PFI Mart open for business

DAYTON–For the past several weeks, you may have noticed contractors bustling around the former Hot Spot No. 2 at 401 W. Main Street, including new digital signage and extensive work going on inside the former auto mechanic shop.

As of September 1, the newly remodeled and reconfigured convenience store, to be known as PFI Mart, is open for business, with a grand opening planned. The location has been selling fuel from its self-serve pumps since July 4.

Dan Hatch, owner of Pasco petroleum distributor Pelican Fueling Inc., said he's excited to open a business in Dayton, a town he's always loved since coming here on Touchet River fishing trips with his father some 40 years ago.

Hatch looks forward to "giving back" to the community and intends to support Dayton Schools.

The transaction closed in June and Hatch went to work converting the former mechanic shop bays into the main floor of PFI Mart's second store, reserving what was formerly the store for kitchen and offices. The roll-up doors were removed, except for one, which will be open weather permitting.

The kitchen has been improved with a hood so fried food, including a pressure fryer for chicken, sandwiches, burgers, and deli-case items will be offered.

Hatch's roots in southeastern Washington include growing up on a Pasco/Burbank-area farm, and education at WSU TriCities and Columbia Basin College. His entrepreneuristic pursuits have included farming, transportation, cattle feed and fishing.

He started Pelican Fueling, Inc., supplying fuel to rail operators and expanding to agriculture. Pelican employs 16 full-time, and PFI Mart has 10 employees.

Future plans include non-ethanol fuel, an RV dump, propane, and water and air.