Harris Teeter closing 2 stores, opening 1 in North Carolina

As Harris Teeter prepares to open its newest store in Raleigh, N.C. next week, it is also winding down operations at two stores elsewhere in the state.

The Kroger division, which is based in Matthews, N.C., said in separate statements that it would close stores in Greensboro, N.C., (Battleground Ave.) on July 29, and in Cary, N.C., (High House Crossing) on Sept. 16.

The changing footprint reflects an ongoing shakeup in the Carolinas markets,which are undergoing a wave of new investment on several fronts, including Harris Teeter. 

Publix and Wegmans both have eyes on Cary, where Harris Teeter operates eight other stores. Lidl US has also begun opening stores in North Carolina, including locations in Havelock and Wake Forest, which opened on Thursday.

Harris Teeter opened 10 new stores last year and anticipates opening six stores in North Carolina, South Carolina and Maryland this year.

Harris Teeter said employees at the closing stores in Cary and in Greensboro may apply for jobs at other Kroger stores.

In the meantime, a new Harris Teeter location in Raleigh, N.C., will open next week in the new Corners at Brier Creek development. The 64,000-square-foot store features an extended hot foods bar in the fresh foods department; a sit-down wine and beer bar, with 16 beers on tap; a drive-thru pharmacy; and an event station that will feature weekly meal specials, the company said.