West Virginia Secretary of Commerce Ed Gaunch and other officials announced today that convenience store chain Sheetz Inc. will build a distribution truck
transfer station in Burr Business Park in Kearneysville. This site will be just the second transportation depot to support the company’s two distribution centers, located in Pennsylvania and North Carolina.
“We welcome this announcement of new jobs and a new transportation depot in our state,” Gov. Justice said. “Each new business announcement, and we’ve had our share lately, is a new opportunity for West Virginia to show we are a great place to do business.”
The approximately $2 million investment includes 5.5 acres in the industrial park, construction of a 1,900-square-foot building, and designated parking area for tractor/trailers hauling grocery and retail items.
“The new Sheetz transportation depot is another step forward for West Virginia’s economy,” said Secretary of Commerce Ed Gaunch. “Much of the credit for this success goes to the Jefferson County Development Authority. We also have the advantage of West Virginia’s prime location close to distribution hubs, supply lines and customer markets.”
When completed, the truck transfer station will employ 34 workers. That number includes the creation of 30 new jobs, primarily for truck drivers and delivery assistants. Interviews will begin in the summer of 2021 for positions starting in early 2022.
“We are pleased that Sheetz has chosen to locate its new distribution terminal in the Burr Business Park,” said Neil McLaughlin, president of the Jefferson County Development Authority. “We welcome the 30 new jobs, their match with our mission, and the additional investment in Jefferson County.”
Sheetz operates 614 stores throughout Pennsylvania, Virginia, West Virginia, Maryland, Ohio, and North Carolina. The new truck transfer terminal will serve stores primarily in northeastern Virginia and eastern Maryland.
“I want to thank Sheetz for choosing to expand operations in Jefferson County,” said Josh Compton, president of the Jefferson County Commission. “They have been a great member of the community for years, and the new jobs that this brings will definitely benefit our residents.”
Sheetz was established in 1952 as a family-owned business and remains so today. As it expanded over the years, the convenience store chain adapted to changing markets with innovations such as Sheetz coffeez, bakery goods and quality “made to order” food that customers can order electronically on a touchscreen or online.