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Empty aisles: Latino markets + grocery stores around Charlotte to support today

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Border Patrol in Charlotte

U.S. Border Patrol began making rounds in Charlotte on Saturday morning.

This follows recent Border Patrol activity in Chicago that made headlines, with some reports alleging agents violated people’s rights.

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Shelves are stocked but aisles have been empty this week at many of Charlotte’s Latino-owned grocery stores this week as shoppers avoid the markets due to heightened U.S. Border Patrol activity.

Some shoppers in immigrant communities are fearful of leaving their homes to run errands since the Border Patrol arrived in Charlotte on Saturday, Nov. 15. Meantime, fresh produce and perishable goods sit untouched at these local markets and grocers, creating an economic strain on owners.

When visiting these shops, be aware that some may be screening customers or operating with locked doors as a safety precaution. Due to the rapid change in circumstances, customers should note that some markets may be operating on reduced hours or could be closed altogether without notice.

Patience and understanding are appreciated as business owners and employees navigate this taxing and emotional period.

Here are five Latino-owned grocers to support right now. While this list is a starting point, Google Maps shows dozens more markets across the Charlotte area.

Location: 2920 Central Ave, Charlotte, NC 28205 (Formerly called Mega Market)

Instagram: @bravo.supermarkets

Location: Multiple

Instagram: @comparefoodsclt

Interior view of a grocery store aisle centered on large wooden display tables piled high with fresh lemons, oranges, and limes. Bottles of juices are stacked underneath the produce. Shoppers are visible in the background.
Compare Foods has several locations in the Charlotte area. Alex Cason CharlotteFive

Location: 5323 E Independence Blvd SUITE A-B, Charlotte, NC 28212

Location: 5938 South Blvd, Charlotte, NC 28217

Instagram: @launica_supercenter

Tienda Latina El Rincon Catracho-La Centroamericana

Location: 2125 Eastway Dr, Charlotte, NC 28205

Location: 6407 South Blvd, Charlotte, NC 28217

Location: 2557 W Franklin Blvd, Gastonia, NC 28052

Location: 1230 W Roosevelt Blvd, Monroe, NC 28110

Instagram: @wowsupermarket

A jar of McCormick Mayonesa con Jugo de Limones (mayonnaise with lime juice) is held in the foreground, obscuring the lower half of the blue-and-white “WOW SUPERMARKET” sign visible in the background.
A shopper holds a jar of McCormick Mayonesa with lime juice outside the Wow Supermarket in Charlotte. The market specializes in a wide range of international and regional food products often unavailable at major chains. Tonya Price CharlotteFive

In the Spotlight: Ongoing, in-depth coverage from The Charlotte Observer on the issues that matter most to Charlotteans.

This story was originally published November 20, 2025 at 11:16 AM.

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Melissa Oyler

The Charlotte Observer

Melissa Oyler is the editor of CharlotteFive. When she’s not writing or editing, you’ll find her running, practicing hot yoga or snuggling with her rescue dogs, X and Charlie. Find her on Instagram or X: @melissaoyler.
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