At the heart of Florida’s I-95 corridor, a monumental shift is underway. Buc-ee’s is constructing a 76,000-square-foot travel center in Fort Pierce, set to become one of the company’s largest locations.
The store will feature 120 fuel pumps, 18 EV charging stations, and a vast 778-space parking lot. With a target opening in late 2027 or early 2028, the store promises to redefine road trips. But why Fort Pierce, and how will this colossal store reshape the market?
Luling Remains the Largest
While initial planning documents indicated the Fort Pierce location would measure approximately 76,000 square feet, Buc-ee’s clarified in January 2026 that measurement methods vary by jurisdiction.
Stan Beard, Buc-ee’s Director of Real Estate, confirmed that “Luling, Texas, is, and will continue to be the largest Buc-ee’s Travel Center in our network” at 75,593 square feet. The Fort Pierce location will nonetheless rank among the company’s largest stores.
Why Fort Pierce Is the Chosen Battleground
Florida’s travel-center market is thriving. The I-95 corridor sees millions of vehicles every year, intensifying the competition for services like fuel, food, and convenience retail.
While Buc-ee’s currently operates in Daytona Beach and St. Augustine, its new Fort Pierce location is set to establish the chain as a leader in Florida’s busy I-95 corridor.
The Benchmark
In June 2024, Buc-ee’s opened its 75,593-square-foot mega-store in Luling, Texas, which holds the world record for the largest convenience store.
The store quickly became a favorite stop for travelers, praised for its expansive retail space, legendary restroom facilities, and impressive fuel capacity. The company has since announced plans to build additional large-format stores across the country, continuing its race for scale.
The Pressure to Expand Beyond Texas
Buc-ee’s now faces strong competition from Love’s Travel Stops and Pilot Flying J, which are growing quickly.
As consumer demand increases for high-quality travel centers offering clean facilities, good food, and electric vehicle (EV) charging, Buc-ee’s recognizes Florida’s year-round traffic and tourism economy as a key opportunity for growth.
Announcing Fort Pierce
Buc-ee’s has announced plans for a major travel center in Fort Pierce, Florida. The project, with approximately 76,000 square feet in planning documents, will be among the company’s largest locations when it opens in late 2027 or early 2028.
This ambitious project demonstrates Buc-ee’s determination to expand into Florida’s highly trafficked I-95 corridor. The company purchased approximately 35 acres for the development.
Economic Impact on Fort Pierce
Local officials in St. Lucie County are optimistic about the Fort Pierce Buc-ee’s store. Expected to create over 175 jobs, the facility will generate significant tax revenue and foster further development in the I-95 corridor.
The mega-store will attract additional retail and hospitality investments, boosting the local economy.
Optimism With Caution
The Fort Pierce community is cautiously optimistic about the project. While many welcome the job opportunities and economic benefits, concerns about traffic congestion during construction and increased vehicle volume after opening have emerged.
Environmental groups are also monitoring stormwater management and parking-lot runoff plans.
Competition Heats Up
Love’s Travel Stops and Pilot Flying J, the giants in the travel-center space, are watching Buc-ee’s move into Florida. To compete, these chains have invested in EV charging and premium amenities.
Buc-ee’s Fort Pierce location will feature 120 fuel pumps and 18 EV charging stations, setting a high industry standard and putting pressure on competitors to match.
EV Charging at Buc-ee’s
The Fort Pierce Buc-ee’s will include 18 EV charging stations, positioning the company as a leader in the growing electric vehicle market.
As EV adoption rises, travel centers are now required to provide charging infrastructure to stay relevant. Buc-ee’s is ahead of the curve with this dual-fuel strategy, catering to both traditional and electric vehicle customers.
A Massive Parking Lot
The Fort Pierce store will have 778 parking spaces, underscoring the scale and ambition of the project. For comparison, a typical Walmart Supercenter has approximately 800-1,200 spaces.
This huge parking footprint reflects Buc-ee’s vision of creating a destination, not just a stop for fuel. It will be a key spot for travelers to take breaks for food, shopping, and restroom visits.
Final Approvals and Local Progress
Buc-ee’s received state approval in April 2025, and the project is progressing through final county approval stages. The county is negotiating with Buc-ee’s over traffic impact, stormwater management, and construction logistics.
While opposition has been minimal, the approval process has revealed some tensions between growth ambitions and infrastructure challenges.
A Vision from Buc-ee’s Leadership
Buc-ee’s, led by founder Arch “Beaver” Aplin III, has grown into an iconic brand due to its focus on cleanliness, customer service, and operational excellence.
Founded in 1982 in Lake Jackson, Texas, the Fort Pierce project reflects Aplin’s vision of expanding Buc-ee’s into national markets while maintaining the company’s high standards. This disciplined approach has earned the brand loyal customers and premium pricing.
Construction Logistics
Construction of the Fort Pierce mega-store is expected to take approximately two years. Buc-ee’s has hired experienced contractors and engineers to manage this large project, including utility installation and building construction.
Local officials are working with the company to minimize disruptions to traffic during construction, with a targeted opening in late 2027 or early 2028.
Can Buc-ee’s Scale Without Sacrificing Quality?
Industry analysts have raised concerns about Buc-ee’s ability to maintain its quality standards while expanding rapidly.
The brand’s success is built on operational excellence and attention to detail. Can it scale without losing the culture that made it successful? The Fort Pierce store will be a test of Buc-ee’s ability to balance growth with maintaining quality.
What’s Next for Buc-ee’s in Florida?
Buc-ee’s has already planned additional stores in Florida, including a 74,000-square-foot store in Ocala, expected to open in 2028.
Governor Ron DeSantis pledged state support for the Ocala project in 2023, including $4 million for a new I-75 interchange.
Buc-ee’s is also planning a location in Tallahassee, solidifying Florida as a key market in the company’s long-term expansion strategy.
Political Support and Policy Implications
Governor DeSantis’s support for Buc-ee’s expansion aligns with his pro-business policy agenda. Florida has streamlined permitting to attract major retailers, with the Buc-ee’s projects fitting into this vision.
However, environmental advocates are concerned about the impact of rapid commercial development on the state’s natural resources. The Fort Pierce and Ocala projects will test Florida’s balance between growth and sustainability.
Buc-ee’s National Expansion Strategy
Buc-ee’s is aggressively expanding beyond Florida, with new stores planned in Ohio, Arizona, and several other states.
The company has announced multiple locations scheduled to open through 2031, establishing itself as a true national brand. The Fort Pierce store will be crucial to this broader expansion strategy.
Environmental Considerations for the Mega-Store
The Fort Pierce Buc-ee’s must adhere to Florida’s strict environmental regulations. Stormwater management is a key concern, with the large parking lot expected to generate significant runoff.
Buc-ee’s is working with local officials to implement stormwater management solutions to reduce its environmental footprint.
The Buc-ee’s Phenomenon
Buc-ee’s has become more than just a convenience store—it’s a cultural phenomenon. The brand has inspired merchandise, social media followings, and even dedicated travel guides.
The Fort Pierce mega-store will amplify this cultural cachet, drawing visitors from across the region. Buc-ee’s taps into the trend of experience-driven retail, where travelers seek more than just fuel and snacks.
Sources:
“Luling, TX will Remain the Largest Buc-ee’s Travel Center.” Digital Journal / ACCESS Newswire, 20 Jan 2026.
“Buc-ee’s eyes world’s largest convenience store title planned for Fort Pierce.” Sebastian Daily, 13 Jan 2026.
“Governor Ron DeSantis Awards $4 Million for New I-75 Interchange in Ocala, Announces Third Buc-ee’s Location in Florida.” Florida Governor’s Press Office, 6 Apr 2023.
“Buc-ee’s plans to open world’s largest convenience store.” Fox Business, 19 Jan 2026.