(West Des Moines, Iowa — January 22, 2009) Kum & Go, L.C., one of the nation’s leading convenience store chains, is proud to announce that Craig A. Bergstrom, Kum & Go CFO, is the 2009 recipient of the Prairie Meadows CFO of the Year Award presented annually at the Des Moines Business Record Economic Forecast event. The awards recognize Central Iowa CFOs who have played a critical role in the success of their companies through growth and profitability.
"I'm honored to receive this award," says Kum & Go CFO Craig Bergstrom. “But I share it with my finance team who are as good as any I’ve worked with. Together, I believe we've made some significant and lasting impacts on the organization. My focus moving forward is to continue to drive value and set Kum & Go on a path to long-term success.”
A Kum & Go associate since 2005, Mr. Bergstrom has transitioned the company’s financial structure to support significant organic growth from new store builds rather than from acquisitions. Through his leadership and deep understanding of finance and operations, Mr. Bergstrom has helped Kum & Go achieve a 100% revenue increase in a three year period from $1.1 billion to $2.1 billion.
"The Business Record received numerous nominations from local companies, large and small, for this year's Prairie Meadow CFO of the Year award. From the many deserving nominees, the selection committee was most impressed with Craig Bergstrom's specific accomplishments for Kum & Go during his tenure as CFO,” said Janette Larkin, Publisher, Business Publications, Business Record Des Moines. “From developing a syndicated banking agreement to launching an aggressive divesture program, along with numerous other operating efficiencies, it was clear the steps taken under his financial operations leadership contributed significantly to the company's growth and profitability."
Mr. Bergstrom was nominated for the award by the President and CEO of Kum & Go, Kyle J. Krause, for his successful implementation of a series of initiatives aimed at improving Kum & Go’s financial strength. Mr. Bergstrom’s impact has been felt throughout the company.
"Craig has been a valuable benefit to Kum & Go. In addition to his business skills, Craig’s character is what makes him such an asset to our leadership team," said Kyle J. Krause, CEO of Kum & Go. "He sets an example that trickles down through our organization by showing his genuine interest in others, giving liberally of his own time and resources and expecting no more from others than he does himself. This award is well-deserved recognition for his great work and noteworthy achievements."
Before coming to Kum & Go, Mr. Bergstrom, a 26-year veteran, served as the President and Chief Executive Officer for Chef Solutions Inc. He is a graduate of Iowa State University with a Bachelors of Business Administration in Accounting.
About Kum & Go, L.C.
Founded on exceptional customer service, Kum & Go is a pioneer in the convenience store industry. The family-owned company began in 1959 in Hampton, Iowa, and has grown to more than 431 convenience stores in 12 states (Iowa, Arkansas, Colorado, Minnesota, Missouri, Montana, Nebraska, North Dakota, Oklahoma, South Dakota, Wyoming and Wisconsin). Thanks to the efforts of its more than 3,600 associates, Kum & Go convenience stores continue to lead the industry in customer service and convenience. In addition to a wide selection of products, Kum & Go provides customers a proprietary mix of products under the well-known Hiland brand name. Other proprietary product offerings include Java Ridge Premium Coffee, Napa Creek and Sea Ridge wines, Go Fresh Market sandwiches, Nuclear energy drinks and Nutri2o nutraceutical waters.
Kum & Go has maintained 50 years of dedicated community commitment, each year returning at least 10 percent of its profits to the communities it serves. Kum & Go is the 5th largest privately-held convenience store chain in the United States. For more information about Kum & Go, visit www.kumandgo.com.
