Ingles

Ingles Markets is a regional supermarket chain that has been serving communities across the Southeast since 1963. The company was founded by Robert P. Ingle in Asheville, North Carolina, where it remains headquartered today. Ingles has grown steadily over the decades, and as of November 2025, operates 198 stores throughout North Carolina, South Carolina, Georgia, Tennessee, Virginia, and Alabama. The company is still led by the Ingle family, who retain significant ownership and leadership roles.

A notable milestone in the company’s history was the development of its large distribution center in Black Mountain, North Carolina. This facility has strengthened Ingles’ supply chain and supports efficient operations across its entire store network. Over the past five years, Ingles has continued to invest in new store openings and remodels, focusing on both suburban and rural areas. The company has also added fuel centers to select locations, expanding its convenience offerings for customers.

Ingles prefers to operate on company-owned sites and typically secures long-term leases, which has helped the brand maintain stability and control over its real estate portfolio. The company is not a franchise operator and manages all of its locations directly. As of its latest filings, Ingles employs over 26,000 people and reported annual revenues of $5.89 billion for fiscal year 2024.

Recent years have seen Ingles reinforce its presence in core Southeastern markets while also evaluating opportunities in adjacent areas. This growth posture, combined with a reputation for reliability and a full-service grocery format, has made Ingles a significant anchor tenant in many retail developments throughout the region.