OHIO STATE - Ohio is currently the "front line" of the convenience store wars. As of May 2026, several major chains are aggressively expanding into the Buckeye State, turning gas station stops into high-end dining and retail experiences.
Here is an update on the most popular convenience stores opening or expanding in Ohio this May.
1. Buc-ee’s: The Texas Giant Arrives
After years of anticipation, the "Buc-ee's era" in Ohio has officially begun.
- The Huber Heights Debut: Following its grand opening in early April, the first-ever Ohio Buc-ee’s (located north of Dayton) will be operating at full capacity throughout May 2026.
- What to Expect: Known for having the "world's cleanest bathrooms" and a massive selection of Texas brisket and "Beaver Nuggets," this location is expected to draw massive crowds from across the state and neighboring Indiana during the May travel season.
2. Wawa’s Aggressive Expansion
The Pennsylvania-based fan favorite is no longer a newcomer to Ohio. After entering the market in 2025, Wawa is hitting a major stride this month.
- Milestone Openings: Having just opened its 10th Ohio location in March, Wawa has several more sites scheduled for "Go-Live" dates in May 2026.
- Target Areas: The focus remains heavily on Cincinnati and the Miami Valley, with Wawa investing approximately $7.5 million per store to bring their signature hoagies and touch-screen ordering to Southwest Ohio.
3. Sheetz: The Findlay Hub & Central Ohio Push
Sheetz continues to be the dominant force in Central and Northern Ohio, but May 2026 marks a different kind of "opening" for the brand.
- The Findlay Workforce Surge: While Sheetz is on track to reach over 50 locations in Central Ohio by the end of this year, May marks a massive hiring wave for their new $169 million distribution and production facility in Findlay.
- New Storefronts: Look for ribbon-cutting ceremonies in the Columbus suburbs, as Sheetz works toward its goal of becoming the primary "all-in-one" stop for fuel, EV charging, and MTO (Made-to-Order) food in the region.
4. On The Fly (Giant Oil) Rebrandings
If you notice your local Thorntons looking different this month, you aren't imagining it.
- The Acquisition: Giant Oil recently acquired 13 Thorntons locations across Columbus.
- May Transition: Throughout May 2026, these stores are being rebranded to the On The Fly banner. These locations will feature Amoco-branded fuel and a new "neighborhood reliable" focus on hot foods and a refreshed loyalty program.
5. Casey’s: The Kitchen Conversion
Casey’s General Stores is continuing its integration of the CEFCO locations it acquired.
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Kitchen Debuts: Throughout May, several former CEFCO sites in rural and suburban Ohio are completing their "kitchen conversions." This means the full menu of Casey’s famous breakfast pizza and hand-made donuts is finally becoming available at these newly rebranded locations.
Why Ohio? Why Now?
Ohio has become the primary battleground for convenience retail due to its high volume of interstate traffic and the shift toward "Experiential C-Stores." Whether it's the 100+ gas pumps at Buc-ee's or the custom coffee at Wawa, the standard "gas station" is being replaced by destinations that compete directly with fast-casual restaurants.
