Texas Born Targets 100 Stores Over Next 5 Years

Texas Born has hired a veteran executive to lead its expansion as the c-store chain targets more than 100 locations over the next five years. The retailer, currently operating 54 stores, announced the addition of Nate Brazier to its executive team last month. Brazier previously served as president and CEO of Idaho-based Stinker Stores, and he now oversees daily operations alongside owner and CEO Kevin Smartt.

Smartt stated that the company aims to open between seven and 10 stores annually, combining organic growth with strategic acquisitions. The executive noted that pure organic growth may not be enough to reach the target, suggesting that deals will play a significant role in the expansion. For now, the company plans to stay focused on Texas and has no immediate plans to enter new markets.

TXB operates in a competitive convenience retail environment where smaller chains frequently sell their businesses due to operational difficulty. Despite this trend, the company has remained an exception, maintaining a strong local presence and community focus. Smartt believes the current consolidation wave has created opportunities for regional operators to acquire smaller, mid-sized groups that are performing well.

Leadership changes often signal a shift in corporate direction, but the new president has taken a measured approach to his first few weeks. He has focused on listening and learning rather than making immediate changes to the store format or product mix. Brazier explained that the company already has a strong foundation and that the priority is to build consistency in processes and systems before scaling further.

Scaling to 100 locations

The growth strategy represents the most ambitious phase in the company’s history. Smartt emphasized that the goal remains to double the store count, moving from 54 to over 100 sites within five years. The retailer already holds a pipeline of real estate and is evaluating merger and acquisition opportunities to accelerate that pace.

Building a stronger foundation

The focus on consistency extends beyond daily operations to the physical appearance and atmosphere of the stores. Smartt believes the company has done a great job investing in food, technology, brand, and assets, and he is confident that new leadership will help the team execute at the highest level.