BELLVILLE — Company representatives marked the opening of the Loves Truck Stop and Subway Restaurant in southern Richland County earlier this week near Bellville.
Local officials on hand for the ceremony noted the facility has already had an impact on the local economy. The truck stop and restaurants are expected to provide an average of 75 jobs at the site, located just off I-71 and Ohio 97.
General Manager Eric Hoagland told a crowd of nearly 30 that Loves Travel Stops was founded in 1964 in Oklahoma by the Love family. Today, still a family owned company, they have 440 locations in 41 states. Currently they have 11 locations in Ohio.
The facility includes both a Subway and Taco John’s restaurant. Hoagland said Taco Johns began in 1969 in Wyoming. He estimates $75 million could be generated in annual revenue at the facility, based on an average of other facilities.
Bellville Mayor Teri Brenkus thanked the Loves organization for its commitment to the community. She said that nearly 80 percent of the project included local contractors.
The project topped $15 million, providing a boost for companies in Bellville, Lexington and Richland County, the mayor said.
“The Loves organization was easy to work with,” Brenkus added. “They will be a great fit for the Valley; the Loves family has joined the Clear Fork family.”
Richland County Commissioners Marilyn John, Tony Vero and Darrell Banks were on hand for the dedication. Banks noted efforts for the widening of Ohio 97 which led to interest by businesses like Loves.
Banks, the former mayor in Bellville, noted the addition of Avita across from the Loves property and remodeling along the strip on the east side of I-71. A Dunkin Donuts store also opened last month.
Subway had its own ribbon cutting, touting the “first store in Ohio” to adopt their corporations “fresh-forward look.” Stephanie Wendland explained that this look is a “cleaned up palate” with bread and vegetables showcased up front. This is to ensure customers are aware that the bread is made on site and the vegetables are cut at the store.
Wendland said Subway’s focus in Ohio is to update its existing stores with the “fresh-forward” design change. It includes new ovens and some simplified processes. The company is trying to capitalize on technology as well with digital menu boards and refrigeration equipment that communicates temperature data with manager’s cell phones.
The new merchandising approach includes efforts to improve communication with customers. The glass screens tilt down over top of the food service to make it easier to talk with customers. The new look also features a new logo.
Located inside Loves, this Subway will also offer pizza at the facility. Jason Wendland said the business is hiring 20 people and may add more in the future.
Brenkus noted that it’s too early to tell what the revenue figures will be but local officials are optimistic.
Hoagland said Loves’ primary customer base features commercial drivers, but that the company is expanding service to the general driving public. This truck stop provides fuel, scales, food, showers and laundry services. A tire shop, employing 10, is also on site. Loves is known for investment in the communities where they are located.
In addition, Hoagland presented a $2,000 check to the Clear Fork School District.
Superintendent Janice Wyckoff accepted the donation on behalf of the District. Wyckoff said she hopes it will attract more families to the district and that the restaurants will provide job opportunities for area students.
The Loves Travel Stop held a “soft opening” on Dec 14 with drivers taking advantage of these services from the first day.
