LAURINBURG — The Harris Teeter in Laurinburg plans to close its doors next month, but will quickly reopen under the Carlie C’s brand.
Harris Teeter announced on Tuesday that it will shut its Holly Square store on July 17, and reopen as Carlie C’s banner on July 20.
The food chain made the decision to shutter the Laurinburg store “only after careful consideration,” Harris Teeter said in a statement. The chain opened nine stores in 2015 and plans to open 11 more in 2016 in North Carolina, Virginia and Maryland.
The store’s 61 employees were told of the change on Monday and offered the opportunity to transfer to other Harris Teeter locations. Those who don’t wish to transfer will have the chance to interview with Carlie C’s, a regional operator of supermarkets across North Carolina.
“In the coming weeks, the company will work closely with its associates to assist them through the closing process,” Harris Teeter said.
Some Harris Teeter customers have expressed disappointment at the loss of Harris Teeter, which opened the Holly Square location in February 1978.
“I like the variety Harris Teeter offers,” said Tiffani Herrington, who was at the store on Tuesday. “I have never heard of Carlie C’s. But I will give them a chance.”
Customer Denise Ward said she will miss the savings.
“I always participate in the Super Doubles (coupons). That is when I get my best deals,” Ward said.
One customer commented on the store’s Facebook page that they loved the store and its employees.
“The selection are great, but why the heck was the store sold” the customer wrote. “… the nearest Harris Teeter is in Aberdeen, too much driving for groceries. I’m not happy.”
A wholly owned subsidiary of The Kroger Co., Harris Teeter employs about 30,000 associates and operates stores in North Carolina, South Carolina, Virginia, Georgia, Maryland, Delaware, Florida and the District of Columbia.
Carlie C opened in Johnston County in February 1961 by Carlie C and Joyce McLamb. The company operates 20 supermarkets in seven North Carolina counties. It is headquartered in Dunn.
