TravelCenters unveils nationwide upgrade plan

SEYMOUR, Ind. — TravelCenters of America Inc. (TA) unveiled its nationwide site upgrade plan and new travel center design concepts with the Oct. 20 grand re-opening of the TA in Seymour.

The re-opening is among the first of more than 100 travel center refresh projects expected to be completed during the next 18 months, the company said.

TA also announced the launch of "The Kitchen," a new fast casual dining experience to be rolled out at select locations nationwide.

TA's transformation plan prioritizes improving the guest experience, with a capital investment strategy focused on travel center upgrades, "reimagined" food concepts and technology improvements designed to provide a "consistent, seamless travel center experience," TA said.

"As we continue advancing our transformation plan and improving the guest experience, we are delivering on our mission of returning every traveler to the road better than they came," TA CEO Jon Pertchik said. "Focusing on operational excellence and refreshing our travel centers will position TA as the preferred travel center operator for professional drivers and motorists. We look forward to driving continued growth and value-creation through the disciplined execution of our strategy."

The Seymour travel center is a remodeled site that showcases TA's new design plans, including renovated restrooms, upgraded showers, comfortable driver lounges and repaved parking lots. The center also has new lighting fixtures, new flooring and paint, improved signage and new store flow, TA said.

"The Kitchen" features freshly prepared food for sit-down dining in a fast casual environment, as well as packaged meals and snacks. TA said it is focused on providing variety with well-balanced and healthy options, regional inspiration and trending flavors. TA also is implementing "state-of-the-art" hot and cold beverage technology that offers bean-to-cup coffee, iced coffee, frozen beverages and sodas. "The Kitchen" will feature standalone heated and refrigerated displays.