Thankful for You + Clean Bathrooms
Thankful for You + Clean Bathrooms
As we wrap another few months of travel, conversations, and client work, gratitude feels less like a sentiment and more like a discipline. You know this as well as I do that the work we do with our clients is personal. It requires trust, clarity, and shared purpose. None of that happens without the community around us so thank you for being a part of our journey.
Gratitude shows up in unexpected places for us. One place kept reminding me how powerful intentional design can be: Buc-ee’s.
Yes, the Disneyland of gas stations. And if you’ve ever been to one, you already know why. On long drives across the country, you start to appreciate the basics. Clean restrooms. Clear signage. A layout that makes sense. Branding that doesn’t feel like an afterthought.
Here’s what stood out to me most as we hobbled out of the car after driving 4 hours straight at times:
🚽 Bathroom Break Turned Shopping Trip
The bathrooms are clean, actively maintained, and a true relief after hours on the road. They also are strategically placed as you walk through the entire store to locate them, and when you exit, you land in the middle of warm food smells like fresh brisket with BBQ sauce drizzled on top and the fresh fudge being cut.
🦫 A Beaver with His own Merch Empire
Buc-ee’s built an entire merchandise ecosystem around the cute, little beaver, spanning pet gear, car accessories, apparel, and seasonal collections. Their designs are cohesive, distinctive, and genuine, turning a simple mascot into a profitable and memorable brand asset.
🚗 They Understand the Traveler’s Mindset
Everything is fast, intuitive, and reliable. You don’t hunt for the restrooms, food or beverages. Good design removes friction.
Why It Matters
On the road, it’s easy to overlook these moments. But when you’re living a nomadic life, thoughtful design becomes a lifeline and we’re grateful for brands that get that right.
According to a January 2024 regional economic report, Buc-ee’s expects to serve 6 million visitors annually at its upcoming site near Springfield, Missouri, with 80 percent traveling from more than 20 miles away — meaning people are willing to go out of their way for the experience.
(Community Playmaker)
And the brand value reflects it. Analysts estimate Buc-ee’s to be worth well over $2 Billion, driven largely by its differentiated customer experience, merchandise ecosystem, and industry-leading operational consistency.
(247WallSt)
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