Beer Sales at Wawa Take Major Step Forward

Township approves six-pack sales.

Beer at Wawa is very close to becoming a reality in Pennsylvania.

Beer at Wawa is very close to becoming a reality in Pennsylvania.

Wawa‘s quest to sell beer at a Delaware County store has taken a major step forward. The Concord Township board of supervisors has ruled that Wawa can sell six-packs at its Concordville, Pa. store on Naamans Creek Road.

Wawa argues that it isn’t asking for special permission. It plans on adding seating and a designated food service area, making the location comply with Pennsylvania’s liquor laws. Alcohol is already available at nearby retailers like Wegmans and Whole Foods.

The Philadelphia Inquirer says the decision now rests in the hands of the Pennsylvania Liquor Control Board. The newspaper reported that some residents expressed concern that beer sales “might encourage loitering, littering, and rowdy behavior.” Plus, beer distributors “worry that sales of six packs might erode their business.”

Action News caught up with one local resident, Bill Zadinski, who was surprised that Wawa hasn’t gotten permission before. “I think it’d be very convenient, absolutely. Instead of having to go out to a liquor store or a beer distributor. I live right down the street so, grab a sandwich, grab some gas, grab a six pack.”

Wawa already sells beer in at its locations in Maryland, Virginia and Florida.

Lori Bruce, public relations manager at Wawa told me back in June that — for now — the company is just hoping to sell beer at the Concordville location, but “may look to expand the offering depending on our experience at this store.”

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