The retail industry is the largest private sector employer in the U.S. The segment contributes $5.3 trillion annually to the country’s GDP and supports more than one in four jobs, or about 55 million people. The Charlotte region has a population of over 3 million, providing retailers ample staffing and plenty of potential consumers to serve with unique products and services.
Companies in Charlotte capitalize on the city’s low tax rates and various incentives, contributing to a vibrant business scene. The city hosts numerous retail brands offering products ranging from vehicles and sports equipment to apparel and accessories. Alongside homegrown shops born out of Charlotte-based roots, many global brands and nationwide chains have established brick-and-mortar stores or corporate offices in the region.
We’ve compiled a list of retailers and brands that call Charlotte home. Read on to find out more about the Charlotte region’s in-store offerings.
Top Retail Companies in Charlotte
Sonic Automotive
Carvana
Belk
Kendra Scott
Refloor
J. Major’s Bridal Boutique
Cato Fashions
Brilliant Earth
Micro Center
Sun & Ski Sports
Top Retail Companies in Charlotte
Cato Fashions is a women’s clothing store operating more than 800 locations across 30 states. The company aims to offer on-trend fashion items of high quality at accessible prices. Cato was founded in 1946 and strives to bring fresh styles, inclusive sizing, personalized shopping experiences and value to its customers.
Sonic Automotive is an automotive dealership franchise encompassing EchoPark Automotive and Sonic Powersports. The company sells vehicles from brands including Audi, Mercedes, GMC, Lexus, Porsche and Jeep. It operates more than 100 stores representing over 25 automotive brands.
Belk is a department store chain offering exclusive and national brand products. Its stores feature men’s, women’s and children’s apparel; accessories such as handbags and jewelry; and home items such as kitchen appliances, bedding and home decor. Belk also offers a selection of sports fan paraphernalia for various national teams.
Carvana is a used car company known for its car vending machines. The U.S. retailer offers a fully online ordering experience, allowing shoppers to browse and purchase inventory regardless of where their selected vehicle is physically located. It also gives customers the option to pick up their vehicles at an in-person Carvana dealership or have them delivered to their home.
Kendra Scott is a fashion-lifestyle brand and jewelry retailer that uses natural materials and classical jewelry making techniques to create uniquely designed, high-quality accessories. It offers custom stone silhouettes to give its pieces distinctive character and distinguish them as products of the Kendra Scott brand.
Refloor is a flooring store offering luxury vinyl, engineered hardwood and laminate floors and professional installation services. Its wide selection features practical and stylish options for upgrading living rooms, kitchens or bedrooms with durable flooring. It also offers financing services and next-day installation.
Micro Center is a tech retailer founded in 1979 and operating 29 stores across 19 states. Its inventory features computers, electronics, networking gear and maker products, equipping customers with everything they need for tasks ranging from building a PC from scratch to setting up network infrastructure.
Brilliant Earth is a jewelry retailer dedicated to ethical sourcing practices and artful craftsmanship. It specializes in wedding and engagement rings, and it offers various earrings, necklaces and bracelets in men’s and women’s styles. Alongside diamonds, Brilliant Earth’s jewelry products feature various gemstones.
J. Major’s Bridal Boutique is a family-owned bridal shop located in Charlotte. It offers wedding dresses by designers such as Jenny Yu, La Premiere, Essence, Stella York, Paloma Blanca and Antonio Gual. The shop offers personalized sales experiences that prioritize approachability and heartfelt connection. Stylists hand select gown assortments that align with shoppers’ style and specifications.
Sun & Ski Sports is an outdoor sports equipment retailer with more than 30 locations nationwide. It offers products and expertise for water sports, biking, running, skiing and snowboarding. Sun & Ski Sports also offers travel equipment like luggage and car racks, as well as sportswear for men’s, women’s and children’s fashion.
