Alabama residents who have been clamoring for a Wawa will not have to wait any longer.

The gas station convenience store giant that doubles as a deli has opened its first location in the state of Alabama, with the Fairhope store opening its doors on Thursday.

Have you ever been to a Wawa, or had their coffee, wraps, pizza, or famous hoagies? ⛽️🥪🍕

We got a first look (and taste) inside Alabama’s first @Wawa store, which opens today (Thursday, April 25) in Fairhope. Here's what we learned: https://t.co/N2dbunWeND pic.twitter.com/KcW4rXXdFv

— AL.com (@aldotcom) April 25, 2024

The store is not just the first within Alabama’s borders, but the first on the Gulf Coast at all.

There was a massive group of people that waited in line for the store to open at 8:00 A.M., with many Alabama residents even driving multiple hours to be there according to AL.com.

Wawa president Brian Schaller spoke at the opening, expressing his gratitude to people who came out for the very special event.

“It’s not just about building more stores,” he said. “Yes, we’re excited about that. It’s about forming new community partnerships.”

“We realize the burden is on us to become a positive impact to your community. This isn’t just about … open the door, sell what we think are good products. It’s how we integrate ourselves properly, how we earn your trust, and how we become a positive member of the community.”

The store, which is located right near Fairhope High School, is reportedly the first of many that is planned for the area.

Spots throughout the Mobile area are planned for West Mobile as well as Daphne.

Michael Brauner is a Senior Sports Analyst and Contributing Writer for Yellowhammer News. You can follow him on Twitter @MBraunerWNSP