24 Interesting Facts about Ingles

Dan November 12, 2023

Ingles Markets, commonly known as “Ingles,” is a prominent regional supermarket chain with its roots in the southeastern United States. Founded by Robert “Bob” Ingle in 1963, the first store opened in Asheville, North Carolina. Since then, it has evolved from a single location into a substantial supermarket chain that spans several states in the southeastern region of the United States.

Ingles Markets boasts a broad retail presence, operating a network of supermarkets, grocery stores, and fuel centers across six southeastern states, including North Carolina, South Carolina, Georgia, Tennessee, Alabama, and Virginia. It caters to both urban and rural communities, offering a wide selection of products, from fresh produce, meat, and dairy to bakery items and household goods. Many Ingles locations also feature in-store pharmacies and fuel centers, providing a comprehensive shopping experience for customers.

In addition to its product offerings, Ingles is renowned for its active involvement in the communities it serves. The company is dedicated to philanthropy and actively supports various charitable initiatives, including food banks, educational programs, and local organizations. This commitment to community engagement is deeply ingrained in the company’s corporate culture.

Ingles Markets has consistently expanded its business footprint over the years, maintaining its commitment to providing high-quality products and services to customers. As it grows, Ingles adapts to evolving consumer preferences and industry trends while remaining deeply rooted in its mission to serve and support the communities it calls home.

Here are 24 interesting facts about Ingles to know more about it.

1. Founding Year: Ingles Markets was founded in 1963 by Robert “Bob” Ingle in Asheville, North Carolina.
2. Family-Owned: Ingles Markets remains a family-owned business with a strong commitment to family values. Around 50% of the company is owned by Ingle Family.
3. Regional Focus: The supermarket chain primarily operates in the southeastern United States, serving communities in six states.
4. Rapid Growth: From its humble beginnings, Ingles has grown to become one of the largest supermarket chains in the southeastern U.S.
5. Diverse Product Range: Ingles offers a wide range of products, including groceries, fresh produce, meat, dairy, bakery items, and household goods.
6. Pharmacies: Many Ingles locations include in-store pharmacies, providing convenient healthcare services to customers.
7. Fuel Centers: Ingles also operates fuel centers, making it a one-stop destination for both grocery shopping and refueling.
8. Community Engagement: Ingles Markets is known for its active involvement in community and charitable initiatives, supporting various causes.
9. Philanthropy: The company supports programs related to food banks, education, and local organizations, demonstrating a commitment to giving back.
10. Regional Expansion: While its roots are in North Carolina, Ingles has expanded into states like South Carolina, Georgia, Tennessee, Alabama, and Virginia.
11. Private Label Products: Ingles Markets offers a range of private-label products, providing customers with affordable and quality alternatives.
12. Store Brands: Some of their well-known store brands include Laura Lynn, Top Care, and Advantage Buy.
13. Multiple Store Formats: Ingles operates different store formats, including supermarkets, grocery stores, and neighborhood markets, tailored to community needs.
14. Customer Loyalty Program: Ingles’ loyalty program, Advantage Savings, offers customers discounts and special offers.
15. Continued Innovation: The supermarket chain continually adapts to changing consumer preferences and industry trends.
16. Regional Employer: Ingles is a significant employer in the southeastern U.S., providing jobs to thousands of people.
17. Stock Exchange Listing: The company is publicly traded on the NASDAQ stock exchange under the ticker symbol IMKTA.
18. Financial Stability: Ingles has demonstrated financial stability and consistent growth over the years.
19. Environmental Initiatives: The company has taken steps to reduce its environmental impact through sustainable practices and energy-efficient measures.
20. Publicly Traded: Ingles Markets is one of the few family-owned supermarket chains that is publicly traded.
21. Store Count: Ingles operated around 198 supermarkets, as of 2023.
22. In-House Bakery: Many Ingles stores have an in-house bakery, offering freshly baked bread and pastries.
23. Catering Services: Some Ingles locations provide catering services for events and special occasions.
24. Community Support: Ingles often sponsors local events and supports youth programs in the communities it serves, reinforcing its commitment to its customers and neighborhoods.