Buc-ee’s may prioritize ‘conservative, business-friendly’ red states for expansion

Buc-ee’s, the Texas-based travel stop known for its sprawling and pristine restrooms, barbeque and beloved beaver-themed merchandise, is in the midst of a major expansion.But recent remarks from company president, CEO and cofounder Arch “Beaver” Aplin III seem to suggest that the wildly popular chain isn’t likely to show up in your hometown unless you live in a conservative state.The comments were made on Aug. 17 during the grand opening of the chain’s newest location in Benton, Arkansas, home to the state’s first Buc-ee’s.“We have a lot of opportunities. We’re growing. We’re building in a lot of places. But when you find a conservative, business-friendly state with a phenomenal workforce, it makes a difference,” Aplin told the crowd. He was also joined by Gov. Sarah Huckabee Sanders, who spoke about the state’s excitement at getting its inaugural Buc-ee’s.Aplin continued, “I’m starting to realize life’s too short to try to build in places that people don’t appreciate what you’re bringing, versus a place like this where people do appreciate what you are building.”Aplin seemed to suggest his leadership philosophy is “conservative, business-friendly, family-oriented” and that expans…