Five Star Food Service Announces Gulf Coast Acquisition

CHATTANOOGA, TN – Canteen’s largest franchise, Five Star Food Service, today announced the acquisition of Mobile-based vending operator Gulf Coast Canteen. The acquisition expands their service territory further into Alabama and marks their entry into Florida – adding two new branches in Mobile (AL) and Pensacola (FL).

Richard Kennedy, Five Star’s President and CEO says, “We are honored by the opportunity to establish ourselves in the Mobile and Pensacola markets through this strategic acquisition. Gulf Coast Canteen has great people. We are excited to merge our company cultures and provide top-tier service to the area.”

Gulf Coast Canteen was originally founded as a vending company in 1961 as Central Vending and merged with Mobile Vending in 1999, eventually becoming a Canteen franchise in 2001. Owner Greg Breland took over the family business in 2005. The company’s Ocean Springs, MS operation will be acquired by New Orleans-based, Refreshments Solutions. This acquisition marks the 19th acquisition and 6th territory expansion in 4 years for Five Star as they continue their growth.

“We are excited about the entry into two new geographic markets and the opportunities we have ahead of us to develop the existing base business, add new on top, and grow profitably,” commented Gregory McCall, Chief Revenue Officer for Five Star.