Benny's invests $15 million in new Baker store, promises car wash and 50+ local jobs

Benny's has opened its largest store to date in Baker, the company and city leaders said on the Baker Forward podcast, signaling a multi-million-dollar investment and a push to hire locally. "We've invested over $15 million in this facility," Justin, a member of the family ownership team, said on the episode. He said the site will include a large convenience store, expanded food service, lottery machines, self-checkout and an on-site car wash expected to start service within about a month once delayed electrical parts arrive.

The announcement matters because the company said it plans to hire from the nearby communities, aiming for "50 plus jobs" in the Baker area, according to Justin and his daughter Helen. "We hope to get 50 plus jobs here in the Baker area when we're all said and done," Helen said, describing a hiring approach that emphasizes local recruitment, HR screening and managerial flexibility.

Benny's representatives framed the store as both a commercial investment and a community partner. Justin traced the business to a 1951 family operation, noting the company is celebrating its 75th anniversary. "We started in 1951... We're celebrating our 75th anniversary right now," he said, using the episode to connect the project to a multi-generational family enterprise.

The Baker location will feature enhanced customer amenities, the guests said. Justin described expanded, hotel-style restrooms, a larger food area where a former Starbucks employee is helping redesign menus, and an upgraded car-wash system with stainless-steel equipment and "270 horsepower of blowers" to increase drying capacity. He also said the car wash will include a detail belt for interior cleaning and laser and pad systems to help calibrate machines for different vehicle sizes.

The mayor, appearing on the program as the local host and partner in recruitment efforts, was praised for facilitating the project. Justin recounted a meeting with the mayor and local public safety leaders that helped bring Benny's to Baker. "Baker wants a Benny's," Justin said of the outreach; he thanked the mayor and city council for their cooperation.

Timing and caveats: company spokespeople said the car wash remains delayed only by incoming electrical parts and that a firm opening date depends on receiving that equipment. Wage levels, exact job counts by role, and a public opening date were not specified on the recording. The episode also included references to civic events such as the annual prayer breakfast, which participants described as a longstanding community gathering.

The business and city did not announce formal incentives or city approvals during the episode. Justin and Helen emphasized local hiring and customer service as priorities as the store prepares to fully open.