Harris Teeter: Your One-Stop Shop for Quality Groceries and Savings
Harris Teeter offers a convenient and cost-effective grocery shopping experience for customers. With over 230 stores across seven states, this supermarket chain provides a wide selection of products to meet diverse needs. Harris Teeter's digital coupons, fuel points program, and weekly deals allow shoppers to maximize savings on their grocery purchases.
The retailer's online ordering system adds another layer of convenience. Customers can browse items, build shopping lists, and schedule curbside pickup or home delivery directly from their phones or computers. This service saves time and effort for busy individuals and families.
Harris Teeter also caters to various dietary preferences and restrictions. The stores stock organic, gluten-free, and locally-sourced options alongside traditional grocery items. This variety ensures that shoppers can find suitable products regardless of their nutritional requirements or food choices.
History of Harris Teeter
Harris Teeter's roots trace back to the late 1930s, with two separate family businesses eventually merging to form the supermarket chain known today. The company has undergone significant growth and changes in ownership over the decades.
Founding and Expansion
W.T. Harris opened his first grocery store in Charlotte, North Carolina in 1936, borrowing $1,500 to launch the venture. In 1939, brothers Willis L. Teeter and Paul Teeter started their own food market in Mooresville, North Carolina, with a $1,700 loan. Both businesses expanded independently throughout the 1940s and 1950s.
On February 1, 1960, Harris and Teeter merged their operations to create Harris Teeter Supermarkets, Inc. The newly formed company began with 15 stores. Their first joint venture store opened in Kannapolis, North Carolina. By 1963, Harris Teeter had grown to 25 locations.
The 1960s saw further expansion, including the opening of a larger warehouse and office complex. Harris Teeter continued to grow its presence in the southeastern United States over subsequent decades.
Mergers and Acquisitions
Harris Teeter's corporate history includes several ownership changes. In 1969, the Ruddick Corporation acquired Harris Teeter, integrating it into a larger business portfolio. This partnership lasted for over four decades.
In 2013, The Kroger Company purchased Harris Teeter in a $2.5 billion deal. Despite the acquisition, Harris Teeter maintained its brand identity and continued to operate as a subsidiary.
As of June 2024, Harris Teeter operates 261 stores across seven South Atlantic states and Washington, D.C. The chain has become known for its focus on customer service and quality products, cementing its position as a prominent regional supermarket brand.
Navigating Harris Teeter Stores
Harris Teeter stores offer a well-organized layout and diverse product selection. The stores feature specialty departments to enhance the shopping experience.
Store Layout
Harris Teeter stores typically follow a logical layout. Produce sections are often located near the entrance, providing fresh fruits and vegetables. Bakery and deli counters are usually positioned along the store's perimeter.
Aisles are clearly labeled, making it easy to find specific items. Staple groceries like canned goods, pasta, and cereals occupy the central aisles. Refrigerated and frozen foods are placed in the back of the store.
Checkout lanes are situated at the front, with self-checkout options available in many locations. Customer service desks are generally near the entrance for convenient access.
Product Selection
Harris Teeter offers a wide range of products to cater to diverse customer needs. The stores stock national brands alongside their own Harris Teeter branded items, often at competitive prices.
Organic and natural food options are available throughout the store. Gluten-free and other specialty diet products are also well-represented.
The stores carry a selection of international foods, catering to various cultural preferences. Local and regional products are often highlighted, supporting community producers.
Fresh meats, seafood, and a variety of cheeses are available in dedicated sections. Prepared meals and grab-and-go options provide convenient choices for busy shoppers.
Specialty Departments
Harris Teeter stores feature several specialty departments. The pharmacy offers prescription services, over-the-counter medications, and health-related products.
Many locations include a floral department with fresh flowers and plants. Wine and beer sections in applicable stores provide a curated selection of alcoholic beverages.
Some Harris Teeter stores have in-store cafes or seating areas where customers can enjoy prepared foods. Larger locations may offer additional services such as banking or dry cleaning.
The stores' butcher counters provide custom cuts of meat and poultry. Seafood departments offer fresh fish and shellfish options, often with the ability to steam purchases on request.
Harris Teeter Membership Benefits
Harris Teeter offers two main membership programs that provide valuable savings and perks for shoppers. These programs help customers maximize their grocery budget through discounts, personalized offers, and fuel rewards.
VIC Membership
The Very Important Customer (VIC) program is Harris Teeter's free loyalty card. Shoppers present their VIC card or phone number at checkout to access exclusive discounts and promotions. VIC members save on hundreds of items throughout the store each week.
The card tracks purchases, allowing Harris Teeter to offer personalized coupons based on shopping habits. Members earn Fuel Points on qualifying purchases, which can be redeemed for discounts at participating gas stations.
To sign up, customers can ask a cashier for a VIC card in-store or register online. The card links to the shopper's phone number for easy access at checkout.
E-VIC Benefits
E-VIC is the digital extension of the VIC program. Members receive weekly emails with personalized coupons and offers based on past purchases. These digital coupons load directly to the VIC card for seamless redemption at checkout.
E-VIC members gain access to exclusive online promotions and digital game pieces for savings opportunities. The program sends alerts when favorite items go on sale.
Shoppers can manage their E-VIC account online or through the Harris Teeter mobile app. The app allows members to view their Fuel Points balance, load digital coupons, and create shopping lists.
Shopping at Harris Teeter
Harris Teeter offers convenient options for customers to purchase groceries. The store provides both traditional in-person shopping and modern online ordering capabilities.
In-Store Shopping Experience
Harris Teeter stores feature wide aisles and clearly labeled sections for easy navigation. Fresh produce is prominently displayed near the entrance. The deli and bakery departments offer made-to-order items and freshly baked goods.
Shoppers can find a wide selection of national brands alongside Harris Teeter's private label products. The stores typically have well-stocked shelves and maintain a clean, organized appearance.
Customer service is a priority, with staff available to assist with product locations or special requests. Many locations have self-checkout options for faster transactions.
Online Shopping & Mobile App
Harris Teeter's website and mobile app allow customers to browse products and create shopping lists. Users can view weekly specials and digital coupons to save money on their purchases.
The online ordering system enables shoppers to select items for pickup or delivery. Customers choose a time slot and can add special instructions for their orders.
For pickup orders, shoppers park in designated spaces and store associates bring groceries to their vehicles. Delivery services bring items directly to customers' homes within selected time frames.
The mobile app also offers features like store locators and fuel points tracking for added convenience.
Deals and Savings
Harris Teeter offers numerous ways for shoppers to save money on groceries. Customers can take advantage of weekly specials, digital coupons, and fuel points to reduce their expenses and maximize value on their purchases.
Weekly Specials
Harris Teeter's weekly ad features a variety of discounts on groceries, produce, meat, seafood, and household items. These deals typically run from Wednesday to Tuesday. Shoppers can find the current ad on the Harris Teeter website or mobile app. The weekly circular often includes Buy One, Get One Free offers on select products.
Harris Teeter's e-VIC program allows customers to receive personalized deals based on their shopping habits. By signing up, shoppers get access to exclusive digital coupons and special promotions via email. The company also offers a Farmers Market section, featuring fresh, locally-sourced produce at competitive prices.
Coupon Policy
Harris Teeter accepts both manufacturer and store coupons. Customers can stack one manufacturer coupon with one store coupon per item for additional savings. Digital coupons are available through the Harris Teeter app and website. These can be loaded directly to a VIC card for convenience.
The store allows coupon doubling on manufacturer coupons up to $0.99 face value. Some locations may offer occasional Super Double or Triple coupon events, multiplying savings even further. Harris Teeter's fuel points program lets shoppers earn discounts on gas purchases at participating fuel centers. Customers receive 1 fuel point for every dollar spent on eligible items.
Harris Teeter Services
Harris Teeter offers a range of convenient services beyond grocery shopping to meet customers' needs. These include pharmacy and floral departments that provide specialized products and assistance.
Pharmacy
Harris Teeter pharmacies offer prescription filling, refills, and immunizations. Customers can easily manage their prescriptions online or through the mobile app. The pharmacies stock a wide selection of over-the-counter medications and health products.
Trained pharmacists are available to answer questions and provide medication counseling. Many locations offer drive-thru pickup for added convenience. Harris Teeter also provides flu shots and other vaccinations on a walk-in basis at competitive prices.
Prescription savings programs help customers reduce out-of-pocket costs. The pharmacy accepts most major insurance plans and offers automatic refills to ensure customers don't run out of important medications.
Floral
The floral department at Harris Teeter creates custom arrangements for all occasions. Skilled florists craft bouquets using fresh, high-quality flowers sourced from local and international growers. Customers can order pre-made or custom arrangements in-store or online.
Options range from simple bouquets to elaborate centerpieces. The floral team assists with weddings, funerals, and other events requiring multiple arrangements. Seasonal flowers and holiday-themed designs are available throughout the year.
Plants, balloons, and gift items complement the floral offerings. Same-day delivery is offered in many areas for last-minute needs. Harris Teeter's floral services combine quality, creativity, and convenience to help customers celebrate life's special moments.
Grocery Delivery and Pickup
Harris Teeter offers convenient online grocery shopping options for customers, including both pickup and home delivery services. These digital solutions allow shoppers to browse products, place orders, and receive their groceries without entering the store.
ExpressLane Online Shopping
Harris Teeter's ExpressLane service enables customers to order groceries online for pickup at their preferred store location. Shoppers can select items through the website or mobile app, choose a pickup time, and have their order brought to their vehicle.
The service is available at over 240 Harris Teeter locations across 8 states. Pickup times are flexible, allowing customers to collect their groceries at a time that suits their schedule.
Trained associates carefully check and pack each order to ensure accuracy. If customers have questions about their order after unpacking, they can contact Harris Teeter's customer service line for assistance.
Home Delivery Options
For those preferring home delivery, Harris Teeter provides a convenient online grocery delivery service. Customers can place orders through the delivery app and receive their groceries in as little as one hour.
The process is straightforward: shoppers add items to their cart, select a delivery time slot, and complete payment at checkout. This service brings fresh groceries and household essentials directly to customers' doors.
Harris Teeter's delivery options cater to busy lifestyles, offering a time-saving alternative to in-store shopping. The company's digital platform makes it easy for customers to access their frequently purchased items and reorder favorites.
