Pilot Travel Centers

Pilot is the largest network of travel centers across North America, serving an average of 1.2 million guests daily. With a history spanning over six decades, they are committed to providing exceptional customer service and a comfortable travel experience. As part of its strategic plan, Pilot launched the New Horizons store modernization initiative in 2022. This initiative aims to remodel over 400 stores, incorporating guest feedback and suggestions into the design process. By investing in this major remodel program, Pilot is reaffirming its commitment to being the leading energy and experience provider people rely on to fuel their journeys.

To execute their ambitious store renovation initiative, Pilot partnered with ms consultants to help execute efficient and effective architectural and engineering solutions.

ms consultants provides a range of comprehensive services, from initial concept design through the creation of construction documents and construction administration. The ms team effectively addresses site-specific challenges, adapting designs to suit diverse facility types, geography, and local regulations. Through each phase, ms ensures a seamless project execution.

The scope of each project ranges from smaller updates like exterior paint, signage, and lighting, to full curb-to-counter overhauls. Remodels incorporate various other store-in-store brands. These partnering brands are carefully blended into the overarching Pilot experience, creating one cohesive space while preserving the integrity of each brand. This strategic integration enhances the core offering, providing additional options and convenience to its guests.

Through this collaboration, ms consultants helped bring Pilot’s strategy and vision to life by modernizing the travel center experience and creating inviting, functional spaces that cater to the needs of today’s travelers.

Pilot ensures each store renovation elevates the guest experience with a more inviting and convenient stop, while also prioritizing sustainability. The modernization effort involved interior and exterior upgrades, including energy-efficient lighting, new branding design elements, and a spacious layout designed to improve customer traffic flow.

Other key design highlights include:

• Upgraded Amenities: Restrooms, showers, and laundry facilities are expanded and enhanced with modern fixtures, touchless technology, and a fresh, clean design.
• Lounge Areas: Seating and lounge areas feature comfortable furnishings, providing ample space for relaxation.
• Food and Beverage Integration: Redesigned areas for proprietary food and beverage alongside seamlessly integrated partner brands.
• Technology Upgrades: New digital signage and self-checkouts offer enhanced convenience.
• Improved Team Member Spaces: Upgraded break rooms, workspaces, and kitchens prioritize efficiency and comfort, creating a positive and supportive work environment.

“ms consultants has been an invaluable partner in helping us accomplish the goals of our remodel program. They’ve been critical to our success in creating spaces that our guests love, and our team members are proud to work in.”

– Lance Champion, Sr Director of Corporate Design