Massive lines, limited supplies at Harris Teeter locations near UNCW and Porters Neck

WILMINGTON – Due to widespread blackouts in the area, most grocery stores have remained closed and supplies are inadequate for many of those left behind. At least two Harris Teeter sites in the Wilmington area have reopened, but this is not your usual route.

At Harris Teeter, near the UNCW campus at 820 S. College, the parking lot was full and spilled into the Dick's merchandise store on the shutter and onto the sidewalk. An entrance line extended around the building – some optimistic customers said they had been waiting for about an hour to enter the store; many said they heard that the store was open by friends or on social networks.

Officers from the Wilmington Police Department on site said that although the store was exceptionally crowded, the reopening was uneventful.

Inside, the shelves were partially stocked. The store management stated that the site had not received any cargo since before Hurricane Florence landed, so much of the goods stored before the storm were scarce, especially canned goods and non-perishable goods.

The store was able to take the electronic payment, although the cards are only used as credit.

A second Harris Teeter, in the Oak Landing Mall at Porters Neck, is also open, according to Harris Teeter's online reopening page.

Danna Robinson, Harris Teeter spokesperson, said, "Harris Teeter has worked diligently before the storm by putting plans in place to mobilize our resources and valued collaborators to return to our communities as quickly and safely as possible. . We recognize the importance of providing our neighbors with access to food, supplies and medications in times of uncertainty, as a result of events like this. "

Robinson added, "We understand that there are concerns about stagnant water on the roads; Community members should follow the instructions of local authorities and the state in this regard when planning to venture into the community. "

Robinson could not say when other stores would open or how long these two stores could remain open with limited supplies. Port City Daily will continue to update this story.

Send your comments and tips to Benjamin Schachtman at [email protected], @pcdben on Twitter and at (910) 538-2001.

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