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Buc-ee's Coming to South Carolina? Rumors Intensify

  //travel-leisure.news-articles.net/content/2026/ .. s-coming-to-south-carolina-rumors-intensify.html
  Published in Travel and Leisure on Friday, February 6th 2026 at 13:38 GMT by The Greenville News
      Locale: UNITED STATES

Columbia, SC - February 6th, 2026 - The persistent rumors surrounding a potential Buc-ee's location in South Carolina are reaching fever pitch, with speculation now extending beyond simple wishful thinking to detailed discussions of potential sites, economic impact, and even local infrastructure adjustments. While Buc-ee's Travel Centers LLC remains tight-lipped, mounting evidence suggests that the iconic Texas chain is seriously considering a foray into the Palmetto State, potentially revolutionizing the interstate travel experience for South Carolinians and visitors alike.

For years, South Carolina has been viewed as a logical extension of Buc-ee's southward expansion. The company's strategic placement of massive travel centers along major interstate arteries - primarily I-10, I-35, and I-45 - has been exceptionally successful, attracting a devoted following eager for the chain's signature offerings: exceptionally clean restrooms, a vast selection of snacks (particularly the famous Beaver Nuggets), freshly made food, and an unparalleled roadside shopping experience. The absence of a Buc-ee's within a reasonable driving distance for most South Carolina residents has long been a point of frustration for fans.

Beyond Rumors: Concrete Steps Towards a Deal?

The initial whispers of interest have solidified into increasingly credible reports. Florence County Council Chairman Steve McDougall's confirmation of "preliminary discussions" two years ago opened the floodgates. Now, sources close to the Florence County Economic Development Council indicate that negotiations have progressed significantly. These sources, speaking on the condition of anonymity, suggest that land acquisition is the primary remaining hurdle. Multiple parcels along I-95, specifically in the vicinity of the Florence Regional Airport, are reportedly under consideration.

However, Florence isn't the only city vying for Buc-ee's attention. Myrtle Beach, a perennial tourist destination, has also aggressively courted the company, recognizing the potential to boost tourism spending and provide a unique attraction for the millions of visitors who flock to the Grand Strand each year. Preliminary surveys suggest that a location near the Carolina Bays would be ideal, although concerns regarding traffic congestion and the availability of sufficiently large land parcels pose challenges. Smaller towns like Summerville, situated between Charleston and Florence, are also actively positioning themselves as potential hosts, emphasizing their lower land costs and proximity to major population centers.

Economic Ripples: Jobs, Tourism, and Local Businesses

The economic implications of a Buc-ee's arrival extend far beyond simply providing a place to fill up a gas tank and grab a snack. Each Buc-ee's location is a massive undertaking, requiring a significant workforce - typically exceeding 200 employees - offering a range of jobs from entry-level positions to management roles. The company is known for its competitive wages and benefits, providing a welcome boost to the local labor market.

Furthermore, the "Buc-ee's effect" has been demonstrably positive for surrounding businesses. Increased traffic from Buc-ee's travelers often spills over into nearby restaurants, hotels, and other retail establishments. However, there are also concerns among some local convenience store owners, who fear they may not be able to compete with Buc-ee's scale and selection. Local economic development officials are exploring strategies to mitigate potential negative impacts, such as offering assistance programs to help smaller businesses adapt and innovate.

Infrastructure and Future Considerations

The anticipated influx of traffic raises concerns about infrastructure capacity. Local transportation planners are already conducting traffic studies to assess the potential impact on I-95 and surrounding roadways. Possible solutions include widening highways, adding turn lanes, and improving access roads. The sheer size of a Buc-ee's facility - typically exceeding 100,000 square feet - also requires significant utility upgrades, including water, sewer, and electricity.

Beyond Florence and Myrtle Beach, analysts predict that if the initial South Carolina location proves successful, Buc-ee's will likely expand further into the state, potentially targeting areas near Greenville and Columbia. The company's long-term strategy appears to be to establish a network of travel centers across the Southeast, creating a seamless travel experience for its loyal customer base. While an official announcement remains elusive, the evidence overwhelmingly suggests that South Carolina is on the cusp of joining the Buc-ee's family, promising a future filled with Beaver Nuggets and exceptionally clean restrooms.