Second Wawa Coming to Bradenton

According to an article in the Herald Tribune, the Wawa will be located at 701 First Street East.

The Pennsylvania-based chain is what many would consider a convenience store with gas pumps and a deli, but faithful fans frequent the business because of their made-to-order sandwiches, fresh coffee and inexpensive fuel. 

This is the second Wawa that will be coming to Bradenton. In June, the Bradenton City Council approved a Wawa at the intersection of 43rd Street Boulevard East and State Road 64 East, the site of a former Eckerd Drug store.

Tim Polk, director of planning and community development for the city told the Tribune the downtown Wawa look a little different than the one planned for S.R. 64 and be designed with a more downtown appropriate decor, featuring brick pavers, public art sites and dining areas.

Wawa has undergone a rapid expansion in Florida in the past year, opening several stores in the Tampa, St. Pete and Orlando markets. Next year, Wawa plans to open 25 stores in Central Florida, 14 in the Tampa Bay Area and 11 more in Orlando, according to the company website.

The northeastern-based company originally opened in New Jersey in 1803. Their product transitioned from iron foundry into a Pennsylvania-based dairy farm over the next 100 years.  In 1964, the first Wawa food market opened, specializing in dairy products. It has transitioned into a convenience store over the years but customers love their quality products.

What do you like best about Wawa? Let us know by commenting below!