5 Things You Didn’t Know About Busy Bee Gas Station
If you’ve ever driven along I-95 in North Carolina, chances are you’ve come across a Busy Bee gas station and convenience store. While these stops may seem like just another ordinary roadside attraction, there are actually some unique and fascinating facts about the Busy Bee chain that you may not know. In this article, we’ll explore five things you didn’t know about Busy Bee gas stations.
1. The First Busy Bee Wasn’t a Gas Station
The first Busy Bee location was actually a restaurant that opened in 1969 in Wayne County, NC. At that time, Busy Bee was primarily known for its home-cooked food and friendly service. It wasn’t until 1972 that the company opened its first gas station and convenience store, which proved to be a successful addition to the business.
2. Busy Bee is Family-Owned and Operated
Unlike many gas station chains that are owned by large corporations, Busy Bee is still family-owned and operated. The company was founded by Wayne and Bette Jo Eason, and their son, Phillip, now serves as the president of the company. This family-owned approach has led to a strong sense of community and customer service that is evident at every Busy Bee location.
3. Busy Bee Has Won Multiple Awards
Despite its humble beginnings, Busy Bee has earned multiple awards and accolades over the years. In 2016, the company was named Retailer of the Year by the North Carolina Petroleum and Convenience Marketers Association. Busy Bee has also been recognized for its commitment to sustainability, winning the prestigious NACS Green Award in 2017.
4. Busy Bee is Committed to Giving Back
As a family-owned business, Busy Bee has always been committed to giving back to the communities it serves. The company regularly supports local charities, schools, and other organizations through donations and sponsorships. In addition, Busy Bee has created a unique program called PumpPal, which donates a portion of each gas purchase to a local charity of the customer’s choosing.
5. Busy Bee is More Than Just a Gas Station
While Busy Bee is primarily known for its gas stations and convenience stores, the company has expanded its offerings in recent years. Many Busy Bee locations now offer full-service restaurants, complete with breakfast, lunch, and dinner menus. In addition, the company has started a gift card program, which allows customers to give the gift of Busy Bee to friends and family.
Conclusion
Overall, Busy Bee gas stations may seem like just another ordinary roadside attraction, but there’s actually a lot more to this family-owned chain. From its humble beginnings as a home-cooking restaurant to its commitment to sustainability and community outreach, there’s a lot to admire about the Busy Bee brand. So, the next time you’re driving along I-95 in North Carolina, be sure to stop by a Busy Bee location and see what all the fuss is about.
