News Summary
Wills Group has signed contracts for 16 new Dash In locations across North and South Carolina, aiming to capitalize on the growing populations and business climate. The expansion includes 14 locations in North Carolina and 2 in South Carolina, with groundbreaking set soon. The company plans to add 20 to 25 new sites annually and enhance existing locations, reinforcing its market presence amid changing consumer preferences for convenience.
North Carolina – Wills Group has made a significant move to expand its Dash In convenience store chain, signing contracts for 16 new-to-industry locations across North and South Carolina. This development is poised to capitalize on the rapidly growing populations and favorable business climate in these states. The expansion consists of 14 new locations in North Carolina and 2 in South Carolina, as confirmed by President and CEO Blackie Wills.
Groundbreaking for the first three locations in North Carolina is set to occur within the next 45 days, with an estimated project cost of $143 million. The first store is slated to be built at 1185 Copperfield Boulevard in Concord, North Carolina, with construction beginning in October. Dash In is optimistic about opening these new sites within the next two years, contributing to a notable regional economic boost.
The growth strategy for Dash In includes ambitious plans to add between 20 to 25 new sites each year over the next five years. In addition to expanding into the Carolinas, the company aims to strengthen its current markets in Maryland and Delaware. Each new location will be constructed as a ground-up development featuring Dash In’s latest 5,600-square-foot prototype, and several will also have Splash In car washes to further enhance customer experience.
In a strategic push for expansion, Dash In has already purchased a 3.29-acre property at 9930 N. Tryon St. in Charlotte, North Carolina, which is conveniently located near UNC Charlotte. The company is targeting more locations in the state by 2026. Alongside new store constructions, Dash In has plans for over two dozen remodels for existing locations within the current year, ensuring an updated look and improved customer service.
Wills Group has a long-standing history, being family-owned since 1926. Based in La Plata, Maryland, the company operates nearly 300 retail locations across the Mid-Atlantic region, dealing not only in convenience stores but also in car washes and fuel distribution networks. It ranks as one of the largest independent Shell Oil marketers in the United States and is involved with Exxon and CITGO locations as well.
The company recently bolstered its leadership team by appointing Matt Simon as its first Chief Marketing Officer. This move is aimed at supporting expansion efforts and enhancing the overall brand experience for Dash In customers, aligning with the company’s commitment to growth and sustainability.
Recognition of Dash In’s workplace culture has also been significant; the brand was ranked 9th on Fortune magazine’s and Great Place to Work’s Best Workplaces in Retail 2025 list for small and medium companies, reflecting its strong employee satisfaction and operational ethics.
As consumer preferences shift towards convenience, Wills Group’s aggressive expansion in North and South Carolina positions Dash In well to meet rising demand while also contributing positively to local economies. This strategic approach could set the stage for significant market presence, enhancing customer convenience across two fast-growing states.
Deeper Dive: News & Info About This Topic
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- CSP Daily News: Best Workplaces in Retail 2025
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FLORENCE STAFF WRITER The FLORENCE STAFF WRITER represents the experienced team at HEREFlorence.com, your go-to source for actionable local news and information in Florence, Florence County, and beyond. Specializing in "news you can use," we cover essential topics like product reviews for personal and business needs, local business directories, politics, real estate trends, neighborhood insights, and state news affecting the area—with deep expertise drawn from years of dedicated reporting and strong community input, including local press releases and business updates. We deliver top reporting on high-value events such as the Florence Festival of Lights, Pee Dee Pride, and agricultural expos at the Florence Center. Our coverage extends to key organizations like the Florence Regional Chamber of Commerce and the Pee Dee Area Council of Governments, plus leading businesses in healthcare and retail that power the local economy such as McLeod Health and Pee Dee Electric Cooperative. As part of the broader HERE network, including HERECharleston.com, HEREColumbia.com, HEREGreenville.com, and HEREHiltonHead.com, we provide comprehensive, credible insights into South Carolina's dynamic landscape.
