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Long-Term Growth Prospects
 According to a Federal Highway Administration study, released in 2002, the following is the estimated peak hour demand along interstates carrying more than 1,000 trucks a day for selected states. Annual increase in demand is estimated over the next 20 years. Based on these levels of projected demand, the truck stop and travel plaza industry appear to have bright futures, with solid long-range growth prospects. The data below provides some indication of the prospects for long-term growth of the truck stop and travel plaza industry.
| State |
Rest Area Demand |
Truck Stop Demand |
Total Demand |
Estimated Annual Increase In Demand |
| Alabama |
1,634 |
5,473 |
7,107 |
4.4% |
| Arkansas |
1,783 |
6,968 |
7,751 |
2.9% |
| Tennessee |
1,214 |
4,073 |
5,287 |
4.0% |
| Missouri |
2,643 |
8,841 |
11,484 |
2.7% |
| Oklahoma |
1,078 |
3,610 |
4,688 |
1.8% |
| Georgia |
2,188 |
7,324 |
9,512 |
3.0% |
To take maximum advantage of the opportunities offered by its location, Bell’s Travel Plaza has developed a “multiple profit center” business model.
Under this model, Bell’s Travel Plaza has organized its sources of revenue into six separate profit centers:
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A state-of-the-art “branded” fuel/convenience store to attract travel and local consumers.
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A separate truck stop diesel facility with scales, laundry, entertainment, lounge and other accommodations specifically designed for professional truck drivers including in-cab services.
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Tourist service center with a retail store/gift shop and multiple fast food court.
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A motel for over-night and extended stay for tourists and truckers.
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A stand-alone franchise restaurant.
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A retail/office court and family entertainment center for local residents and Forrest City tourists and temporary visitors to Forrest City. The project will be developed in phases.
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