Town Pump Inc., a Montana-based gasoline and convenience retailer, has significantly expanded its footprint by acquiring three Flying J Travel Centers. These key locations in Billings, Great Falls, and Rocker, near Butte, now operate as Flying J dealer–Town Pump travel center locations, bringing together the trusted services of Flying J with the local expertise of Town Pump. This strategic purchase, distinct from the larger deal between Pilot and Flying J, ensures continued service for travelers and particularly long-haul truckers across Montana.
This acquisition comes in the wake of the Federal Trade Commission’s (FTC) review of the merger between Pilot Travel Centers LLC and Flying J Inc. To address concerns about reduced competition, particularly for diesel fuel supply to long-haul trucking fleets, the FTC mandated the divestiture of some Flying J locations. While 26 locations were sold to Love’s Travel Stops & Country Stores Inc., these three Montana travel centers became available and were promptly acquired by Town Pump. This move ensures that competition remains healthy and that vital services for the trucking industry are maintained in Montana.
The Montana locations, now under Town Pump ownership, will continue to operate under the well-recognized Flying J brand. A statement from Flying J on social media confirmed that these locations “are still members of the extended Flying J family and will function as Flying J dealers under the ownership of Town Pump.” This means customers can expect the same familiar Flying J services, now backed by the operational excellence of Town Pump.
Details of the purchase remain confidential, but Town Pump has confirmed their commitment to these new locations. Each travel center includes a convenience store, comprehensive truck-fueling facilities, casino operations, and a restaurant. Existing casino operations at these Flying J dealer–Town Pump travel center locations will continue to be leased and run by Jackrabbit Reds. Town Pump will directly manage the restaurant in Rocker, while Denny’s will take over restaurant operations at the Billings and Great Falls locations, promising a variety of dining options for travelers.
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Town Pump has extended employment offers to all current employees at these three locations, ensuring job security and a smooth transition. These offers include a comprehensive benefits package, featuring competitive wages, 401(k) and profit sharing, health insurance, flex benefits, paid vacation, and opportunities for career advancement. This commitment to employees underscores Town Pump’s dedication to maintaining high service standards at these Flying J dealer–Town Pump travel center locations.
“Town Pump is excited for the opportunity to serve a broader market segment,” stated Town Pump spokesperson Maureen Kenneally. “This purchase allows us to offer a wider variety of amenities and conveniences to customers traveling across Montana, especially long-haul carriers who can travel 500 to 600 miles between fuel stops.” The acquisition strategically enhances Town Pump’s service network, particularly for the crucial long-haul trucking industry.
Flying J is known for its customer loyalty programs, and Town Pump will continue to honor these valuable benefits. Programs like the Frequent Fueler Club, the Rewards Club, and the R.V. Real Value Club will remain in place at these Flying J dealer–Town Pump travel center sites, ensuring continued rewards for loyal Flying J customers.
Looking to the future, Town Pump has announced plans for investments and upgrades at all three newly acquired locations. These improvements will begin with the installation of Town Pump’s advanced fuel inventory control system and point-of-sale equipment, enhancing operational efficiency and customer service.
Town Pump Inc. already operates a significant network of 81 company-owned Town Pump Food Stores across Montana, featuring gasoline brands like Exxon, Conoco, and Cenex. Additionally, they operate 21 truck stop locations, including six branded Pilot Travel Centers. The addition of these three Flying J dealer–Town Pump travel center locations further solidifies Town Pump’s position as a leading travel service provider in Montana, offering comprehensive services and amenities for all travelers and the trucking industry.
