ATHENS — It’s not often that a store opening creates quite the buzz that Buc-ee’s has.
But then, Buc-ee’s isn’t a typical store. When a business brags about bathrooms, jerky, and Beaver Nuggets, there’s something interesting going on.
Buc-ee’s will open in Athens on Nov. 21. (Buc-ee’s Photo)
And that “something interesting” will be unveiled next month when Buc-ee’s opens in Athens. At the I-65/Huntsville Brownsferry Road interchange, Buc-ee’s Athens is the first Buc-ee’s travel center in North Alabama and the third in the state.
The debut is Nov. 21; doors will open to the public at 6 a.m., and a ribbon-cutting ceremony will follow at 10:30 a.m.
To say the city is excited about Buc-ee’s is putting it mildly.
“Buc-ee’s will be a destination stop in Athens,” Mayor Ronnie Marks said. “Interstate traffic is a vital part of our tax base, and Buc-ee’s will definitely benefit our economy. Buc-ee’s also has a wonderful reputation for customer service and community support.”
Marks will be joined by Athens City Council President Chris Seibert, Limestone County Commission Chairman Collin Daly, Speaker of the House Mac McCutcheon, State Sen. Arthur Orr, and Alabama Department of Economic and Community Affairs Director Kenneth Boswell at the ribbon-cutting celebration.
Buc-ee’s Athens will occupy more than 53,470 square feet and offer dozens of gas pumps just outside its store with thousands of snack, meal and drink options for travelers on the go, as well as a state-of-the-art car wash.
The new travel center will also offer the same award-winning restrooms, gas, quality products and excellent service that have won the hearts, trust and business of millions in the South for four decades. Buc-ee’s favorites including Texas barbeque, homemade fudge, kolaches, Beaver Nuggets, jerky and fresh pastries will all be available.
“Alabama has been a great partner to Buc-ee’s, and we expect to continue that success in Athens and Limestone County,” said Stan Beard of Buc-ee’s. “Our first location on I-65 naturally belongs in Athens, one of the friendliest and busiest communities in the Southeast.”
Buc-ee’s Athens will bring 250 jobs to the area with starting pay ranging between $16 and $22 an hour, full benefits, a 6% matching 401k, and three weeks of paid vacation.
Founded in Texas in 1982, Buc-ee’s is celebrating its 40th anniversary this year. Buc-ee’s operates 43 stores across Texas and the South. Buc-ee’s is now headed west with store groundbreakings in Colorado and Missouri.
In the meantime, Marks said, “”We look forward to a long and successful partnership in Athens.”
