Buc-ee’s CEO Says He’s Prioritizing ‘Conservative, Business-Friendly’ States For New Locations– wltreport.com

Although customers are willing to drive for miles for the experience of visiting one of the popular chain’s locations, the CEO of Buc-ee’s says leftist officials aren’t always as welcoming.

That’s why, as the business faces pushback against legal action against other companies using similar logos, he now says the company will be far more selective about where new locations will be opening.

According to The Hill:

“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,” CEO Arch Aplin III said in a video clip posted by Arkansas Gov. Sarah Huckabee Sanders (R).

“And I’m starting to realize life’s too short to try to build in places that people don’t appreciate what you’re bringing versus a place like this, where people do appreciate what you’re building,” Aplin continued.

Currently, the company has locations in Texas, Arizona, Alabama, Florida, Georgia, Kentucky, Mississippi, South Carolina and Tennessee. The franchise can also be found in Colorado, Missouri, Virginia and Ohio.

Its expansion has seen the company grow into a chain of giant travel centers and gas stations known for their clean restrooms, multiple fuel pumps and unique snack and merchandise selections.

His outspokenness received some social media attention:

So no Buc-ee’s in Canada for sure now

— JoshWest247 ⚡️ (@JoshWest247) August 26, 2026

Way to Go Bucee’s! Gotta have those pulled pork BBQ sandwiches. Stay Red, stay strong.

— Big Mama Leesa (@lld235) August 27, 2026

New one opened in blue Colorado last year but it’s in a deep red county.

— Isaac Revo (@RecompenseofGod) August 25, 2026

Well, he wants to keep the theft down so that’s pretty smart 🤷‍♂️ tell me I’m lying

— RyuKyuShogun⛩️ (@RyuKyuShogun) August 25, 2026