Monday, September 23, 2024

Florida’s Next Buc-ee’s One Step Closer to Construction: St. Lucie County Set to Welcome Beaver Nuggets and Brisket Sandwiches!

Exciting news for Buc-ee’s fans in the Sunshine State! Florida drivers will soon have another stop to satisfy their cravings for beaver nuggets and brisket sandwiches on the Treasure Coast.

A fourth Buc-ee’s location is moving forward in St. Lucie County. This week, the county commission voted to amend sign regulations, allowing Buc-ee’s to erect a towering 100-foot sign, paving the way for the new store. The change permits signs up to 100 feet tall and 640 square feet in designated retail workplace zones near Indrio Road and I-95.

The future Buc-ee’s, located at the northwest corner of the site, will boast an 80,000-square-foot travel center, complete with 120 fuel pumps and over 720 parking spaces—plenty of room for all those eager to make a pit stop at this travelers’ oasis.

County records reveal that the Buc-ee’s development has been in the works since February 2024, and it’s not the only one on the horizon. In April, Governor Ron DeSantis awarded $4 million to the Florida Department of Transportation to support the construction of a new interchange on I-75 in Marion County, where another Buc-ee’s is planned in Ocala.

Currently, Florida is home to two other Buc-ee’s locations: St. Augustine and Daytona Beach. My wife and I are thrilled to be visiting both of these during the week of Christmas 2024—perfect timing to spread a little Buc-ee’s cheer! And Governor DeSantis, if you’re near St. Augustine or Daytona Beach during the holidays, we’d love to see you (maybe over a brisket sandwich?).

New Buc-ee's Set to Break Ground in Oak Grove, Kentucky: What to Expect from the Latest Traveler's Oasis

Buc-ee's fans in Western Kentucky, rejoice! A brand-new Buc-ee's is set to break ground in Oak Grove, just south of Hopkinsville in Christian County, near the Tennessee border and Fort Campbell. The groundbreaking is scheduled for early in the first quarter of 2025, with a projected completion date in the first half of 2026. This will be the third Buc-ee's in Kentucky, joining the locations in Richmond and Smiths Grove—an exciting milestone for locals and road-trippers alike.

While Richmond may be a familiar name, the Smiths Grove location has earned a unique distinction as the smallest city in the United States to host a Buc-ee's. With a population of just over 700, Smiths Grove proves that even small towns can house the legendary Texas-sized convenience store. Now, Oak Grove, located about 20 miles south of Hopkinsville, is poised to expand the Buc-ee's footprint in Kentucky's western region.

Like every Buc-ee's, the Oak Grove location will feature all the signature elements that make Buc-ee's a destination, not just a pit stop. Expect to find:
  • World-famous brisket: Freshly carved in front of you and piled high on a bun, this brisket is a must-try for anyone passing through.
  • Irresistible fudge**: With a variety of flavors ranging from chocolate peanut butter to rocky road, Buc-ee's fudge is the perfect sweet treat to enjoy on your drive.
  • Bakery delights: From kolaches to freshly baked cookies, the bakery is the heart of Buc-ee's indulgent treats. Make sure to pick up a cinnamon roll or one of their delicious apple pies for the road.
Of course, there will also be the beloved Buc-ee's snacks like Beaver Nuggets, freshly roasted nuts, and an assortment of sandwiches and salads, making it hard to leave without filling up a bag (or two).

A Little Message to "Beaver"
Now, while we're excited to see the third Buc-ee's location in Kentucky break ground, we can't help but wonder if Buc-ee's co-founder, Arch “Beaver” Aplin III, has thought about a spot that’s been aching for its own Buc-ee’s—Villa Rica, Georgia. Sure, Smiths Grove may hold the title of smallest city with a Buc-ee’s for now, but Villa Rica, just west of Atlanta, is calling your name, Beaver! Just think—brisket sandwiches in the heart of Georgia, plus some of that signature fudge. We’ll keep our fingers crossed for the future!

As always, Buc-ee's in Oak Grove will be more than a gas station; it’ll be a true traveler’s oasis, offering clean, spacious restrooms, unique Buc-ee's merchandise, and enough snacks and food options to make even the longest road trips more enjoyable. This location will also be a fantastic stop for those traveling near Fort Campbell and the Kentucky-Tennessee border.

With the promise of brisket, bakery goods, and unbeatable Buc-ee's hospitality, Oak Grove is already shaping up to be a can’t-miss stop. We’re counting down to the 2025 groundbreaking and can’t wait to see what this new location brings to the Bluegrass State.

So, whether you’re a local, a frequent traveler through Western Kentucky, or just someone who loves Buc-ee's (we see you, Texas!), be sure to keep an eye on the progress of this new store. We’ll be updating you as the opening gets closer!

My wife and I are already planning our trip to the new Oak Grove Buc-ee's once it opens, and we couldn't be more excited to explore everything this new location will offer. As with every Buc-ee's, it's not just about the food and snacks (though the brisket is a big part of it!), it's about the experience and the adventure of each stop. If you happen to spot us while you're in Oak Grove—or at any Buc-ee’s—don’t be shy! Come say, "Hi," and I'll gladly give you a Big Buckin' Beaver salute. We love meeting fellow Buc-ee's fans on the road!

Sunday, September 22, 2024

Buc-ee's is Bringing Big Bucks to Murfreesboro!

The beloved beaver is expanding once again, and this time, it's getting closer to Murfreesboro, Tennessee! Buc-ee’s has officially announced plans to break ground on a new location in Oak Grove, Kentucky by the end of the year, but the Murfreesboro store has been in the works for quite a while.

While the project hit a slight delay due to a pipe shortage, construction is back on track. Crews are currently working to realign the roadway off Joe B. Jackson Parkway, clearing the way for Buc-ee’s to begin building. The roadway work is expected to be completed by the end of this year or early next year. Once done, construction on the store itself will take about a year and a half to finish.

The arrival of Buc-ee’s is more than just exciting for road trippers; it’s a huge economic win for the city. The Buc-ee’s in Crossville, TN has brought in between $5 and $5.5 million in revenue from non-petroleum sales (just inside sales!), while Sevierville is seeing about $9.5 million from shoppers, many of whom travel from over 100 miles away. Murfreesboro could expect around $2.75 million in tax revenue for the city and Rutherford County.

In addition to big bucks, Buc-ee’s will also bring plenty of jobs. The store is expected to create over 200 positions, many of which are high-paying and come with excellent benefits. Managers at Buc-ee's can make around $120,000 per year. Wright, a Buc-ee’s spokesperson, added with a bit of humor, “I’m excited for this project to get on the road and I’m hoping I don’t gain 500 pounds eating Buc-ee’s brisket every day!”

As this will be the third Buc-ee's in Tennessee, it's clear the state's love for the beaver brand is growing. My wife and I are planning to visit both the Crossville and Sevierville Buc-ee’s during Thanksgiving week, along with a stop at the Calhoun, GA store. Three Buc-ee’s in one day—sounds like a perfect Thanksgiving adventure to me!

Stay tuned to Food and Flame for updates on all things Buc-ee’s!

Wednesday, September 4, 2024

A Morning at Auburn's Buc-ee's: A Breakfast Adventure and Beyond

Our recent visit to the Auburn Buc-ee's location was a delightful experience, one that perfectly encapsulated everything we love about this iconic Texas-born brand. Whether it's the mouthwatering food, the unparalleled service, or the friendly atmosphere, Auburn's Buc-ee's has it all.

We kicked off our day with a visit to the Texas Round Up, where we were greeted by the tantalizing aroma of freshly prepared breakfast options. I couldn’t resist trying the Super Sausage Breakfast Taco, and it did not disappoint. The combination of juicy sausage, fluffy eggs, and just the right amount of seasoning made for a hearty, satisfying start to the day. My wife opted for the Bean, Potato, and Cheese Taco, which she found to be a delightful blend of flavors, proving that Buc-ee's has something for everyone.

And what’s a visit to Buc-ee’s without picking up a few of their famous Beaver Tots? Crispy on the outside, tender on the inside, these golden nuggets are a must-have on any trip. To top off breakfast, I indulged in a Cherry Kolache—a sweet, pastry delight filled with rich cherry goodness. It was the perfect way to end our morning meal.

While the food was outstanding, what truly set this visit apart was the exceptional service we received. The staff at the Auburn location went above and beyond to ensure our experience was nothing short of perfect. We were especially impressed by Gloria, who took the time to retrieve a bag of chocolate-covered Beaver Nuggets from the warehouse just for us. This kind of dedication to customer service is what keeps us coming back to Buc-ee’s time and time again.

Joanne in the Sweets section was another standout, taking care of our needs with a smile and even sharing a personal story that left us feeling inspired. Her warmth and kindness added a special touch to our visit. Kendra, who assisted us in the Buc-ee’s merchandise section, was also incredibly helpful, making our shopping experience smooth and enjoyable.

The Auburn Buc-ee's is a shining example of why we love this brand so much. From the moment you walk through the doors, you're greeted with a sense of warmth and hospitality that’s hard to find anywhere else. The food is consistently top-notch, with something to satisfy every craving, and the staff treats you like family, going out of their way to make sure your visit is a memorable one.

If you find yourself near Auburn, don’t miss the chance to stop by this Buc-ee's location. Whether you're in the mood for a quick breakfast, a shopping spree, or just a friendly chat with the staff, Auburn’s Buc-ee's has it all. We’re already looking forward to our next visit!

Friday, August 16, 2024

Labor Day Adventure: Exploring New Buc-ee’s Territory in Alabama

This Labor Day weekend, my wife and I are embarking on an exciting new adventure—visiting the last two Buc-ee’s locations in Alabama! We’ve never been to either the Auburn or Loxley stores before, so this trip is extra special as we explore new Buc-ee’s territory together.

First Time at Buc-ee’s in Auburn
Our journey begins at Buc-ee’s in Auburn, AL. We’ve heard so much about this location, and we can’t wait to finally experience it ourselves. Located conveniently off I-85, this Buc-ee’s is known for its friendly atmosphere and, of course, its mouthwatering food. We’re planning to dive straight into:
  • Brisket: A Buc-ee’s staple that we can’t resist.
  • Burritos: Hearty, flavorful, and perfect for kicking off our road trip.
  • Breakfast Tacos: The ultimate way to fuel up for the day ahead.
We’ll be taking our time to soak in the atmosphere, explore the store, and, of course, indulge in some of our favorite Buc-ee’s treats.

Next Stop: Discovering Buc-ee’s in Loxley
After our stop in Auburn, we’ll head down to Loxley, AL (in Robertsdale) to visit another Buc-ee’s for the very first time. This location has been on our radar for a while, and we’re excited to see what it has to offer. We’re particularly looking forward to trying more brisket and burritos, and maybe even finding a few new favorites along the way.

Come Say Hello!
As with all our Buc-ee’s adventures, we’ll be documenting our experience, and we’re planning to include a special photo of me with Buc-ee himself. If you spot us during our Labor Day weekend visit, don’t hesitate to say “Hello!” We always love meeting fellow Buc-ee’s enthusiasts and sharing stories about our favorite stops.

Join Us on Our Buc-ee’s Journey
This trip marks another step on our journey to visit every Buc-ee’s location, and we can’t wait to share our discoveries with you. Be sure to follow "Food and Flame" for updates, photos, and all the latest from our Labor Day adventure. See you on the road!

Wednesday, August 14, 2024

Buc-ee's Coming to Memphis: The Ultimate Stop for Food, Fuel, and Fun!

Big news, y’all! The legendary Texas-based Buc-ee’s is bringing its unique blend of food, fuel, and fun to Fayette County, Tennessee, just a stone’s throw away from Memphis. If you’ve never experienced Buc-ee’s, get ready, because this is going to be a game-changer for the region.

The Location: A Strategic Masterstroke
Buc-ee’s has picked the perfect spot for their latest venture: right off Interstate 40 at mile marker 28 near Gallaway, Tennessee. This location is pure genius, sitting halfway between bustling Memphis and the rapidly growing Blue Oval City in Stanton. Whether you’re a local Memphian or just passing through, this Buc-ee’s will be your go-to destination for a quick pit stop or a full-on adventure. Plus, it’s just a 40-minute drive from Downtown Memphis, making it a convenient stop for everyone in the area.

Bigger, Better, Buc-ee's
This new Buc-ee’s is no ordinary convenience store—it’s set to become the second-largest in the world! Tied with the Sevierville, Tennessee location, the Memphis-area Buc-ee’s will boast a massive 74,000 square feet of pure awesomeness, built on a sprawling 28-acre site. Expect between 80 and 120 gas pumps, so no more waiting around to fuel up. And let’s talk about those restrooms—Buc-ee’s is famous for having the cleanest, most luxurious restrooms in the world. Trust us, they live up to the hype.

Job Opportunities: A Texas-Sized Commitment
Buc-ee’s isn’t just bringing incredible food and fuel to the Memphis area—they’re also bringing jobs. Lots of them. The Fayette County location will kick off with around 200 employees, with salaries ranging from $17.50 to $38 an hour. With an average salary of around $45,000 a year, Buc-ee’s is making sure their team is well taken care of. If you’re looking for a career with a company that treats you right, Buc-ee’s might just be your next stop.

The Food: Worth the Trip
What would a Buc-ee’s be without its mouthwatering food? If you’ve ever been to a Buc-ee’s, you know what we’re talking about.

If you haven’t, well, you’re in for a treat. The new Memphis-area location will be serving up all the classics: 
  • Brisket: Juicy, tender, and smoked to perfection. 
  • Pulled Pork: The kind of pulled pork that melts in your mouth.
  • Fudge: Creamy, rich, and available in a variety of flavors.
  • Beaver Nuggets: An iconic snack that’s crunchy, sweet, and utterly addictive.
And that’s just the beginning. Whether you’re stopping by for breakfast, lunch, or dinner, you’ll find something delicious to satisfy your cravings.

Mark Your Calendars: Opening in 2026
We’re counting down the days until 2026 when this new Buc-ee’s is slated to open. Of course, there are still a few hurdles for the company to clear, but we’re confident they’ll get the green light. And when they do, you can bet this Buc-ee’s will be on our bucket list for a visit.

So, whether you’re a Buc-ee’s veteran or a first-timer, get ready for an epic new addition to the Memphis area. This isn’t just a convenience store—it’s an experience. Stay tuned to "Food and Flame" for all the latest updates as we track the progress of this exciting new Buc-ee’s!

Sunday, August 11, 2024

Buc-ee's Calhoun: A New Car Wash is Coming Soon!

On Saturday, August 10, 2024, my wife and I found ourselves back at the Buc-ee's in Calhoun, Georgia, for our second visit. This time, as we pulled into the vast parking lot, we were met with an exciting surprise—Buc-ee's Calhoun is getting a car wash!

The construction site was abuzz with activity, and we couldn't help but feel the excitement building for what’s to come. After chatting with the wonderful Buc-ee's staff, we learned that the car wash is set to open on Labor Day, September 2, 2024. 

For those familiar with Buc-ee's, you know that their car washes are more than just a quick rinse—they're an experience. With state-of-the-art technology, a spacious layout, and a focus on providing the best service possible, this new addition is sure to be a hit among both locals and travelers passing through.

As always, the staff at Buc-ee's Calhoun were welcoming and full of helpful information, making our visit all the more enjoyable. We left with not only our favorite snacks and drinks but also a sense of anticipation for the grand opening of the car wash.

Whether you're planning a road trip or just need a quick stop, Buc-ee's Calhoun will soon offer even more convenience with this latest addition. Be sure to mark your calendars for Labor Day—this is one treat you won’t want to miss! 

Stay tuned to Food and Flame for more updates as we continue our Buc-ee's adventures.

Monday, August 5, 2024

Rumor Has It: Buc-ee's Might Be Heading to Lafayette, Louisiana!

Great news for Buc-ee's fans in Louisiana! The famous travel center, known for its massive stores and amazing snacks, is rumored to be planning a second location in the state, this time near Lafayette. While there's no exact date yet, the excitement is building as fans eagerly await official confirmation. Here's what we know about the potential plans and what fans can expect.

What Makes Buc-ee's So Special
Buc-ee's is not just a gas station—it's a unique travel stop that has become a favorite destination for travelers nationwide. Known for its enormous stores, mouthwatering snacks, and spotless restrooms, Buc-ee's offers a travel experience like no other. The chain was founded in 1982 by Arch "Beaver" Aplin III and Don Wasek in Lake Jackson, Texas. The first store was much smaller than the sprawling locations we see today, but it quickly became a hit.

The iconic mascot, a beaver named Buc-ee, comes from Aplin's childhood nickname, “Beaver.” Buc-ee's quickly earned a reputation for having the "Cleanest Restrooms in America," making it a must-stop for travelers. The brand's dedication to cleanliness, quality, and convenience has made it a beloved staple in several states.

A Growing Legacy in Louisiana
Buc-ee's has expanded significantly since its humble beginnings in Texas. Today, you can find Buc-ee's in several states, including Texas, Alabama, Florida, Georgia, Kentucky, and South Carolina. The travel center has built a loyal following with its diverse offerings, from freshly made fudge and beef jerky to unique souvenirs and branded merchandise.

Louisiana is poised to become the latest state to join the Buc-ee's family. Ruston, Louisiana, is set to host the state's first Buc-ee's location, marking an exciting new chapter for the company. The potential Lafayette location, if rumors are true, would be the second Buc-ee's in Louisiana, further expanding the brand's footprint in the Pelican State. For Louisiana residents, this means even more opportunities to enjoy Buc-ee's legendary snacks and clean facilities.

What to Expect
If the rumors about the Lafayette location are true, visitors can expect all the beloved Buc-ee's staples. From the famous brisket sandwiches and kolaches to the extensive selection of snacks and drinks, there's something for everyone. And, of course, the same high standards of cleanliness and customer service that Buc-ee's is known for will be present.

While we're still waiting for official confirmation, the anticipation is undeniable. Buc-ee's has a knack for creating buzz and excitement wherever it goes, and a new location in Lafayette would be no exception. Whether you're a longtime Buc-ee's fan or a curious first-timer, the prospect of a Buc-ee's in Lafayette is an exciting development for the region.

Stay tuned for more updates on this rumor. In the meantime, get ready to experience all that Buc-ee's has to offer—potentially coming soon to Lafayette, Louisiana!

Sunday, August 4, 2024

The First Buc-ee's in Louisiana: Coming Soon to Ruston!

Exciting news for Louisiana residents and Buc-ee's enthusiasts! The first-ever Buc-ee's in the state is set to open in Ruston next year, marking a significant milestone for the iconic gas station and convenience store chain. After years of planning, construction is finally set to begin this year, bringing the beloved Buc-ee's experience to the Pelican State.

A Hub of Excitement in Ruston
The anticipation for Buc-ee's arrival in Louisiana is palpable. Ruston Mayor Ronnie Walker expressed his surprise at the level of excitement surrounding the project. "I had no idea it would cause this much excitement. Not just in Ruston but across the state," Walker said. The new location is strategically positioned off I-20, across from Ruston Junior High School, making it a convenient stop for travelers and locals alike.

A Boost for the Local Economy
The upcoming Buc-ee's in Ruston is not just about great snacks and clean restrooms; it's also set to bring significant economic benefits to the area. The new store will create 250 jobs, providing quality employment opportunities with competitive pay. "There will be people from as far away as Bossier to drive to work, you know. There will be people as far away as Monroe driving over here because they’re good quality jobs that pay real well," Mayor Walker explained.

Construction and Timeline
Although construction on the Ruston Buc-ee's hasn't begun yet, the city assures that the project is on track to be completed by late 2025. The city and state have finalized all necessary agreements, allowing the project to move forward smoothly. "We’re excited because we’re finally to the point where the state and the city have come to an agreement on everything. In fact, tomorrow I will sign a MOU, that will really start things moving faster," the mayor stated.
As the first Buc-ee's in Louisiana, the Ruston location is expected to attract visitors from across the state and beyond. The store will feature all the beloved Buc-ee's staples, from delicious brisket sandwiches and freshly made fudge to a vast selection of snacks and drinks. 

Stay tuned for more updates on the Ruston Buc-ee's, and get ready to experience the unique charm and quality that Buc-ee's is known for. With construction set to begin soon, the countdown to the grand opening is officially underway!

Friday, August 2, 2024

The Excitement Builds: Amarillo's Buc-ee's is Hiring!

Amarillo's anticipation is reaching its peak as the highly-awaited Buc-ee's location gears up for its grand opening. The buzz has been building ever since the initial announcement, and now, the news we've all been waiting for has arrived: Buc-ee's in Amarillo is officially hiring! While the earlier stages of the hiring process focused on management positions, the doors are now open for a wide array of roles, offering an exciting opportunity to join the Buc-ee's family.

Imagine being a part of the iconic Buc-ee's culture, working alongside Buc-ee the Beaver every day. Picture yourself as one of the first to witness the arrival of the beloved inflatable Buc-ee during the Christmas season. And, of course, being there on opening day, surrounded by eager customers and fellow Buc-ee's enthusiasts. This is not just a job; it's an experience and a chance to be part of something special.

Positions Available
Buc-ee's is currently hiring for a variety of positions, catering to different interests and skill sets. If you're someone who enjoys interacting with people, positions like cashier and gift/merchandise associate might be perfect for you. Prefer working with food? They are also looking for deli/food service associates, with a competitive starting pay of $21 per hour.

For those who prefer behind-the-scenes work, there are opportunities as grocery/warehouse stockers and janitorial/cleaning maintenance attendants. These roles are essential to maintaining the high standards Buc-ee's is known for. The starting pay for cashiers is $18 per hour, and all positions come with great benefits, including medical/dental coverage and three weeks of paid time off.

The Opportunity Awaits
With thirteen different positions available and multiple hires needed for each, there's plenty of opportunity to join the Buc-ee's team. Now's the time to dust off your resume, find that perfect interview outfit, and take the first step toward a thrilling new career. Whether you're a longtime fan of Buc-ee's or new to the experience, this is a chance to be part of a company known for its excellent customer service, clean facilities, and unique offerings.

Don't miss out on the opportunity to be part of this exciting new chapter in Amarillo's history. Apply today, and who knows—you could be working at the grand opening of Amarillo's very own Buc-ee's soon!

For more updates and news about Buc-ee's and other exciting food and travel experiences, stay tuned to Food and Flame. Let us be your guide to the best food stops and hidden gems across the country!

New Buc-ee's in Ohio: A Groundbreaking Moment

Buc-ee's, the beloved Texas-based chain known for its massive convenience stores and unique offerings, is set to make its mark in Ohio with its first location in Huber Heights. This exciting development will be celebrated with a groundbreaking ceremony on August 8, 2024, marking the start of construction on what promises to be an iconic addition to the area.

Located at 8000 State Highway 235, Huber Heights, a suburb on the north side of Dayton, the new Buc-ee's will feature an impressive 100 fueling positions and 24 electric vehicle charging stations. The store will occupy a sprawling 74,000 square feet, offering a vast array of products and services. As Stan Beard, a representative from Buc-ee's, shared, “Huber Heights is the perfect spot for our first Ohio store. It's a beautiful stretch of I-70 between Columbus and Indianapolis, and we are excited to be a part of this community.” The construction is expected to take around 18 months, with an anticipated completion date near the end of 2025, according to Huber Heights Mayor Jeff Gore.

In addition to its massive size, the Huber Heights Buc-ee's will create 200 full-time jobs, providing a significant boost to the local economy. The store will offer Buc-ee's famous Texas barbecue, homemade fudge, kolaches, sweet corn puffs known as Beaver Nuggets, jerky, fresh pastries, and more. Since starting its multi-state expansion in 2019, Buc-ee's has become a sensation beyond Texas, now operating 50 stores.

As avid fans of Buc-ee's, my wife and I are thrilled about this new location. Buc-ee's is not just a convenience store; it's an experience. From the warm, inviting atmosphere to the delicious food and unique products, it's a place we can't get enough of. That's why we have a bucket list item to visit every single Buc-ee's location. Each store offers something special, and we can't wait to explore what Huber Heights will have in store.

For all Buc-ee's enthusiasts and those new to the experience, we invite you to join us in celebrating the arrival of Ohio's first Buc-ee's. It's more than just a store; it's a destination, and we can't wait to see it become a cherished part of the community.

Thursday, August 1, 2024

Buc-ee's in DeForest, Wisconsin: Financial Negotiations Delay Construction Plans

Buc-ee's, the beloved Texas-based travel center chain, has been making headlines with its ambitious expansion plans across the country. However, the company's first-ever Wisconsin location in DeForest has hit a snag. Originally slated to open in 2023, the project has faced delays due to unresolved financial negotiations between Buc-ee's and the Village of DeForest.

The main issue at hand revolves around the costs of necessary highway improvements around the proposed site. DeForest Village Administrator Bill Chang explained, "There's certain things that need to happen before they can break ground." Typically, when a new development occurs, the business takes on the cost of related infrastructure improvements. However, the details of this cost-sharing arrangement have yet to be finalized, causing a hold-up in the project.

Buc-ee's had paid $4.2 million for the property in April 2023, with plans to begin construction in 2024. Unfortunately, with the current state of negotiations, village leaders believe that this timeline may be overly optimistic. The 75,000-square-foot travel center was expected to feature 120 gas pumps and create 200 new jobs in Dane County, making it a highly anticipated addition to the area.

As negotiations continue, both Buc-ee's and the Village of DeForest are working diligently to reach an agreement that benefits both parties. While the delay is undoubtedly disappointing for Buc-ee's fans in Wisconsin, the company remains committed to bringing its unique brand of hospitality and convenience to the Badger State. Stay tuned to Food and Flame for the latest updates on this developing story.

Buc-ee's is Coming to Goodyear, Arizona: The West Just Got a Whole Lot Beaver!

Get ready, Goodyear! The moment we've all been waiting for is finally here. Buc-ee's, the beloved Texas-based travel center known for its iconic beaver mascot, delicious snacks, and pristine restrooms, is officially planting its flag in Arizona! The company's first-ever location in the Western U.S. is set to open its doors on the southeast corner of Bullard Avenue and Interstate 10 in Goodyear, and the excitement is palpable.

When news broke earlier this year that Buc-ee's was considering Goodyear, the response was electric. Fans across Arizona couldn't contain their excitement at the thought of finally having their own slice of Buc-ee's heaven. And now, with the purchase of the land officially closed, it's not just a dream—it's a reality!

"This is a huge milestone for the project, and I couldn't be more excited that Buc-ee's has chosen Goodyear," said Mayor Joe Pizzillo. "It's more than just a gas station or a convenience store. Buc-ee's will provide our residents with what they've been asking for—more options—and that's exactly what they'll get as our city continues to grow."

Buc-ee's isn't just any travel center; it's an experience. Known for having the world's largest convenience store and the cleanest restrooms in America, Buc-ee's has become a must-visit destination for travelers. From fueling up your car (and at some locations, even charging your EV) to indulging in mouthwatering treats like smoked brisket, Beaver Nuggets, and an endless variety of beef jerky, Buc-ee's has something for everyone. And let's not forget the famous "wall of beef jerky," a sight to behold for any meat lover!

But that's not all. Buc-ee's is committed to celebrating the local community, often sourcing products from local vendors and artisans. It's more than a place to fill your tank; it's a place to fill your heart with a sense of community and discovery.

The Goodyear location promises to be a game-changer, featuring 120 fueling stations for passenger vehicles (sorry, semi-truck drivers) and a massive 74,000-square-foot convenience store—about 23% larger than a football field! This behemoth of a store will operate 24/7, 365 days a year, bringing more than 200 full-time jobs to the area. And with starting pay well above minimum wage, full benefits, a 6% matching 401k, and three weeks of paid vacation, Buc-ee's is not just a great place to visit; it's a fantastic place to work.

So, mark your calendars and get ready to embark on a road trip like no other. Buc-ee's Goodyear is set to become the newest hotspot for food lovers, road warriors, and everyone in between. As Buc-ee's continues to expand its empire, Goodyear is poised to become the latest jewel in the crown of this iconic brand. Stay tuned to Food and Flame for more updates, and get ready to say, "See you at Buc-ee's!"