Family Express accelerates growth with $100M expansion plan

Retailer marks 50th anniversary with major new store rollout across Indiana.

Family Express is embarking on an ambitious $100 million new-to-industry development plan focused on expanding its store network across Indiana.

The expansion, as reported by NACS, coincides with Family Express’s 50th anniversary, a milestone celebrated at its Annual Family Festival, which gathered more than 2,300 employees and their families. The event featured a drone show that illuminated the night sky with the company’s signature brands, including JAVAWAVE, Cravin’s Pizza, and Square Donuts, along with messages commemorating five decades of growth.

“As we celebrate our 50th year, we’re focused not only on our past, but on building the next 50,” said Alex Olympidis, president of operations at Family Express. “Our newest stores are designed to enhance the guest experience, developed on spacious 3–4-acre sites, each featuring an expanded food service court, state-of-the-art car washes, and, in many cases, our signature pet washes that our guests have come to love.”

Earlier this year, the company opened its first modular convenience store in Ligonier, Indiana. The over 660 -square-meter prototype, which includes a full kitchen and car wash, is part of a line of prefabricated buildings that can be assembled in just a few days.

Family Express’s latest investment underscores its commitment to innovation and customer experience, positioning the retailer for continued growth in the Indiana market.