Buc-ee’s celebrates its Colorado debut

Colorado is now home to the world’s largest convenience store.

Buc-ee’s, a large-format travel center and gas station, made its westward expansion official with the debut of its flagship store in Johnstown, Colo., Monday.

Hundreds waited in line for the grand opening, with many going so far as to camp out several days in advance. As 6 a.m. rolled around, the patrons were welcomed in by Buc-ees’ beaver mascot.

The 24/7 convenience store, situated at 5201 Nugget Road, is hard to miss with its 116 fuel pumps and 12 electric vehicle charging stations. 

Although the Colorado location takes the cake for the largest Buc-ee’s location at over 74,000 square feet, its reign will be short-lived. “Everything’s bigger in Texas” rings true — Buc-ee’s in Luling, Texas, will occupy about 75,000 square feet and is anticipated to open later in 2024.

The 48th location held its groundbreaking ceremony in June of 2022 on the southwest corner of Interstate 25 and County Road 48 in the Weld County town, located directly north of Denver. 

With a population of just over 18,000, Buc-ee’s is anticipated to have a sizable economic impact on Johnstown. It’s predicted to draw over 8,000 cars per day and bring in millions of dollars in sales tax revenue annually, and has already hired around 275 employees. The total earnings for the Johnstown location alone are expected to land around $25 million each year.

The Texas-based store, which holds the world records for the largest convenience store and longest car wash, has developed a cult following, which can be largely attributed to its snack options including Beaver Nuggets, Kolaches, fudge, jerky and fresh-cut brisket (announced with the call, “Fresh brisket on the board!”). Its signature beaver onesies and award-winning clean restrooms don’t hurt in terms of differentiating the chain from other travel centers, either.

Until 2019, the Buc-ee’s brand was exclusive to the Lone Star State, but migrated to Robertsdale, Ala., in January and expanded into the southeast. Texas is home to 34 of the gas stations, with Colorado’s being the westernmost.

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