Beloved gas station pizza chain CEO reveals 400-store expansion plan as food business booms

June 30, 2026 - 04:39

The CEO of Casey's General Stores, a chain widely known for its surprisingly popular gas station pizza, has announced an aggressive expansion plan. The company intends to open at least 400 new stores over the next three years, capitalizing on a major boom in its prepared food business. The move comes as the chain reports strong sales growth, driven by customers seeking convenient, affordable meals.

Beyond just adding new locations, Casey's is also expanding its menu. The company is rolling out new food items, including chicken wings and french fries, to complement its existing lineup of pizza, breakfast sandwiches, and donuts. The goal is to turn each store into a legitimate quick-service restaurant destination, not just a place to fill up the tank. Executives believe that by offering a wider variety of hot, made-to-order food, they can attract more customers throughout the day, especially during lunch and dinner hours.

The expansion will focus on both filling in gaps in existing markets and entering new regions. Casey's currently operates over 2,600 stores, primarily in the Midwest and South. The new locations will be a mix of company-owned and franchised stores. The company's leadership sees a clear path to growth as consumers continue to prioritize speed and value, two areas where a well-run gas station kitchen can excel. With the new wings and fries, Casey's is betting that more drivers will skip the drive-through and pull up to the pump for dinner.