RF Buche became the new owner of Abby’s in Pickstown on September 12. Abby’s is in the process of becoming a Gus Stop, the 9th in Buche’s retail chain. This Gus Stop will be unique though. The new Gus Stop in Pickstown will become a sportsman’s destination. Although not all the details are set in stone, Buche plans to carry bait and tackle products, camping supplies, rafts, fishing poles, etc. He wants anyone who is passing through to be able to pick up reasonably priced fishing and camping items that will make for a great weekend without having to go broke enjoying Pickstown and the surrounding outdoor adventures the area has to offer.

Buche is completely remodeling the old Abbys. GF Buche has its own construction team members that are handling the remodel and addition. They do plan to bring in some local contractors from the Winner, Burke and Kennebec areas to do some of the HVAC and other more specialized construction. With plans to add an outdoor kitchen, outdoor seating and a dance floor to the building, it is a major undertaking with no exact timeframe on completion. RF does plan to have the convenience store part of the business up and running by spring of 2024. Currently, the gas pumps at the location are up and running 24 hours a day seven days a week and digital signs will be coming soon.

For the convenience store portion of the business, Buche has already hired a manager. After the manager goes through some training, the store will be hiring for all other positions. There is also an interesting opportunity that is going to be a part of the Gus Stop. Part of the building will be a bar and grill. Buche is currently looking for the right person(s) or couple to potentially lease or manage that part of the business. The bar and grill has the potential to be a year round business or possibly just a seasonal business. RF is hoping to find the right fit during the remodel stage, so that the potential managers can have input in the design and building process.

When asked why he was interested in opening a business in Pickstown and in particular, the Abbys location, Buche said that he felt that this location was the right fit. Pickstown is exploding with potential and opportunities. Growing up in Wagner and knowing the area, RF and his team are very excited to become a part of the Pickstown community.