TravelCenters of America: Leading the Way in Full-Service Travel Centers

TravelCenters of America (TA) is the largest publicly traded full-service travel center operator in the United States. Founded in 1972, the company is headquartered in Westlake, Ohio, and operates a vast network of over 275 locations across 44 states and Canada.

‍TA began franchising to expand its footprint under the TA, Petro Stopping Centers, and TA Express brands, offering entrepreneurs a chance to partner with a well-established and trusted name in travel services.

TA's travel centers cater to both long-haul truckers and everyday motorists, providing a wide range of essential services. These include diesel and gasoline fueling stations, truck maintenance and repair, full-service and quick-service restaurants, convenience stores, showers, laundry facilities, and ample parking. The company’s goal is to serve as a one-stop destination for all the needs of highway travelers.

What differentiates TravelCenters of America from its competitors is its comprehensive, full-service model. Rather than offering just fuel or food, TA locations are designed to meet the complete needs of travelers and professional drivers.

Training

TA Franchise provides a comprehensive set of training programs for franchisees and their staff to ensure effective operation and adherence to the TA System and TA System Standards. Here are the types of training provided:

1. Initial Training Program: This mandatory program must be completed by the Managing Owner and other designated personnel before the opening of the TA Center. It covers the TA System and operational standards and spans 5 to 28 business days depending on the role. While TA Franchise does not charge a training fee for one employee per role, the franchisee bears all associated travel and living expenses.
2. Operational and Management Training: Conducted monthly or quarterly based on demand, this program is delivered by a seasoned training staff, including certified ASE instructors and district managers with decades of experience. The sessions aim to instill best practices and advanced technical skills in managing the TA Center.
3. Voluntary Additional Training: TA Franchise may offer optional training programs beyond the initial mandatory sessions. These may incur fees at TA Franchise’s prevailing rates and are designed to further enhance franchisee capabilities.
4. Training for Transfers and Renewals: In cases of ownership transfer or renewal of the franchise agreement, the new or continuing owners must complete TA Franchise’s standard training programs to ensure consistency in operational standards.
5. Pre-Opening and On-Site Assistance: Before and during the opening of a new TA Center, TA Franchise provides hands-on training support and may send an “opening team” to assist with setup and initial operations. These services come at the expense of the franchisee, covering travel and accommodation of the training team.

Territory Protection

TA Franchise does not offer exclusive territory rights. A Protected Area may be granted and defined in Exhibit C of the Franchise Agreement, but if it's not specified, the franchisee has no territorial protection.

Even within a Protected Area, TA Franchise can operate or license other businesses, including Petro Centers. Franchisees cannot expand outside their Protected Area without consent and do not have automatic rights to additional franchises.