OKLAHOMA CITY — Love's Travel Stops is committing more than $1 billion over five years to support its Strategic Remodel Initiative to update 200 of its highway travel stops.
The funding — which Love's said would be between $2 million and $7 million per location — is in addition to the company's plans to open as many as 25 locations this year, including 15 with Love's Truck or Speedco services on site.
"Investing in existing locations is another way Love's prioritizes creating a first-class experience for customers," Randy Swain, director of construction and remodels for Love's, said.
"Being strategic with how we update existing locations — and keeping them open during the process — strengthens Love's commitment to getting customers back on the road quickly."
Overall, Love's operates 600-plus travel stops in 42 states, including more than 450 that have a Love's Truck Care or Speedco services on site.
The stores will remain open during the remodeling, Love's said, and when completed each location will have a more modern look and open concept. Locations will be equipped with open-kitchen concepts, multiple restaurant options and updated Love's Truck Care and Speedco locations.
Under the Strategic Remodel Initiative, Love's identifies which locations will be updated based on foot traffic, sales and store age. It also intends to completely reconstruct and expand three locations this year.
Love's has budgeted $1 billion to cover its plans to open and upgrade locations. The expansion include opening two more retread plants to its existing network of six Oliver Rubber system plants.