YEAGERTOWN — Wawa has announced plans to open its first State College-area location on Thursday, April 30, in Yeagertown.

The new store, located at 13100 Ferguson Valley Road in Mifflin County, will offer made-to-order food, beverages, convenience items and fuel. A grand opening ceremony is planned, with additional festivities and community-focused activities.

Ahead of the opening, Wawa is inviting local residents to share personal stories about their experiences with the brand for a chance to attend a “Taste of Wawa” preview event scheduled for April 29.

Company officials said the Yeagertown location marks the beginning of a broader expansion into central Pennsylvania. Over the next five years, Wawa plans to open up to 10 stores in the State College region.

Each store represents an investment of more than $7.5 million and is expected to employ about 140 contractors during construction. Once operational, stores will employ an average of 35 workers, with the company projecting about 350 permanent jobs across the region.

“We are excited to bring our unique combination of fresh food and beverage, convenience and service to this region for the very first time,” said Brian Schaller, president of Wawa, in a statement.

Wawa officials said the expansion will also create additional employment opportunities, noting the company’s employee stock ownership plan provides associates with a stake in the business.