News Summary
Wawa announces a major expansion in Tennessee, planning to open over 50 new stores in the coming decade. The initiative includes creating 1,750 jobs and features the first phase with six locations set in Middle Tennessee by 2026. The expansion reflects Wawa’s strategy to enhance accessibility and community engagement. Additionally, the company is actively pursuing partnerships with local organizations to strengthen its presence in the state.
Tennessee is set to welcome a significant expansion from Wawa, a popular convenience store chain based in Pennsylvania. The company announced on August 12, 2025, that it plans to open over 50 new stores across the state within the next decade, representing an impressive investment of approximately $375 million and the creation of around 1,750 new jobs.
The first phase of this expansion includes the establishment of six stores in Middle Tennessee, scheduled to open by the end of 2026. Groundbreaking ceremonies for these new locations are set to take place on August 12 and August 13, 2025, in Murfreesboro and Clarksville, respectively. Among the sites earmarked for development is a Bellevue location at 8033 Tennessee 100, indicating Wawa’s strategic approach to entering key areas with high potential for growth.
Each new Wawa store will be corporate-owned, spanning approximately 6,000 square feet, and each is expected to employ around 35 associates. This approach highlights Wawa’s commitment to providing local job opportunities and contributing to the economy of Tennessee. If the company meets its ambitious goal of opening 50 stores by 2036, it will significantly enhance its footprint and operational capabilities in the region.
The new Wawa locations are not limited to Murfreesboro and Clarksville; they will also be established in several other cities including Lebanon, Dickson, White House, Manchester, and Pleasant View. This broader expansion plan is indicative of Wawa’s strategic intent to serve a wider customer base across Tennessee, enhancing accessibility to their popular products.
Wawa is renowned for its made-to-order hoagies, gourmet coffee, and other food items. Most of its stores additionally offer gasoline, making them a one-stop shop for customersโ convenience needs. Currently, the company operates over 1,100 stores across 12 states and Washington, D.C., with Tennessee marked as the 13th state in its expanding territory.
The announcement event at Second Harvest Food Bank featured Wawa’s mascot, Wally Goose, emphasizing the company’s engagement with local communities. Wawa President Brian Schaller pointed out the company’s rapid growth, noting that they have more than doubled their operational states in just a year and a half. This highlights the robust demand for Wawa’s services and products.
In conjunction with its expansion, Wawa is prioritizing community involvement and partnerships. Plans are already in motion to collaborate with local organizations, including Second Harvest and Vanderbilt Universityโs Monroe Carell Jr. Childrenโs Hospital, as part of their charitable initiatives. This engagement will likely help build strong community relationships and enhance Wawa’s brand presence in Tennessee.
An event, called Community Partnership Day, was held at Second Harvest Food Bank, allowing attendees to sample popular Wawa food items and learn more about the company’s plans. This event serves as a platform for Wawa to connect with the community and gather feedback as they prepare for their entry into the local market.
Further announcements about additional store locations in Tennessee are anticipated in the coming months, which may bolster excitement among potential customers and local businesses alike. As Wawa embarks on this significant expansion journey, the company aims to create a welcoming and engaging atmosphere that reflects its commitment to quality service and community values.
In summary, Wawa’s planned expansion into Tennessee, with over 50 stores to be opened by 2036, is a substantial development that promises to create new job opportunities, enhance convenience for consumers, and strengthen community ties across the state.
Deeper Dive: News & Info About This Topic
- Tennessean: Wawa Expansion in Tennessee
- Google Search: Wawa Tennessee expansion
- WSMV: Wawa Breaks Ground on New Locations
- Google Scholar: Wawa Tennessee
- CStore Dive: Wawa Construction in Tennessee
- Encyclopedia Britannica: Wawa
- WKRN: Wawa Breaking Ground in Middle TN
- Google News: Wawa Tennessee locations
- Mass Market Retailers: Wawa’s Tennessee Expansion
Author: STAFF HERE MEMPHIS WRITER
The MEMPHIS STAFF WRITER represents the experienced team at HEREMemphis.com, your go-to source for actionable local news and information in Memphis, Shelby County, and beyond. Specializing in "news you can use," we cover essential topics like product reviews for personal and business needs, local business directories, politics, real estate trends, neighborhood insights, and state news affecting the areaโwith deep expertise drawn from years of dedicated reporting and strong community input, including local press releases and business updates. We deliver top reporting on high-value events such as Beale Street Music Festival, Elvis Week, and Memphis in May International Festival. Our coverage extends to key organizations like the Greater Memphis Chamber and the Memphis Convention & Visitors Bureau, plus leading businesses in logistics, healthcare, and music that power the local economy such as FedEx, St. Jude Children's Research Hospital, and AutoZone. As part of the broader HERE network, including HEREBristol.com, HEREChattanooga.com, HEREKnoxville.com, and HERENashville.com, we provide comprehensive, credible insights into Tennessee's dynamic landscape.
