Wawa adjusts self-serve, hours
Like may businesses across the country, Wawa has needed to adjust some of its in-store operations as the coronavirus (COVID-19) issue continues to evolve. The most recent changes impact the chain’s self-serve coffee, fountain beverages and its hours of operation.
Starting Friday, the Delaware County-based convenience chain eliminated self-service coffee — shifting to having coffee served by employees. It also suspended all self-service fountain beverages, Icee drinks, cappuccino and iced coffee, and is individually bagging all bakery products for customers.
“Wawa is doing everything we can to support the communities, customers and associates that rely on us every day, while constantly evaluating the best way to operate our stores,” a Wawa press release stated.
The changes were evident Friday afternoon at the Wawa on Perkiomen Avenue in Exeter Township, Berks County, as signs posted on the front door and around the store outlined the changes for customers.
Another shift the company has made in its stores is the addition of a one-hour daily store closure — from 2 to 3 a.m. — to allow for additional store cleaning, sanitation and stocking.
At the Exeter Wawa, signs on the front door announced the hour the store would be closed. Pastries in the baked good cabinet were individually wrapped.
In the coffee area, the condiments bar that typically houses cups, lids, creamers and sweeteners was empty, except for signs directing customers on how to order their coffee and condiments.
While specialty coffee and other drinks were still available through Wawa’s kiosk system at the store, orders for cups of coffee are being placed with a
Wawa employee.
“Safety is our top priority and we continue to evaluate and implement measures to keep associates and customers safe,” a Wawa spokeswoman said in an emailed response to questions Friday. She added that no changes have been made to the chain’s ordering system.
Wawa has also increased the frequency of cleaning and disinfecting all touch points and surfaces in the store, according to the release, in order to “remain open safely.”
The company said it will continue to monitor developments and make changes where necessary. For more information about Wawa’s response to COVID-19 visit www.wawa.com/ alerts/COVID-19-safety-readiness
Wawa operates more than 850 convenience retail stores in six states including Pennsylvania, New Jersey, Delaware, Maryland, Virginia and Florida, as well as Washington, D.C.