Early this year Lemann made international headlines when his investment firm, 3G Capital, with offices in New York City and Rio de Janeiro, announced a partnership with Warren Buffett to buy ketchup maker Heinz.

FORBES: All You Ever Wanted to Know About Latin America's Billionaires

"Any partnership where I don't have to do the work is my kind of partnership, " Mr. Buffett said.

WSJ: First Bud, Now Heinz, Brazilian Deal Maker Lemann Grabs Brands

Its size, meanwhile, is letting Couche-Tard get better supplier deals and set up more distribution centers, either wholly owned or in partnership with a convenience store wholesaler, such as Warren Buffett's McLane in the eastern U.S. The centers give Bouchard the ability to ship dairy products, sandwiches and pastries to stores two to three times a week to outflank the grocery chains.

FORBES: Companies, People, Ideas