Buc-ee’s may prioritize ‘conservative, business-friendly’ red states for expansion

Buc-ee's, the Texas-based travel stop known for its pristine restrooms, barbeque, and beaver-themed merchandise, is expanding rapidly. During the grand opening of its newest location in Benton, Arkansas, company president, CEO, and cofounder Arch "Beaver" Aplin III suggested that the chain may focus on "conservative, business-friendly" red states for future expansion.

Aplin stated, "We have a lot of opportunities. We're growing. We're building in a lot of places. But when you find a conservative, business-friendly state with a phenomenal workforce, it makes a difference." The comments came from the grand opening of Benton, Arkansas, which was Buc-ee's first store in a state known to vote predominantly Democratic.

Aplin was joined by Gov. Sarah Huckabee Sanders, who emphasized the state's enthusiasm for having its first Buc-ee's. Aplin further explained his leadership philosophy, saying that expansion works better when it "trickles down from the leadership from the very top" of state politics. While Aplin did not specify which stores he was referring to, Buc-ee's has recently entered Colorado (the only solidly blue state in its presence) and Arizona.

The company's expansion plan includes locations in southern states like Louisiana, Kansas, Tennessee, Georgia, as well as Ocala, Florida; West Memphis, Arkansas; Oak Grove, Kentucky, and Hardeeville, South Carolina, between 2028 and 2031.