Buc-ee's, the popular convenience store chain known for its vast array of snacks and clean facilities, is set to open its first Wisconsin store, marking an exciting development for both the state and the company. Located in Oak Creek, a city situated along the busy I-94 corridor, this store is expected to captivate travelers and locals alike when it opens its doors.
The anticipation surrounding Buc-ee's entry is palpable. Oak Creek Mayor Dan Bukiewicz expressed enthusiasm, stating, "We are thrilled to welcome Buc-ee's to Oak Creek, as they choose our growing city for their first-completed store in Wisconsin along thecritical I-94 corridor. This exciting development not only strengthens our position as a key hub for travelers but also brings new opportunities for local businesses and residents."
Slated for completion by early 2027, the planned Buc-ee's travel center will encompass 73,370 square feet and host an impressive 120 gas pumps, including options for ethanol-free gasoline and electric vehicle charging stations. Stan Beard Jr., Buc-ee's director of real estate and development, noted, "Buc-ee's is excited to have the opportunity of adding Oak Creek to our expansioninto Wisconsin." He elaborated on the necessary steps before construction can begin, highlighting the January 28, 2025, Plan Commission meeting as the starting point for the approval process.
Following the initial meeting, public engagement will ramp up with hearings scheduled for March 18. From there, the city council will evaluate future land use map amendments and required zoning changes. Should all go smoothly, the subsequent months will see the Plan Commission reviewing conditional use permits, site plans, and landscaping designs. The entire approval process is integral to ensuring Buc-ee’s establishment remains beneficial to the community.
For the residents of Oak Creek, this development promises significant job creation. Buc-ee's has pledged to hire over 175 employees, offering full-time positions with competitive wages ranging from $18 to $20 per hour. City Administrator Andrew Vickers stated, "We are honoredthat Buc-ee's selected our city for its first expansion intothe upper Midwest. Buc-ee's will provide unique experiences and showcase the Oak Creek community to hundreds of thousands of visitors annually." Not only will these jobs support families, but Buc-ee's also aims to invest backinto the community through various initiatives.
The excitement surrounding this announcement stands in sharp relief to earlier plans. Initially, Buc-ee's had its eyes set on DeForest, located just north of Madison. Unfortunately, those plans have encountered delays, pushing Oak Creek to the forefront as the preferred location. DeForest officials are still seeking funding and legislative support to kickstart their own Buc-ee's project, but as it stands, Oak Creek will be the first to welcome the Texas-based retailer.
The announcement marks another milestone for Buc-ee's, which has seen tremendous growth since its founding in 1982. With 51 stores spanning Alabama, Colorado, Florida, Georgia, Kentucky, Missouri, South Carolina, Tennessee, and Texas, the company has become synonymous with road trips across the Southern and Southwestern United States. Buc-ee's is often celebrated for more than just its products; the brand is known for its dedication to cleanliness and the overall customer experience.
Buc-ee's strategy of community engagement has been integral to its success. Citing its commitment, the company stated, "Buc-ee’s provides a unique opportunity to the city and its residents in terms of goodwill impact like no other. The impact of our project goes beyond its own operational needs, as we generate media, consumer and visitor attention, as well as substantial tax revenues." This sentiment reflects Buc-ee's intention to integrate itself within the community, benefitting both short and long-term local needs.
With plans for new locations on the horizon, including expansions to Kansas City, Kansas, and anticipated developments across states like Arkansas and Ohio, Buc-ee's is clearly poised for continued growth. The upcoming Oak Creek location is seen not just as another expansion—it's symptomatic of Buc-ee's ambition to maintain its momentum, capitalize on new markets, and deliver its unique brand of hospitality to new audiences.
While the real estate process will require patience and strategic coordination, all signs indicate Buc-ee's arrival will be nothing short of transformative for Oak Creek and the wider region. Residents and officials alike look forward to the positive effects and vibrancy anticipated with this exciting new venture.