16 • September | October 2026 • abasto.com • CONVENIENCE BRIEFS Royal Farms Expands in Pennsylvania with New Shamokin Dam Location Casey’s Unveils New Three- Year Strategic Plan to Accelerate Growth QuikTrip Expands Colorado Footprint with Fourth Aurora Location Former Wawa CEO Dick Wood Passes Away Wawa is mourning the loss of for- mer President, CEO, and Chairman Richard D. “Dick” Wood Jr., who passed away on July 10, 2026. Over his 55-year tenure starting in 1970, Wood transformed the regional brand into the 21st-largest priva- tely held U.S. company, expanding it to over 900 stores. A true servant leader, he pioneered Wawa’s 24/7 operations, its entry into the fuel business, and its transition to as- sociate ownership. Wood’s lasting legacy remains the people-first, “ownership mindset” culture he championed, which fostered deep, family-like bonds between asso- ciates and customers. His vision defined modern convenience retail. Casey’s General Stores, Inc. announced a new three-year strategic plan focused on food innovation, store expansion, and ope- rational efficiency. Building on its posi- tion as the U.S.’s third-largest convenience retailer and fifth-largest pizza chain, the company plans to expand its made-to-or- der menu—including chicken wings and private labels—and add at least 400 stores via strategic acquisitions and new develop- ments. Additionally, Casey’s will leverage AI and technology to optimize inventory forecasting, redesign kitchens, and enhan- ce its digital rewards platform, driving long- term efficiency and market share. QuikTrip (QT) has opened its fourth convenience sto- re in Aurora, marking its 28th location in Colorado as part of a rapid regional expansion with 14 more Denver-area stores current- ly under construction. Lo- cated near City Hall, the Royal Farms has announced the grand opening of its newest convenien- ce store and gas station in Shamokin Dam, Pennsylvania, scheduled for August 3, 2026. Located at 2943 N. Susquehanna Trail, the 24/7 location will feature 16 fuel dispensers and the brand’s signature made-to-order menu, including its “World-Famous Chicken.” To celebrate, Royal Far- ms will host a ticketed “Get Ready to ROFO” soft opening preview on July 29 and 30, offering community members a complimentary meal. This opening marks a significant step in expanding the chain’s footprint and bringing 24/7 fresh food and fuel to more Pennsylvania motorists. new site features the “QT Kitchens” concept, offering fresh, made-to-order food and expanded beverages designed for speed and consistency. To cele- brate, QT announced $400,000 in local community investments, including a $300,000 donation to the Aurora Police Department and a $100,000 grant to The Family Tree, a local nonprofit addressing homelessness and domestic violence, reinforcing its long-term regional commitment.