Memphis, Tenn. — December 29, 2025
Fans of Buc-ee’s in the Mid-South will need to wait longer for new locations, as the popular travel center chain has pushed back its planned openings.
The first store in the Memphis area, located off Interstate 40 in Fayette County (northeast of the city), is now set to open in May 2027, according to a company spokesperson.
Meanwhile, the West Memphis, Arkansas, site, planned for the eastbound side of I-40 between Missouri and Seventh streets, won’t welcome customers until June 2028. The Arkansas Department of Transportation is handling road improvements, including widening a street and adding a traffic ramp.
Originally, both stores were expected to debut in 2026. The company has not provided details on the reasons for the delays.
Currently, Tennessee has just two Buc-ee’s locations, both along I-40: one in Crossville (east of Nashville) and another in Sevierville (near Knoxville and Pigeon Forge). Billboards along the interstate near the future Fayette County site remind drivers that the closest options are hundreds of miles away.
Known for its massive selection of fuel pumps, fresh food options, spotless restrooms, and beaver-themed merchandise, Buc-ee’s also offers competitive wages. The West Memphis location is projected to create 225 full-time jobs starting at $19 per hour (about $40,000 annually). To secure the project, city officials approved a $5 million incentive package, including land valued at $3.5 million and $1.5 million for infrastructure. Mayor Marco McClendon noted in 2024 that these costs would be recovered through a 3% tax on prepared foods and state gas tax reimbursements, with the city anticipating $3.1 million in annual tax revenue.
In Fayette County, a $15 million loan helped kick off construction on the Gallaway store following its 2024 groundbreaking, with local leaders estimating it will add $12 million yearly to the economy.
