Trucking news and briefs for Thursday, Feb. 12, 2026:
- Major truck stop chain lays out 2026 expansion plans.
- Do you use Shell Rotella oil? Don't miss out on these promotions.
Love’s plans continued expansion in 2026
Love’s Travel Stops aims to continue its growth through 2026 with the addition of more than 1,500 truck parking spaces, 20 new locations and updates to 35 existing locations.
"Our 2026 priorities reflect what has always mattered at Love’s, delivering a best-in-class customer experience every time, no matter the part of our business,” said Shane Wharton, president of Love’s. “This year, growth means new and updated locations, expanded food and snack options, added amenities for RVers, and continued reinvestment in the business through a stronger loyalty program, and updated technologies -- all focused on strengthening Love's brand to drive customer value.”
Wharton said the company is investing $700 million into its network in 2026 for those new and updated locations, among other customer experience improvements.
With the 35 locations undergoing updates and renovations this year, Wharton said the company is learning lessons from prior experience and will be closing down the stores for significant upgrades. Wharton noted that Love’s found doing remodels while trying to keep stores open was “not a good experience for customers,” and added that the updates can be completed faster by closing the stores.
Certain amenities at those locations will remain open during renovations, including parking, as well as fuel, restrooms and food and drink options in a trailer on-site, Wharton added.
Also for professional drivers, Love’s is focusing on strengthening its Truck Care services this year. Wharton said a few new locations will open the year, but much of the focus will be on improving the company’s warranty partnerships and roadside service. Wharton confirmed that Love’s will continue offering roadside service for truck drivers after another major truck stop chain, TravelCenters of America, discontinued its roadside repairs on highway shoulders due to technician safety.
Last year, Love's expanded how customers get their food by introducing order-ahead capabilities at Arby’s, Hardee’s, Taco John’s, Bojangles and Carl’s Jr. locations, along with intelligent kiosks to Arby’s, enhancing customer experience and making it faster and easier to get food on the go. This year, Love’s will expand the use of intelligent kiosks to additional restaurant concepts.
The company will also continue to expand its food offerings. Last year, the company introduced Buffalo Wild Wings GO at three locations. The first to open, in Dodge City, Kansas, had one of the brand's most successful opening weeks to date. Eight more Buffalo Wild Wings Go will be added this year. Love’s will also welcome its first Whataburger in the beginning of 2026.
[Related: New truck stop near Dallas offers paid parking, free amenities]
Shell Rotella launches promotions for oil purchases
Shell Rotella has kicked off 2026 with two promotions designed to reward the hard work of diesel drivers and DIYers.
Between Feb. 1 and June 30, drivers who purchase a qualifying Shell Rotella T5 Synthetic Blend or T6 Full Synthetic oil change (minimum 11 gallons) at participating locations can receive up to $100 in Club Cash from Truck Parking Club through Shell Rotella’s “A Night on Us” promotion. A T5 oil change earns $75 in TPC Club Cash, and a T6 oil change earns $100 in TPC Club Cash. Club Cash can be used to book parking via truckparkingclub.com or the mobile app.
Additionally, between Feb. 1 and May 31, DIY customers who purchase eligible Shell Rotella T4, T5, or T6 products at participating retailers can receive up to $80 in Mastercard Virtual Reward Cards, based on product and size. Through Rotella’s “DIY National Promotion,” buyers can earn between $10 and $40 per qualifying product, with a limit of two rewards per person or household. Customers can upload their receipts online or mail in to redeem.
[Related: Owner-ops adapt conservative approach to ever-expanding diesel service intervals]
