Publix to take over 2 N.C. Lowes sites

Publix Super Markets said it has reached a deal with Lowes Foods to take over closed Lowes sites in Gastonia and Cary, N.C.

The transaction is expected to close later this month and includes two leased store locations and one leased fuel station. Financial terms were not disclosed.

“We’ve opened eight stores in North Carolina within the past year, solidifying our commitment to growth within the state, ” Publix CEO Ed Crenshaw said in a statement. “Our associates continue to provide customers with premier service, quality products and an enjoyable shopping experience. As the largest employee-owned supermarket in the nation, our associates are passionate about serving customers, and meeting and exceeding their expectations. Our service-oriented culture is continuing to foster a loyal customer following in North Carolina and across all our market areas.”

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Lowes, based in Winton-Salem, N.C., closed the Gastonia location earlier this month. The Cary site closed last fall.

"As a homegrown grocer serving our guests in the Carolinas since 1954, we continue to be excited about the future of Lowes Foods," Lowes Foods president Tim Lowe said in a statement. "The sale of these closed and vacant store locations is part of our comprehensive growth strategy that includes accelerating investment in rebranding existing stores, building new stores, and evaluating strategic marketplace opportunities."

Grand opening dates for the two locations will depend on the scope of the remodels. Publix said does not intend to operate the fuel station.