The Pilot convenience store located at 3004 E. Magnolia Ave. recently got a facelift. The 27-year-old store now features an additional 250-square-feet of retail space, a new walk-in cooler, and a new checkout counter.

"Our Pilot location on Magnolia has served the community for more than a quarter-century," said Dan Fleming, vice president of operations for Pilot. "We've really enjoyed being part of the East Knoxville community, and we're thrilled to give this location a facelift and add new, modern amenities to better serve our loyal customers."

The newly remodeled store included the addition of a new 16-head soda fountain machine and new state-of-the-art Bunn coffee brewers and cappuccino machines.

Pilot also recently added high-speed fuel pumps that provide faster flow so customers can refuel quickly. The new pumps feature Pay-at-the-Pump equipment.

Larry Rhea, the store's general manager, has worked at the store since 1987. An additional four store employees have worked there for more than 15 years, including Carrie McMahan who has been serving the community at the Magnolia Avenue Pilot since 1985.

"We're very proud of the renovations to the store," Rhea said. "We're invested in this community, and our loyal customers are like friends and family to the employees at our store. We're looking forward to continuing to serve this neighborhood in true Pilot spirit for many years to come."