Wawa Opens Near Temple Terrace

Wawa, a convenience store chain with locations in Mid-Atlantic states, is moving south to Florida and plans to open 100 stores in Tampa and Orlando in the next five years.

One of those stores opened Feb. 13 at 2901 E. Fowler Ave., near the University of South Florida.

“Wawa is officially open for business in Tampa Bay region, with a goal to provide an entirely new world of quality and convenience for Floridians,” according to a Wawa press release. “Since opening its first convenience store in 1964, Wawa has prided itself on being a good corporate citizen, and Wawa is excited to extend this commitment to the Tampa community. Through its partnership with the Feeding America Tampa Bay, Wawa hopes to raise and donate $25,000 in five weeks and help fight hunger in the Tampa community.”

The Fowler Avenue store is the second to open in the Tampa area. On Feb. 8, Wawa launched in Pinellas Park at 3101 Gandy Blvd.

Other locations opening soon include:

• 8519 U.S. Highway 19 in Port Richey on Feb. 20;
• 5109 8330 Ridge Road in New Port Richey on Feb. 27; and
• 5115 4026 U.S. Highway 19 in New Port Richey on March 6.

The new stores will each employ nearly 35 associates.

Wawa’s goal is to provide quality, freshly prepared food and beverage items, service and convenience for all Tampa residents, the press release states.

“We can’t wait to meet the newest members of our Florida family and are excited to quickly penetrate the Tampa Bay area and simplify our customers’ lives,” said Sal Mattera, vice president of Store Operations for Wawa in the release.

Have you been to the new Wawa? What do you think of the store opening nearby? Tell us in the comments.