Monroe, NC, December 2, 2025
RaceTrac has opened its first store in North Carolina, located in Monroe, expanding its presence in the Tar Heel State. The new store features a range of food and fuel options and is expected to create around 30 jobs for local residents. The grand opening celebration included special promotions for locals, highlighting RaceTrac’s commitment to the community. The store aims to provide quality convenience services and unique dining options for residents and visitors alike.
RaceTrac Opens First North Carolina Store in Monroe
Monroe, NC – RaceTrac, a leading convenience retailer, has inaugurated its first North Carolina location in Monroe, marking a significant expansion into the Tar Heel State. The new store, situated at 4060 W. Highway 74, commenced operations on December 2, 2025. This launch introduces RaceTrac’s signature offerings, including made-in-store food items like pizza, chicken tenders, sandwiches, salads, and a Swirl World frozen yogurt bar. The facility also provides a variety of fuel options and aims to create approximately 30 new jobs in the Monroe community. The grand opening featured a ribbon-cutting ceremony and special promotions for the local residents.
Additional Business Openings Across North Carolina
- Crab Seafood House – Opened on December 1 in Sanford, this marks the brand’s second location, expanding from Clayton.
- Hashtag India – Set to debut in Cary later this month, this Texas-based chain is preparing for its first North Carolina expansion.
- Laziz Fry & Buy – Launched a neighborhood market in Raleigh, offering breakfast, lunch, and dinner options, along with a selection of Southeast Asian spices and groceries.
- Jade Express – Opened in Raleigh on December 1, with plans for two additional locations following this launch.
- The Goat – Reopened in Raleigh after the owner experienced a significant financial loss, aiming to restore the business and community trust.
- Ember & Oak Cigar Lounges – New locations are coming to Hickory and Mooresville, expanding the brand’s presence in the state.
Statewide Business Expansion Highlights
Charlotte, NC – Walmart Inc. is investing $300 million to build a 1.2 million-square-foot fulfillment center near Interstate 85 in Kings Mountain, approximately 35 miles east of Charlotte. Scheduled to open in 2027, this facility will expedite shipments of large items, including next-day deliveries, and is expected to create numerous local jobs.
Lumberton, NC – Cold-Link Logistics is constructing an $85.5 million cold storage warehouse along Interstate 95 in Lumberton. The 233,000-square-foot facility, set to open in 2026, will handle local and regional poultry and other food products, adding 123 jobs to the region.
Burlington, NC – Food Lion, a subsidiary of Ahold Delhaize USA, announced plans to build a $860 million state-of-the-art distribution center in Burlington. The new facility, expected to add more than 1 million square feet of distribution infrastructure, will support Food Lion’s growth in the state and create additional jobs.
Background Context
North Carolina continues to attract significant business investments, reflecting its favorable economic climate and strategic location. The state’s commitment to infrastructure development and support for new businesses contribute to its growing appeal for both national and international companies. These recent openings and expansions are expected to bolster the state’s economy and provide employment opportunities for its residents.
FAQ
What is RaceTrac’s first North Carolina store?
RaceTrac’s first North Carolina store is located in Monroe, at 4060 W. Highway 74, and opened on December 2, 2025.
What businesses have recently opened in North Carolina?
Recent openings include Crab Seafood House in Sanford, Hashtag India in Cary, Laziz Fry & Buy in Raleigh, Jade Express in Raleigh, The Goat in Raleigh, and Ember & Oak Cigar Lounges in Hickory and Mooresville.
What major business expansions are occurring in North Carolina?
Major expansions include Walmart’s $300 million fulfillment center in Kings Mountain, Cold-Link Logistics’ $85.5 million cold storage warehouse in Lumberton, and Food Lion’s $860 million distribution center in Burlington.
Key Features of Recent Business Openings in North Carolina
| Business Name | Location | Opening Date | Details |
|---|---|---|---|
| RaceTrac | Monroe | December 2, 2025 | First North Carolina store offering convenience services and food items. |
| Crab Seafood House | Sanford | December 1, 2025 | Second location expanding from Clayton. |
| Hashtag India | Cary | December 2025 | First North Carolina expansion of Texas-based chain. |
| Laziz Fry & Buy | Raleigh | December 2025 | Neighborhood market offering Southeast Asian spices and groceries. |
| Jade Express | Raleigh | December 1, 2025 | Plans for two more locations following Raleigh. |
| The Goat | Raleigh | Reopened October 15, 2025 | Aims to restore business after significant financial loss. |
| Ember & Oak Cigar Lounges | Hickory and Mooresville | Upcoming | New locations expanding brand presence. |
| Walmart Fulfillment Center | Kings Mountain | Opening in 2027 | $300 million investment to expedite large item shipments. |
| Cold-Link Logistics Warehouse | Lumberton | Opening in 2026 | $85.5 million cold storage facility for poultry and food products. |
| Food Lion Distribution Center | Burlington | Upcoming | $860 million investment to support growth and create jobs. |
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Author: HERE Charlotte
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