Investments in and Acquisition of Businesses

3 Months Ended

Dec. 26, 2020

Business Combinations [Abstract]

Investments in and Acquisition of Businesses

4. Investments in and Acquisition of Businesses

On November 12, 2020, the Operating Partnership acquired the propane assets and operations of a propane retailer headquartered in North Carolina for $7,685, including $1,250 for non-compete consideration, plus working capital acquired.  As of December 26, 2020, $5,300 was paid and the remainder of the purchase price will be funded in accordance with the terms of the asset purchase and non-compete agreements. This acquisition was consummated pursuant to the Partnership’s strategic growth initiatives.  The preliminary purchase price allocation and results of operations of the acquired business was not material to the Partnership’s condensed consolidated financial position and statement of operations.

On September 17, 2020, the Operating Partnership purchased a 39% equity stake in Oberon Fuels, Inc. (“Oberon”) based in San Diego, California and also purchased a secured convertible note issued by Oberon.  Oberon, a development-stage producer of low carbon, renewable dimethyl ether (“rDME”) transportation fuel, is focused on the research and development of practical and affordable pathways to zero-emission transportation through its proprietary production process. These investments were made in line with the Partnership’s green initiatives focused on innovative solutions to reduce greenhouse gas emissions. The equity investment in Oberon is being accounted for under the equity method of accounting.

During the first quarter of fiscal 2021, the Operating Partnership purchased an additional secured convertible note issued by Oberon as they reached certain development milestones as stated in the agreement.