Eight Trends Shaping the Travel Center Industry in 2024: New NATSO Foundation Toolkit

Artificial intelligence (AI) is rapidly evolving from a buzzword into a practical business tool that can deliver real, measurable benefits. AI-driven systems can help with everything from reducing downtime and improving pricing decisions to personalizing the customer experience. “When used well, AI takes data operators already have and turns it into action. It can keep pumps running, detect fraud and help customers feel recognized,” said Jeremie Myhren, cofounder and CIO of Onramp. “For independents looking to compete in an increasingly digital landscape, AI is not the future, it’s the next practical step.” (Myhren, along with members of the NATSO Foundation's 2026 Technology Steering Council, will present on AI during the Technology Forum at NATSO Connect. The Travel Center Technology Forum is designed to facilitate interactive discussions among truck stops and travel center operators regarding their top technology priorities. Learn more about NATSO Connect here.)

Traditionally, professional drivers haven’t had as many options to pay at the pump, but that is changing as new payment platforms gain traction across the trucking industry. These new platforms are not only increasing efficiency for drivers but also reshaping how truck stops and travel centers compete and forcing them to rethink how they attract and retain fueling customers.

Several members of the NATSO Foundation’s 2025 Technology Steering Council shared their insights into what technology is disrupting the industry and moderators table discussions during last month's Fast Forward Focus. 

The U.S. House of Representatives voted 222-209 late November 12 to advance a short-term continuing resolution that included full-year appropriations bills for Agriculture, Veterans Affairs, and the Legislative Branch appropriations, […]

Visa and Mastercard proposed a new settlement in the decades-long antitrust battle between the card networks and merchants regarding interchange fees.  This marks the card networks’ third proposed settlement, the […]

Technology is transforming the way truck stops and travel centers operate. From mobile payment systems to app-based promotions and advanced customer engagement tools, operators are rethinking how they serve drivers. New solutions are creating more innovative, convenient and engaging experiences for drivers, helping operators boost loyalty and grow revenue. The NATSO Foundation and members of the NATSO Foundation 2025 Technology Steering Council have created a Technology Roadmap to help travel center operators stay current on the technology landscape. Purchase a copy to gather their insights into how operators can use technology to their advantage and the most impactful tools travel centers should deploy today.

Loss prevention is an ongoing challenge for business owners including those of truck stops and travel centers. From merchandise shrinkage and employee theft to fuel fraud and wet stock loss, threats come from all directions and operators have to be proactive both inside the store and out at the pumps. Strategic policies, technology, and the right oversight can help reduce losses while also contributing to a safety culture. A simple best practice is to keep merchandise visible in every stage of its life, and Jeremie Myhren, co-founder of ONRAMP, recommends operators design their stores for visibility. “Keep gondola heights low so there is cashier visibility. Design for the latest in NVR and DVR camera solutions,” he said. “Most customer theft is people opening packages on the sales floor and then shoving it in their clothing.”

NATSO joined with a coalition of trade associations representing thousands of businesses across Main Streets nationwide in urging leaders of key Congressional House and Senate banking committees to take swift […]

Keeping property and buildings well-maintained plays a crucial role in safety, efficiency, and the overall guest experience. With 24/7 operations, buildings are constantly in use, making preventive and responsive maintenance essential. Neglecting or delaying maintenance can lead to safety hazards, compliance issues, and expensive repairs down the road. Busy Bee has found success using a mobile-first approach through the Limble maintenance app. “If you go to a location and you see that someone has hit an important sign, or someone has knocked Formica off of one of your fountain areas or a mirror has been damaged in your restroom, you click on the Limble app, and share the location, who you are, what needs to be fixed, take photos of it, and say what priority it is,” Elizabeth Waring, president and CEO of Busy Bee, explained.

NATSO, the trade association representing America’s travel centers and truck stops, announced that registration is now open for NATSO Connect 2026, scheduled to take place February 24–26, 2026, at the Clyde Hotel and Albuquerque Convention Center in Albuquerque, NM. "The truck stop and travel center industry is a truly diverse and innovative community driven by a singular mission of advancing the industry's future success. Through partnership and collaboration, NATSO's members drive value and growth for all," said NATSO President and CEO Max McBrayer. "I am inspired by these unique perspectives, and I look forward to meeting with NATSO's truck stop, travel center, Chairman's Circle and supplier members during my inaugural NATSO Connect." 

Wreaths Across America places wreaths for veterans at the Arlington National Cemetery on National Wreaths Across America Day. The NATSO Foundation aims to raise funds through wreath sponsorships to fill one trailer load of sponsored veterans’ wreaths (approximately 4,500). To support the NATSO Foundation in reaching its goal, travel centers can participate by soliciting Wreaths Across America sponsorships through December 2, 2025.

NATSO and more than 20 industry associations representing automotive care and after-market suppliers urged the House Committee on Energy and Commerce to include the provisions of H.R. 1566, the Right […]