Wawa CEO says its easier to do business in Florida

December 30, 2013

Wawa convenience stores and gas stations have been popping up all over Florida and several right here in Tampa Bay.  There's a reason for that according to Wawa's CEO, Christ Gheysens, who said the process is simply easier.

In a recent interview with the Tampa Bay Business Journal, Gheysens said, "One of the things we loved about Florida was the process was quicker. It’s easier than in the Northeast. It takes at best three years from when we buy a piece of land to when we can start construction” in the Northeast. That’s measured in months in Florida." Thus far, Wawa has opened 10 stores in the Tampa Bay area and have 12 more planned  over the next year.  The growth?  Along the U.S. Route 301 corridor. Gheyens seems to see the potential for the Tampa Bay area for business not just recreation.  He said, “I've really come to appreciate Florida as I've been there, not as a vacationer but as a businessperson,” Own a company outside of Florida?  Next time you plan a trip, come visit us in Pasco County, Florida, and see why Tampa Bay is the best location for your business. Room to Grow in Tampa Bay. Source: http://www.bizjournals.com/tampabay/news/2013/12/26/wawa-ceo-florida-builds-are-faster.html