Family Express Corp.

This Valparaiso, Indiana-based regional chain of foodservice-focused convenience stores is in the middle of a $100 million development plan, which will see an even larger plan in a year and a half, according to Gus Olympidis, President and CEO of Family Express Corp.

In the early part of 2026, the chain is opening two stores with plans to open as many as eight more going into the summer, he said. They are building with the expectation of "softening fuel velocity" and the growth of foodservice. "We are evolving, becoming more of a restaurant, and because of that, we're building large stores."

Family Express sets itself apart with daily delivery to its stores of fresh milk and other products. It's known for its private-label concepts and products, including Buzzed Energy beverages, Cravin's Market baked goods, deli items, Java Wave coffees and Squeeze Freeze frozen beverages.

It also sells Family Express ice, milk and water, as well as Family Express fuels, including E15. The chain is dedicated to offering fresh food and beverages at value prices in a convenient, friendly, clean and safe environment.

Family Express started on Christmas Day in 1975 when Olympidis opened his first c-store in Valparaiso. Privately held, Family Express has an employee-centric culture. It offers benefits such as 401(k) matching, fitness-center access and stable scheduling.

For benchmarking purposes, store counts are as of Jan. 1, 2026.