Wawa has expanded its partnership with McLane Company Inc., as it continues to grow in the Midwest, Mid Atlantic and Northeast. McLane’s Bluegrass distribution center in Hebron, Kentucky, will serve new Wawa locations in Kentucky, Indiana and Ohio, according to a press release sent to NACS.

“We’re proud to have served as a dedicated partner alongside Wawa over the years,” said Vito Maurici, McLane’s chief customer experience officer. “With this expanded partnership, we remain committed to supporting Wawa’s growth as a leader in convenience retail and foodservice through our robust network and product offerings.”

McLane and Wawa have worked together for more than 20 years, and McLane currently services over 1,100 Wawa stores out of distribution centers in Kentucky, Virginia, New Jersey and Florida. McLane’s Mid Atlantic distribution center, located in Fredericksburg, Virginia, began servicing Wawa’s existing east coast markets last fall to support the retailer's expansion in the region.

“It’s been 60 years since our first store opened, and our vision then was a new kind of convenience store, fulfilling lives by providing customers with fast, friendly service and fresh products that deliver value,” said Brian Schaller, president of Wawa. “As Wawa expands into new markets, our partnership with partners like McLane helps us scale our best-in-class foodservice program, support our growth and fulfill our commitment to delighting customers.”

The retailer said utilizing McLane’s “extensive distribution center network of more than 80 locations, operational efficiency and investments in technology will enhance its expansion into new markets.” It also will enable Wawa to “build on its best-in-class expertise and reputation by ensuring on-time deliveries, improving order fill rates and helping maintain cold chain and logistics at the highest standards.”