Buc-ee's to Build World's Largest Convenience Store in Florida

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  Published in Travel and Leisure on Monday, February 2nd 2026 at 21:15 GMT by Sebastian Daily
      Locales: Florida, UNITED STATES

Buc-ee's Sets Sights on World Record: A Deep Dive into the Fort Pierce Mega-Store and the Chain's Rapid Expansion

FORT PIERCE, FL - The convenience store landscape is about to be dramatically reshaped. Buc-ee's, the Texas-born retail phenomenon, is officially embarking on a project to build what is anticipated to be the world's largest convenience store, and they've chosen Fort Pierce, Florida, as the location. While the company is famously tight-lipped about specifics early in the development process, emerging details suggest a facility that will redefine the very concept of a 'stop-and-shop' travel center.

Currently, Buc-ee's holds several records for sheer size amongst its stores, but the new Fort Pierce location isn't just aiming to be bigger - it's aiming to utterly obliterate the existing record. Though the current champion resides in Texas, the specifics of its square footage are consistently upstaged by newer, larger expansions. Industry analysts predict the Fort Pierce store will exceed 100,000 square feet, dwarfing even its Texan siblings and putting it into a category all its own.

But Buc-ee's isn't just about square footage. The secret to their success lies in a carefully curated experience. Forget the dimly lit, often-grimy stereotype of convenience stores. Buc-ee's locations are renowned for their spotless cleanliness - a point the company heavily emphasizes. Beyond the immaculate restrooms (often cited as a key differentiator by loyal customers), the stores offer a remarkably diverse selection of goods.

This isn't simply a place to grab a soda and a bag of chips. Buc-ee's offers an expansive range of snacks, including Beaver Nuggets (their signature caramelized corn puffs), jerky in dozens of flavors, fresh pastries, and a surprisingly robust selection of prepared foods. Beyond consumables, customers can find Buc-ee's branded apparel, home goods, car accessories, and even gifts. This broad appeal transforms the store from a quick stop into a destination.

The economic impact of the Fort Pierce location is expected to be substantial. The construction phase will create numerous jobs, and the completed store will employ hundreds of local residents. Beyond direct employment, the increased traffic to the area is likely to benefit surrounding businesses, bolstering the local economy. St. Lucie County officials are actively collaborating with Buc-ee's to ensure the project aligns with community planning and infrastructure needs.

Buc-ee's' expansion isn't accidental; it's a calculated strategy to capture a larger share of the Southern travel market. Starting as a small convenience store in Lake Brady, Texas, in 1982, the chain has steadily grown, fueled by a dedicated customer base and a unique business model. The company initially focused on providing high-quality products and exceptional customer service, establishing a reputation for reliability and value. They were early adopters of strategically placed, incredibly large stores along major interstate highways, capitalizing on the road trip culture.

Florida represents a particularly important market for Buc-ee's. The state's high population density, constant influx of tourists, and extensive highway network make it an ideal location for expansion. The Fort Pierce store marks a significant step in solidifying Buc-ee's presence in the Sunshine State, following successful locations in Daytona Beach and St. Augustine. This strategic positioning allows them to tap into both Florida residents and the millions of travelers passing through each year.

However, Buc-ee's expansion hasn't been without its challenges. Concerns regarding traffic congestion and potential impact on local businesses have surfaced in some communities. The company has proactively addressed these issues by working closely with local authorities and implementing traffic management plans. They also often emphasize their commitment to supporting local charities and community initiatives.

The buzz surrounding the Fort Pierce location is palpable. Residents are eager to experience the Buc-ee's phenomenon firsthand, while travelers anticipate a new, improved rest stop along their journeys. As construction progresses, all eyes will be on Fort Pierce, as Buc-ee's aims to cement its title as not only the largest, but the most beloved, convenience store in the world.