00:00Buc-ee's smashes world record with largest megastore in Florida, a $40 million fortress.
00:06Buc-ee's is building a 76,000 square foot travel center in Fort Pierce, Florida,
00:11with 120 fuel pumps, 18 EV charging stations, and a 778 space parking lot.
00:18Opening is projected for late 2027 or early 2028.
00:23The store aims to redefine road trips along Florida's I-95 corridor,
00:27leveraging high traffic and tourism while competing with Love's Travel Stops and Pilot Flying J.
00:34While Fort Pierce will be among the chain's largest, Luling, Texas,
00:38remains the largest Buc-ee's at 75,593 square feet.
00:44The Fort Pierce store will showcase the company's continued national growth strategy.
00:49Florida's I-95 corridor is a strategic market.
00:53Buc-ee's already operates in Daytona Beach and St. Augustine,
00:57and Fort Pierce strengthens its position in the state's busiest route,
01:01capturing travelers and EV drivers alike.
01:04The project will create over 175 jobs,
01:07generate tax revenue, and attract additional development along I-95.
01:12While residents welcome economic benefits,
01:14concerns remain over traffic congestion and environmental impacts,
01:18particularly stormwater runoff from the large parking lot.
01:21Buc-ee's Luling store set a world record in 2024 and inspired its national expansion.
01:29Fort Pierce's 120 fuel pumps and 18 EV chargers set a new standard,
01:34pressuring competitors to upgrade.
01:36The store's 778 parking spaces create a full-service travel experience beyond fuel,
01:42including shopping, food, and restrooms.
01:44Founder Arch Beaver Applin III emphasizes operational excellence,
01:50cleanliness, and scaling nationally without sacrificing quality.
01:54Construction is planned over two years,
01:57with experienced contractors managing utilities and traffic.
02:01Additional stores are planned in Ocala and Tallahassee,
02:04with expansion into Ohio, Arizona, and other states through 2031,
02:09positioning Florida as a key market.
02:10Governor DeSantis supports the expansion as part of a pro-business agenda,
02:16though environmental groups monitor development impacts.
02:20Buc-ee's is implementing stormwater management solutions
02:23to comply with Florida regulations.
02:26Beyond convenience retail, Buc-ee's has become a cultural icon,
02:30drawing visitors regionally and nationally.
02:33The Fort Pierce store will enhance this reputation,
02:36blending scale, amenities, and experience-driven retail.
02:39Buc-ee's has become a cultural icon,
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