The highway treks along West Virginia’s scenic 88-mile-long parkway, running parallel to the spectacular New River Gorge National Park and Preserve. The contract is estimated to employ hundreds of local residents.
Beginning in early 2023, each existing store will be completely redesigned featuring state-of-the-art amenities encompassing the surrounding natural beauty. Travelers will be greeted by celebrated brands such as Starbucks, Wendy’s, Popeye’s, and Firehouse Subs.
In addition, each plaza will feature Areas’ own Mountain State Market travel convenience stores offering an authentic sense of place with natural design elements, local artwork, and artisanal offerings from the surrounding community. During the warmer months, Areas will host farmers’ markets featuring local entrepreneurs and musicians to showcase the eclectic bounty from the West Virginia Mountains.
As part of its effort to become part of the community, Areas will partner with local community organizations. This includes cultivating employment opportunities through the “Second Chance Act” program, as well as developing a training and recruitment program with the New River Community and Technical College and the ProStart Restaurant Management program for high school students.
Other decisive factors in Areas’ successful bid include innovation in sales formats, a focus on new technological solutions, and a robust customer service platform exuding authentic southern hospitality.
Areas will also collaborate with the West Virginia Tourism Commission and the West Virginia Hospitality and Travel Association to cross-promote the state’s tourism marketing plans. This partnership will ensure Areas remains connected and engaged with the local community throughout the life of the 15-year term.
“Winning the bid for the travel plazas in West Virginia is a true milestone for Areas. In just over a decade, we have become a benchmark in the United States, the largest highway plaza market in the world. We are now the main operator on highways in the United States, and now have operations on three of the largest US highways in traffic volume,” says Oscar Vela, CEO of Areas Global. “After two very difficult years marked by the pandemic, we are really excited about growing even more. We will take advantage of all the opportunities to win new bids for highways, airports, and train stations, both in the United States as well as in Latin America and Europe,” he says.
“We are thrilled to be a part of the West Virginia community and look forward to showcasing the magnificence of the Mountain State,” says Carlos Bernal, CEO of Areas USA. “Guests will encounter an exceptional experience rich in local heritage at all three travel plazas. From outdoor spaces featuring farmers’ markets, craft shows, and pop-up local attractions to celebrated national brands and local concepts. These plazas are destinations for refueling but also for recharging, relaxing, and preparing for the journey ahead.”