Wawa’s migration: Why the convenience store chain is refocusing on Philly

New Wawa stores are popping up all over Philly, including its biggest ever in Old City. Why the renewed focus on the city? And how is the hoagie-eating public responding?

Air Date: January 14, 2019

Customers place their orders at the flagship Wawa at 6th and Chestnut Street. (Emma Lee/WHYY)

In 2018, Wawa opened a 12,000-square-foot store on 6th and Chestnut streets in Philadelphia’s Old City neighborhood, complete with a lounge area and a dedicated bakery – it’s largest ever. On this episode of The Why, we look at why — after years of opening stores in the suburbs — the convenience store chain is renewing its focus on the city. And are the city’s hoagie-eaters as enthusiastic about Wawa as Wawa is about them?

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