Circle K has become one of the most widely recognized convenience store brands, known worldwide for quality products and great customer service. Founded in 1951 in El Paso, Texas, the company is owned and operated by the Canada-based Alimentation Couche-Tard, the leader in the Canadian convenience store industry. In the United States, it is the largest independent convenience store operator in terms of number of company-operated stores. Located just 10 minutes east of downtown Phoenix, Tempe exudes its own personality and the youthful spirit of a college town. Home to Arizona State University, the largest public university in the United States, Tempe has a vibrant downtown that’s active day and night.