Wawa, a well-known convenience store chain, is making its debut in the Middle Tennessee market by breaking ground on its first two locations in Murfreesboro and Clarksville. This initiative is part of a broader expansion strategy that aims to establish up to 50 stores in the region over the next decade.
On August 12, 2023, during a Community Partnership event at the Second Harvest Food Bank of Middle Tennessee, Wawa executives detailed their plans for growth, community engagement, and employment opportunities. The event not only marked the groundbreaking but also offered local residents an opportunity to sample Wawa’s popular menu items, including coffee, pretzels, and teas.
The new stores will be located at 5109 Veterans Parkway in Murfreesboro and 1290 Parkway Place in Clarksville, with both locations expected to open in the latter half of 2026. In the initial phase of this expansion, Wawa plans to open six stores within that year.
“It’s official! Wawa is proud to be expanding to the Middle Tennessee market,” said Joe Collins, Wawa’s director of store operations. “We are excited to announce our plans and officially start construction on our stores and look forward to our first grand openings to begin serving the community in 2026.”
Each new Wawa location will require an investment of approximately $7.5 million and will employ around 140 contractors during the construction phase. Once operational, each store is expected to create an average of 35 permanent jobs, contributing to an estimated total of more than 1,750 long-term positions across the region.
Wawa, which is privately held and associate-owned, places significant emphasis on its employee stock ownership plan, allowing associates to hold a 39% stake in the business. The company is actively seeking team members who align with its people-first approach and community-focused values as it integrates into Tennessee.
This expansion marks a significant milestone for Wawa as it seeks to provide its signature offerings and service to a new customer base while contributing to the local economy.
