Trowbridge buys five Eau Claire Handy Marts

As was first reported in the Dec. 8, 2006, issue of The Bottom Line, Durand-based Bauer Built Inc. has sold its five Handy Mart gas/convenience stores in Eau Claire. Dwain Trowbridge, who already owns three Bridge Stop gas/convenience stores in Bloomer, New Auburn and Wheeler, has finalized the purchase of the Eau Claire Handy Mart operations, effective this week.

"We will be changing the name to Bridge Stop and will hope to expand on customer service and enhance our deli products," said Trowbridge, who has retained all of the 40 former Bauer Built employees.

Bauer Built has retained ownership of the Handy Mart stores in Durand and Nelson, according to Bauer Built Inc. CEO Jerry Bauer.

"Our focus has always been on the tire business and this sale will allow us to emphasize our tire business," said Bauer.

Dean Larsen of Acquisition Realty & Development handled the sale for both the buyer and seller. TBL