QuikTrip Completing Gen 3 Prototype in Iowa

DES MOINES, Iowa -- QuikTrip's new Generation 3 prototype store in Grimes, Iowa is nearing completion, along with two other new stores in the area, reported the Des Moines Register. The first is expected to open at Iowa Highway 141 at 37th Street in Grimes within two weeks; the prototype store, located at 1451 22nd St. in West Des Moines, will follow in May.

At an average of 5,700 square feet, QuikTrip's new model adds extra space to the standard 4,600-square-foot store. "The inside and outside of the Generation 3 store will be a completely different configuration," said QuikTrip spokesman Mike Thornbrugh.

The prototype includes two front entrances and two side entrances to improve traffic flow; vendors can access the store through a back entrance. Inside the store, a larger food area offers touchscreen ordering for hot and cold drinks, smoothies and soft serve ice cream, to be filled by a barista. The extra space will allow QuikTrip to expand its fresh food offerings, said Thornbrugh.

Once completed, the new locations will bring QuikTrip's Iowa store count to 24. "We are going to continue to grow, and Des Moines is one of those markets we hope to continue to grow in," said Thornbrugh, who did not state how many stores the chain would like to open in the state. The chain has a total of 47 stores currently in development.