PILOT TRAVEL CENTERS and Flying J complete merger

It is one of the top 10 privately held companies in the US. "We are now one great company, two great brands," said Pilot Flying J President and CEO Jimmy Haslam. "Our new organisation is a combination of two of the best-known brands in the travel centre industry, both with strong family histories and shared values,” he added.

According to Crystal Call Maggelet, Chairman of Flying J: "The merger is a historic moment in our industry. It will be exciting to see our more than 550 locations come together, providing a complete North American network of travel centres. Our customers will benefit through new and expanded services. Outstanding customer service will continue to be a top priority at the new company."

Customers still will see the Pilot and Flying J brands on signage at the interstate facilities. Pilot has begun to accept the TCH card, and Flying J has begun to accept Comdata cards. This change gives the trucking community many more options of where to fuel that are not dependent on the card they carry. Other plans are for enhanced restaurant offerings with national brands in all locations. Brand additions to Flying J locations in the new network include Denny's, Subway and Pizza Hut.

In addition, there will be upgrades to drivers' lounges, new gasoline and diesel pumps, enhanced showers and remodelled restrooms at many locations. Pilot Flying J is selling 26 locations to Love's Travel Stops & Country Stores as required by the Federal Trade Commission as a condition for the merger.