Petro Stopping Centers: Innovating the Travel Center Experience

Founded in 1975 by J.A. Cardwell Sr. in El Paso, Texas, Petro Stopping Centers revolutionized the truck stop industry by introducing the first self-service truck stop in the United States. This innovative approach set a new benchmark for customer service and convenience, redefining expectations in the travel center sector.

In 2007, Petro Stopping Centers was acquired by TravelCenters of America (TA), which had been established in 1972 and is headquartered in Westlake, Ohio. The acquisition expanded TA’s operations to include several brands—TA, Petro Stopping Centers, and TA Express—across more than 275 locations in 44 states and Canada. These centers offer a comprehensive range of services including diesel and gasoline fueling, truck maintenance, full- and quick-service dining, travel stores, and ample parking.

Petro began franchising in 2008, offering business owners the chance to operate under a trusted and nationally recognized brand. Franchisees gain access to TA’s strong buying power, established fleet relationships, and a full suite of support services, including marketing, operations, and training.

What sets Petro apart is its dedication to serving professional drivers with amenities that make their stops more comfortable and efficient. From private showers and multiple dining options to fully stocked stores and driver-focused services, Petro Stopping Centers continues to lead the industry by making life on the road a little easier for the nation’s truckers.

Training

Petro Stopping Centers provides a structured and detailed training program to ensure that franchisees and their teams are fully prepared to operate their business in line with company standards. Here are the primary training programs:

1. Initial Management Training: This mandatory training must be completed by the Managing Owner and key personnel before the Petro Center opens. It includes classroom and on-the-job training, with durations ranging from 5 to 28 business days, depending on the role. There is no training fee for the initial employee per job function, but all other expenses like travel and lodging are covered by the franchisee.
2. Fuel Department Training: Focused on on-site, operational topics such as fuel management, quality standards, cleanliness, and coffee program management. This includes approximately 80 hours of hands-on training for department managers.
3. Truck Service Department Training: Includes a substantial 120 hours of off-site classroom training on overall operations, along with 70 hours of on-site training. This may include TIA and Freightliner certification classes, depending on the franchise.
4. Pre-Opening and On-Site Assistance: Petro provides support during the pre-opening phase, including setup and initial operations, with costs for trainer travel, wages, and lodging reimbursed by the franchisee.
5. Ongoing and Voluntary Training: Additional training sessions are available on a monthly or quarterly basis depending on demand. These are facilitated by a seasoned training staff and may include a fee.

Territory Protection

Petro Stopping Centers provides limited territory protection to its franchisees, referred to as a "Protected Area," which is defined in Exhibit C of the Franchise Agreement. This area typically surrounds the approved franchise location, and the franchisor agrees not to authorize another Petro Center within it—provided the franchisee remains in compliance.

However, if no Protected Area is specified, the franchisee does not receive any territorial rights. Even when a Protected Area is granted, the franchisor reserves substantial rights. These include the ability to operate or license other brands such as TA or TA Express within or outside the Protected Area.

Franchisees are also restricted from expanding or selling outside their area via alternative distribution methods like the internet without written permission, which can be withheld at the franchisor's discretion.