Buc-ee’s is one of the most recognizable convenience store and gas station chains in the United States. Known for its spotless restrooms, endless snacks, and the famous beaver mascot, it has become a Texas icon. But who owns Buc-ee’s, and how did it become such a phenomenon? Let’s explore its ownership, leadership, financial success, and more.
TL;DR
- Buc-ee’s is privately owned, with Arch “Beaver” Aplin III holding 68% of the company and Don Wasek holding 27%, while minor stakeholders hold the remaining 5%, giving the founders overwhelming control of the business.
- It remains fully controlled by its founders and key executives, with no public or institutional shareholders, ensuring consistent brand standards, operations, and strategic direction.
- Buc-ee’s does not franchise or sell equity, allowing all profits to be reinvested internally into expansion, real estate, and proprietary food and merchandise brands.
- This ownership structure, with 95% combined founder and executive control, enables Buc-ee’s to remain debt-free, financially stable, and vertically integrated.
Buc-ee’s Company Profile
Buc-ee’s is a U.S. chain of travel centers, country stores, and gas stations. It combines fueling, a large retail store, fresh food, snacks, and restrooms under one roof. The company is private and headquartered in Lake Jackson, Texas.
It is known for very large footprints, high volumes of fuel pumps, and a wide selection of retail goods and food. It also integrates electric vehicle (EV) charging at many locations.
Buc-ee’s does not franchise its locations. Every store is owned and operated by the parent company.
As of 2025, Buc-ee’s operates in multiple states. The expansion beyond Texas began around 2018.
One recent example: in June 2025, Buc-ee’s opened a 74,000 sq ft travel center in Pass Christian, Mississippi — its first in that state.
That new store is described as among the largest in the region, with many fueling stations and EV chargers.
Founders
Buc-ee’s was co-founded by Arch “Beaver” Aplin III and Don Wasek in 1982.
Arch Aplin graduated from Texas A&M University in 1980 with a degree in building construction. That education influenced his approach to store design, structure, and project delivery.
Aplin had a vision of combining convenience with scale, cleanliness, and a strong brand identity. He played a central role in every new store opening, site selection, and aesthetic decisions.
Don Wasek partnered with Aplin to run operations, manage the logistics, and support expansion efforts. Over time, Wasek became the operational backbone alongside Aplin’s strategic leadership.
The name “Buc-ee’s” reportedly derives from Aplin’s childhood nickname “Beaver,” combined with “Buck” (the name of his dog).
Major Milestones
- 1982 – The first Buc-ee’s opens in Clute, Texas, marking the beginning of the brand’s journey.
- 1985 – Buc-ee’s introduces its signature mascot, “Beaver,” which soon becomes one of Texas’s most recognizable roadside icons.
- 2001 – Expansion accelerates with the opening of larger-format stores featuring more fuel pumps and a wider product range.
- 2003 – The first large-scale travel center opens in Luling, Texas, pioneering Buc-ee’s mega-store concept that combines retail, food, and fuel.
- 2006 – Buc-ee’s introduces its now-famous proprietary snacks like Beaver Nuggets, jerky, and fudge, helping establish its brand identity.
- 2012 – Buc-ee’s wins the Cintas “Best Restroom in America” Award, cementing its national reputation for exceptional cleanliness.
- 2013 – The New Braunfels location opens — at the time, the largest convenience store in the world, covering over 66,000 sq. ft.
- 2016 – Buc-ee’s begins construction on stores outside Texas, signaling plans for regional and national expansion.
- 2018 – The first out-of-state store opens in Alabama, officially beginning Buc-ee’s multi-state growth.
- 2019 – Expansion continues into Florida and Georgia, with new stores opening along major highways and tourist routes.
- 2021 – Buc-ee’s expands into Kentucky, South Carolina, and Tennessee, increasing its national visibility and footprint.
- 2022 – Buc-ee’s is named one of the Top 100 Private Companies in Texas, with revenues surpassing hundreds of millions annually.
- 2023 – The Sevierville, Tennessee Buc-ee’s opens, spanning 74,707 sq. ft., becoming the largest convenience store in the world.
- 2024 – A new Luling, Texas store breaks Sevierville’s record at 75,000 sq. ft., reclaiming the title of the world’s largest convenience store.
- 2025 – Buc-ee’s opens its first Mississippi location in Pass Christian, continuing its expansion into new regions. In the same year, Arch “Beaver” Aplin donates $60 million to Texas A&M University, establishing the Aplin Center, solidifying his legacy as both a business leader and philanthropist.
Who Owns Buc-ee’s: Major Shareholders
As of October 2025, Buc-ee’s remains a privately held company, co-owned and controlled by its two original founders — Arch “Beaver” Aplin III and Don Wasek. The company has never gone public and has no outside institutional investors, venture capital backing, or private equity involvement. Its ownership model is intentionally private, allowing Buc-ee’s to grow without shareholder pressure and to maintain its reputation for quality and consistency.
This independence has been a defining feature of Buc-ee’s success. Decisions about new locations, product offerings, and operations are made entirely within the company, primarily by the founders and a small team of long-time executives. In 2025, Buc-ee’s continues to operate this way, ensuring complete control over its brand image and customer experience.
| Shareholder / Group | Ownership Percentage | Role in the Company | Control / Influence | Key Details |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Arch “Beaver” Aplin III | 68% | Co-founder, President & CEO | Majority control — leads strategy, branding, expansion, and operations decisions | Aplin is the public face of Buc-ee’s and its primary decision-maker. He oversees location selection, store design, and product strategy. His leadership turned Buc-ee’s into a multi-state retail giant. Estimated net worth ~$2.3 billion in 2025. Also funded the $60 million Aplin Center at Texas A&M University. |
| Don Wasek | 27% | Co-founder, COO | Significant control — manages operations, logistics, and daily store performance | Wasek ensures consistent quality, staffing, and cleanliness across all locations. Though less public-facing, his operational discipline has shaped Buc-ee’s signature experience. Estimated net worth $700–800 million in 2025. |
| Family & Trust Holdings | 5% | Indirect (Family Trusts & Future Succession Shares) | Non-controlling — passive ownership held for long-term family succession planning | Represents shares held by or planned for heirs of Aplin and Wasek through family trusts. These shares do not influence day-to-day business or corporate governance. |
Arch “Beaver” Aplin III – 68% Ownership
Arch “Beaver” Aplin III is the majority shareholder, holding approximately 68% ownership of Buc-ee’s as of October 2025. As the company’s President and CEO, Aplin exercises the most significant control over strategy, branding, and expansion decisions.
His ownership reflects both his founding role and his leadership contributions over more than four decades. Under Aplin’s guidance, Buc-ee’s expanded from a single convenience store in Lake Jackson, Texas, to a multi-state travel center empire known for its massive stores, iconic mascot, and famous snacks like Beaver Nuggets and fresh jerky.
Aplin’s influence extends beyond business operations. He personally oversees store design, branding, and location selection. His leadership has turned Buc-ee’s into a destination experience rather than a typical gas station stop. In addition to his majority stake, Aplin’s estimated personal net worth exceeds $2.3 billion as of 2025 — most of which stems from his controlling ownership in Buc-ee’s.
Aplin also remains deeply involved in philanthropy. His $60 million donation to Texas A&M University in 2025 established the Aplin Center, a state-of-the-art facility dedicated to retail, hospitality, and entrepreneurship education — reflecting his legacy as both a business and community leader.
Don Wasek – 27% Ownership
Don Wasek, Buc-ee’s co-founder, holds an estimated 27% ownership stake in the company as of 2025. While Aplin is the face of the brand, Wasek has long been the operational backbone of Buc-ee’s, managing logistics, supply chains, staffing, and store execution.
His leadership ensures that every Buc-ee’s store — regardless of size or location — delivers the same standards of cleanliness, efficiency, and service. Wasek’s role is less public-facing but equally essential. He oversees the day-to-day functioning of Buc-ee’s travel centers, ensuring consistency in employee training, food quality, and customer satisfaction.
Wasek’s equity position gives him a strong voice in strategic decisions, though the company’s final direction typically rests with Aplin’s leadership. His estimated net worth, derived largely from his Buc-ee’s ownership, is believed to be between $700 million and $800 million as of 2025.
Family and Succession Holdings – 5% Combined Ownership
While Buc-ee’s is primarily controlled by its two founders, a combined 5% stake is believed to be held indirectly through family trusts and future succession arrangements. These are not active or controlling shares but represent planned equity transfers to family members and designated heirs of both founders.
This minor share allocation aligns with Buc-ee’s long-term succession strategy, ensuring continuity within the founding families without altering the company’s control structure. There are no external or corporate investors in this group.
Who is the CEO of Buc-ee’s?
As of 2025, Arch “Beaver” Aplin III serves as the President and Chief Executive Officer (CEO) of Buc-ee’s. He is also the company’s co-founder and majority shareholder, making him the key figure behind every major decision — from store design and operations to long-term expansion strategy. Under his leadership, Buc-ee’s has become one of the most recognizable retail travel center brands in America.
Arch “Beaver” Aplin III – Leadership Overview
Aplin co-founded Buc-ee’s in 1982 with Don Wasek in Lake Jackson, Texas. Initially, the company operated as a modest convenience store, but Aplin’s vision quickly transformed it into a new kind of roadside experience — one that combined massive size, cleanliness, and hospitality. His nickname “Beaver” inspired the now-iconic Buc-ee’s mascot and logo, which have become symbols of Texas pride and Americana culture.
As CEO, Aplin remains deeply involved in every part of Buc-ee’s operations. Unlike many executives who delegate branding and design, Aplin personally oversees store aesthetics, interior layouts, and product selection — from barbecue brisket sandwiches to in-store merchandise. His attention to detail ensures that each Buc-ee’s location delivers the same unique, clean, and fun experience that fans expect.
Leadership Style and Decision-Making
Aplin’s leadership style is hands-on, visionary, and brand-driven. He believes in maintaining full control over Buc-ee’s operations to protect its reputation for excellence. Decisions are centralized — there’s no external board or group of investors. All key strategies are discussed between Aplin and Wasek, with Aplin having the final say on brand and expansion matters.
His decision to keep Buc-ee’s privately held has allowed the company to grow organically, without the financial pressure of public shareholders or franchising. This model ensures consistency across all stores — a major reason Buc-ee’s has become so beloved across the southern and eastern United States.
Major Achievements as CEO
Under Aplin’s leadership, Buc-ee’s achieved several defining milestones:
- 1982: Opened the first Buc-ee’s in Lake Jackson, Texas.
- 2003: Introduced the “Mega Travel Center” model — combining fuel, food, and retail under one roof.
- 2012: Opened the New Braunfels location, then the world’s largest convenience store at over 68,000 square feet.
- 2019–2023: Expanded outside Texas into Alabama, Florida, Georgia, Kentucky, South Carolina, and Tennessee.
- 2024–2025: Announced and built new stores in Colorado, Missouri, and Virginia, marking Buc-ee’s continued national growth.
Each expansion was personally approved and supervised by Aplin, who insists on consistent standards across all regions.
Public and Community Roles
Beyond his CEO role, Aplin is recognized as a respected Texas entrepreneur and philanthropist. In 2022, he was appointed to the Texas Parks and Wildlife Commission by the state’s governor — a position that reflects his lifelong commitment to conservation and community service.
In 2025, Aplin funded and opened the Aplin Center at Texas A&M University, a $60 million innovation hub focused on retail, hospitality, and entrepreneurship education. The center stands as a testament to his vision of combining business success with education and community advancement.
CEO’s Vision for the Future
Looking ahead, Aplin plans to continue expanding Buc-ee’s nationally, targeting the Midwest and West Coast while maintaining strict operational control. His vision emphasizes staying true to Buc-ee’s roots — clean facilities, friendly service, and Texas-sized experiences — even as the brand becomes a national icon.
Aplin has also stated that Buc-ee’s will remain privately owned, with no plans for an IPO or franchising, ensuring the company’s future remains in the founders’ hands.
Buc-ee’s Annual Revenue and Net Worth
As of October 2025, Buc-ee’s is estimated to generate annual revenues of around $1.2 to $1.5 billion, with a total enterprise valuation (net worth) ranging between $2.5 and $3 billion. These figures reflect its continued expansion into new states, high per-store performance, and growing brand loyalty.
Annual Revenue
Buc-ee’s revenue is driven by multiple streams: fuel sales, in-store retail (snacks, merchandise, convenience goods), food service (barbecue, sandwiches, bakery), and branded specialty items (jerky, Beaver Nuggets, gifts). Because the company is private, it does not publish audited revenue, so all public figures are estimates drawn from industry analysts, projections, and comparisons with similar high-volume retail operations.
In recent years, Buc-ee’s growth has trended strongly upward. When it began expanding outside Texas, each new store was projected to deliver tens of millions in sales during its first full year. As more locations matured, existing outlets have reported year-over-year same-store growth, especially in tourist and travel corridors. The company’s size, scale, and ability to cross-sell high-margin merchandise help bolster overall revenue beyond just fuel.
To reach the estimated $1.2–1.5 billion mark in 2025, Buc-ee’s likely sees average annual revenue per major travel center in the tens of millions of dollars. High-traffic locations in major interstates and tourist regions may pull in even more, while newer or more rural sites may contribute less initially. As Buc-ee’s adds more large-format stores and enters new markets, the revenue base continues to widen.
Net Worth
Valuing a private company like Buc-ee’s is challenging. Analysts use multiples of revenue, comparable company valuations, and estimates of future growth to derive a ballpark figure. Based on estimated revenue, growth expectations, real estate holdings, and brand strength, Buc-ee’s is broadly valued between $2.5 and $3 billion in 2025.
This valuation reflects not just current revenue but also intangible assets: customer loyalty, brand equity, proprietary products, and operational consistency. Buc-ee’s extensive real estate footprint—many stores own or control large parcels of land—is also factored into its net worth. Additionally, the company’s growth trajectory and scarcity of external investors enhance its premium in valuation models.
Arch “Beaver” Aplin III’s majority stake and control give extra value to his equity, since the ability to direct and maintain the Buc-ee’s standard is central to its success. Because there is no public float, the valuation is hypothetical, representing the “price” one might expect in a hypothetical sale or investment.
Profitability and Margins
While revenue and valuation are key, Buc-ee’s profitability hinges on its margins. Fuel margins tend to be thin, but food, retail merchandise, and branded goods are higher-margin segments. Buc-ee’s works to maximize cross-margin sales—encouraging travelers who stop for fuel also to purchase snacks, souvenirs, and prepared food.
Operational expense control is critical. Maintaining very clean restrooms, a large staff, utilities, real estate costs, and supply chain logistics across multiple states demands scale discipline. The company’s private structure helps, since it can reinvest profits without pressure from public shareholders.
Historical Revenue and Net Worth
Over the past decade, Buc-ee’s has transformed from a regional Texas chain into a multibillion-dollar retail and travel center powerhouse. In 2015, Buc-ee’s generated an estimated $200 million in annual revenue, with a modest valuation of around $500 million. At the time, its operations were limited to Texas, and its reputation rested largely on local loyalty and exceptional customer experience.
Between 2016 and 2018, the company’s revenue grew steadily as it opened larger stores and broadened its product range. By 2018, Buc-ee’s annual revenue had crossed the half-billion-dollar mark, and its valuation was approaching $1.2 billion. This period represented Buc-ee’s maturation as a Texas icon, known for its vast travel centers, spotless restrooms, and signature snacks like Beaver Nuggets and fresh barbecue.
The real breakthrough came after 2018, when Buc-ee’s began expanding outside Texas. With new stores opening in Alabama, Georgia, and Florida, the brand’s reach — and revenues — accelerated dramatically. From 2019 to 2022, Buc-ee’s annual income roughly tripled, rising from about $700 million to over $2 billion. The company’s valuation followed suit, growing to nearly $2.5 billion by 2022 as it became a recognized national name.
By 2023 and 2024, Buc-ee’s had entered a new phase of growth, pushing into states such as Kentucky, South Carolina, and Tennessee. These newer locations contributed to record-breaking sales, with total revenues estimated between $2.5 and $3.5 billion and valuations exceeding $3 billion. Buc-ee’s became more than a convenience store — it evolved into a destination experience, drawing tourists and road travelers alike.
As of 2025, Buc-ee’s remains a privately held company with estimated annual revenues between $1.2 and $1.5 billion and an overall net worth of roughly $2.5 to $3 billion. The slight difference from previous years’ projections reflects shifting methods of analysis — separating established store revenues from newer stores still scaling up — rather than any slowdown in performance.
A major factor behind Buc-ee’s sustained financial strength is its independence and lack of external investors. The company carries no public debt and reinvests most of its profits directly into expansion, new facilities, and product development. Its two founders, Arch “Beaver” Aplin III and Don Wasek, continue to personally oversee business growth and brand integrity.
Another critical driver is Buc-ee’s unique business model. Unlike many chains that rely on franchise networks, Buc-ee’s owns and operates every one of its locations. This ensures that every site maintains the same high standards of cleanliness, service, and customer experience. That consistency fuels customer loyalty and repeat business, keeping Buc-ee’s among the most profitable privately owned travel center chains in the country.
Brands Owned by Buc-ee’s
As of 2025, Buc-ee’s has expanded its operations to include a diverse range of proprietary brands and products, all developed and managed in-house.
Below is a list of the major brands owned by Buc-ee’s as of 2025:
| Entity / Brand | Type / Division | Description / Function |
|---|---|---|
| Buc-ee’s Travel Centers | Core business | Mega-sized convenience stores and fueling stations; combines fuel, retail, food service, and branded merchandise; company-owned, no franchising. |
| Buc-ee’s Food and Beverage Division | Food production | In-house production of signature foods including barbecue sandwiches, kolaches, jerky, fudge, and bakery items; ensures quality and consistency across stores. |
| Buc-ee’s Branded Snacks | Proprietary brand | Signature packaged products such as Beaver Nuggets, Beaver Chips, Beaver Bites, Beaver Jerky, and seasonal snack variations; sold exclusively in Buc-ee’s stores. |
| Buc-ee’s Merchandise Division | Retail / Merchandise | Clothing, accessories, home décor, drinkware, and seasonal limited-edition items branded with Buc-ee’s mascot and logo; exclusive to Buc-ee’s stores. |
| Buc-ee’s Manufacturing Facilities | Manufacturing | Owns facilities producing snacks, packaged foods, and private-label products; maintains quality control and production standards. |
| Buc-ee’s Distribution Network | Logistics | Own distribution hubs and transport operations ensuring timely delivery and inventory management across all locations. |
| Buc-ee’s Real Estate and Development | Real estate | Owns and develops property for travel centers; manages construction, site selection, and strategic expansion into new states. |
| Buc-ee’s Private Label Products | Proprietary brand | Exclusive food and beverage items produced under the Buc-ee’s brand, including specialty snacks, sauces, and beverages; drives customer loyalty and higher margins. |
| Buc-ee’s E-commerce and Licensing (Emerging) | Digital / Licensing | Limited online store for merchandise and gifts; selective brand collaborations and partnerships; maintains in-house control over licensing. |
| Buc-ee’s Corporate Philanthropy and Community Division | Corporate social responsibility | Manages charitable giving, community projects, sponsorships, and disaster relief initiatives; reinforces brand reputation and community engagement. |
Buc-ee’s Branded Snacks and Food Products
Buc-ee’s has developed a variety of in-house food products that are exclusive to its stores:
- Beaver Nuggets: A signature snack, these sweet and crunchy corn puffs have become a cult favorite among customers.
- Beaver Chips: Freshly made potato chips available in various flavors, offering a crispy and flavorful snack option.
- Beaver Bites: A line of bite-sized snacks, including chocolate-covered treats and other confectioneries.
- Beaver Tails: A sweet pastry item, often glazed or filled, providing a unique dessert experience.
- Beaver Jerky: A selection of beef jerky products, available in multiple flavors, catering to savory snack enthusiasts.
- Beaver Nuggets OverBites: An extension of the original Beaver Nuggets, these are coated with chocolate, combining sweet and salty flavors.
- Beaver Nuggets Cherry Maple: A variant of the original snack, infused with cherry and maple flavors for a unique taste.
These products are produced in Buc-ee’s own facilities and are sold exclusively at its locations.
Buc-ee’s Branded Merchandise
Buc-ee’s offers a wide range of branded merchandise that reflects its unique identity:
- Apparel: T-shirts, hats, hoodies, and socks featuring the Buc-ee’s logo and mascot, catering to fans and travelers.
- Home Décor: Items such as towels, blankets, and signage that carry the Buc-ee’s branding, allowing customers to bring a piece of their experience home.
- Accessories: A variety of products including keychains, mugs, tumblers, and bags, all adorned with the Buc-ee’s logo.
- Seasonal Items: Limited-edition merchandise released during holidays and special events, often featuring exclusive designs.
This merchandise is designed and produced by Buc-ee’s and is available exclusively at its stores.
Buc-ee’s Food Service Offerings
In addition to packaged snacks, Buc-ee’s provides a range of freshly prepared food items:
- BBQ Brisket Sandwiches: A staple offering, featuring slow-cooked brisket served on a bun, often accompanied by sauces and pickles.
- Kolaches: A Czech-inspired pastry filled with various ingredients, such as meats, cheeses, or fruits, providing a diverse snack option.
- Breakfast Burritos and Tacos: Made-to-order items filled with eggs, meats, and other ingredients, catering to morning travelers.
- Fudge: A selection of homemade fudge in various flavors, offering a sweet treat for customers.
- Bakery Items: A variety of baked goods, including cookies and pastries, freshly prepared for customers.
These food items are prepared in Buc-ee’s kitchens and are available at its locations.
Buc-ee’s In-House Manufacturing and Distribution
Buc-ee’s maintains control over its product quality and availability through its own manufacturing and distribution:
- Manufacturing Facilities: Buc-ee’s operates facilities where it produces its snacks and food items, ensuring quality control and consistency across all products.
- Distribution Network: The company manages its own distribution to ensure timely delivery of products to its various locations, maintaining inventory levels and product freshness.
This in-house approach allows Buc-ee’s to maintain high standards and respond swiftly to customer demands.
Buc-ee’s Real Estate and Development
Buc-ee’s has expanded its presence through strategic real estate investments:
- Ownership of Properties: The company owns the land and buildings of its travel centers, providing stability and control over its operations.
- Development Projects: Buc-ee’s is involved in the development of new locations, including site selection, construction, and design, to ensure each store aligns with its brand and operational standards.
- Expansion Plans: The company continues to explore opportunities for growth, including entering new markets and enhancing existing locations.
This approach supports Buc-ee’s long-term growth and brand consistency.
Buc-ee’s Licensing and Partnerships
While Buc-ee’s maintains a strong brand identity, it has engaged in selective partnerships:
- Collaborations: The company has partnered with institutions like Texas A&M University to offer Buc-ee’s products on campus, expanding its reach and brand presence.
- Limited Licensing: Buc-ee’s has explored licensing opportunities for specific products, allowing for controlled expansion of its brand into new markets.
These partnerships are carefully managed to align with Buc-ee’s brand values and customer expectations.
Conclusion
Buc-ee’s remains one of the most successful privately owned retail chains in America. Founded by Arch “Beaver” Aplin III and Don Wasek, the company has turned a simple idea — a cleaner, better convenience store — into a national legend. Its continued success lies in its independence, quality control, and strong leadership. As Buc-ee’s expands across the U.S., its owners continue to guard its unique culture and reputation carefully.
FAQs
What company owns Buc-ee’s?
Buc-ee’s is privately owned and not part of any larger corporation. It is controlled entirely by its founders, Arch “Beaver” Aplin III and Don Wasek. There is no parent company.
Are Buc-ee’s individually owned?
Yes, Buc-ee’s is individually and privately owned. The majority of the company is owned by the founders and key executives, with Arch “Beaver” Aplin III holding 68% and Don Wasek holding 27%.
Who owns Buc-ee’s in Texas?
The Texas stores are owned directly by Buc-ee’s, Inc., under the same private ownership of Arch “Beaver” Aplin III and Don Wasek. There is no separate ownership for Texas locations.
Who started Buc-ee’s?
Buc-ee’s was founded by Arch “Beaver” Aplin III and Don Wasek. The first store opened in 1982 in Lake Jackson, Texas.
What is Arch “Beaver” Aplin III’s net worth?
As of 2025, Arch “Beaver” Aplin III’s estimated net worth is around $2.5 billion to $3 billion, largely derived from his 68% ownership of Buc-ee’s.
Who are Buc-ee’s founders?
The company was founded by Arch “Beaver” Aplin III and Don Wasek, who remain actively involved in its operations and growth strategy.
Why does Buc-ee’s not sell Pepsi?
Buc-ee’s focuses on exclusive partnerships with Coca-Cola products. This aligns with their strategy of brand consistency and curated product offerings, maintaining a controlled in-store experience.
Does Walmart own Buc-ee’s?
No, Walmart does not own Buc-ee’s. Buc-ee’s is independently owned and operates separately from any large retail chains.
Does Buc-ee’s do franchises?
No, Buc-ee’s does not offer franchises. Every location is company-owned and operated, which ensures consistent quality, brand standards, and customer experience.
Is Buc-ee’s the largest convenience store in the world?
Yes, Buc-ee’s is considered the largest convenience store chain in the world by store size. Many locations are between 50,000 and 75,000 square feet, with some exceeding 80,000 square feet.
How many stores does Buc-ee’s have in the United States?
As of 2025, Buc-ee’s operates over 50 locations across multiple states including Texas, Alabama, Georgia, Florida, Kentucky, South Carolina, Tennessee, Colorado, and Missouri, with additional stores under construction.
Where is the smallest Buc-ee’s in the world?
The smallest Buc-ee’s is generally considered the original Lake Jackson, Texas location, which was modest in size compared to the massive mega-stores Buc-ee’s now builds.
Where is the oldest Buc-ee’s located?
The oldest Buc-ee’s is located in Lake Jackson, Texas, where the first store opened in 1982, marking the start of the brand’s journey.