TravelCenters of America today unveiled its nationwide site upgrade plan and new travel center design concepts at the grand re-opening of the TA in Seymour, Indiana. The site upgrade and grand re-opening is among the first of more than 100 travel center refresh projects expected to be completed during the next 18 months.
TA also announced the launch of “The Kitchen,” a new fast casual dining experience to be rolled out at select locations nationwide.
TA’ said its transformation plan, which includes what it calls a “robust” capital investment strategy focused on travel center upgrades, reimagined food concepts and technology improvements, is designed to provide a consistent, seamless travel center experience.
“As we continue advancing our transformation plan and improving the guest experience, we are delivering on our mission of returning every traveler to the road better than they came,” said Jon Pertchik, chief executive officer of TA. “Focusing on operational excellence and refreshing our travel centers will position TA as the preferred travel center operator for professional drivers and motorists.”
Launch of “The Kitchen” and food variety enhancements
TA is also introducing “The Kitchen,” a dining experience offering “fresh food fast,” at its Seymour travel center and expects to introduce this concept to select locations across its network. At “The Kitchen,” guests can receive freshly prepared food for sit-down dining in a fast-casual environment, as well as packaged meals and snacks for grab and go. TA is focused on providing a variety of food with well-balanced and healthy options, regional inspiration and trending flavors that appeal to both professional drivers and motorists, according to a statement from the company. TA is also implementing updated hot and cold beverage technology that offers bean-to-cup coffee, iced coffee, frozen beverages, and sodas.
Planned upgrades at more than 100 locations
The Seymour, Indiana travel center, located at Interstate 65 and state route 50 (Exit 50) is a remodeled site that showcases TA’s new design plans focused on the guest experience. Renovated restrooms, upgraded showers, comfortable driver lounges, and repaved parking lots are key components of many planned travel center refreshes. New lighting fixtures, new flooring, and paint add cosmetic elements which create a welcoming, pleasant atmosphere, with improved signage and new store flow creating an easy to navigate travel center experience, according to the company.
A grand re-opening celebration and ribbon cutting were held at the TravelCenters of America in Seymour today, Oct. 20.