Alimentation Couche-Tard Inc. is reported to have approached shareholders of Casey's General Stores Inc. keeping a $1.9-billion (U. S.) offer in front of them to acquire the U. S. regional convenience-store company, seeking to expand its retail presence in the United States.

It seek to acquire all of the outstanding shares of Casey's for $36 per share, a 14 per cent premium over the closing price of $31.59 per share on April 8, when Couche-Tard first publicly disclosed its antagonistic takeover offer.

Couche-Tard, which already operates 3,600 stores in the United States, reveals to take its offer directly to Casey's shareholders if the board did not reconsider its disapproval.

The tender offer is slated to expire on July 9, if not extended.

Couche-Tard President and Chief Executive, Alain Bouchard remain optimistic that the shareholders will honor their interest and would send a strong message to the Casey's board that they should consider to immediately negotiating a mutually acceptable transaction.

Casey's board has disapproved Couche-Tard offer, claiming it biased attempts to capitalize on the economic slump in the U. S., which has lead to undervalued companies that are highly prone to prejudiced acquisition attempts.