Editor's note: Darren Schulte, NATSO vice president of membership, frequently visits NATSO members to review their locations and offers impactful merchandising and operations improvements. Contact Schulte at dschulte@natso.com or (915) 526-5820 to learn more about the costs and details of this service.
Space Age Travel Center in Hermiston, Oregon, is a prime example of the power of a new design. The store underwent a total remodel and rebrand, and it looks amazing. Space Age has embraced a contemporary look that is open, clean and attractive.
Space Age opened in 1982, but the remodel makes the location look brand new. With the new design, Space Age opened up the floor, updated the entire location and upgraded the amenities. They’ve done a nice job with signage and connecting the location’s profit centers.
Space Age added more space for fresh food and offers quick-grab items, such as sandwiches, ready-to-serve items and fresh fruit. They have also had success with yogurt, cheese and granola and have an A&W inside the facility.
The location has focused on its coffee brand, giving the coffee and fountain beverage area a complete overhaul. The coffee area was named Coffee Planet and features small touches, such as orb lights, to reinforce the theme. The fountain beverage includes the latest fountain technology of flavor shots.
The location put in new Wi-Fi stations on both the gas and diesel side, and offers free Wi-Fi as well as places for customers to plug in their cell phones and laptops.
The location also added a weather monitor that shows drivers the weather along key routes, helping to prepare customers for their travels.
The attention to detail and emphasis on the customer keeps travelers coming back.
/// Did you know most weeks you can find me visiting a NATSO member truckstop location, spending three to four days, using my merchandising and operations expertise to help them grow their business? I periodically share about those great retailers I visit here on the blog. Read more Truckstop Travels here.
Photo Credit: Darren Schulte/NATSO
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