Wawa closes 2 locations in Center City Philadelphia due to ongoing security concerns

PHILADELPHIA (WPVI) — Wawa is closing two stores in Center City Philadelphia due to “ongoing safety and security challenges and business factors,” the company said in a statement.

The beloved supermarket chain says it is closing stores on 12th and Market Street and 19th and Market Street.

A spokesperson said: “All employees of these two stores will be offered permanent positions at Wawa. These two closures do not necessarily affect or limit the potential for future stores in Philadelphia County. We remain focused on doing everything we can to monitor to keep. “

“It’s getting worse, it’s getting worse. I don’t even understand why they keep doing this. It doesn’t make sense,” said West Philadelphia customer Virginia Carrington.

SEE ALSO: Philly Police Release Video Showing Suspects Looting A Wawa Store In Mayfair

Customers of the Wawa on 36th Street and Chestnut Street have been frustrated after hearing early Thursday morning that five women are wanted for stealing and injuring a female employee.

“I heard they sprayed the employees who worked at Wawa with pepper spray. The city is just out of control right now,” said Alfie Coker of South Philadelphia.

Incidents such as one last month, when nearly 100 young people searched a Mayfair Wawa, encouraged City Councilor Michael Driscoll to contact the Wawa company.

“We wanted them to know we were there for them, we were there to help,” Driscoll said.

Driscoll now said he fears for Wawa’s future in Philadelphia if violent or dangerous incidents continue to occur in stores.

SEE ALSO: Philadelphia Police Still Searching for Suspects Who Looted Wawa in Mayfair

“My concern is that any company that goes through something like this could change its business model,” he said.

In recent years, Wawa has adjusted and reduced the night hours at several stores and closed others completely.

Regarding the closures of Market Street Wawa stores, a spokesperson said: “These closures are in no way detracting from our continued commitment to serve the Philadelphia community or our recognition of the efforts and support we continue to receive from the local community. We hope to reuse these two locations to further help Philadelphia.”

“We are deeply sorry that we cannot be there for our friends and neighbors in these two locations, but we will continue to serve the community from our other nearby stores and our commitment to the greater region remains strong. Philadelphia is our hometown and that is something that will never change.”

The city says it is working with entrepreneurs to understand their concerns. “The Night Time Economy Director has launched a listening tour that would publicly engage businesses large and small operating in Philadelphia after 5 p.m..”