The Buc-ee’s Phenomenon by Anna DeYoung
Originating in Texas, the founder, Arch “Beaver” Alphin, opened the first Buc-ee’s in Clute. The convenience store didn’t gain immense popularity until the 2000s, allowing the store to move out of the state, but it has stayed in the South. Living in Michigan, I’ve only been to a Buc-ee’s location while on the way to or from a Spring Break.
Though I have only been to Buc-ee’s a handful of times, I am completely and utterly enamored by the charm of the store. Since it’s a Southern chain, the closest Buc-ee’s to us is in Richmond, Kentucky, which is 7 hours away. The distance is painful. Upon discussing my passion out loud in class, my peers couldn’t help but explode with excitement over Buc-ee’s.
Nathan, a senior at Saugatuck, launched into his Buc-ee’s review the second he heard me utter the name: “I think Buc-ee’s is the greatest invention since sliced bread. The fact that they have brisket–that’s freshly made–and bathrooms that are bigger than my house is wonderful. Plus, their merchandise is awesome.”
Natalie, a close friend and fellow senior, also raved about the convenience store: “I went two times during spring break. I got a brisket sandwich and a pina cola pop, which they make in house. My boyfriend got Buc-ee’s hot sauce and it was so good. I took my photo in front of the Buc-ee’s beaver, and there was a line!”
I was on the edge of my seat as I was listening to their experiences. I have never had the brisket, and I now feel like I’m missing out! I will have to hunt it down next time I visit. During my most recent Buc-ee’s adventure, I was able to hug the Buc-ee’s Beaver mascot. Am I aware that there is a grown man in the costume? Yes. Did it diminish the experience for me? Not one bit.
This is just the beginning of the Buc-ee’s conversation. They hold 2 world records: World’s Largest Convenience Store and World’s Longest Car Wash. The loveable chain continues to grow, and many people are tracking their movements. The students at Saugatuck High School are eager to get a Buc-ee’s in the state. Long live Buc-ee’s!
Though I have only been to Buc-ee’s a handful of times, I am completely and utterly enamored by the charm of the store. Since it’s a Southern chain, the closest Buc-ee’s to us is in Richmond, Kentucky, which is 7 hours away. The distance is painful. Upon discussing my passion out loud in class, my peers couldn’t help but explode with excitement over Buc-ee’s.
Nathan, a senior at Saugatuck, launched into his Buc-ee’s review the second he heard me utter the name: “I think Buc-ee’s is the greatest invention since sliced bread. The fact that they have brisket–that’s freshly made–and bathrooms that are bigger than my house is wonderful. Plus, their merchandise is awesome.”
Natalie, a close friend and fellow senior, also raved about the convenience store: “I went two times during spring break. I got a brisket sandwich and a pina cola pop, which they make in house. My boyfriend got Buc-ee’s hot sauce and it was so good. I took my photo in front of the Buc-ee’s beaver, and there was a line!”
I was on the edge of my seat as I was listening to their experiences. I have never had the brisket, and I now feel like I’m missing out! I will have to hunt it down next time I visit. During my most recent Buc-ee’s adventure, I was able to hug the Buc-ee’s Beaver mascot. Am I aware that there is a grown man in the costume? Yes. Did it diminish the experience for me? Not one bit.
This is just the beginning of the Buc-ee’s conversation. They hold 2 world records: World’s Largest Convenience Store and World’s Longest Car Wash. The loveable chain continues to grow, and many people are tracking their movements. The students at Saugatuck High School are eager to get a Buc-ee’s in the state. Long live Buc-ee’s!