Acee’s launches larger mini travel center in Kentucky

Golightly & Long has launched a new mini travel center format under its Acee’s banner, opening a 7,300-square-foot store in Fulton, Kentucky. This location is 30% larger than the retailer’s previous sites, according to a press release from Paragon Solutions, which handled the design. The expanded space allows for a more full offering tailored to both local and professional driver needs.

The Fulton site, which opened in May and held its grand opening in August, is geared toward professional drivers. It includes a dedicated truck entrance, 27 parking spots for big rigs, showers, laundry, and a diesel canopy near the building. These amenities address the specific demands of long-haul drivers, enhancing convenience and comfort during their stops.

The store features an open sales floor and three foodservice concepts: a Quiznos franchise, the proprietary AC’s Chicken Fingers, and third-party program Crazy Italian Pizza. Customers can order at any of the three front registers or at self-ordering kiosks in the food area. This variety and flexibility in ordering options cater to diverse customer preferences and streamline service efficiency.

Paragon developed the AC’s brand to help Acee’s foodservice program attract interstate travelers. The Fulton Acee’s is the fourth site to offer this foodservice brand. The AC’s brand is designed to compete with national franchises, offering a consistent and appealing dining experience for travelers.

Golightly & Long president Nathan Long said, On the interstate we want the food to look like a franchise, and it does. Combined with the Quiznos, we’re already way ahead of our pro forma on food sales. The layout, the seating, and having food menus visible from the cashier line are what’s driving that. Long emphasized that the strategic placement of food menus and the overall design contribute significantly to the success of food sales.

The Fulton property, formerly a Holiday Inn, sits along Purchase Parkway, which is being converted to Interstate 69. While most of the store’s current customers are from the surrounding area, Acee’s expects that to change as I-69 develops. The transformation of the parkway into a major interstate is anticipated to increase traffic and attract more out-of-town customers.

Acee’s also underwent a brand refresh, adopting a simplified wordmark encircled by the words “Community Driven.” This rebranding reflects the company’s commitment to serving both local communities and travelers, emphasizing a customer-centric approach.