NORTH CAROLINA - North Carolina shoppers are about to see a major shake-up in their weekly grocery runs. As the State population continues to boom—particularly in the Charlotte and Triangle regions—major grocery retailers are racing to keep up, bringing new locations, massive remodels, and brand-new competitors to the market in 2026.
From the cult-favorite "megastores" of the Northeast to the aggressive expansion of discount giants, here is the breakdown of which grocery chains are expanding in North Carolina this year.
Wegmans: The "Disneyland of Grocery Stores" Hits Charlotte
The biggest headline for 2026 is undoubtedly the continued southern march of Wegmans. After years of anticipation, the Rochester-based grocer is set to open its first location in Charlotte.
- Location: Ballantyne (North Community House Road)
- Opening: Fall 2026
- Details: The new 110,000-square-foot store is already hiring and training nearly 450 employees. Known for its restaurant-quality prepared foods, massive cheese selection, and cult following, this opening is expected to draw crowds from across the region.
Food Lion: The Hometown Hero Grows
Salisbury-based Food Lion isn't letting out-of-town competitors take all the spotlight. The regional giant is executing an aggressive growth strategy early this year, solidifying its hold on the Carolinas.
- New Locations:
- Statesville: Opening late January 2026.
- Greensboro: Opening February 2026.
- What to Expect: These new stores will feature Food Lion’s modern "omnichannel" layout, including dedicated "Food Lion To Go" pickup areas, walk-in garden coolers for produce, and expanded "grab-and-go" meal sections.
Aldi: Aggressive Expansion & Conversions
The discount king Aldi is celebrating its 50th year in the U.S. with a massive expansion plan that heavily targets the Southeast.
- The Big Move: In 2026, Aldi plans to open 180 new stores nationwide. A significant portion of this growth in North Carolina will likely come from the conversion of Southeastern Grocers locations (Winn-Dixie and Harveys Supermarket), which Aldi acquired recently.
- The Plan: Approximately 80 Southeastern Grocers locations across the region are slated to be converted to the Aldi format in 2026, bringing lower prices and their famous "Aisle of Shame" to more neighborhoods.
Publix: New Projects Breaking Ground
While Florida-based Publix has already established a strong foothold in NC, it is filling in the gaps in the Charlotte suburbs.
- New Development: Publix has signed a lease to anchor a new development in Cramerton (Gaston County).
- Timeline: Construction on the "Redhawk Pointe" center is scheduled to begin in Q2 2026. While the doors might not open until 2027, the groundwork is being laid this year to serve the booming residential areas west of Charlotte.
Sprouts Farmers Market: Healthy Competition
For shoppers seeking organic and natural options, Sprouts Farmers Market continues to expand its presence.
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Expansion: A new location is coming to Concord, further expanding their footprint in the Charlotte metro area. Sprouts is positioning itself as the "fresh, natural, and organic" alternative to traditional supermarkets.
What This Means for Shoppers
2026 is shaping up to be a buyer's market for groceries in North Carolina. With Wegmans bringing high-end "experience" shopping, Food Lion defending its turf with convenience, and Aldi driving down prices with aggressive expansion, customers can expect more choices and fierce competition for their grocery dollars.
