Wawa, Brewery Get Official OKs in Bradenton

Good news for Wawa fans, and for those who love craft beer.

The Bradenton City Council on Wednesday gave final approval to two businesses that want to call the Friendly City home: Wawa, the popular gas and convenience chain from the Northeast; and Little Giant Brewery.

The council unanimously passed a request by Belleair Development Group for a special use permit to build the Wawa at the intersection of 43rd Street Boulevard East and State Road 64 East, the Bradenton Times reports.

Based in Wawa, PA, the gas and convenience store chain has undergone a rapid expansion in Florida in the past year, opening several stores in the Tampa, St. Pete and Orlando markets. 

The developers have not announced a date yet for when they expect Wawa to open. The chain is popular for its fresh, custom-made sandwiches, coffee and low-cost gas.

The Wawa on State Road 64, at the site of a former Eckerd Drug store, would be the first in Manatee or Sarasota counties.

Council members also approved Wednesday a permit and alcohol license for owner Michael Wagner, who is planning to open the microbrewery at 301 7th St. E., according to the Times.

Wagner told the Bradenton Herald it could take up to three months for him to secure state and federal permits for the 4,500-square-foot brewery.

Council members Gene Gallo and Bemis Smith were absent from Wednesday's meeting.

Are you looking forward to Wawa and/or Little Giant Brewery coming to Bradenton? Tell us in the comments below.

Related Coverage

• Wawa Plans to Open in Bradenton; Are You Excited?
• Wawa Exploring Possibility for Bradenton Store
• What Businesses Should Come to Bradenton?

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