Wawa’s Growth Signals Big Changes for the Tar Heel State
Wawa, the Pennsylvania-based convenience store chain famous for its hoagies and cult-like fan base, is doubling down on its expansion into North Carolina. By the end of 2025, Wawa plans to open up to 10 new locations across the state, making the brand’s mark on communities from the eastern region to the Triangle.
Why It Matters
Wawa is a convenience store heavyweight, combining freshly prepared food, affordable fuel, and 24-hour service that resonates with both travelers and locals. Its expansion into North Carolina signals a shift in the market as competition in the convenience sector grows fiercer.
Expansion Plans
Wawa’s upcoming locations include Hope Mills, Fayetteville, Jacksonville, Greenville, Wilson, and Goldsboro. A Selma store in Johnston County, near Raleigh, will open later this year at 25 JR Road, a prime spot at the intersection of U.S. Highway 70 and Interstate 95.
While these developments are exciting, Wawa has not yet announced stores in key cities like Raleigh, Durham, or Charlotte, leaving Queen City residents eagerly awaiting updates.
A Long-Term Vision
The company plans to open six to eight stores annually in North Carolina over the next decade, eventually reaching a total of 90 locations statewide. Beyond North Carolina, Wawa’s ambitions include opening up to 280 stores across the southeastern U.S. in states such as Tennessee, Georgia, and Alabama.
Competition Heats Up
Wawa’s move south isn’t happening in a vacuum. Texas-based Buc-ee’s, another convenience store giant with a loyal following, plans to debut its first North Carolina location in Mebane by 2027. This clash of titans underscores a growing trend: convenience stores are evolving into destination spots, offering fresh food and unique amenities that appeal to a wide range of customers.
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About Jack Beckett
Fueled by too much coffee and a love for Charlotte’s stories, Jack Beckett digs into everything from zoning controversies to sports triumphs. Catch his latest pieces at Charlotte Mercury.
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