TravelCenters of America Franchise FDD, Profits & Costs (2025)
TravelCenters of America (TA) stands as the nation’s largest publicly traded, full-service travel center network. Established in 1972 and headquartered in Westlake, Ohio, the company operates more than 275 locations across 44 states as well as in Canada.
To accelerate its growth, TA expanded into franchising under three recognizable banners: TA, Petro Stopping Centers, and TA Express. Through these brands, entrepreneurs are able to join forces with a company that has decades of experience and a strong reputation in the travel services industry.
Each TA location is designed to serve both professional truck drivers and everyday motorists with a full range of amenities. Services typically include fueling stations for diesel and gasoline, maintenance and repair for heavy-duty trucks, sit-down and quick-service dining options, convenience stores, showers, laundry facilities, and extensive parking space.
What sets TravelCenters of America apart is its all-inclusive model. Unlike competitors that may focus on a single offering such as fuel or food, TA combines multiple services under one roof, creating a complete roadside destination for highway travelers and commercial drivers alike.
Initial Investment
How much does it cost to start a TravelCenters of America franchise? It costs on average between $7,423,000 – $49,717,000 to start a TravelCenters of America franchised center.
This includes expenses related to site construction and improvements, fuel and service equipment, inventory for retail and food operations, as well as initial working capital.
The total investment can vary based on factors such as the size and format of the travel center, the specific brand (TA, Petro, or TA Express), the geographic location, and whether the franchisee decides to lease or buy the property.
| Type of Expenditure | Amount |
|---|---|
| Initial Franchise Fee | $80,000 – $130,000 |
| Opening Extension Fees | $0 – $120,000 |
| Training | $35,000 – $60,000 |
| Opening Assistance | $30,000 – $90,000 |
| Computer System Installation Fee | $30,000 – $50,000 |
| Financing Review Fee | $0 – $7,500 |
| Leasing Review Fee | $0 – $7,500 |
| Real Estate Leasing Costs (3 Months) | $0 – $600,000 |
| Site Improvements and Construction | $6,000,000 – $36,000,000 |
| Equipment, Furniture & Fixtures | $200,000 – $6,512,000 |
| Computer System and Software | $140,000 – $300,000 |
| Insurance | $88,000 – $500,000 |
| Additional Funds – 3 Months | $450,000 – $2,500,000 |
| Vehicles | $0 – $300,000 |
| Inventory | $345,000 – $1,500,000 |
| Soft Costs, Professional Fees, Permits and Bonds | $25,000 – $1,000,000 |
| Licenses | $0 – $40,000 |
| Total | $7,423,000 – $49,717,000 |
Average Revenue (AUV)
How much revenue can you make with a TravelCenters of America franchise? A TravelCenters of America franchised business makes on average $10,725,000 in revenue/ (AUV) per year.
Here is the extract from the Franchise Disclosure Document:
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Frequently Asked Questions
How many TravelCenters of America locations are there?
As of the latest data, TravelCenters of America operated a total of 181 locations across 44 states. Of these, the company owned 167 travel centers, while franchisees owned or leased 24 travel centers.
What is the total investment required to open a TravelCenters of America franchise?
The total investment required to open a TravelCenters of America franchise ranges from $7,423,000 to $49,717,000.
What are the ongoing fees for a TravelCenters of America franchise?
Franchisees of TravelCenters of America are required to pay a royalty fee of 4.5% of monthly non-fuel sales up to $600,000, with any sales above that amount charged at 2%. In addition, there is a per-gallon fee of $0.007 on both gasoline and diesel fuel sales. For marketing and advertising, franchisees must contribute a fixed amount of $3,000 per month.
How much can a TravelCenters of America franchise owner expect to earn?
The average gross sales for a TravelCenters of America franchise are approximately $10.7 million per location. Assuming a 15% operating profit margin, $10.7 million yearly revenue can result in $1,605,000 EBITDA annually.
Who owns TravelCenters of America?
The TravelCenters of America franchise is owned by BP p.l.c., which acquired the company in May 2023.
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