Wawa opens first convenience store in Georgia in Bainbridge

BAINBRIDGE, Ga. – Hundreds in the Bainbridge community are up early Thursday morning. As they’re welcoming a new business to the community…the first Wawa in the State of Georgia.

For many in the community, having the first Wawa in Georgia in their hometown feels like the city of Bainbridge has arrived.

“You know, we’re so excited to be here. We see all the people and lately I feel like Bainbridge has been really growing. When you think of Bainbridge, you think of this po-dunk, little town in Georgia. Now, that Wawa’s here, we finally mean something,” said Joshua Cooper, Cooper’s Plumbing & Air.

“…I think it just brings a new era to our city, and also symbolizes the growth that you have seen over the over the years, steered toward a new direction,” said Kregg Close, Mayor pro-tem, City of Bainbridge.

It’s part of the convenience store giants’ plans to expand across the state of Georgia over the next few years.

“This is the first one of probably 26 we’re going to open within the next 5 to 7 years. But over the next few weeks, we’re going to be opening in Jesup. We’re coming in and we’re opening Brunswick in a few weeks. We’re going into Hinesville. Pooler…” said Nancy Dulaney, Director of Operations, Wawa.

For local community groups, like the Salvation Army, they’re looking forward to partnering with wawa, who make it a goal to make an impact wherever they set up shop.

“We have already developed a partnership with them, and so we are excited to be able to provide services to our clients with what they’re going to offer us on a daily basis,” said Merry-Ann McDonald, Director, Salvation Army of Bainbridge.

And… there’s certainly excitement in the community for the convenience store chain.

“I think it’s good for the economy, in the city of Bainbridge, and Decatur county,” said Darnell Hollie, Bainbridge resident.

“This isn’t your regular gas station is way better than Buc-ees. You really need to come on down here, especially if you’re in Georgia,” said Cooper.

And… while Wawa continues their expansion plans across the Peach State, here in Decatur County, people are more than happy to be first in line.

Wawa plans to open several more stores across Georgia in 2025, including locations in Valdosta and Albany.

Brian Roche reporting.

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