Up to a Dozen Sheetz Locations Could Come to Lansing Area

Sheetz, a 24-hour gas station and restaurant, could soon become common locally, as the company is looking to add between six and 12 locations in the Lansing area, Nick Ruffner, public affairs manager for Sheetz told East Lansing Info in an email interview. 

The company is currently seeking permission to add a Sheetz at the corner of Abbot Road and Saginaw Street, a site that was previously a Rite Aid. Sheetz needs approval from the East Lansing City Council to move forward. The project was unanimously recommended by the city’s Planning Commission last month. 

The East Lansing location currently going through the approval process is planned to open in 2027, Ruffner said. If it opens, it will employ between 30 and 35 workers. 

“East Lansing gives us the chance to be part of a vibrant community with access to major roadways, neighborhoods that will benefit from our convenience, and the opportunity to serve students, staff, and visitors to Michigan State University,” Ruffner said. 

Adding a dozen Sheetz in the Lansing area would mark a major expansion for the Pennsylvania-based company. The chain boasts hundreds of locations across the country, but recently opened just its fourth Michigan location, according to reporting from The Detroit Free Press. 

Sheetz is also looking to greatly expand its presence in Southeast Michigan, and could add 50 to 60 locations in the area, according to the Free Press. 

“We look for sites that are part of strong communities, where there is demand for what we offer, and where customers can access our stores easily from the surrounding area,” Ruffner said. 

Ruffner did not directly answer a question about if it would alter Sheetz’s plans for the Lansing area if the East Lansing City Council rejects the project currently going through the approval process. Instead, he said the focus is on working with city leaders to move forward. 

“We respect the local review process and were happy to see the East Lansing Planning Commission unanimously approve the new store last month,” Ruffner said. “Our focus remains on working constructively with city leaders and the community to address questions and share information about the project. We remain committed to having productive conversations as this important process moves forward.”