Pilot has hit the ground running in 2026 with a series of new store openings, remodels and EV expansions. Plus, the chain is set to hire approximately 10,000 employees to join its team as it continues to grow across the U.S.
“Pilot is focused on investing in areas that matter most to create spaces our guests want to return to and are worth staying for our team members,” said Sean Marrero, president of retail at Pilot. “Whether you’re stopping for a charge, a full tank or a fresh meal this summer, we are making the most of every mile for every traveler on the open road.”
So far in 2026, according to a statement from Pilot, the retailer has opened new travel centers in Chicopee, Mass., and Ponce de Leon, Fla., while completing curb-to-counter upgrades at 18 travel centers in 13 states and Canadian provinces.
The two new locations were among the first to debut the Pilot eats foodservice concept.
As part of its store modernization initiative, New Horizons, Pilot plans to bring upgraded amenities, streamlined store layouts and enhanced guest experiences to more of its communities. The remodeled stores feature updated restrooms, expanded hot food options and modernized layouts.
Additionally this summer, Pilot eats rolled out buttermilk chicken tenders and a new signature dipping sauce. The chain plans to bring its Pilot eats concept to nearly 400 locations across North America, as it simultaneously expands its Pilot eats Express format to 250 stores.
On the EV side of its business, Pilot added 50 new sites across 25 states in the first half of 2026.
“Pilot’s charging experience is differentiated by offering the same convenience, access and reliability that non-EV drivers have come to expect,” the retailer noted in its statement. “Pilot’s coast-to-coast EV network offers a comprehensive, exceptional experience with fast chargers and 24/7 monitoring, and many locations offer drivers canopies to escape the weather and their favorite Pilot eats offerings.”
To account for its rapid growth, Pilot has launched its annual National Hiring Season with plans to hire approximately 10,000 team members across its network.
Open positions, the chain noted, include both full-time and part-time opportunities in retail operations, foodservice and guest experience roles.
Stay tuned for more updates from CStore Decisions.
