RaceTrac is preparing to enter the Columbus market with the opening of its first two Central Ohio locations later this year, according to the Columbus Business Journal.
The Atlanta-based convenience store and fuel retailer is expected to first open a large-format Travel Center at 2 Commerce Parkway in West Jefferson this fall, followed by a mid-size location at 5811 Gender Road in Canal Winchester later this year.
According to the report, the West Jefferson Travel Center will serve both everyday motorists and commercial drivers. The front portion of the site will cater to commuters, while the rear will feature amenities for truck drivers and construction vehicles, including high-flow diesel pumps, diesel exhaust fluid and a CAT scale.
The Canal Winchester location will feature the company’s mid-size store format and will also offer diesel fuel for professional drivers and larger vehicles.
RaceTrac told the Columbus Business Journal that the Columbus region’s continued growth made it an attractive market for expansion.
“We believe the momentum and strong growth that the Columbus area is already experiencing makes it a natural fit for our stores,” the company said in the publication mentioned above.
The report also notes that RaceTrac has acquired several additional development sites across Central Ohio, including properties at 2201 Route 37 East in Delaware, 30 Rathmell Road, 2555 London Groveport Road near Rickenbacker International Airport, and along U.S. Route 23 in Circleville, signaling the company’s long-term plans for the region.
Founded in 1934, RaceTrac operates more than 600 stores across 12 states. Its locations offer grab-and-go food, beverages and convenience items, with stores typically employing between 20 and 40 team members, depending on size. The company also offers eligible employees medical, dental and vision benefits, along with a 401(k) matching programme.
RaceTrac’s Central Ohio expansion comes as several national convenience store brands continue growing across the state. Sheetz has rapidly expanded since entering the Columbus market in 2021, while Buc-ee’s and Wawa have also established an Ohio presence and continue pursuing additional locations.
