In a bold expansion move, Buc-ee’s, the Texas-born chain renowned for cavernous stores and impeccably clean restrooms, has unveiled plans for what it claims will be the world’s largest convenience store. Spanning 76,245 square feet in Fort Pierce, Florida, the project eclipses the company’s current record-holder in Luling, Texas, by over 2,000 square feet. This announcement, made public this week, signals Buc-ee’s aggressive push beyond its Lone Star State roots into high-growth markets.

The Fort Pierce site, positioned off Florida’s Turnpike at Okeechobee Road, will feature 120 fueling positions alongside 18 electric vehicle charging stations, catering to the state’s booming tourism and EV adoption trends. Local officials have greenlit the project, with construction expected to ramp up soon, though no firm opening date has been set. Buc-ee’s executives emphasize the store’s role in serving Interstate 95 travelers between Orlando and Miami.

Buc-ee’s Blueprint for Dominance

Fox Business reported the scale of the development, noting its capacity to draw crowds with signature offerings like fresh brisket sandwiches and beaver nuggets. [Fox Business]

The chain’s growth trajectory has been meteoric, with 50 locations across seven states as of late 2025. Recent openings include Amarillo, Texas, in December 2024, celebrated on the company’s X account with thousands of views. Posts on X from Buc-ee’s official account highlight a pattern of rapid deployments, such as the 74,000-square-foot Luling store that held the size record until now.

Industry observers point to Buc-ee’s vertically integrated model—handling everything from jerky production to restroom maintenance—as key to its scalability. The Fort Pierce venture includes a 30-pump RV fueling area, underscoring adaptability to diverse customer segments.

Florida’s Turnpike Transformation

Fort Pierce Mayor Linda Hudson expressed enthusiasm, stating the project would boost local employment and tax revenue. The site sits on 32 acres, allowing for expansive parking to accommodate tour buses and semis. Local12 covered the announcement, emphasizing Buc-ee’s reputation for food quality that rivals sit-down eateries. [Local12]

Competitors like Wawa and Sheetz, dominant in the Northeast and Mid-Atlantic, now face a Southern powerhouse encroaching on their turf. Buc-ee’s differentiates with made-to-order meals prepared in open kitchens, drawing lines that snake through stores. The Daily Mail detailed how this Florida outpost will surpass Texas icons, marking a shift in regional power dynamics. [Daily Mail]

Environmental considerations include the EV chargers, aligning with Florida’s push for sustainable infrastructure. The Chron reported that while Texas loses its top spot, the chain plans additional stores there, including in Amarillo and Hillsboro. [Houston Chronicle]

Operational Scale and Supply Chain Might

Buc-ee’s operates its own commissaries, producing millions of pounds of snacks annually. The Fort Pierce store will likely source from these facilities, ensuring consistency. The Takeout highlighted the chain’s cult status, fueled by social media buzz around openings. [The Takeout]

Staffing remains a challenge; new locations hire hundreds, offering competitive wages starting above $15 per hour. X posts from Buc-ee’s during past launches, like Auburn, Alabama, in 2023, show overwhelming turnout, with over 700,000 views on opening announcements.

Financially, Buc-ee’s remains privately held, but estimates peg annual systemwide sales over $1 billion. Miami New Times noted the South Florida impact, predicting traffic surges on the Turnpike. [Miami New Times]

National Expansion Accelerates

Beyond Florida, Buc-ee’s eyes Ohio, Arizona, and more Texas sites. The Statesman outlined two new Texas stores alongside nationwide growth. [Austin American-Statesman] This multi-state strategy mitigates regional risks while capitalizing on highway corridors.

Real estate plays a pivotal role; Buc-ee’s favors freeway exits with high traffic volumes. The Fort Pierce parcel, acquired years ago, exemplifies patient site selection. CBS Austin echoed the national buzz around the size milestone. [CBS Austin]

Customer loyalty programs and merchandise—think beaver plush toys—drive repeat visits. As EV infrastructure expands, Buc-ee’s positions itself as a one-stop hub, blending fuel, food, and charging.

Economic Ripples and Community Ties

The project promises 200 jobs, per local reports, injecting vitality into Fort Pierce’s economy. KOMO News detailed the store’s amenities, from 100+ fountain drink options to bakery-fresh kolaches. [KOMO News]

Founded in 1982 by Arch ‘Beaver’ Aplin, Buc-ee’s has evolved from a single Lake Jackson outpost to a retail phenomenon. Its no-sit-down policy keeps lines moving, a tactic honed over decades.

Challenges ahead include supply chain pressures and labor markets, yet Buc-ee’s track record suggests resilience. As of January 20, 2026, web searches confirm no delays, with excitement building on X.

Future Horizons

With this behemoth, Buc-ee’s redefines convenience retail scale, challenging industry norms on size and service. Stakeholders watch closely as construction breaks ground, poised to crown Florida the new epicenter of Buc-ee’s empire.