Harris Teeter and Lowe’s in store swap

Charlotte, N.C. -- Harris Teeter Supermarkets entered into an agreement with Lowe’s Food Stores whereby Harris Teeter will acquire 10 Lowes locations in the central Carolinas region and Lowes Foods acquiring six Harris Teeter store locations in western North Carolina.



In addition to the six Harris Teeter stores, Harris Teeter has agreed to pay Lowes Foods $26.5 million. The transaction is expected to be completed in the company’s third quarter of fiscal 2012, which ends July 1, 2012.



Harris Teeter plans to temporarily close the acquired stores for five to sixteen weeks for remodeling, stocking and training of employees. Three of the acquired stores are expected to be converted to a new innovative format featuring a worldwide variety of wine, beer, specialty foods and other selected merchandise. One of the acquired stores is expected to be subleased.



Lowes plans to reopen under the Lowes Foods banner the six stores acquired from Harris Teeter after a brief closing for remodeling, stocking and training of employees.