Robert A. Buhler came back to the convenience store industry after 17 years of investment banking, purchasing Open Pantry in January of 1997.  Having grown up in the business, founded by his father, (Robert W. Buhler, who remains as Chairman), it was thought important to build business knowledge outside of the family business first.  After earning a Master of Business Administration Degree from the University of Wisconsin, Madison, and two undergraduate degrees (Accounting and Finance) Robert began his formal career in Banking in 1979, which evolved into Investment Banking, managing the Capital Markets Group of Canadian Imperial Bank of Commerce in North America, and then later managing the Capital Markets Group for ABN-AMRO (Parent to LaSalle Bank) also in North America.  Product focus included derivatives, asset securitization, private placements, bond underwriting, and loan syndications.  As the convenience store industry began to “roll-up” in 1997, Robert exited investment banking and acquired the family business, Open Pantry, and began its remarkable transformation.

This change included transforming a franchise focused company into corporate owned, materially revitalizing sites with significant upgraded assets, and operating improvements.  This never-ending improvement process has evolved the chain to national recognition, with its “high-end” in-store ambiance, which helps contribute to an enjoyable store visit experience.  This translates into strong insider growth, and margins.   Part of this experience is seen in its coffee offering, Willow Creek Coffees, the highest of coffee quality, profiled next to fireplaces, leather couches, and table work areas WIFIed.  Santa Fe Grill is Open Pantry’s healthy burrito bar which nicely ties into Open Pantry’s “grab-n-go” sandwiches, wraps, and salads. 

Continually changing the stores standards also results in continually moving older assets.  Open Pantry recently divested 10 sites that are not of the “brand quality” it has evolved to portray, and now manages a core strategic group of sites (26) that well profile its brand.  Open Pantry is also a Jobber for 18 Dealer sites and manages 40 million gallons of fuel.

Mr. Buhler is active in YPO (Young President’s Organization), involved in WPMCA (Wisconsin Petroleum Marketers & Convenience Store Association) as a board member, works with NACS (National Association of Convenience Stores) on Industry Finance initiatives and has been a NACS board member.  He was involved with CITGO’s Advisory Board in 1998/1999, is a member of Lake Forest, Illinois Rotary Club and a trustee on the Board of Ascension of Our Lord Greek Orthodox Church in Lincolnshire, Illinois.

Mr. Buhler resides in Lake Forest, Illinois with his wife, Violetta and two children, Eunice and Konstantine.