STATE

Wawa announces plans to expand to Georgia with first store opening in 2024

Zach Dennis
Savannah Morning News

As Wawa has become a favorite for our southern neighbors in Florida, on Wednesday, the beloved convenience store chain announced plans to expand into Georgia.

The announcement added that the expansion will also include South Alabama.

According to the company's release, the current plan is to open the first Wawa store in Georgia in 2024 with a potential of up to 20 additional stores entering the state depending on the success of the first store. The company did not announce where the store would be opening.

More store expansions:Coastal Georgia is getting a Buc-ee's — but at the potential cost of Gullah Geechee lands

Where are the grocery stores?:Nearly 14% of Chatham residents need food assistance

First City Progress:Talmadge Bridge replacement options narrowed — but no word on what they are

“Our continued expansion plans will allow us to reach more customers with our quality fresh food, beverages and community support friends and neighbors,” said John Poplawski, Vice President of Real Estate for Wawa. “Expanding to Georgia is a natural extension from the Florida Panhandle and we look forward to serving more communities along the East Coast.”

Wawa is preparing to open their first store in Georgia at a later disclosed location in 2024.

The addition of Wawa joins the expansion of Buc-ee's in the state with an announced store coming to Glynn County last month. The decision has been challenged by the chosen location, which could interfere with Gullah Geechee lands.

Zach Dennis is the editor of the arts and culture section, and weekly Do Savannah alt-weekly publication at the Savannah Morning News. He can be reached at zdennis@savannahnow.com or 912-239-7706.