Mainstreet Daily News
Wawa, Inc. today announced the opening of two stores in Gainesville, with the first location at 2305 NW 13th Street offering a full-service traditional format with fuel, whereas the second location at 1614 West University Avenue, is the company’s first-ever non-fuel location in Florida and retro-fit of an existing building, formerly a bookstore, transformed into a food and beverage destination across from the University of Florida.
“At Wawa, our core purpose is to go beyond filling orders to Fulfilling Lives and we’re excited to join the Gainesville community to provide resources, job opportunities and community support,” said Chris Gheysens, President & CEO, Wawa. “We are committed to providing comfort and a sense of normalcy in the safest way possible and will continue to listen to the needs of our customers during this challenging time.”
Wawa on NW 13th St. will be led by General Manager Rachel Aguilar while the General Manager at Wawa West University is Kristin Frizzle. Both stores have the support of Area Manager Angela Reynolds who is committed to working with both teams to maintain a healthy and safe environment while meeting the needs of customers.
In honor of the store openings, Wawa is launching its Lending a Helping Hoagie initiative which will donate $1,000 from the store’s first week of sales to University of Florida Hitchcock Field & Fork Pantry to relieve hunger for UF students and staff who are experiencing food insecurity.
About the Store Formats:
2305 NW 13th Street
With a traditional Florida format, this store has a full-service offer of freshly prepared food, beverages, conveniences and fuel service. The store is located close to the intersection, making it easily accessible for customers and has a unique design element of a custom trellis that is welcoming and adds aesthetic value.
1614 West University Avenue
The new store features an urban design, non-fuel location focused on fresh quality food and specialty beverages, available in store and through the Wawa App perfect for students seeking expedited service in between classes. The front exterior boasts floor to ceiling windows, free air for bicyclist and a large interior mural with iconic UF landmarks.
Wawa’s Expansion into the Gainesville Market
Wawa continues to expand throughout the Sunshine State. In the Gainesville and Alachua County market, another store is currently under construction at 10th and University and a fifth location is now planned for the future to be located at Archer & 43rd Street in the Celebration project. Wawa continues to open stores in Florida and now operates 213 stores in the state.