Alabama residents Wawa You don't have to wait any longer.

A major gas station and convenience store chain that also has a deli is opening its first store in Alabama, with its Fairhope location opening Thursday.

Have you ever been to Wawa or had their coffee, wrap, pizza or famous hoagie?⛽️🥪🍕

Alabama's first @Wawa The store is opening in Fairhope today (Thursday, April 25th). Here's what we learned. https://t.co/N2dbunWeND pic.twitter.com/KcW4rXXdFv

— AL.com (@aldotcom) April 25, 2024

The store will not only be the first in Alabama, but also the first on the Gulf Coast.

According to AL.com, large numbers of people lined up in anticipation of the store's 8 a.m. opening, with many Alabama residents driving for hours to get to the store.

Wawa Chairman Brian Schaller spoke at the opening, thanking everyone who came to this special event.

“It's not just about adding more stores,” he said. “Yes, we're looking forward to that. It's about forming new community partnerships.”

“We know it's our responsibility to make a positive impact in your community. This isn't just about opening the door and selling what we think is a good product. It's how we fit in properly, earn your trust and become valuable members of the community.”

The store, located just steps from Fairhope High School, is reportedly the first of many planned for the area.

Across the Mobile region, spots are planned for West Mobile and Daphne.

Michael Browner is a senior sports analyst and contributor to Yellow Hammer News. You can follow him on Twitter. translation: