Locally Focused Grocery Preps for N.C. Debut

The formal kickoff celebration for Carolina Farmin’ in Wilmington, N.C., will take place Thursday, Aug. 4 through Sunday, Aug. 7, with a soft opening planned just prior to the official launch. The unique format – a first for Wilmington – will showcase items grown and produced in the Carolinas, including what the grocer ways will be the largest selection of natural and organic produce and products in the area. The store will also carry some name brands and other staples enable shoppers to get what they need at one location

The store is on Wilmington’s Market Street, at the site of what was formerly the headquarters of Port City Java. Details of the four-day “Go Farmin'!” grand opening will be released to the public over the next several weeks.

"It’s an exciting time for us," said Carolina Farmin’ founder Wayne Long. "Our vision for creating a seven-day-a-week public market that supports local growers and producers is about to become a reality. This is an idea that's long overdue."

In preparation for the opening, managers traversed the Carolinas over the past few months, meeting with small farmers and businesses. The store has already committed to carrying goods from New Hanover, Brunswick and Pender counties, and some products from outside the area will be completely new to the Wilmington market, according to the grocer.

Future plans for Carolina Farmin’ include expanding to additional locations in both North and South Carolina.