09/25/2026
Check it out!! Albemarle is getting a new Grocery Store soon!
City of Albemarle Recruits New Grocery Store - Carlie C’s IGA Officially Signs Lease Agreement
ALBEMARLE, NC – The City of Albemarle will soon be home to a new grocery store. Carlie C’s IGA has signed its lease agreement to move into the First Street Station shopping center, formerly home to Harris Teeter’s grocery store.
On August 24, 2026, Albemarle City Council approved an economic incentive agreement to recruit Carlie C’s IGA to the City.
“We’re pleased to welcome Carlie C’s IGA to Albemarle. Our community has made it clear that it wants a variety of retail options. City Council and City staff listened and got to work. We look forward to seeing this store and others become part of our growing local economy,” said Ronnie Michael, Mayor of Albemarle.
Carlie C’s IGA is the largest independently owned, family-operated grocer in the Carolinas, with 33 locations. The company’s stores feature full-service meat departments with in-house butchers, as well as an array of in-store made signature bakery and deli items. Carlie C’s was recently named IGA’s 2026 USA Retailer of the Year at IGA’s 100th year anniversary meeting held in Atlanta, GA on September 19, 2026.
“We are delighted to have this opportunity to serve the people of Albemarle and the surrounding area. We are grateful for the support of City Council and look forward to becoming an integral part of the community. Our stated purpose is to ‘Love and Bless the Communities we Serve’ and we are very excited about the opportunity to do that in Albemarle,” said Elwyn Murray, President of Carlie C’s IGA.
"When Harris Teeter announced its departure, our goal wasn't just to fill the space, it was to serve the best interests of the Albemarle community and the businesses that have invested here. We're thrilled to welcome Carlie C's, and grateful to the Mayor, City Council, and the City's economic development team for helping make it happen. Water Oak Partners remains committed to this property, and we believe Carlie C's, our existing tenants, and the improvements underway will bring renewed energy to the First Street Station shopping center and the community it serves," said Mark Metzger and Scott McNeilly, Water Oak Partners.
Under the economic development incentive agreement, Carlie C’s IGA will receive no more than $25,000 per year from the City over the course of ten years. Payments would be made only upon verification of compliance with the incentive agreement’s performance requirements. The funds may be used for building and equipment upgrades that the company plans to complete. The grocery store is expected to employ approximately 60 people, including 25 full-time positions.
Prospective staff members are encouraged to apply online at www.carliecs.com/careers. Many departments and position applications will be available online and onsite.
Carlie C’s IGA plans to open its Albemarle location by November 4, 2026.
