Clark History
In the beginning
In 1932, Emory T. Clark opened the first Clark’s Super Gas station in Milwaukee. A general contractor by trade, he opened the station after a customer was unable to repay a loan. From there, Emory T. Clark expanded the brand throughout the upper Midwest and founded Clark Oil. By the late 1970s, Clark Oil had established a strong market presence and a reputation for selling high-quality gasoline at discount prices. At its peak, Clark Oil operated and supplied 1,500 gas stations across Illinois, Indiana, Iowa, Michigan, Minnesota, Missouri, Ohio, and Wisconsin.
Expanding Retail
During the 1980s and 1990s, Clark Oil underwent several ownership changes, during which the company expanded its retail and refining operations, including the acquisition of several refineries. Like many other independent oil companies, it also faced a series of financial setbacks. Despite this, the recognizable Clark brand continued to represent local merchants offering quality fuels at competitive prices.
The newly formed Clark Brands, LLC
In late 2003, a team of oil industry veterans and other investors acquired the Clark gasoline brand, originally owned by Clark Oil. The newly formed Clark Brands, LLC focused on providing comprehensive branding and payment processing solutions for independents seeking an alternative to major brands.
Clark and Crown Join Forces
In 2013, Clark Brands and Crown Central LLC joined forces, bringing together two long-standing fuel brands under one unified organization. This partnership combined Clark’s operations with Crown’s licensing programs, strengthening their market presence and creating new opportunities for growth, expanded services, and greater value for independent fuel retailers.
Clark Premier Image Launch
In the early 2020s, Clark introduced its Premier image, a modern brand refresh designed to elevate the retail experience. Featuring a bold red, white, and blue canopy with striking visual elements, the updated image brings a refined, contemporary look to the Clark brand. From canopy to dispensers and signage, each component works together to create a cohesive identity that resonates with today’s consumers while honoring Clark’s heritage.
Today
Today, Clark Brands offers a local focus with a national look across the United States.