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,
00:12with 120 fuel pumps, 18 E-Fi charging stations, and a 778-space parking lot.
00:19Opening 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.
00:33While Fort Pierce will be among the chain's largest, Luling, Texas,
00:37remains the largest Buc-ee's at 75,593 square feet.
00:42The Fort Pierce store will showcase the company's continued national growth strategy.
00:48Florida's I-95 corridor is a strategic market.
00:51Buc-ee's already operates in Daytona Beach and St. Augustine,
00:54and Fort Pierce strengthens its position in the state's busiest route,
00:58capturing travelers and EV drivers alike.
01:02The project will create over 175 jobs, generate tax revenue,
01:07and attract additional development along I-95.
01:10While residents welcome economic benefits,
01:12concerns remain over traffic congestion and environmental impacts,
01:16particularly stormwater runoff from the large parking lot.
01:19Buc-ee's Luling store set a world record in 2024
01:22and inspired its national expansion.
01:25Fort Pierce's 120 fuel pumps and 18 EV chargers set a new standard,
01:31pressuring competitors to upgrade.
01:33The store's 778 parking spaces create a full-service travel experience beyond fuel,
01:39including shopping, food, and restrooms.
01:42Founder Arch Beaver, Applin III, emphasizes operational excellence,
01:47cleanliness, and scaling nationally without sacrificing quality.
01:52Construction is planned over two years,
01:54with experienced contractors managing utilities and traffic.
01:58Additional stores are planned in Ocala and Tallahassee,
02:01with expansion into Ohio, Arizona, and other states through 2031,
02:06positioning Florida as a key market.
02:09Governor Ron DeSantis supports the expansion as part of a pro-business agenda,
02:13though environmental groups monitor development impacts.
02:17Buc-ee's is implementing stormwater management solutions
02:20to comply with Florida regulations.
02:23Beyond convenience retail, Buc-ee's has become a cultural icon,
02:27drawing visitors regionally and nationally.
02:30The Fort Pierce store will enhance this reputation,
02:34blending scale, amenities, and experience-driven retail.
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