San Antonio, Texas, February 7, 2026
Casey’s General Stores is set to invest $4 million to construct seven new convenience stores across Texas, enhancing its presence and challenging Buc-ee’s dominance in the market. The expansion targets locations in Abilene, Tioga, Gladewater, Texarkana, Athens, and Burnet, with all stores expected to be operational by the end of 2025. This investment follows Casey’s acquisition of Fikes Wholesale, adding 198 stores to its portfolio, including 148 in Texas, marking its entry into the state.
San Antonio, Texas – Casey’s General Stores Expands with $4 Million Investment
San Antonio, Texas – Casey’s General Stores, an Iowa-based convenience store chain, is set to invest $4 million in a significant expansion within Texas, challenging local competitor Buc-ee’s. This move includes the construction of seven new convenience stores across central and eastern Texas, with all locations expected to be operational by the end of 2025.
Expansion Details
The new stores will be strategically located in:
- Abilene: Two locations
- Tioga
- Gladewater
- Texarkana
- Athens
- Burnet
Each store is slated for completion by the end of 2025, as per filings with the Texas Department of Licensing and Regulation. This expansion is part of Casey’s broader strategy to enhance its presence in the Texas market, a region that has seen rapid growth in convenience store chains.
Strategic Acquisition
In November 2024, Casey’s further solidified its position in Texas by acquiring Fikes Wholesale, the owner of CEFCO Convenience Stores, in a $1.145 billion all-cash transaction. This acquisition added 198 stores to Casey’s portfolio, including 148 in Texas, marking the company’s first operations in the state. The deal also included a fuel terminal and a commissary to support the Texas stores. The rebranding of these CEFCO locations to Casey’s is expected to begin in early 2026, starting with larger stores that already have kitchen facilities. This integration aims to improve margins over time, particularly in prepared foods, as the stores adopt Casey’s full assortment, including private-label products.
Competitive Landscape
Casey’s expansion into Texas intensifies competition with established chains like Buc-ee’s, which has a strong presence in the state. Buc-ee’s, known for its large travel centers and unique offerings, has been a dominant player in the Texas convenience store market. The entry of Casey’s, with its extensive network and diverse product offerings, is poised to challenge Buc-ee’s dominance and provide consumers with more choices in the convenience store sector.
About Casey’s General Stores
Founded in 1959, Casey’s General Stores operates approximately 2,900 convenience stores across 20 states, primarily under the names “Casey’s” and “Casey’s General Store.” The company is known for its commitment to quality fuels, including E-10 gasoline, and a wide range of food offerings, including its popular pizza and breakfast items. The expansion into Texas aligns with Casey’s strategic plan to increase its footprint in high-volume regions and enhance its foodservice offerings.
About Buc-ee’s
Buc-ee’s, established in 1982, is a Texas-based chain of travel centers and convenience stores. Known for its large stores featuring a wide array of products, including fresh food, snacks, and unique merchandise, Buc-ee’s has become a cultural icon in Texas. The company operates numerous locations across the state and has expanded into other regions, maintaining a strong presence in the convenience store market.
FAQ
What is Casey’s General Stores?
Casey’s General Stores is an Iowa-based convenience store chain operating approximately 2,900 stores across 20 states, offering a range of products including fuel, food, and groceries.
What is the significance of Casey’s $4 million investment in Texas?
The $4 million investment signifies Casey’s commitment to expanding its presence in Texas, a rapidly growing market, by constructing seven new convenience stores by the end of 2025.
How does Casey’s acquisition of Fikes Wholesale impact its operations in Texas?
The acquisition of Fikes Wholesale, owner of CEFCO Convenience Stores, added 198 stores to Casey’s portfolio, including 148 in Texas, marking the company’s first operations in the state and enhancing its market presence.
When will the rebranding of CEFCO locations to Casey’s begin?
The rebranding of CEFCO locations to Casey’s is expected to begin in early 2026, starting with larger stores that already have kitchen facilities.
How does Casey’s expansion affect competition with Buc-ee’s?
Casey’s expansion into Texas intensifies competition with Buc-ee’s, providing consumers with more choices in the convenience store sector and challenging Buc-ee’s dominance in the state.
Key Features of Casey’s Expansion
| Feature | Details |
|---|---|
| Investment Amount | $4 million |
| Number of New Stores | 7 |
| Locations | Abilene, Tioga, Gladewater, Texarkana, Athens, Burnet |
| Completion Deadline | End of 2025 |
| Acquisition Details | Fikes Wholesale, owner of CEFCO Convenience Stores, adding 198 stores to Casey’s portfolio, including 148 in Texas |
| Rebranding Start Date | Early 2026 |
| Competitive Impact | Increased competition with Buc-ee’s in the Texas convenience store market |
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Author: STAFF HERE SAN ANTONIO WRITER
The SAN ANTONIO STAFF WRITER represents the experienced team at HERESanAntonio.com, your go-to source for actionable local news and information in San Antonio, Bexar County, and beyond. Specializing in "news you can use," we cover essential topics like product reviews for personal and business needs, local business directories, politics, real estate trends, neighborhood insights, and state news affecting the area—with deep expertise drawn from years of dedicated reporting and strong community input, including local press releases and business updates. We deliver top reporting on high-value events such as Fiesta San Antonio, San Antonio Stock Show & Rodeo, and Dia de los Muertos. Our coverage extends to key organizations like the Greater San Antonio Chamber of Commerce and United Way of San Antonio and Bexar County, plus leading businesses in retail, insurance, and energy that power the local economy such as H-E-B, USAA, and Valero Energy. As part of the broader HERE network, including HEREAustinTX.com, HERECollegeStation.com, HEREDallas.com, and HEREHouston.com, we provide comprehensive, credible insights into Texas's dynamic landscape.
