Stamart Travel Center in North Dakota has carved a niche for itself in the competitive travel plaza industry, not just through competitive pricing, but by fostering a welcoming atmosphere that keeps drivers coming back. With locations in Fargo, Bismarck, and Grand Forks, Stamart has become a familiar and trusted stop for countless truckers navigating the highways. Lisa Beach, Operations Manager at Stamart Travel Centers, emphasizes that the company’s enduring success is deeply rooted in its friendly, long-tenured staff and a genuine commitment to customer loyalty.
The Power of Familiarity and Dedicated Staff
“I’ve been with them for 28 years, and we have people who have been with us 15 to 20 years,” Beach notes, highlighting the remarkable staff retention rate at Stamart. This longevity translates directly to customer relations. Truck drivers, who spend extensive time on the road, appreciate the consistency of seeing familiar faces at their regular stops. This personal touch cultivates a sense of community and trust, making Stamart more than just a place to refuel and grab a bite; it becomes a reliable point of connection on their journeys. Beach explains, “The drivers are on the road, and they love seeing a familiar face.” This simple yet powerful element of human connection differentiates Stamart from competitors who may prioritize fleeting price advantages over lasting relationships.
Catering to Driver Needs with Diverse Offerings
Beyond the welcoming staff, Stamart Travel Center strategically caters to the diverse needs of its clientele with a wide array of food and merchandise. Understanding that variety is key to customer satisfaction, Stamart avoids a one-size-fits-all approach. They provide convenient grab-and-go options like chicken and personal pizzas for drivers on tight schedules, alongside freshly made, high-quality items like turkey and ham wraps and subs. The bakery section further enhances their appeal, featuring both in-house specialties like raspberry croissants and scones, and locally sourced pastries. “We don’t do any franchising. We’ve always run our own programs and tried to give drivers what they want,” Beach states, underscoring Stamart’s commitment to personalized service and unique offerings tailored to their customers’ preferences.
Loyalty Programs: Rewarding Repeat Customers
Stamart Travel Center understands the value of rewarding customer loyalty, and their programs are designed to encourage repeat business. They have their own coffee program featuring not only regular coffee but also iced coffees, espressos, and lattes, catering to various preferences. The Fargo location even partners with a local coffee shop to offer specialty treats, further enhancing their unique appeal. For food purchases, the “Lucky Seven” program provides a free item after six purchases, incentivizing drivers to choose Stamart for their meals.
Furthermore, Stamart participates in the NATSN loyalty program and features its own “Diesel Dollars” program. “For every 100 gallons they purchase, they get a Stamart Diesel Dollar to spend on anything in our stores,” Beach explains. This initiative has proven to be a significant driver of growth, fostering strong customer retention. Drivers appreciate the tangible benefits of these programs, using Diesel Dollars for immediate purchases or saving them up for larger items, even for Christmas gifts.
Monthly Promotions and Essential Amenities
To keep offerings fresh and appealing, Stamart implements monthly promotions focused on items relevant to truckers. These specials, advertised at fuel islands and in-store, feature discounted logbooks, plug-in blankets, and other essential travel items. By partnering with suppliers like Barjan and DAS, Stamart ensures they consistently provide value-driven promotions that resonate with their target audience.
However, Lisa Beach emphasizes that the foundation of Stamart’s success ultimately rests on the fundamentals: “We strive to keep our locations very clean and get our drivers waited on quickly. That keeps them coming back.” In a demanding industry where time is money and comfort is valued, Stamart Travel Center’s commitment to cleanliness, efficient service, and genuine hospitality solidifies its position as a preferred stop for drivers in North Dakota.
