Report: Publix looking to enter North Carolina

New York City Publix Super Markets may be mulling an expansion into North Carolina, according to the Charlotte Business Journal and Jacksonville Business Journal.

Publix, based in Lakeland, Fla., thus far has not issued a comment on the reports.

According to the Charlotte publication, Publix's first North Carolina location likely will be in York County, near Charlotte.

A move into North Carolina would be a logical next step for Publix, and within easy reach of its current five-state marketing area. The chain operates 1,023 supermarkets in Florida; Georgia; South Carolina; Alabama; and Tennessee.