The Times Herald (Norristown, PA)
Wawa to remain open during crisis
MEDIA » While a steady line of customers moved through the Wawa on Baltimore Pike in Media on Friday, the crowd was quieter than a normal lunchtime.
The effects of multiple schools and businesses closing reduced the crowd but it was still brisk. To support those customers officials from the company committed to remaining open as long as possible despite the ripples the coronavirus has had on the Delaware Valley.
“I want to assure you Wawa is committed to being there for our customers, especially when they need us the most,” said Chris Gheysens president & CEO of Wawa, in a press release Friday. “We recognize that things are changing rapidly now. But please know one thing, We will do our best to be there for those that need us, when they need us, as long as we can.”
“Our 41 stores in Delaware
County and the 51 stores in Montgomery County are open and serving the community as officials said retailers with food and fuel can remain open,” wrote Wawa spokeswoman Lori Bruce in an email Friday. “We will always continue to monitor all of the potential impacts to our local communities. Wawa has had a dedicated Incident Response team in place to do that and we are continuing to monitor all recommended precautions from state and local officials and plan and prepare for any impact to our stores and supply chain.”
Bruce said the company will increase the frequency of cleaning surfaces and areas of the store that have high contact. Bruce said the company is sourcing hand sanitizer, which has been in high demand, to make it available for customer use in their stores.
Wawa is partnering with the Red Cross to provide customers and staff with health and safety tips anyone can use to limit the spread of any virus or infection. The tip sheets are available in all stores and at wawa.com.
Gheysens said Wawa will support its employees with enhanced paid time off policies for more flexibility and support.
Gheysens pointed out that is an anchor for the community serving, numerous communities and first responders, especially in times of need.
“Since the beginning of this COVID-19 impact, our teams have been working around the clock to make sure that every one of our stores is stocked, sanitized and staffed,” Gheysens said. “We have remained in contact with state and local health agencies to monitor developments and receive guidance.”