Wawa announced plans for its expansion into the state of Ohio during a two stop Community Partnership Day Tour in the state.
The company stated that the Ohio expansion includes plans to open approximately 60 stores across the region over the next 8-10 years with the first construction beginning in mid-2024. So far, Wawa has more than 16 sites under contract across Butler, Clermont, Clinton, Greene, Hamilton, Miami, Montgomery and Warren counties. Specific locations and estimated timings for these locations will be announced when the permitting and approval process is complete.
The first store locations are projected to open by mid-2025, with plans to open up to 10 locations that year, 10 additional stores in 2026 and five stores each year thereafter.
The two locations for the Community Partnership Day events were in Cincinnati and Daytona, Ohio. According to a company press release, these events were intended to officially introduce Wawa to the community and allow Wawa leaders to connect with the community as well.
Event attendees also got a glimpse of new store design renderings and had the opportunity to hear the Wawa story, Wawa’s offerings and Wawa’s commitment to its new Midwest region communities. Wawa encouraged guests to enjoy a Taste of Wawa, including samples of freshly made hoagies, freshly brewed coffee and other handcrafted beverages as it debuted its new Wawa Community Care Beverage Vehicle.
“We were thrilled to share our ‘flight plan’ for Ohio and reveal, for the very first time, our exciting expansion plans, renderings and more with our newest soon-to-be neighbors!” said Joe Collins, director of store operations for Wawa. “We can’t wait to begin putting shovels into the ground next year! As we get closer to our grand openings in 2025, we will be sharing even more details on our growth in Ohio and connecting with more customers, communities, partners and nonprofit organizations that together make this such an incredible region to be a part of!”
The convenience retailer recently announced plans to expand into Kentucky, with plans to open 40 stores across the state over the next 8-10 years.