Is Ingles Markets, Incorporated a Buy?

Ingles Markets, Incorporated functions as a major supermarket chain predominantly located throughout the southeastern United States. The company provides a comprehensive selection of food products, ranging from fresh produce, meats, and dairy to frozen goods, general groceries, and other perishable items. Beyond the food aisle, Ingles also offers various non-food essentials, such as health and beauty care products, general merchandise, and its own proprietary private label brands. Many of its locations also feature convenient fuel centers and pharmacies. A unique aspect of Ingles Markets is its ownership and operation of a milk processing and packaging plant. This facility produces organic milk, fruit juices, and bottled water, supplying these items not only to its own stores but also to other retail outlets, food service distributors, and wholesale grocery warehouses. Within its stores, customers can also find prepared home meal replacements, full-service delicatessens, in-store bakeries, floral departments, and greeting card selections. The company further emphasizes a wide array of local organic, beverage, and health-conscious product options. As of September 25, 2021, Ingles Markets managed a network of 198 supermarkets, comprising 189 stores under the Ingles brand and 9 under the Sav-Mor name. These stores are situated across western North Carolina, western South Carolina, northern Georgia, eastern Tennessee, southwestern Virginia, and northeastern Alabama. Additionally, the company operated 111 pharmacies and 107 fuel stations. Ingles Markets, Incorporated was established in 1963 and is headquartered in Asheville, North Carolina.