WAWA Tops National Convenience Store Poll, Yet Florida Shoppers Feel Differently

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Florida—As gas stations evolve beyond just fuel stops, they are increasingly becoming destinations for meals, snacks, and convenience items. Floridians, in particular, are embracing this trend, often turning to chains like Buc-ee's and Wawa for more than just gas. While a recent national survey crowned Wawa as the country’s favorite convenience store, a separate study suggests that in Florida, Wawa isn’t the top pick. Instead, 7-Eleven holds that title, revealing a unique preference in the Sunshine State.

Wawa Tops National Rankings

In early October 2024, the American Customer Satisfaction Index (ACSI) released a survey determining the nation’s favorite convenience store. The study, which gathered data from 5,710 respondents, awarded Wawa an impressive 82 out of 100 points, securing its position as the top-ranked convenience store in the United States. QuikTrip and Buc-ee's followed closely behind, with QuikTrip coming in second place and Buc-ee’s ranking third.

Wawa’s dominance in the ACSI study didn’t come as much of a surprise to many, given the chain's reputation for offering a wide range of food options, fresh coffee, and customer-friendly amenities. However, while Wawa may have won the hearts of many Americans, a different study suggests that Floridians have a different favorite.

Florida's Top Pick: 7-Eleven

According to a separate 2024 study conducted by data analytics firm Data Panda, 7-Eleven was ranked as the favorite gas station and convenience store among Floridians. The study used publicly available data to determine each state's preferences and found that, despite Wawa’s national popularity, 7-Eleven came out on top in Florida. Shell ranked second, while Buc-ee’s took third place.

The availability of 7-Eleven locations likely played a significant role in the chain’s dominance in Florida. With 7-Eleven stores widely scattered throughout the state, more Floridians have easy access to this convenience store compared to Wawa or Buc-ee's, which has only two locations in Florida. Although Buc-ee’s has plans to open two more stores, its current limited presence has kept it from overtaking more established chains like 7-Eleven and Shell.

Buc-ee’s and Its Growing Popularity in Florida

Buc-ee’s made a major splash when it first entered Florida in 2021. The opening of its Daytona Beach location drew a crowd, with Governor Ron DeSantis even attending the ribbon-cutting ceremony. Known for its expansive stores, vast selection of snacks, and famous barbecue sandwiches, Buc-ee’s has since become a hit with Floridians. However, its limited number of locations—currently only two in the state—has kept it from claiming the top spot in the hearts of Florida residents.

Despite this, Buc-ee’s remains a highly anticipated convenience store as two more locations are slated to open in the near future. Its rapid rise in popularity suggests that it could challenge the dominance of 7-Eleven and Shell in Florida as more stores open.

The Changing Face of Convenience Stores

As convenience stores like Wawa, Buc-ee’s, and 7-Eleven expand their offerings to include more fresh food, coffee, and other amenities, the role of gas stations is evolving. What was once a simple stop for fuel is now a destination for meals, groceries, and snacks. Floridians, like many Americans, are increasingly relying on these convenience stores for quick, reliable options when they're on the go.

While Wawa may have taken the national crown, it’s clear that in Florida, loyalty to 7-Eleven runs deep. However, with Buc-ee's continuing to grow and Wawa’s steady expansion, the competition for Florida’s favorite convenience store is far from over.