CHARLOTTE — For the seventh straight year, Walmart remains the dominant grocery retailer in the Charlotte region, capturing 23% of the market and generating $2.4 billion in sales in 2025, according to a new Chain Store Guide report.
Harris Teeter and Food Lion continue to battle for second place, each bringing in roughly $1.7 billion in sales and holding nearly identical market shares — 15.7% and 15.5%, respectively.
Together, the three chains account for about 60% of all grocery spending in the region, according to the Charlotte Observer.
The Charlotte grocery market continues to grow, with 737 stores now operating across the metro. Publix also gained ground, rising to 11.1% market share, while warehouse clubs like Sam’s and Costco, along with discount chains such as Lidl, Dollar General, and Aldi, round out the top 10.
Analysts say Walmart’s ability to hold steady is a quiet win amid intensifying competition.
Food Lion is gaining traction with budget‑minded shoppers, while Publix continues to attract higher‑income households with service and prepared foods.
Harris Teeter’s slower evolution under Kroger may be leaving it vulnerable as rivals sharpen their identities.
More shake‑ups are coming: Wegmans will open its first Charlotte‑area store this fall, adding another heavyweight to an already crowded field.
Meanwhile, expansions from Whole Foods, Trader Joe’s, and Lowes Foods signal that the region’s rapid population growth is still fueling demand — but only the grocers with a clear value, experience, or convenience edge are likely to thrive.
VIDEO: Man accused of attempting to kidnap girls at Walmart faces multiple charges
©2026 Cox Media Group
/cloudfront-us-east-1.images.arcpublishing.com/cmg/LH3JSJEF3VBLRJLJQESEAG34AM.png)
