions, up to an additional $350 million. The aggregate amount of the outstanding loans and letters of credit under the CAPL Credit Facility cannot exceed the combined revolving commitments then in effect. Certain subsidiaries of the Borrowers are guarantors ("Guarantors") of all of the obligations under the CAPL Credit Facility. All obligations under the CAPL Credit Facility are secured by substantially all of the Partnership’s assets and substantially all of the assets of the Guarantors.
Borrowings under the credit facility bear interest, at the Partnership’s option, at (1) a rate equal to the secured overnight financing rate (“SOFR”), for interest periods of one, three or six months, plus a margin ranging from 1.75% to 2.75% per annum depending on the Partnership’s Consolidated Leverage Ratio (as defined in the CAPL Credit Facility) plus a customary credit spread adjustment or (2) (a) an alternative base rate equal to the greatest of (i) the federal funds rate plus 0.5% per annum, (ii) SOFR for one month interest periods plus 1.00% per annum or (iii) the rate of interest established by the Agent (as defined in the CAPL Credit Facility), from time to time, as its prime rate, plus (b) a margin ranging from 0.75% to 1.75% per annum depending on the Partnership’s Consolidated Leverage Ratio. In addition, the Partnership incurs a commitment fee based on the unused portion of the credit facility at a rate ranging from 0.25% to 0.45% per annum depending on the Partnership’s Consolidated Leverage Ratio.
The Partnership also has the right to borrow swingline loans under the CAPL Credit Facility in an amount up to $35.0 million. Swingline loans bear interest at the base rate plus the applicable alternative base rate margin.
Letters of credit may be issued under the CAPL Credit Facility up to an aggregate amount of $65.0 million. Letters of credit are subject to a 0.125% fronting fee and other customary administrative charges. Letters of credit accrue a fee at a rate based on the applicable margin of SOFR loans.
The CAPL Credit Facility also contains certain financial covenants. The Partnership is required to maintain a Consolidated Leverage Ratio (as defined in the CAPL Credit Facility) of (i) for each fiscal quarter ending March 31, 2023, June 30, 2023, September 30, 2023 and December 31, 2023, not greater than 5.25 to 1.00, (ii) for each fiscal quarter ending March 31, 2024, June 30, 2024 and September 30, 2024, not greater than 5.00 to 1.00, and (iii) for each fiscal quarter ending December 31, 2024 and thereafter, not greater than 4.75 to 1.00. For the quarter during a Specified Acquisition Period (as defined in the CAPL Credit Facility), such threshold will be increased by increasing the numerator thereof by 0.5, but such numerator may not exceed 5.25 to 1.00. Upon the occurrence of a Qualified Note Offering (as defined in the CAPL Credit Facility), the Consolidated Leverage Ratio threshold when not in a Specified Acquisition Period is increased to 5.25 to 1.00, while the Specified Acquisition Period threshold is 5.50 to 1.00. Upon the occurrence of a Qualified Note Offering, the Partnership is also required to maintain a Consolidated Senior Secured Leverage Ratio (as defined in the CAPL Credit Facility) for the most recently completed four fiscal quarter period of not greater than 3.75 to 1.00. Such threshold is increased to 4.00 to 1.00 for the quarter during a Specified Acquisition Period. The Partnership is also required to maintain a Consolidated Interest Coverage Ratio (as defined in the CAPL Credit Facility) of at least 2.50 to 1.00.
The incremental borrowings at the closing of the amended and restated CAPL Credit Facility were used to repay outstanding borrowings under the JKM Credit Facility, which was terminated on March 31, 2023, and to pay fees and expenses in connection with the CAPL Credit Facility and the termination of the JKM Credit Facility.
The CAPL Credit Facility prohibits the Partnership from making cash distributions to its unitholders if any event of default occurs or would result from the distribution. In addition, the CAPL Credit Facility contains various covenants that may limit, among other things, the Partnership’s ability to:
•
grant liens;
•
incur or assume other indebtedness;
•
materially alter the character of the Partnership’s business in any material respect;
•
enter into certain mergers, liquidations and dissolutions; and
•
make certain investments, acquisitions or dispositions.
40
If an event of default exists under the CAPL Credit Facility, the lenders will be able to accelerate the maturity of the CAPL Credit Facility and exercise other rights and remedies. Events of default include, among others, the following:
•
failure to pay any principal under the CAPL Credit Facility when due or any interest, fees or other amounts under the CAPL Credit Facility when due after a grace period;
•
failure of any representation or warranty to be true and correct in any material respect;
•
failure to perform or otherwise comply with the covenants in the CAPL Credit Facility or in other loan documents without a waiver or amendment;
•
any default in the performance of any obligation or condition beyond the applicable grace period relating to any other indebtedness of more than $45.0 million;
•
certain judgment default for monetary judgments exceeding $45.0 million;
•
bankruptcy or insolvency event involving the Partnership or any of its subsidiaries;
•
certain Employee Retirement Income Security Act of 1974 (ERISA) violations;
•
a Change of Control (as defined in the CAPL Credit Facility) without a waiver or amendment; and
•
failure of the lenders for any reason to have a perfected first priority security interest in a material portion of the collateral granted by the Partnership or any of its subsidiaries.
In connection with amending the CAPL Credit Facility and terminating the JKM Credit Facility, the Partnership wrote off $1.1 million of deferred financing costs in the first quarter of 2023.
See Note 11 to the financial statements for additional information regarding the CAPL Credit Facility and the termination of the JKM Credit Facility.
Additional Interest Rate Swap Contracts
In April and November 2023, we entered into a total of six additional interest rate swap contracts. Five of the interest rate swap contracts are spot-start contracts with a total notional amount of $300 million and hedge variable interest rate payments for the remaining term of the CAPL Credit Facility (through March 2028). One of the interest rate swap contracts has a notional amount of $100 million and is a forward-starting interest rate swap contract that hedges variable interest rate payments from April 1, 2024 through the remaining term of the CAPL Credit Facility. All of these interest rate swap contracts have been designated as cash flow hedges and are expected to be highly effective.
See Note 12 to the financial statements for additional information regarding these additional interest rate swap contracts.
Subsequent Events
On January 26, 2024, we entered into an agreement (the “Applegreen Purchase Agreement”) to acquire certain assets from Applegreen Midwest, LLC and Applegreen Florida, LLC (collectively, the “Sellers”) (the “Applegreen Acquisition”). The assets will be acquired via the termination of the Partnership’s existing lease agreements with the Sellers at 59 locations, for total consideration of $16.9 million. The Partnership will also acquire for cash the inventory at the locations. The terms of the Partnership’s existing leases with Applegreen Midwest, LLC and Applegreen Florida, LLC can be extended to 2049 and 2048, respectively, including all renewal options. The termination of the existing lease agreements pursuant to the Applegreen Purchase Agreement is contemplated to occur during the first and second quarters of 2024 and is subject to customary closing conditions. In addition, the Applegreen Purchase Agreement contains customary representations and warranties of the parties as well as indemnification obligations by the Sellers and the Partnership, respectively, to each other. This transaction will result in the conversion of these lessee dealer sites to company operated sites.
On February 20, 2024, in connection with the Applegreen Acquisition, we entered into an amendment (the “Amendment”) to the CAPL Credit Facility. The Amendment, among other things, modifies the definition of Consolidated EBITDA contained in the CAPL Credit Facility to permit the full addback of certain lease termination expenses incurred in connection with the Applegreen Acquisition and the addback of other lease termination expenses incurred in connection with future transactions, subject to certain terms and conditions. The Amendment does not become effective until the closing of at least one transaction under the Applegreen Purchase Agreement. All other terms and conditions of the CAPL Credit Facility remain in full force and effect.
41
Significant Factors Affecting our Profitability
The Significance of Crude Oil and Wholesale Motor Fuel Prices on Our Revenues, Cost of Sales and Gross Profit
The prices paid to our motor fuel suppliers for wholesale motor fuel (which affects our cost of sales) are highly correlated to the price of crude oil. The crude oil commodity markets are highly volatile, and the market prices of crude oil, and, correspondingly, the market prices of wholesale motor fuel, experience significant and rapid fluctuations. For approximately 60% of gallons sold, we receive a per gallon rate equal to the posted rack price, less any applicable discounts, plus transportation costs, taxes and a fixed rate per gallon of motor fuel. The remaining gallons are either retail sales or wholesale DTW contracts that provide for variable, market-based pricing.
Regarding our supplier relationships, a material amount of our total gallons purchased are subject to prompt payment discounts. The dollar value of these discounts varies with changes in motor fuel prices. Therefore, in periods of lower wholesale motor fuel prices, our gross profit is negatively affected, and, in periods of higher wholesale motor fuel prices, our gross profit is positively affected (as it relates to these discounts).
In our retail business, we attempt to pass along wholesale motor fuel price changes to our retail customers through “at the pump” retail price changes; however, market conditions do not always allow us to do so immediately. The timing of any related increase or decrease in “at the pump” retail prices is affected by competitive conditions in each geographic market in which we operate. As such, the prices we charge our customers for motor fuel and the gross profit we receive on our motor fuel sales can increase or decrease significantly over short periods of time.
Changes in our average motor fuel selling price per gallon and gross margin are directly related to the changes in crude oil and wholesale motor fuel prices. Variations in our reported revenues and cost of sales are, therefore, primarily related to the price of crude oil and wholesale motor fuel prices and generally not as a result of changes in motor fuel sales volumes, unless otherwise indicated and discussed below.
Seasonality Effects on Volumes
Our business is subject to seasonality due to our wholesale and retail sites being located in certain geographic areas that are affected by seasonal weather and temperature trends and associated changes in retail customer activity during different seasons. Historically, sales volumes have been highest in the second and third quarters (during the summer months) and lowest during the winter months in the first and fourth quarters.
Impact of Inflation
Inflation affects our financial performance by increasing certain components of cost of goods sold, such as fuel, merchandise, and credit card fees. Inflation also affects certain operating expenses, such as labor costs, certain leases, and general and administrative expenses. While our wholesale segment benefits from higher terms discounts as a result of higher fuel costs, inflation could and recently has negatively impacted our cost of goods sold and operating expenses. Although we have historically been able to pass on increased costs through price increases, there can be no assurance that we will be able to do so in the future.
Impact of Interest Rates
Increases in interest rates (particularly SOFR) have increased our interest expense as further described below. Although we have hedged $600 million of our variable-rate debt, we are exposed to changes in interest rates on the balance of our variable-rate debt.
Acquisition and Financing Activity
Our results of operations and financial condition are also impacted by our acquisition and financing activities as summarized below.
2021
•
From late June 2021 through December 31, 2021, we closed on the purchase of 103 sites of our 106-site acquisition from 7-Eleven.
2022
•
In February 2022, we closed on the final three properties of our 106-site acquisition from 7-Eleven.
42
•
In March 2022, Holdings issued $25 million in preferred membership interests.
•
On November 9, 2022, we closed on the acquisition of assets from CSS.
2023
•
On March 31, 2023, we amended and restated the CAPL Credit Facility and terminated the JKM Credit Facility. See Note 11 to the financial statements for additional information.
Results of Operations
We have omitted discussion of the earliest of the three years covered by our consolidated financial statements presented in this Annual Report because that disclosure was already included in our Annual Report on Form 10-K for the fiscal year ended December 31, 2022, filed with the SEC on February 28, 2023. You are encouraged to reference Part II, Item 7, within that report, for a discussion of our financial condition and results of operations for the year ended December 31, 2022 as compared to the year ended December 31, 2021.
Consolidated Income Statement Analysis
Below is an analysis of our consolidated statements of income and provides the primary reasons for significant increases and decreases in the various income statement line items from period to period. Our consolidated statements of income are as follows (in thousands):
Year Ended December 31,
Operating expenses:
Gain on dispositions and lease terminations, net 4,737 1,143 2,037
Accretion of preferred membership interests 2,488 1,726 —
Year Ended December 31,2023 Compared to Year Ended December 31,2022
Consolidated Results
Operating revenues decreased $581 million (12%) and operating income decreased $7.9 million (8%). These results were driven by:
Operating revenues
•
A $400 million (15%) decrease in our wholesale segment revenues primarily attributable to an 18% decrease in the average spot price of WTI crude oil to $77.58 per barrel in 2023, compared to $94.90 per barrel in 2022. The wholesale price of motor fuel is highly correlated to the price of crude oil. See “Significant Factors Affecting our Profitability—The Significance of Crude Oil and Wholesale Motor Fuel Prices on Our Revenues, Cost of Sales and Gross Profit.” Volume was flat compared to 2022 due to the volume generated by the acquisition of assets from CSS, offset by the net loss of independent dealer contracts and the conversion of certain lessee dealer sites to company operated and commission sites.
43
•
A $181 million (8%) decrease in our retail segment revenues primarily attributable to a 13% decrease in the average retail selling price per gallon in 2023 as compared to 2022 generally due to the decrease in wholesale motor fuel prices noted above. In addition, volume increased 2% due primarily to an increase in site count due to the conversion of certain lessee dealer sites to company operated and commission sites. Lastly, merchandise revenues increased $35.8 million (13%) driven by an increase in the company operated site count due to the conversion of certain lessee dealer and commission agent sites to company operated sites as well as stronger performance in the base business.
Cost of sales
Cost of sales decreased $588 million (13%), which was a result of the decrease in wholesale motor fuel prices, partially offset by the increase in merchandise cost of sales driven by the conversion of certain lessee dealer and commission agent sites to company operated sites discussed above.
Gross profit
Gross profit increased $6.5 million (2%), which was primarily driven by an increase in merchandise gross profit driven by the conversion of certain lessee dealer and commission agent sites to company operated sites, partially offset by a decrease in motor fuel gross profit within our retail segment. See "Segment Results" for additional gross profit analyses.
Operating expenses
See “Segment Results” for additional analyses.
General and administrative expenses
General and administrative expenses increased $1.5 million (6%) driven by an increase in equity-based compensation expense as a result of more grants being outstanding in 2023 as compared to 2022 and higher legal fees.
Depreciation, amortization and accretion expense
Depreciation, amortization and accretion expense decreased $3.5 million (4%) primarily driven by a $2.0 million decrease in impairment charges in comparison to prior year, as well as assets becoming fully depreciated.
Gain on dispositions and lease terminations, net
During 2023 and 2022, respectively, we recorded $6.5 million and $3.5 million in net gains related to sites sold in connection with our ongoing real estate rationalization effort, partially offset by net losses on lease terminations and asset disposals.
Interest expense
Interest expense increased $11.6 million (36%), primarily due to an increase in interest rates (net of the impact of the interest rate swaps). In addition, we wrote off $1.1 million in deferred financing costs in the first quarter of 2023 as a result of the amendment and restatement of the CAPL Credit Facility and termination of the JKM Credit Facility.
Income tax expense
We recorded income tax expense of $2.5 million and $0.7 million for 2023 and 2022, respectively, driven by the income generated by our taxable subsidiaries.
Accretion of preferred membership interests
In connection with the issuance of preferred membership interests in March 2022 as further discussed in Note 18 to the financial statements, we recorded accretion in 2023 and 2022 of $2.5 million and $1.7 million, respectively.
Segment Results
We present the results of operations of our segments consistent with how our management views the business.
44
Wholesale
The following table highlights the results of operations and certain operating metrics of our wholesale segment. The narrative following these tables provides an analysis of the results of operations of that segment (thousands of dollars, except for the number of distribution sites and per gallon amounts):
Year Ended December 31,
Gross profit:
Motor fuel distribution sites (end of period): (a)
(a)
In addition, we distributed motor fuel to sub-wholesalers who distributed to additional sites.
(b)
The decrease in the independent dealer site count from December 31, 2022 to December 31, 2023 was primarily attributable to the net loss of contracts, partially offset by divestitures of certain lessee dealer sites but with continued fuel supply.
(c)
The decrease in the lessee dealer site count from December 31, 2022 to December 31, 2023 was primarily attributable to the conversion of certain lessee dealer sites to company operated sites, largely in the second quarter of 2023, the conversion of certain lessee dealer sites to commission sites, largely in the fourth quarter of 2023, and our real estate rationalization effort.
Year Ended December 31,2023 Compared to Year Ended December 31,2022
Gross profit decreased $1.9 million (1%) and operating income decreased $2.9 million (3%). These results were driven by:
Motor fuel gross profit
The $0.7 million (1%) decrease in motor fuel gross profit was primarily driven by a 1% decrease in our average fuel margin per gallon as compared to 2022 driven by lower terms discounts due to lower crude oil prices, partially offset by better sourcing costs as a result of brand consolidation and other initiatives. The average spot price of WTI crude oil decreased 18% from $94.90 per barrel in 2022 to $77.58 per barrel in 2023. See “Significant Factors Affecting our Profitability—The Significance of Crude Oil and Wholesale Motor Fuel Prices on Our Revenues, Cost of Sales and Gross Profit.”
Volume was flat for 2023 as compared to 2022 due to the volume generated by the acquisition of assets from CSS offset by the net loss of independent dealer contracts and the conversion of certain lessee dealer sites to company operated and commission sites.
Rent gross profit
Rent gross profit was flat for 2023 as compared to 2022 primarily due to $2.1 million of rent increases from our customers as well as the reopening of closed sites, partially offset by a $2.1 million decrease in rent gross profit due to the conversion of certain lessee dealer sites to company operated sites.
45
Other revenues
Other revenues decreased $1.3 million (19%) due primarily to lower dealer contract termination fees and the conversion of certain lessee dealer sites to company operated and commission sites.
Operating expenses
Operating expenses increased $0.9 million (2%), primarily as a result of higher maintenance costs and management fees.
Retail
The following table highlights the results of operations and certain operating metrics of our retail segment. The narrative following these tables provides an analysis of the results of operations of that segment (in thousands, except for the number of retail sites and per gallon amounts):
Year Ended December 31,
Gross profit:
Retail sites (end of period):
Total retail segment statistics:
Company operated site statistics:
Margin per gallon, before deducting credit card fees $ 0.400 $ 0.426 $ 0.309
Merchandise gross profit percentage 28.4 % 27.2 % 26.4 %
Commission site statistics:
(a)
The increase in the company operated site count from December 31, 2022 to December 31, 2023 was primarily attributable to the conversion of certain lessee dealer and commission agent sites to company operated sites, largely during the second quarter of 2023.
(b)
The decrease in the commission agent site count from December 31, 2022 to December 31, 2023 was primarily attributable to the conversion of certain commission agent sites to company operated sites, largely during the first quarter of 2023, offset by the conversion of certain lessee dealer sites to commission sites, largely during the fourth quarter of 2023.
46
Year Ended December 31,2023 Compared to Year Ended December 31,2022
Gross profit increased $8.4 million (3%) and operating income decreased $10.7 million (10%). These results were driven by:
Gross profit
•
Our motor fuel gross profit decreased $7.8 million (5%) attributable to a 7% decrease in margin per gallon in 2023 compared to 2022 due to the steep drop in crude oil prices particularly during the third quarter of 2022. In addition, volume increased 2% due to the site count increase stemming from the conversion of certain lessee dealer sites to company operated and commission sites.
•
Our merchandise gross profit and other revenues increased $13.7 million (18%) and $3.2 million (26%), respectively, driven by an increase in the company operated site count due to the conversion of certain lessee dealer and commission agent sites to company operated sites, in addition to an increase in sales and margin percentage in our base business.
Operating expenses
Operating expenses increased $19.1 million (14%) driven by an increase in the company operated site count due to the conversion of certain lessee dealer and commission agent sites to company operated sites. In addition, store labor increased, in part due to expanding hours of operation at many of our company operated sites. Lastly, many other cost categories increased due primarily to inflation.
Non-GAAP Financial Measures
We use the non-GAAP financial measures EBITDA, Adjusted EBITDA, Distributable Cash Flow and Distribution Coverage Ratio. EBITDA represents net income before deducting interest expense, income taxes and depreciation, amortization and accretion (which includes certain impairment charges). Adjusted EBITDA represents EBITDA as further adjusted to exclude equity-based compensation expense, gains or losses on dispositions and lease terminations, net and certain discrete acquisition related costs, such as legal and other professional fees, separation benefit costs and certain other discrete non-cash items arising from purchase accounting. Distributable Cash Flow represents Adjusted EBITDA less cash interest expense, sustaining capital expenditures and current income tax expense. The Distribution Coverage Ratio is computed by dividing Distributable Cash Flow by distributions paid on common units.
EBITDA, Adjusted EBITDA, Distributable Cash Flow and Distribution Coverage Ratio are used as supplemental financial measures by management and by external users of our financial statements, such as investors and lenders. EBITDA and Adjusted EBITDA are used to assess our financial performance without regard to financing methods, capital structure or income taxes and the ability to incur and service debt and to fund capital expenditures. In addition, Adjusted EBITDA is used to assess the operating performance of our business on a consistent basis by excluding the impact of items which do not result directly from the wholesale distribution of motor fuel, the leasing of real property, or the day to day operations of our retail site activities. EBITDA, Adjusted EBITDA, Distributable Cash Flow and Distribution Coverage Ratio are also used to assess the ability to generate cash sufficient to make distributions to our unitholders.
We believe the presentation of EBITDA, Adjusted EBITDA, Distributable Cash Flow and Distribution Coverage Ratio provides useful information to investors in assessing the financial condition and results of operations. EBITDA, Adjusted EBITDA, Distributable Cash Flow and Distribution Coverage Ratio should not be considered alternatives to net income or any other measure of financial performance or liquidity presented in accordance with U.S. GAAP. EBITDA, Adjusted EBITDA, Distributable Cash Flow and Distribution Coverage Ratio have important limitations as analytical tools because they exclude some but not all items that affect net income. Additionally, because EBITDA, Adjusted EBITDA, Distributable Cash Flow and Distribution Coverage Ratio may be defined differently by other companies in our industry, our definitions may not be comparable to similarly titled measures of other companies, thereby diminishing their utility.
47
The following table presents reconciliations of EBITDA, Adjusted EBITDA, and Distributable Cash Flow to net income, the most directly comparable U.S. GAAP financial measure, for each of the periods indicated (in thousands, except for the Distribution Coverage Ratio):
Year Ended December 31,
Equity-based employee and director compensation expense 3,031 2,294 1,311
Gain on dispositions and lease terminations, net (a) (4,737 ) (1,143 ) (2,037 )
Sustaining capital expenditures (c) (7,654 ) (7,164 ) (4,161 )
Current income tax expense (d) (953 ) (2,466 ) (548 )
(a)
See "Results of Operations–Gain on Dispositions and Lease Terminations, net."
(b)
Relates to certain acquisition-related costs, such as legal and other professional fees, separation benefit costs and purchase accounting adjustments associated with recent acquisitions.
(c)
Under the Partnership Agreement, sustaining capital expenditures are capital expenditures made to maintain our long-term operating income or operating capacity. Examples of sustaining capital expenditures are those made to maintain existing contract volumes, including payments to renew existing distribution contracts, or to maintain our sites in conditions suitable to lease, such as parking lot or roof replacement/renovation, or to replace equipment required to operate the existing business.
(d)
Excludes income tax incurred on the sale of sites.
Liquidity and Capital Resources
Liquidity
Our principal liquidity requirements are to finance our operations, fund acquisitions, service our debt and pay distributions to our unitholders. We expect our ongoing sources of liquidity to include cash generated by operations, proceeds from sales of sites in connection with our real estate rationalization efforts, borrowings under the CAPL Credit Facility, and if available to us on acceptable terms, issuances of equity and debt securities. We regularly evaluate alternate sources of capital to support our liquidity requirements.
Our ability to meet our debt service obligations and other capital requirements, including capital expenditures, acquisitions, and partnership distributions, will depend on our future operating performance, which, in turn, will be subject to general economic, financial, business, competitive, legislative, regulatory and other conditions, many of which are beyond our control. As a normal part of our business, depending on market conditions, we will, from time to time, consider opportunities to repay, redeem, repurchase or refinance our indebtedness. Changes in our operating plans, lower than anticipated sales, increased expenses, acquisitions or other events may cause us to seek additional debt or equity financing in future periods.
We believe that we will have sufficient cash flow from operations, borrowing capacity under the CAPL Credit Facility, access to capital markets and alternate sources of funding to meet our financial commitments, debt service obligations, contingencies, anticipated capital expenditures and partnership distributions. However, we are subject to business and operational risks that could adversely affect our cash flow. A material decrease in our cash flows would likely produce an adverse effect on our borrowing capacity as well as our ability to issue additional equity and/or debt securities and/or maintain or increase distributions to unitholders.
48
Cash Flows
The following table summarizes cash flow activity (in thousands):
Year Ended December 31,
Operating Activities
Net cash provided by operating activities decreased $44 million in 2023 compared to 2022 primarily attributable to lower fuel margins in 2023 and an increase in interest expense driven by higher interest rates. In addition, changes in working capital decreased cash flow from operating activities by $20 million, primarily driven by the drop in crude oil prices particularly in the third quarter of 2022. Further, we paid $3 million in income taxes and received net refunds of income taxes of $3 million for 2023 and 2022, respectively.
As is typical in our industry, our current liabilities exceed our current assets as a result of the longer settlement of real estate and motor fuel taxes as compared to the shorter settlement of receivables for fuel, rent and merchandise.
Investing Activities
In 2023, we incurred capital expenditures of $35 million driven by image upgrades funded primarily through incentives from our fuel suppliers, rebranding of certain sites, site upgrades, including store remodels and site purchases. We received $6 million in proceeds primarily from the sale of sites in connection with our real estate rationalization effort.
In 2022, we incurred capital expenditures of $30 million driven by site purchases, site upgrades, including store remodels, car wash build-outs, EMV upgrades and rebranding of certain sites, including the sites acquired from 7-Eleven. We paid $28 million in connection with the acquisition of assets from CSS and $2 million in connection with the closing of sites acquired from 7-Eleven. We received $13 million in proceeds primarily from the sale of sites in connection with our real estate rationalization effort.
Financing Activities
In 2023, we paid $80 million in distributions to our unitholders. We made net repayments of $9 million on our credit facility. We paid $7 million of deferred financing costs in connection with amending and restating the CAPL Credit Facility and terminating the JKM Credit Facility in the first quarter of 2023.
In 2022, we paid $80 million in distributions to our unitholders. We made net repayments of $48 million on our credit facilities. We received $24 million in net proceeds from the issuance of preferred membership interests during 2022.
Distributions
Distribution activity for 2023 was as follows (in thousands):
The amount of any distribution is subject to the discretion of the Board, which may modify or revoke our cash distribution policy at any time. Our Partnership Agreement does not require us to pay any distributions. As such, there can be no assurance we will continue to pay distributions in the future.
49
Debt
As of December 31, 2023, our debt and finance lease obligations consisted of the following (in thousands):
Finance lease obligations 11,064
Total debt and finance lease obligations 767,064
Current portion 3,083
Deferred financing costs, net 10,101
Noncurrent portion, net of deferred financing costs $ 753,880
See “Recent Developments—Amendment to CAPL Credit Facility” and Note 11 to the financial statements for information regarding the amendment of the CAPL Credit Facility and the termination of the JKM Credit Facility.
Taking the interest rate swap contracts into account, our effective interest rate on our CAPL Credit Facility at December 31, 2023 was 4.9% (our applicable margin was 2.25% as of December 31, 2023). Letters of credit outstanding under our CAPL Credit Facility at December 31, 2023 totaled $4.5 million. After taking into consideration debt covenant restrictions and the scheduled change in our maximum leverage ratio from 5.25:1.00 to 5.00:1.00 for the first quarter of 2024, the amount of availability under our CAPL Credit Facility at February 22, 2024 was $125.4 million.
The CAPL Credit Facility contains financial covenants related to leverage and interest coverage as further described in Note 11 to the financial statements. These financial covenants and other covenants may restrict or limit our ability to make distributions, incur additional indebtedness, make certain capital expenditures or dispose of assets in excess of specified levels, among other restrictions.
Capital Expenditures
We make investments to expand, upgrade and enhance existing assets. We categorize our capital requirements as either sustaining capital expenditures, growth capital expenditures or acquisition capital expenditures. Sustaining capital expenditures are those capital expenditures required to maintain our long-term operating income or operating capacity. Growth capital expenditures, which include individual site purchases, and acquisition capital expenditures are those capital expenditures that we expect will increase our operating income or operating capacity over the long term. We have the ability to fund our capital expenditures by additional borrowings under our CAPL Credit Facility, or, if available to us on acceptable terms, accessing the capital markets and issuing additional equity, debt securities or other options, such as the sale of assets. Our ability to access the capital markets may have an impact on our ability to fund acquisitions. We may not be able to complete any offering of securities or other options on terms acceptable to us, if at all.
The following table outlines our capital expenditures and acquisitions (in thousands):
Year Ended December 31,
Growth capital expenditures increased in 2023 as compared with 2022, primarily due to an increase in image upgrades that were funded primarily through incentives from our fuel suppliers, partially offset by a reduction in rebranding of certain sites, including the sites acquired from 7-Eleven.
A significant portion of our growth capital expenditures are discretionary and we regularly review our capital plans in light of anticipated proceeds from sales of sites.
Contractual Obligations, Contingencies, Off Balance Sheet Arrangements and Concentration Risks
Our contractual obligations primarily include payments of debt and finance lease obligations and related interest payments and operating lease obligations.
50
As discussed previously, our CAPL Credit Facility matures March 31, 2028. In addition, we have finance lease obligations that expire in 2027 and operating leases that expire through 2041. See Note 11 to the financial statements for additional information on our debt and finance lease obligations, Note 12 for information on interest rate swap contracts and Note 13 for information on our operating lease obligations.
See Note 10 for information on AROs, Note 15 for information on environmental matters and Note 16 for information on minimum fuel volume purchase commitments and legal matters.
See Note 2 for information on our concentration risks related to our customers, fuel suppliers, fuel carriers and merchandise suppliers.
Outlook
As noted previously, the prices paid to our motor fuel suppliers for wholesale motor fuel (which affects our cost of sales) are highly correlated to the price of crude oil. The crude oil commodity markets are highly volatile, and the market prices of crude oil, and, correspondingly, the market prices of wholesale motor fuel, experience significant and rapid fluctuations, which affect our motor fuel gross profit.
Our results for 2024 are anticipated to be impacted by the following:
•
We continue to consider the highest and best use class of trade for each of our properties, which may result in the conversion of sites from one class of trade to another and ultimately increases or decreases in the gross profit for the wholesale and retail segments.
•
Given increases in SOFR during 2023 and the timing of when certain interest rate swaps expire during 2024 and the rates that were locked in under those swaps, we anticipate higher interest expense in 2024 relative to 2023.
We will continue to evaluate acquisitions on an opportunistic basis. Additionally, we will pursue acquisition targets that fit into our strategy. Whether we will be able to execute acquisitions will depend on market conditions, availability of suitable acquisition targets at attractive terms, acquisition-related compliance with customary regulatory requirements, and our ability to finance such acquisitions on favorable terms and in compliance with our debt covenant restrictions.
New Accounting Policies
No new accounting guidance significantly impacted our business in 2023. For information on our significant accounting policies, see Note 2 to the financial statements.
Critical Accounting Policies and Estimates
We prepare our financial statements in conformity with U.S. GAAP. The preparation of these financial statements requires us to make estimates and assumptions that affect the reported amounts of assets and liabilities and disclosure of contingent assets and liabilities at the date of the financial statements and the reported amount of revenues and expenses during the reporting period. Actual results could differ from those estimates. See Note 2 to the financial statements for a summary of our significant accounting policies.
Critical accounting policies are those we believe are both most important to the portrayal of our financial condition and results and require our most difficult, subjective or complex judgments, often because we must make estimates about the effect of matters that are inherently uncertain. Judgments and uncertainties affecting the application of those policies may result in materially different amounts being reported under different conditions or using different assumptions. We believe the following policies to be the most critical in understanding the judgments that are involved in preparing our financial statements.
Revenue Recognition
The core principle of accounting guidance on revenue recognition is that an entity should recognize revenue to depict the transfer of promised goods or services to customers in an amount that reflects the consideration to which the entity expects to be entitled in exchange for those goods and services. This guidance applies to over 90% of our revenues as the only primary revenue stream outside the scope of this guidance is rental income.
51
Revenues from the delivery of motor fuel are recorded at the time of delivery to our customers, by which time the price is fixed, title to the products has transferred and payment has either been received or collection is reasonably assured, net of applicable discounts and allowances. Incremental costs incurred to obtain certain contracts with customers are deferred and amortized over the contract term and are included in other noncurrent assets on the balance sheets. Amortization of such costs are classified as a reduction of operating revenues.
Revenues from the sale of convenience store products are recognized at the time of sale to the customer.
Revenues from leasing arrangements for which we are the lessor are recognized ratably over the term of the underlying lease.
In transactions in which we sell and lease back property, we apply guidance from ASC 606–Revenue from Contracts with Customers in determining whether the transfer of the property should be accounted for as a sale. Specifically, we assess if we have satisfied a performance obligation by transferring control of the property.
Accounts receivable primarily result from the sale of motor fuels to customers. Our accounts receivable is generally considered as having a similar risk profile. Credit is extended to a customer based on an evaluation of the customer’s financial condition. In certain circumstances collateral may be required from the customer and fuel and lease agreements are generally cross-collateralized when applicable. Receivables are recorded at face value, without interest or discount.
The allowance for credit losses is generally based upon historical experience while also factoring in any new business conditions that might impact the historical analysis, such as market conditions and bankruptcies of particular customers. Credit loss expense is included in general and administrative expenses.
LGW and CAPL JKM Wholesale collect motor fuel taxes, which consist of various pass-through taxes collected from customers on behalf of taxing authorities and remits such taxes directly to those taxing authorities. LGW’s and CAPL JKM Wholesale’s accounting policy is to exclude the taxes collected and remitted from wholesale revenues and cost of sales and account for them as liabilities. LGWS’s and Joe’s Kwik Marts’ retail sales and cost of sales include motor fuel taxes as the taxes are included in the cost paid for motor fuel and LGWS and Joe’s Kwik Mart’s have no direct responsibility to collect or remit such taxes to the taxing authorities.
See Notes 5 and 22 to the financial statements for additional information on our revenues and related receivables.
Asset Acquisitions and Business Combinations
When closing on an acquisition, we must first determine whether substantially all of the fair value of the set of gross assets acquired is concentrated in a single identifiable asset or a group of similar identifiable assets. If this threshold is met, the set is not a business. If this threshold is not met, we determine whether the set meets the definition of a business. We did not close any major acquisitions in 2023.
A business is defined as an integrated set of assets and activities that is capable of being conducted and managed for the purpose of providing a return to investors or other owners, members or participants. A business typically has inputs, processes applied to those inputs and outputs that are used to generate a return to investors, but outputs are not required for a set to be a business. A business must include, at a minimum, an input and a substantive process that together significantly contribute to the ability to create outputs.
We account for asset acquisitions (i.e., transactions involving the acquisition of a set of assets that does not meet the definition of a business) in accordance with the guidance under ASC 805-50 and other applicable guidance. Asset acquisitions are generally accounted for by allocating the cost of the acquisition to the individual assets acquired and liabilities assumed on a relative fair value basis. Two of the key differences in accounting for transactions as asset acquisitions as compared to business combinations are summarized below:
•
Transaction costs are capitalized as a component of the cost of the assets acquired rather than expensed as incurred;
•
Goodwill is not recognized. Rather, any excess consideration transferred over the fair value of the net assets acquired is allocated on a relative fair value basis to the identifiable net assets acquired other than certain non-qualifying assets as defined in the guidance.
We account for business combinations in accordance with the guidance under ASC 805–Business Combinations. The purchase price is recorded for assets acquired and liabilities assumed based on fair value. The excess of the fair value of the consideration conveyed over the fair value of the net assets acquired is recorded as goodwill.
The income statement includes the results of operations for each acquisition from their respective date of acquisition.
52
Whether we account for a transaction as an asset acquisition or a business combination, determining the fair value of assets and liabilities requires management’s judgment, the utilization of independent valuation experts and involves the use of significant estimates and assumptions with respect to the timing and amounts of future cash inflows and outflows, discount rates, market prices and asset lives, among other items. The judgments made in the determination of the estimated fair value assigned to the assets acquired, the liabilities assumed and any noncontrolling interest in the investee, as well as the estimated useful life of each asset and the duration of each liability, can materially impact the financial statements in periods after acquisition, such as through depreciation and amortization.
Goodwill
Goodwill represents the excess of the fair value of the consideration conveyed to acquire a business over the fair value of the net assets acquired. Goodwill is not amortized, but instead is tested for impairment at the reporting unit level at least annually, and more frequently if events and circumstances indicate that the goodwill might be impaired. The annual impairment testing date of goodwill is October 1.
In performing our annual impairment analysis, we use qualitative factors to determine whether it is more likely than not (likelihood of more than 50%) that the fair value of a reporting unit is less than its carrying amount, including goodwill. We consider macroeconomic conditions such as developments in equity and credit markets, industry and market conditions such as the competitive environment, cost factors such as changes in our cost of fuel, our financial performance and our unit price.
If, after assessing the totality of events or circumstances, we determine that it is more likely than not that the fair value of a reporting unit exceeds its carrying amount, no further testing is necessary. However, if we determine that it is more likely than not that the fair value of a reporting unit is less than its carrying amount, then we perform the goodwill impairment test.
In the goodwill impairment test, the reporting unit’s carrying amount (including goodwill) and its fair value are compared. If the estimated fair value of a reporting unit is less than the carrying value, an impairment charge is recognized for the deficit up to the amount of goodwill recorded.
At both December 31, 2023 and 2022, we had goodwill totaling $99.4 million. Of the December 31, 2023 balance, $54.7 million was assigned to the wholesale reporting unit and $44.7 million was assigned to the retail reporting unit. After assessing the totality of events and circumstances, we determined that it is more likely than not that the fair value of our reporting units exceed their carrying amounts and therefore goodwill is not impaired at December 31, 2023 or 2022.
Tax Matters
As a limited partnership, we are not subject to federal and state income taxes. Income tax attributable to our taxable income generated by our nontaxable subsidiaries (including any dividend income from our corporate subsidiaries), which may differ significantly from income for financial statement purposes, is assessed at the individual limited partner unitholder level. We are subject to a statutory requirement that non-qualifying income, as defined by the Internal Revenue Code, cannot exceed 10% of total gross income for the calendar year. If non-qualifying income exceeds this statutory limit, we would be taxed as a corporation. The non-qualifying income did not exceed the statutory limit in any annual period.
Certain activities that generate non-qualifying income are conducted through our wholly owned taxable corporate subsidiaries, LGWS and Joe’s Kwik Marts. Current and deferred income taxes are recognized on the earnings of these subsidiaries. Deferred income tax assets and liabilities are recognized for the future tax consequences attributable to temporary differences between the financial statement carrying amounts of existing assets and liabilities and their respective tax bases and are measured using enacted tax rates.
Valuation allowances are reevaluated each reporting period by assessing the likelihood of the ultimate realization of a deferred tax asset. We consider a number of factors in assessing the realization of a deferred tax asset, including the reversal of temporary differences, projections of future taxable income and ongoing prudent and feasible tax planning strategies. The amount of deferred tax assets ultimately realized may differ materially from the estimates utilized in the computation of valuation allowances and may materially impact the financial statements in the future.
ITEM 7A. QUANTITATIVE AND QUALITATIVE DISCLOSURES ABOUT MARKET RISK
Market Risk
Market risk is the risk of loss arising from adverse changes in market rates and prices. The principal market risks to which we are exposed are interest rate risk and commodity price risk.
53
Interest Rate Risk
As of December 31, 2023, we had $756.0 million outstanding on our CAPL Credit Facility. Our outstanding borrowings bear interest at SOFR plus an applicable margin.
See Note 12 to the financial statements for information regarding the amendment of three interest rate swap contracts and the entry into six additional interest rate swap contracts.
Taking the interest rate swap contracts into account, our effective interest rate on our CAPL Credit Facility at December 31, 2023 was 4.9%. A one percentage point change in SOFR would impact annual interest expense by approximately $1.6 million.
Commodity Price Risk
We purchase gasoline and diesel fuel from several suppliers at costs that are subject to market volatility. These purchases are generally made pursuant to contracts or at market prices established with the supplier.
We do not currently engage in hedging activities for these purchases due to our pricing structure that allows us to generally pass on price changes to our customers and related parties.
A material amount of our total gallons purchased are subject to prompt payment discounts for prompt payment and other rebates and incentives, which are recorded within cost of sales. Prompt payment discounts are based on a percentage of the purchase price of motor fuel. As such, the dollar value of these discounts increases and decreases corresponding with motor fuel prices. Based on our current volumes, we estimate a $10 per barrel change in the price of crude oil would impact our annual wholesale motor fuel gross profit by approximately $2.6 million related to these payment discounts.
Foreign Currency Risk
Our operations are located in the U.S., and therefore are not subject to foreign currency risk.
ITEM 8. FINANCIAL STATEMENTS
MANAGEMENT’S REPORT ON INTERNAL CONTROL OVER FINANCIAL REPORTING
The SEC, as required by Section 404 of the Sarbanes-Oxley Act, adopted rules requiring most companies that file reports with the SEC to include a management report on such company’s internal control over financial reporting in its Form 10-K. In addition, our independent registered public accounting firm must attest to our internal control over financial reporting.
The management of CrossAmerica is responsible for establishing and maintaining adequate internal control over financial reporting. This internal control system was designed to provide reasonable assurance to the company’s management and Board regarding the preparation and fair presentation of published financial statements. All internal control systems, no matter how well designed, have inherent limitations. Therefore, even those systems determined to be effective can provide only reasonable assurance with respect to financial statement preparation and presentation. CrossAmerica management assessed the effectiveness of the company’s internal control over financial reporting as of December 31, 2023. In making this assessment, it used the criteria set forth by the Committee of Sponsoring Organizations of the Treadway Commission (COSO) in Internal Control-Integrated Framework, 2013 version. Based on our assessment, we believe that, as of December 31, 2023, the Partnership’s internal control over financial reporting is effective based on those criteria.
Attestation Report of the Independent Registered Public Accounting Firm
Grant Thornton LLP (PCAOB ID No. 248), our independent registered public accounting firm, has audited our internal control over financial reporting as of December 31, 2023. Their report dated February 26, 2024, expressed an unqualified opinion on our internal control over financial reporting.
54
REPORT OF INDEPENDENT REGISTERED PUBLIC ACCOUNTING FIRM
Board of Directors, General Partner and Limited Partners
CrossAmerica Partners LP
Opinion on the financial statements
We have audited the accompanying consolidated balance sheets of CrossAmerica Partners LP (a Delaware partnership) and subsidiaries (the “Partnership”) as of December 31, 2023 and 2022, the related consolidated statements of income, equity and comprehensive income and cash flows for each of the three years in the period ended December 31, 2023, and the related notes and financial statement schedule I (collectively referred to as the “financial statements”). In our opinion, the financial statements present fairly, in all material respects, the financial position of the Partnership as of December 31, 2023 and 2022, and the results of its operations and its cash flows for each of the three years in the period ended December 31, 2023, in conformity with accounting principles generally accepted in the United States of America.
We also have audited, in accordance with the standards of the Public Company Accounting Oversight Board (United States) (“PCAOB”), the Partnership’s internal control over financial reporting as of December 31, 2023, based on criteria established in the 2013 Internal Control—Integrated Framework issued by the Committee of Sponsoring Organizations of the Treadway Commission (“COSO”), and our report dated February 26, 2024 expressed an unqualified opinion.
Basis for opinion
These financial statements are the responsibility of the Partnership’s management. Our responsibility is to express an opinion on the Partnership’s financial statements based on our audits. We are a public accounting firm registered with the PCAOB and are required to be independent with respect to the Partnership in accordance with the U.S. federal securities laws and the applicable rules and regulations of the Securities and Exchange Commission and the PCAOB.
We conducted our audits in accordance with the standards of the PCAOB. Those standards require that we plan and perform the audit to obtain reasonable assurance about whether the financial statements are free of material misstatement, whether due to error or fraud. Our audits included performing procedures to assess the risks of material misstatement of the financial statements, whether due to error or fraud, and performing procedures that respond to those risks. Such procedures included examining, on a test basis, evidence regarding the amounts and disclosures in the financial statements. Our audits also included evaluating the accounting principles used and significant estimates made by management, as well as evaluating the overall presentation of the financial statements. We believe that our audits provide a reasonable basis for our opinion.
Critical audit matters
Critical audit matters are matters arising from the current period audit of the financial statements that were communicated or required to be communicated to the audit committee and that: (1) relate to accounts or disclosures that are material to the financial statements and (2) involved our especially challenging, subjective, or complex judgments. We determined that there are no critical audit matters.
/s/ GRANT THORNTON LLP
We have served as the Partnership’s auditor since 2011.
Charlotte, North Carolina
February 26, 2024
55
REPORT OF INDEPENDENT REGISTERED PUBLIC ACCOUNTING FIRM
Board of Directors, General Partner and Limited Partners
CrossAmerica Partners LP
Opinion on internal control over financial reporting
We have audited the internal control over financial reporting of CrossAmerica Partners LP (a Delaware partnership) and subsidiaries (the “Partnership”) as of December 31, 2023, based on criteria established in the 2013 Internal Control—Integrated Framework issued by the Committee of Sponsoring Organizations of the Treadway Commission (“COSO”). In our opinion, the Partnership maintained, in all material respects, effective internal control over financial reporting as of December 31, 2023, based on criteria established in the 2013 Internal Control—Integrated Framework issued by COSO.
We also have audited, in accordance with the standards of the Public Company Accounting Oversight Board (United States) (“PCAOB”), the consolidated financial statements of the Partnership as of and for the year ended December 31, 2023, and our report dated February 26, 2024 expressed an unqualified opinion on those financial statements.
Basis for opinion
The Partnership’s management is responsible for maintaining effective internal control over financial reporting and for its assessment of the effectiveness of internal control over financial reporting, included in the accompanying Management’s Report on Internal Control over Financial Reporting. Our responsibility is to express an opinion on the Partnership’s internal control over financial reporting based on our audit. We are a public accounting firm registered with the PCAOB and are required to be independent with respect to the Partnership in accordance with the U.S. federal securities laws and the applicable rules and regulations of the Securities and Exchange Commission and the PCAOB.
We conducted our audit in accordance with the standards of the PCAOB. Those standards require that we plan and perform the audit to obtain reasonable assurance about whether effective internal control over financial reporting was maintained in all material respects. Our audit included obtaining an understanding of internal control over financial reporting, assessing the risk that a material weakness exists, testing and evaluating the design and operating effectiveness of internal control based on the assessed risk, and performing such other procedures as we considered necessary in the circumstances. We believe that our audit provides a reasonable basis for our opinion.
Definition and limitations of internal control over financial reporting
A company’s internal control over financial reporting is a process designed to provide reasonable assurance regarding the reliability of financial reporting and the preparation of financial statements for external purposes in accordance with generally accepted accounting principles. A company’s internal control over financial reporting includes those policies and procedures that (1) pertain to the maintenance of records that, in reasonable detail, accurately and fairly reflect the transactions and dispositions of the assets of the company; (2) provide reasonable assurance that transactions are recorded as necessary to permit preparation of financial statements in accordance with generally accepted accounting principles, and that receipts and expenditures of the company are being made only in accordance with authorizations of management and directors of the company; and (3) provide reasonable assurance regarding prevention or timely detection of unauthorized acquisition, use, or disposition of the company’s assets that could have a material effect on the financial statements.
Because of its inherent limitations, internal control over financial reporting may not prevent or detect misstatements. Also, projections of any evaluation of effectiveness to future periods are subject to the risk that controls may become inadequate because of changes in conditions, or that the degree of compliance with the policies or procedures may deteriorate.
/s/ GRANT THORNTON LLP
Charlotte, North Carolina
February 26, 2024
56
CROSSAMERICA PARTNERS LP
CONSOLIDATED BALANCE SHEETS
(Thousands of Dollars, except unit data)
December 31,
ASSETS
Current assets:
Accounts receivable from related parties 437 743
Current portion of interest rate swap contracts 9,321 13,827
Interest rate swap contracts, less current portion 687 3,401
LIABILITIES AND EQUITY
Current liabilities:
Current portion of debt and finance lease obligations $ 3,083 $ 11,151
Current portion of operating lease obligations 34,787 35,345
Accounts payable to related parties 10,180 7,798
Accrued expenses and other current liabilities 23,674 23,144
Debt and finance lease obligations, less current portion 753,880 761,638
Operating lease obligations, less current portion 118,723 135,220
Interest rate swap contracts 3,535 —
Commitments and contingencies (Notes 15 and 16)
Equity:
Accumulated other comprehensive income 5,399 16,469
The accompanying notes are an integral part of these consolidated financial statements.
57
CROSSAMERICA PARTNERS LP
CONSOLIDATED STATEMENTS OF INCOME
(Thousands of Dollars, except unit and per unit amounts)
For the Year Ended December 31,
Operating expenses:
Gain on dispositions and lease terminations, net 4,737 1,143 2,037
Accretion of preferred membership interests 2,488 1,726 —
Earnings per common unit
Weighted-average common units:
Supplemental information:
(b) excludes depreciation, amortization and accretion
The accompanying notes are an integral part of these consolidated financial statements.
58
CROSSAMERICA PARTNERS LP
CONSOLIDATED STATEMENTS OF CASH FLOWS
(Thousands of Dollars)
For the Year Ended December 31,
Cash flows from operating activities:
Deferred income tax expense (benefit) 1,572 (1,753 ) (3,761 )
Equity-based employee and director compensation expense 3,031 2,294 1,311
Gain on dispositions and lease terminations, net (4,737 ) (1,143 ) (2,037 )
Cash flows from investing activities:
Principal payments received on notes receivable 213 203 793
Cash flows from financing activities:
Borrowings under the Term Loan Facility — 1,120 182,460
Repayments on the Term Loan Facility (158,980 ) (24,600 ) —
Net proceeds from issuance of preferred membership interests — 24,430 —
Payments of finance lease obligations (2,890 ) (2,724 ) (2,604 )
Payments of deferred financing costs (7,106 ) (474 ) (7,201 )
Distributions paid on distribution equivalent rights (241 ) (202 ) (141 )
Withholding tax distributions paid on preferred membership interests (900 ) — —
Net (decrease) increase in cash and cash equivalents (11,064 ) 8,406 7,135
Cash and cash equivalents at beginning of period 16,054 7,648 513
Cash and cash equivalents at end of period $ 4,990 $ 16,054 $ 7,648
The accompanying notes are an integral part of these consolidated financial statements.
59
CROSSAMERICA PARTNERS LP
CONSOLIDATED STATEMENTS OF EQUITY AND COMPREHENSIVE INCOME
(Thousands of Dollars, except unit amounts)
Limited Partners’ Interest
Common Unitholders AOCI Total Equity
Units Dollars Dollars Dollars
Other comprehensive income
Unrealized gain on interest rate swap contracts — — 4,466 4,466
Total other comprehensive income — — 5,486 5,486
Tax effect from intra-entity transfer of assets — (1,094 ) — (1,094 )
Vesting of equity awards, net of units withheld for tax 21,688 411 — 411
Other comprehensive income
Unrealized gain on interest rate swap contracts — — 17,336 17,336
Vesting of equity awards, net of units withheld for tax 24,894 510 — 510
Accretion of preferred membership interests — (1,726 ) — (1,726 )
Other comprehensive income
Unrealized gain on interest rate swap contracts — — 5,922 5,922
Total other comprehensive income (loss) — — (11,070 ) (11,070 )
Vesting of equity awards, net of units withheld for tax 30,204 627 — 627
Accretion of preferred membership interests — (2,488 ) — (2,488 )
The accompanying notes are an integral part of these consolidated financial statements.
60
CROSSAMERICA PARTNERS LP
NOTES TO CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS
Note 1. DESCRIPTION OF BUSINESS
Purchase of the General Partner by the Topper Group
The Topper Group controls the sole member of our General Partner and has the ability to appoint all of the members of the Board and to control and manage the operations and activities of the Partnership. As of February 22, 2024, the Topper Group has beneficial ownership of a 38.6% limited partner interest in the Partnership.
Description of Business
Our business consists of:
•
the wholesale distribution of motor fuels;
•
the owning or leasing of sites used in the retail distribution of motor fuels and, in turn, generating rental income from the lease or sublease of the sites;
•
the retail sale of motor fuels to end customers at retail sites operated by commission agents and ourselves; and
•
the operation of retail sites, including the sale of convenience merchandise to end customers.
The consolidated financial statements reflect the consolidated results of the Partnership and its wholly owned subsidiaries. Our primary operations are conducted by the following consolidated wholly owned subsidiaries:
•
LGW and CAPL JKM Wholesale, which distribute motor fuels on a wholesale basis and generate Qualifying Income under Section 7704(d) of the Internal Revenue Code;
•
LGPR, which functions as our real estate holding company and holds assets that generate Qualifying Income under Section 7704(d) of the Internal Revenue Code;
•
LGWS, which owns and leases (or leases and sub-leases) real estate and personal property used in the retail sale of motor fuels, as well as provides maintenance and other services to its customers. In addition, LGWS distributes motor fuels on a retail basis and sells convenience merchandise items to end customers at company operated retail sites and sells motor fuel on a retail basis at sites operated by commission agents. Income from LGWS generally is not Qualifying Income under Section 7704(d) of the Internal Revenue Code; and
•
Joe’s Kwik Marts, which owns and leases real estate and personal property at certain of our company operated sites. Joe’s Kwik Marts also sells motor fuels on a retail basis and sells convenience merchandise items to end customers. Income from Joe’s Kwik Marts generally is not Qualifying Income under Sections 7704(d) of the Internal Revenue Code.
Note 2. SIGNIFICANT ACCOUNTING POLICIES
Principles of Consolidation
These consolidated financial statements were prepared in accordance with U.S. GAAP. These financial statements include the consolidated accounts of CrossAmerica and subsidiaries. All intercompany accounts and transactions have been eliminated in consolidation.
Use of Estimates
The preparation of consolidated financial statements in conformity with U.S. GAAP requires management to make estimates and assumptions that affect the reported amounts of assets and liabilities at the date of the consolidated financial statements and the reported amounts of revenues and expenses during the reporting periods. Actual results and outcomes could differ from those estimates and assumptions. On an ongoing basis, management reviews its estimates based on currently available information. Changes in facts and circumstances could result in revised estimates and assumptions.
61
CROSSAMERICA PARTNERS LP
NOTES TO CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS
Cash and Cash Equivalents
We consider all short-term investments with a maturity of three months or less at the date of purchase to be cash equivalents. Cash and cash equivalents are stated at cost, which, for cash equivalents, approximates fair value due to their short-term maturity. We are potentially subject to financial instrument concentration of credit risk through our cash and cash equivalents. We maintain cash and cash equivalents with several major financial institutions and have approximately $3.5 million of cash and cash equivalents in excess of FDIC insurance limits at December 31, 2023. We have not experienced any losses on our cash and cash equivalents and do not believe we have significant credit risk.
Receivables and Financial Instrument Credit Losses
Accounting guidance regarding credit losses on financial instruments requires that for most financial assets, losses be based on an expected loss approach which includes estimates of losses over the life of exposure that considers historical, current and forecasted information. Disclosures related to the methods used to estimate the losses as well as a specific disaggregation of balances for financial assets are also required.
The primary financial instrument within the scope of this guidance is our accounts receivable, which mainly result from the sale of motor fuels to customers. Our accounts receivable is generally considered as having a similar risk profile. Credit is extended to a customer, generally a dealer or a commission agent, based on an evaluation of the customer’s financial condition prior to entering into fuel supply and/or lease agreements. In certain circumstances, collateral may be required from the customer and fuel and lease agreements are generally cross-collateralized when applicable. Receivables are recorded at face value, without interest or discount.
The allowance for credit losses is generally based upon historical experience while also factoring in any new business conditions that might impact the historical analysis, such as market conditions and bankruptcies of particular customers. Credit loss expense is included in general and administrative expenses.
Inventories
Motor fuel inventory consists of gasoline, diesel fuel and other petroleum products and is stated at the lower of average cost or net realizable value using the first-in, first-out method. We record inventory from the time of the purchase of motor fuels from third-party suppliers until the retail sale to the end customer.
Merchandise inventory is valued at the lower of average cost or net realizable value using the first-in, first-out method, written down, as necessary, for potentially obsolete or slow-moving inventory.
Asset Acquisitions and Business Combinations
When closing on an acquisition, we must first determine whether substantially all of the fair value of the set of gross assets acquired is concentrated in a single identifiable asset or a group of similar identifiable assets. If this threshold is met, the set is not a business. If this threshold is not met, we determine whether the set meets the definition of a business.
A business is defined as an integrated set of assets and activities that is capable of being conducted and managed for the purpose of providing a return to investors or other owners, members or participants. A business typically has inputs, processes applied to those inputs and outputs that are used to generate a return to investors, but outputs are not required for a set to be a business. A business must include, at a minimum, an input and a substantive process that together significantly contribute to the ability to create outputs.
We account for asset acquisitions (i.e., transactions involving the acquisition of a set of assets that does not meet the definition of a business) in accordance with the guidance under ASC 805-50 and other applicable guidance. Asset acquisitions are generally accounted for by allocating the cost of the acquisition, including acquisition costs, to the individual assets acquired and liabilities assumed on a relative fair value basis.
We account for business combinations in accordance with the guidance under ASC 805–Business Combinations. The purchase price is recorded for assets acquired and liabilities assumed based on fair value. The excess of the fair value of the consideration conveyed over the fair value of the net assets acquired is recorded as goodwill.
62
CROSSAMERICA PARTNERS LP
NOTES TO CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS
The income statement includes the results of operations for each acquisition from their respective date of acquisition.
Whether we account for a transaction as an asset acquisition or a business combination, determining the fair value of assets and liabilities requires management’s judgment, the utilization of independent valuation experts and involves the use of significant estimates and assumptions with respect to the timing and amounts of future cash inflows and outflows, discount rates, market prices and asset lives, among other items. The judgments made in the determination of the estimated fair value assigned to the assets acquired, the liabilities assumed and any noncontrolling interest in the investee, as well as the estimated useful life of each asset and the duration of each liability, can materially impact the consolidated financial statements in periods after acquisition, such as through depreciation and amortization.
Property and Equipment
Property and equipment is recorded at cost, which equals fair value in the case of a business combination or generally approximates fair value in the case of an asset acquisition. Depreciation is recognized using the straight-line method over the estimated useful lives of the related assets, including: 10 to 20 years for buildings and improvements and three to 30 years for equipment. Amortization of leasehold improvements is based upon the shorter of the remaining terms of the leases including renewal periods that are reasonably assured, or the estimated useful lives, which generally range from seven to 10 years.
Expenditures for major renewals and betterments that extend the useful lives of property and equipment are capitalized. Maintenance and repairs are charged to operations as incurred. Gains or losses on the disposition of property and equipment are recorded in the period the sale meets the criteria for recognition.
Intangible Assets
Intangible assets are recorded at fair value in the case of a business combination or at a value that generally approximates fair value in the case of an asset acquisition. Intangible assets associated with wholesale fuel supply contracts and wholesale fuel distribution rights are amortized over 10 years. Trademarks and licenses are amortized over periods from five to 15 years. Covenants not to compete are amortized over the shorter of the contract term or five years. Intangible assets with finite useful lives are amortized over their respective estimated useful lives and reviewed for impairment if we believe that changes or triggering events have occurred that could have caused the carrying value of the intangible assets to exceed its fair value. Intangible assets with indefinite lives are not amortized but are tested for impairment annually or more frequently if events and circumstances indicate that the intangible assets might be impaired. No significant impairment charges relating to intangible assets were recorded for any period presented.
Impairment of Assets
Long-lived assets, which include property and equipment and finite-lived intangible assets, are tested for recoverability whenever events or changes in circumstances indicate that the carrying amount of the asset may not be recoverable. A long-lived asset is not recoverable if its carrying amount exceeds the sum of the undiscounted cash flows expected to result from its use and eventual disposition. If a long-lived asset is not recoverable, an impairment loss is recognized for the amount by which the carrying amount of the long-lived asset exceeds its fair value, with fair value determined based on discounted estimated net cash flows or other appropriate methods. See Note 7 for information regarding impairment charges recorded primarily upon classifying sites within assets held for sale.
Goodwill
Goodwill represents the excess of cost over the fair value of net assets of businesses acquired. Goodwill is not amortized, but instead is tested for impairment at the reporting unit level at least annually, and more frequently if events and circumstances indicate that the goodwill might be impaired. The annual impairment testing date of goodwill is October 1.
In performing our annual impairment analysis, we use qualitative factors to determine whether it is more likely than not (likelihood of more than 50%) that the fair value of a reporting unit is less than its carrying amount, including goodwill. We consider macroeconomic conditions such as developments in equity and credit markets, industry and market conditions such as the competitive environment, cost factors such as changes in our cost of fuel, our financial performance and our unit price.
63
CROSSAMERICA PARTNERS LP
NOTES TO CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS
If, after assessing the totality of events or circumstances, we determine that it is more likely than not that the fair value of a reporting unit exceeds its carrying amount, no further testing is necessary. However, if we determine that it is more likely than not that the fair value of a reporting unit is less than its carrying amount, then we perform the goodwill impairment test.
In the goodwill impairment test, the reporting unit’s carrying amount (including goodwill) and its fair value are compared. If the estimated fair value of a reporting unit is less than the carrying value, an impairment charge is recognized for the deficit up to the amount of goodwill recorded.
No goodwill was impaired for any period presented.
Debt Issuance Costs
Debt issuance costs that are incurred in connection with the issuance of debt are deferred and amortized to interest expense using the straight-line method (which approximates the effective interest method) over the contractual term of the underlying indebtedness. Debt issuance costs are classified as a reduction of the associated liability unless there is no balance outstanding under a revolving line of credit facility, in which case such costs are classified as an asset.
Environmental Matters
Liabilities for future remediation costs are recorded when environmental assessments from governmental regulatory agencies and/or remedial efforts are probable and the costs can be reasonably estimated. Other than for assessments, the timing and magnitude of these accruals generally are based on the completion of investigations or other studies or a commitment to a formal plan of action. Environmental liabilities are based on best estimates of probable undiscounted future costs using currently available technology and applying current regulations, as well as our own internal environmental policies. Environmental liabilities are difficult to assess and estimate due to uncertainties related to the magnitude of possible remediation, the timing of such remediation and the determination of our obligation in proportion to other parties. Such estimates are subject to change due to many factors, including the identification of new sites requiring remediation, changes in environmental laws and regulations and their interpretation, additional information related to the extent and nature of remediation efforts and potential improvements in remediation technologies. Amounts recorded for environmental liabilities have not been reduced by possible recoveries from third parties.
Asset Retirement Obligations
We record a liability, which is referred to as an asset retirement obligation, at fair value for the estimated cost to remove USTs used to store motor fuel at owned and leased sites at the time we incur that liability, which is generally when the UST is installed or upon acquiring the site. We record a discounted liability for the fair value of an asset retirement obligation with a corresponding increase to the carrying value of the related long-lived asset. We depreciate the amount added to property and equipment and recognize accretion expense in connection with the discounted liability over the estimated remaining life of the UST. Accretion expense is reflected in depreciation, amortization and accretion expense. We base our estimates of the anticipated future costs for removal of a UST on our prior experience with removal. Removal costs include the cost to remove the USTs, soil remediation costs resulting from the spillage of small quantities of motor fuel in the normal operations of our business and other miscellaneous costs. We review our assumptions for computing the estimated liability for the removal of USTs on an annual basis. Any change in estimated cash flows is reflected as an adjustment to the liability and the associated asset.
Segment Reporting
We present our segment reporting in accordance with ASC 280–Segment Reporting and engage in both the wholesale and retail distribution of motor fuels, primarily gasoline and diesel fuel. We present our results to our chief operating decision maker segregated between wholesale and retail activities. As a result, we are deemed to conduct our business in two segments: 1) the wholesale segment and 2) the retail segment.
64
CROSSAMERICA PARTNERS LP
NOTES TO CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS
Revenue Recognition
The core principle of accounting guidance on revenue recognition is that an entity should recognize revenue to depict the transfer of promised goods or services to customers in an amount that reflects the consideration to which the entity expects to be entitled in exchange for those goods and services. This guidance applies to over 90% of our revenues as the only primary revenue stream outside the scope of this guidance is rental income.
Revenues from the delivery of motor fuel are recorded at the time of delivery to our customers, by which time the price is fixed, title to the products has transferred and payment has either been received or collection is reasonably assured, net of applicable discounts and allowances. Incremental costs incurred to obtain certain contracts with customers are deferred and amortized over the contract term and are included in other noncurrent assets on the consolidated balance sheets. Amortization of such costs are classified as a reduction of operating revenues.
Revenues from the sale of convenience store products are recognized at the time of sale to the customer.
Revenues from leasing arrangements for which we are the lessor are recognized ratably over the term of the underlying lease.
In transactions in which we sell and lease back property, we apply guidance from ASC 606–Revenue from Contracts with Customers in determining whether the transfer of the property should be accounted for as a sale. Specifically, we assess if we have satisfied a performance obligation by transferring control of the property.
See Notes 5 and 22 for additional information on our revenues and related receivables.
Cost of Sales
We include in our cost of sales all costs we incur to acquire motor fuel and merchandise, including the costs of purchasing, storing and transporting inventory prior to delivery to our customers. A component of our cost of sales is the discount for prompt payment and other rebates, discounts and incentives offered by our suppliers. Prompt payment discounts from suppliers are based on a percentage of the purchase price of motor fuel and the dollar value of these discounts varies with motor fuel prices. Cost of sales does not include any depreciation of our property and equipment, as these amounts are included in depreciation, amortization and accretion expense on our consolidated statements of income.
Motor Fuel Taxes
LGW and CAPL JKM Wholesale collect motor fuel taxes, which consist of various pass-through taxes collected from customers on behalf of taxing authorities and remit such taxes directly to those taxing authorities. LGW’s and CAPL JKM Wholesale’s accounting policy is to exclude the taxes collected and remitted from wholesale revenues and cost of sales and account for them as liabilities. LGWS’s and Joe’s Kwik Marts’ retail sales and cost of sales include motor fuel taxes as the taxes are included in the cost paid for motor fuel and LGWS and Joe’s Kwik Marts have no direct responsibility to collect or remit such taxes to the taxing authorities.
Lease Accounting
We lease certain sites from third parties under long-term arrangements with various expiration dates.
Accounting guidance on leases requires the recognition of lease assets and lease liabilities on the consolidated balance sheet and disclosing key information about leasing arrangements. In order to measure our lease liability under our leases as lessee, we are required to discount our minimum rental payments using the rate implicit in the lease, unless such rate cannot be readily determined, in which case our incremental borrowing rate is used. As we do not know the amount of our lessors’ initial direct costs, we are generally unable to determine the rate implicit in our leases. As a result, we generally use our incremental borrowing rate, which is the rate we would have to pay to borrow an amount equal to the lease payments on a collateralized basis over a similar term in a similar economic environment. We considered the rates we paid in previous financing and sale-leaseback transactions, the rates on our borrowings under our prior secured revolving credit facility and mortgage rates on commercial properties for various terms in developing our incremental borrowing rates.
65
CROSSAMERICA PARTNERS LP
NOTES TO CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS
ASC 842–Leases requires leases be evaluated and classified as either operating or finance for financial reporting purposes. The lease term used for lease evaluation includes option periods only in instances in which the exercise of the option period is reasonably certain. Generally, lease payments are expensed on a straight-line basis over the term of the lease including renewal periods that are reasonably certain at the inception of the lease. In addition to these lease payments, certain leases require additional contingent payments based on sales volume or future inflation, which are expensed as incurred.
See Notes 11 and 13 for additional information.
Income Taxes
Our wholly owned taxable subsidiaries recognize deferred income tax assets and liabilities for the expected future income tax consequences of temporary differences between financial statement carrying amounts and the related income tax basis.
Income tax attributable to our earnings and losses, excluding the earnings and losses of our wholly owned taxable subsidiaries, are assessed at the individual level of the unitholder. Accordingly, we do not record a provision for income taxes other than for those earnings and losses generated or incurred by our wholly owned taxable subsidiaries.
Tax positions not meeting the more-likely-than-not recognition threshold at the financial statement date may not be recognized or continue to be recognized under the accounting guidance for income taxes. Where required, we recognize interest and penalties for uncertain tax positions in income taxes.
Valuation allowances are reevaluated each reporting period by assessing the likelihood of the ultimate realization of a deferred tax asset. Management considers a number of factors in assessing the realization of a deferred tax asset, including the reversal of temporary differences, projections of future taxable income and ongoing prudent and feasible tax planning strategies. The amount of deferred tax assets ultimately realized may differ materially from the estimates utilized in the computation of valuation allowances and may materially impact the consolidated financial statements in the future.
Earnings per Common Unit
We compute income per unit using the two-class method under which any excess of distributions declared over net income shall be allocated to the partners based on their respective sharing of income specified in the Partnership Agreement. Net income per unit applicable to limited partners is computed by dividing the limited partners’ interest in net income by the weighted-average number of outstanding common units.
We applied the if-converted method to the preferred membership interests in accordance with ASU 2020-06 for purposes of computing diluted earnings per unit.
Interest Rate Swap Contracts
The Partnership uses interest rate swap contracts to reduce its exposure to unfavorable changes in interest rates. The Partnership accounts for derivative contracts in accordance with ASC 815–Derivatives and Hedging, and recognizes derivative instruments as either assets or liabilities on the consolidated balance sheet and measures those instruments at fair value. The changes in fair value of the derivative transactions are presented in accumulated other comprehensive income and reclassified to interest expense as the interest payments on our CAPL Credit Facility are made.
The portion of derivative positions that are anticipated to settle within a year are included as a separate line item within current assets or current liabilities, while the portion of derivative positions that are anticipated to settle beyond a year are recorded as a separate line item within noncurrent assets or noncurrent liabilities, as applicable.
Cash inflows and outflows related to derivative instruments are included as a component of operating activities on the consolidated statements of cash flows, consistent with the classification of the hedged interest payments on our CAPL Credit Facility.
66
CROSSAMERICA PARTNERS LP
NOTES TO CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS
In March 2020, the FASB issued ASU 2020-04, Reference Rate Reform (Topic 848): Facilitation of the Effects of Reference Rate Reform on Financial Reporting, which provides optional expedients and exceptions for applying U.S. GAAP to contracts, hedging relationships and other transactions affected by reference rate reform if certain criteria are met to ease an entity’s financial reporting burden as the market transitions from LIBOR and other interbank offered rates to alternative reference rates. Subsequently, the FASB issued ASU 2021-01 to clarify the scope of Topic 848 and ASU 2022-06 to defer the sunset date of Topic 848. The guidance was effective upon issuance and may be applied through December 31, 2024. The adoption of this guidance did not have a material effect on the Partnership's consolidated financial statements.
See Note 12 for information related to our interest rate swap contracts.
Reclassifications
Certain reclassifications were made to prior year amounts to conform to the current year presentation. Such reclassifications had no effect on net income or total equity for any periods.
Concentration Risks
For 2023, 2022 and 2021, our wholesale business purchased approximately 80%, 81% and 80% of its motor fuel from four suppliers, respectively.
For 2023, 2022 and 2021, approximately 23%, 23% and 27% of our motor fuel gallons sold were delivered by two carriers, respectively.
For 2023, 2022 and 2021, approximately 18%, 21% and 19% of our rent income was from two multi-site operators, respectively.
For each of 2023, 2022 and 2021, approximately 49% of our merchandise was purchased from one supplier.
New Accounting Guidance Pending Adoption
In November 2023, the FASB issued ASU 2023-07, "Improvements in Reportable Segment Disclosures." The amendments in this new guidance improve reportable segment disclosure requirements, primarily through enhanced disclosures about significant segment expenses. These new disclosures will be required in our Annual Report on Form 10-K for the year ending December 31, 2024 and interim and annual reports thereafter. Although we do not anticipate the impact of adopting this guidance will be material, it will affect our disclosures related to our reportable segments.
In December 2023, the FASB issued ASU 2023-09, “Improvements to Income Tax Disclosures.” The amendments in this new guidance require that public business entities on an annual basis (1) disclose specific categories in the rate reconciliation and (2) provide additional information for reconciling items that meet a quantitative threshold. This new guidance also requires certain new disclosures such as income taxes paid disaggregated by federal, state and foreign taxes and further disaggregated by individual jurisdictions in which income taxes paid exceeds a quantitative threshold. This new guidance also eliminates certain previously required disclosures. We will adopt this new guidance effective January 1, 2025. Although we do not anticipate the impact of adopting this guidance will be material, it will affect our disclosures related to income taxes.
Note 3. PRIOR YEAR ACQUISITIONS
Acquisition of Assets from CSS
On November 9, 2022, we closed on the acquisition of assets from CSS for a purchase price of $27.5 million plus working capital. The assets consisted of wholesale fuel supply contracts to 38 dealer owned locations, 35 sub-wholesaler accounts and two commission locations (1 fee based and 1 lease). We funded this acquisition through borrowings on the CAPL Credit Facility and cash on hand.
67
CROSSAMERICA PARTNERS LP
NOTES TO CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS
Acquisition of Assets from 7-Eleven
On a rolling basis from June 2021 through February 2022, we closed on the acquisition of assets from 7-Eleven for a purchase price of $263.0 million plus working capital. The assets acquired related to the ownership and operations of 106 company operated sites (90 fee; 16 leased). We will pay $1.8 million of purchase price on or prior to February 8, 2027. We funded this acquisition through borrowings on the CAPL Credit Facility and the JKM Credit Facility as well as cash on hand.
Note 4. ASSETS HELD FOR SALE
We have classified two and three sites as held for sale at December 31, 2023 and 2022, respectively, which are expected to be sold within one year of such classification. Assets held for sale were as follows (in thousands):
December 31,
Buildings and site improvements 380 457
Less accumulated depreciation (638 ) (565 )
Assets held for sale $ 400 $ 983
The Partnership has continued to focus on divesting lower performing assets. During 2023, we sold 10 properties for $9.2 million in proceeds, resulting in a net gain of $6.5 million. The proceeds for 2023 include $3.8 million of proceeds that were initially placed in a Section 1031 exchange escrow account and used to purchase replacement properties. As such, these proceeds and capital expenditures were excluded from the statement of cash flows. During 2022, we sold 27 properties for $12.9 million in proceeds, resulting in a net gain of $3.5 million. During 2021, we sold 32 properties for $14.0 million in proceeds, resulting in a net gain of $4.1 million.
See Note 7 for information regarding impairment charges primarily recorded upon classifying sites within assets held for sale.
Note 5. RECEIVABLES
Changes in the allowance for credit losses consisted of the following (in thousands):
Year Ended December 31,
Balance at beginning of year $ 686 $ 458 $ 429
Increase in allowance charged to expense 40 232 253
Accounts charged against the allowance, net of recoveries (17 ) (4 ) (224 )
Notes receivable totaled $1.0 million and $4.1 million at December 31, 2023 and 2022, respectively, and are included in other current assets and other noncurrent assets on the consolidated balance sheets.
Note 6. INVENTORIES
Inventories consisted of the following (in thousands):
December 31,
68
CROSSAMERICA PARTNERS LP
NOTES TO CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS
See Note 22 for information regarding the conversion of certain lessee dealer sites to company operated sites, which caused a significant portion of the increase in merchandise inventory.
Note 7. PROPERTY AND EQUIPMENT
Property and equipment, net consisted of the following (in thousands):
December 31,
Accumulated depreciation and amortization (363,938 ) (312,195 )
Approximately $394 million of property and equipment, net was held for leasing purposes at December 31, 2023.
As discussed in Note 13, we lease sites under a lease with Getty Realty Corporation, for which the building and equipment components are classified as a finance lease. The right-of-use asset associated with this finance lease is included in the table above and totaled $5.4 million and $7.1 million at December 31, 2023 and 2022, respectively, net of accumulated amortization. Amortization of this right-of-use asset is included in depreciation, amortization and accretion expense on the consolidated statements of income and amounted to $1.7 million, $2.0 million and $2.1 million in 2023, 2022 and 2021, respectively.
Depreciation expense, including amortization of assets recorded under finance lease obligations, was approximately $54.5 million, $58.3 million and $56.1 million for 2023, 2022 and 2021, respectively. Included in these amounts are impairment charges primarily related to sites classified within assets held for sale totaling $0.8 million, $2.8 million and $7.7 million during 2023, 2022 and 2021, respectively.
Note 8.INTANGIBLE ASSETS
Intangible assets consisted of the following (in thousands):
Amortization expense was $20.7 million, $21.2 million and $20.0 millionfor 2023, 2022 and 2021, respectively. Aggregate amortization expense is expected to be $18.1 million, $16.1 million, $14.3 million, $12.4 million and $11.0 million for 2024, 2025, 2026, 2027 and 2028, respectively.
Note 9. GOODWILL
Goodwill consisted of the following (in thousands):
WholesaleSegment RetailSegment Consolidated
69
CROSSAMERICA PARTNERS LP
NOTES TO CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS
Note 10. ACCRUED EXPENSES AND OTHER LONG-TERM LIABILITIES
Accrued expenses and other current liabilities consisted of the following (in thousands):
December 31,
Capital expenditures and maintenance expenses 3,366 4,402
Current portion of environmental liabilities 3,394 3,011
Total accrued expenses and other current liabilities $ 23,674 $ 23,144
Other long-term liabilities consisted of the following (in thousands):
December 31,
Purchase consideration payable (b) 1,800 1,800
Total other long-term liabilities $ 52,934 $ 46,289