The Calgary-based convenience-store operator said the acquisition will help it create a top Canadian loyalty program by combining M&M’s two million active members with Parkland’s gas-station rewards system. (The Logic)

Talking point: The transaction is valued at about $322 million and is expected to close in the first quarter of next year. Data, which comes from loyalty programs, is king in retail, and many major retailers have focused on growing their offerings in recent years. Parkland also plans to open joint locations for its On the Run convenience stores and M&M in the future, noting that customers who purchase M&M products at its stores where they are already offered tend to spend more. The company also plans to introduce M&M products at its fuel locations as it expects customers will linger longer as they transition to electric vehicles and recharge rather than refuel. (That’s slightly different than Couche-Tard’s vision for Circle K.)