Pilot Flying J has officially broadened its network in the Midwest through the acquisition of seven Bosselman Travel Centers. This strategic move, finalized recently, significantly enhances fuel location options for professional drivers and travelers across Iowa, Kansas, Nebraska, and South Dakota. These locations, now operating as Pilot Travel Centers since January 5th, represent a substantial expansion for Pilot Flying J, effectively reducing travel distances for customers seeking reliable services in the upper Midwest.
“These seven stops significantly enhance our network by shrinking the distance our customers travel to receive service in the Upper Midwest,” stated Jimmy Haslam, president and CEO of Pilot Flying J. This acquisition underscores Pilot Flying J’s commitment to providing convenient pilot fuel location services. The former Bosselman travel center locations are known for their driver-centric facilities, aligning perfectly with Pilot Flying J’s dedication to serving professional drivers. This expansion ensures that more drivers can easily access Pilot Flying J’s extensive range of amenities and services.
Beyond the acquisition of travel centers, Pilot Flying J and Bosselman Companies have also forged an agreement to extend Bosselman’s reputable Boss Truck Shops repair facilities to an additional 20 Pilot Flying J locations nationwide. This collaboration aims to improve safety and compliance within the trucking industry. By increasing the availability of certified truck repair services at pilot fuel location sites, professional drivers will have easier access to maintenance and repairs, aiding in adherence to federal safety regulations.
Haslam highlighted the importance of this expanded Boss Truck Shop network, emphasizing its role in helping drivers meet federal regulations designed to enhance large truck and bus safety. Reducing accidents involving commercial vehicles is a shared priority, and this partnership directly addresses that need by integrating Bosselman’s expertise in truck repair with Pilot Flying J’s extensive network of travel centers.
While Bosselman Companies has sold these seven travel centers, they will retain their flagship Grand Island, Nebraska, Bosselman Travel Center. This strategic sale enables Bosselman to concentrate more resources on expanding their truck repair shop network and full-service restaurant offerings. Customers can still enjoy Grandma Max’s Restaurants at the Salina, Kansas, and Big Springs, Nebraska Travel Centers, and Max’s Highway Diner in Des Moines (Altoona), Iowa. Furthermore, Bosselman will continue to operate Boss Truck Shops at the Des Moines (Altoona), Salina, Kansas, Rapid City, South Dakota, and Big Springs, Nebraska locations, ensuring continued service for their loyal customer base. The 35 Boss Shops across the United States, part of the Uni-Maxx Truck Care network with over 75 shops nationally, will also continue to serve the transportation industry.
The newly integrated travel centers are strategically located in Des Moines (Altoona), Iowa; Colby, Kansas; Salina, Kansas; Rapid City, S.D.; Big Springs, Neb.; Wood River, Neb.; and Elm Creek, Neb. Pilot Flying J is committed to enhancing these locations by introducing a wider variety of fast-food options, installing diesel exhaust fluid (DEF) at the pump for cleaner fueling, and implementing the Pilot Flying J loyalty program, allowing drivers to earn rewards and benefits. Upgrades to showers and restroom facilities are also underway to improve the overall customer experience at these pilot fuel location stops.
“The transition has been a smooth one, and professional drivers and traveling motorists will enjoy many of the same amenities that are available at all Pilot Flying J locations nationwide,” Haslam assured. Pilot Flying J, headquartered in Knoxville, Tennessee, now boasts over 550 retail locations across North America, solidifying its position as a leading pilot fuel location provider. The company is also a major wholesale fuel supplier, delivering over 500 million gallons of fuel across 47 states and eight Canadian provinces.
Bosselman Companies, based in Grand Island, Nebraska, maintains a diverse portfolio including 46 Pump & Pantry convenience stores, hospitality services like Hampton Inn and Motel 6 franchises, and a variety of dining options. Founded in 1948, Bosselman Companies has established a significant presence across 20 states. This strategic sale to Pilot Flying J marks a new chapter for both companies, allowing Pilot Flying J to strengthen its Midwest network and Bosselman to sharpen its focus on core service areas within the transportation industry.
