In the wake of its 50th anniversary, Indiana-based Family Express is investing $100 million in new-store development. The 80-plus store chain also announced a modular construction approach to new stores, is opening a megastore concept and expanded store amenities to better serve its customers.
“We are growing like a weed,” said Alex Olympidis, president of operations, Family Express.
Additionally, its commitment to its customers and communities is award winning. In July, the retailer was recognized with one of CStore Decisions’ 2026 Philanthropy and Community Engagement Awards.
Due to its dedication to growth, innovative store concepts and above-and-beyond community commitment, Family Express is being recognized as a 2026 Chain to Watch in the industry.
$100 Million Growth
Family Express began celebrating 50 years in business in 2025.
On Christmas Day in 1975, President and CEO Gus Olympidis opened his first convenience store in Valparaiso, Ind. Over the course of 50 years, the business has grown to 85 stores and counting, all in Indiana.
Now, coinciding with the company’s 50th anniversary, the chain is putting $100 million toward a new-to-industry development plan, with new stores opening in the state throughout 2026. Olympidis stated in a press release that the newest stores are developed on three-to-four-acre sites with expanded foodservice.
The 50th anniversary milestone celebration occurred at the company’s Annual Family Festival, concluding with a drone show illuminating the retailer’s signature brands — JAVAWAVE, Cravin’s Pizza and Square Donuts — and congratulatory messages.
As part of its commitment to continued growth, Family Express opened its first modularized masonry building in Ligonier in October 2025, the first of four stores scheduled to open at the time before the end of the year.
These buildings are prefabricated and assembled in just a few days, reducing the time involved in conventional construction.
The Ligonier location features Family Express’ proprietary Cravin’s-To-Order kitchen and a car wash, among other amenities.
Family Express is also launching new megastores amongst its store openings as part of its portfolio.
It recently opened one in May in Morgan Township featuring a truck stop, car wash, pet wash and Cravin’s-To-Order kitchen. Already, it had megastore locations in St. John.
“Our stores are more than places to fuel up or grab a meal. They are part of the daily rhythm of the communities we serve,” Olympidis said.
Community Impact
Family Express has certainly developed a following during its 50 years in business, evidenced by its continued success, engagement initiatives and customer appreciation.
Just this past August, when severe storms impacted areas of Indiana, Family Express received well-deserved accolades from one of its customers. The customer commented on a Family Express Facebook post that their family members are now customers for life due to one store team’s kindness and quick thinking as the family took shelter in the store from the storm.
“Convenience stores are part of everyday life. We see our guests, neighbors, educators, first responders and community leaders every day. Supporting them is not separate from our business. It is part of our responsibility as a local company,” Olympidis shared. “We are proud that our approach to community engagement reflects the same values that define Family Express itself: consistency, service, relationships and community.”
Family Express’ commitment to its community is evidenced throughout the organization, reaching customers on a one-to-one basis every day through its store teams.
Family Express doesn’t only make itself available to its customers; it also invests in its employees.
It has been named a 2026 USA TODAY Top Workplace, an honor based on confidential employee surveys. As the chain continues to grow, it’s maintaining the culture that has yielded low turnover rates and immense employee satisfaction.
Family Express is also devoted to training, development and technology.
Family Express is closing out 2026 with more store openings, innovation and a staunch responsibility to its communities; its reliable and consistent model of success makes it a 2026 Chain to Watch.
