News & Events

Big Changes Brewing at the Wabasso C-Store: A Fresh Start with Familiar Faces

If you’ve driven through Wabasso lately, you’ve probably noticed something big happening at the Farmers Co-op Oil Company C-Store. The familiar gas station is undergoing a major transformation, and behind that transformation is a team of dedicated employees led by manager and head cook, Tam Welch.

Tam’s path to managing the C-Store started long before the first blueprint for the new building was drawn up. With a strong background in the food industry, Tam has managed her own restaurant and catering business and also served as the Head Cook at Wabasso Public School. It was former manager Beth Goblirsch who first approached Tam about a position at the C-Store. That was eight years ago—and Tam has been building the store’s reputation and menu ever since.

“Over the years, we’ve expanded the kitchen menu to offer more options to our customers,” she explained. “My team and I have learned to adapt with the times to provide quality products and service for our community.” Tam is more than just a manager, on any given day, you’ll find her prepping breakfast in the early hours, baking treats, making lunch specials, managing operations in the office, and even lending a hand on the store floor. She’s involved in every piece of the store’s daily operation, and that level of commitment shows.

Recently, the Co-op made the decision to retire the old building. With wear and tear taking its toll on both the store and the fuel pumps, and the high cost of updates looming, the smarter move was to start fresh. The new facility, modern, efficient, and built with the future in mind, is currently underway. It will be home to state-of-the-art equipment that will allow the staff to provide even better, faster service and a wider variety of products.

From a kitchen standpoint, customers can look forward to new offerings like broasted chicken, Tecos Tacos, and family-friendly value meal packs. The store will also feature a large cold food case and a brand-new coffee bar. One of the most anticipated additions is a laser touchless car wash, located just around the back of the store. Customers will be able to use a mobile app to sign up for monthly unlimited wash subscriptions.

Tam noted that it’s been a long planning process, but one the team has embraced with energy and commitment. The old store has now been demolished, the previous underground fuel tanks have been removed, and the new ones are in place. The next step is pouring the concrete and setting up the new fuel island. Everyone is eager to see the final product come together and even more excited to open the doors and welcome the community in.

What hasn’t changed through all of this is the close-knit team at the heart of the store. “I take pride in my current team; it’s small but mighty,” Tam said. “As a manager, I respect each and every employee, and I hope they understand how valued they are. I consider them my work family.”

The store is a known supporter of community causes, and their annual Customer Appreciation Day has become a favorite tradition. Each year, the store chooses a local organization to receive a matching donation as part of the event. Past recipients include the Wabasso Lions, the Wabasso Fire Department, and Best Christmas Ever. This year, the chosen beneficiary is Redemption Ranch.

In addition to preparing for the big move, the store is also hiring. They’re currently seeking both part-time and full-time help for kitchen and till positions—open to both adults and high school students. “We’re looking for motivated, hardworking individuals who enjoy working in a fast-paced environment,” Tam said. “If you’re looking for a great team and a fun place to work, come join us!”

And for those who think a gas station kitchen just means frozen foods and reheated snacks, think again. “Most customers don’t know that many of our kitchen products are homemade,” Tam shared. “Many of our specials, bars, and desserts don’t come from a freezer or a box. They’re made from scratch—real, good-for-the-soul meals and treats.”

As the new building continues to take shape, Tam and her team are looking forward to continuing to serve Wabasso with the same warmth and dedication they always have, just with a few more modern upgrades. “We’re excited to welcome back our regular customers and meet new faces,” she said. “Stop on in, try our products, and check out the car wash while you’re here!”