Business stories in Charlotte

The Powerball jackpot has climbed to $707 million after no tickets matched all six numbers in the latest drawing. The next drawing is set for Saturday, with a cash option of $309.7 million available for the winner.

A global company has inaugurated a new manufacturing facility in Mint Hill, emphasizing community engagement and belonging. This development aims to strengthen local ties and boost the economy.

Charlotte Hornets guard LaMelo Ball and Jermaine Jackson are facing a lawsuit for allegedly failing to pay rent on an Uptown condominium. The property management company claims they did not vacate the premises despite multiple notices.

The JW Marriott Charlotte is introducing an Elevated Luxury Package featuring a presidential suite priced at $8,000 per night. This initiative aims to attract high-end travelers as the hotel approaches its first anniversary on August 17.

Personal items from KFC founder Colonel Harland Sanders were auctioned off, including his bow tie and executive planner. His former home will also be sold through a sealed-bid process this Friday.

Octapharma has announced that it will establish its first manufacturing site in the U.S. in York County, with operations expected to begin in the mid-2030s. This development marks a significant investment in the local economy and the biopharmaceutical sector.

Model A Brewing Company in Tega Cay, SC, has made history by winning a total of 12 awards at the U.S. Open Beer Championships, the most ever recorded. Out of over 8,000 submissions, three of their beers were recognized, showcasing the brewery's exceptional quality.

Another Nine has launched its first immersive golf simulator in Cornelius, with plans for 12 locations across the Charlotte area. The facility features a state-of-the-art Trackman simulator, offering access to over 350 courses and various entertainment options.

Cracker Barrel's CEO Julie Masino will resign next month after a tumultuous year marked by a controversial rebranding effort. Former Bloomin’ Brands CEO David Deno will take over the role, aiming to restore the brand's traditional appeal.

The Powerball jackpot has climbed to an estimated $663 million for the upcoming drawing, with no winners from the last draw. Players can choose between a lump-sum cash payment or an annuity option.

The temporary power outage caused by Duke Energy impacted the operations of 300 East restaurant, leading to lost hours for employees. Although the restaurant managed to open for dinner, the outage's effects are significant for staff.

Small businesses in South End are facing significant revenue losses due to Duke Energy's grid upgrades, which have also caused power outages. While the utility company claims these upgrades will strengthen the electrical grid, local operators express concerns over safety and financial impact.

The Cheesecake Factory is set to open a new location at Concord Mills in 2026, as announced by the outlet mall. This addition aims to enhance the shopping and dining experience for visitors.

Business and community leaders from Rowan and Cabarrus counties convened to discuss the significant economic impact of the child care crisis, which costs the region an estimated $149.1 million annually. The Child Care Economic Summit highlighted the need for flexible solutions to support workforce participation.

A large fish tank at Something Fishy Pet store in Fox Lake, Illinois burst, flooding the store and resulting in the death of over 350 fish. The owner and an employee managed to save about 100 fish, but the incident caused significant damage and will require around $20,000 to rebuild the tank.

Charlotte has been recognized as the 15th fastest-growing metro area in the U.S. according to LinkedIn's Cities on the Rise list. The city is diversifying its job market beyond banking, with significant growth in tech and manufacturing sectors.

Duke Energy has committed to not increasing rates for customers to cover the costs associated with data centers. However, North Carolina Attorney General Jeff Jackson believes this commitment needs stronger enforcement through new rate structures.

M&F Bank, North Carolina's oldest minority-owned bank, is merging with Optus Financial Corp. to form a $1.3 billion institution. The new entity will be the largest Black-owned bank in the U.S., with its headquarters in Columbia, SC.

Specialty Shops SouthPark has secured its first North Carolina locations for luxury brands Serena & Lily and Faced, The Facial Studio. This move is part of a strategy to enhance the center's appeal as a premier shopping destination in Charlotte.

Homeowners in the Carolinas are facing unexpected costs due to storm deductibles that can significantly increase their out-of-pocket expenses. Ron Thompson's experience highlights the importance of understanding insurance policies, especially regarding wind and storm-related damages.

York County entrepreneurs will soon have access to Charlotte's startup resources thanks to a new pre-accelerator program by the SCRA. This initiative aims to support early-stage founders in Fort Mill, Rock Hill, and Indian Land without the need to travel to Charlotte.

Honeywell marked its launch as an independent automation company by ringing the Nasdaq closing bell. This event coincided with the company's strong second-quarter financial results.

The Rock Hill City Council has approved a significant deal with Octapharma, projected to create 1,500 jobs and generate up to $1.5 billion in investments over the next decade. This agreement follows extensive negotiations regarding tax breaks aimed at benefiting local schools.

Powerball has begun ticket sales in the UK, marking the first time the lottery is available outside the U.S. The inaugural drawing took place with no jackpot winners, and the prize pool is now estimated at $600 million.

Cher has been ordered to pay more than $1 million in legal fees following a lengthy court battle with Mary Bono over royalties from her divorce settlement with Sonny Bono. Despite winning the case, Cher's request for reimbursement of her legal costs was denied by the judge.

Chipotle Mexican Grill has opened a new restaurant in Ballantyne and plans to open another in Concord shortly. The Ballantyne location features a modern design and the Concord restaurant will include a drive-thru option for digital orders.

Kura Sushi has opened its first revolving sushi bar in Charlotte, marking its debut in North Carolina. The restaurant, located in Stonecrest at Piper Glen, aims to tap into the local market after a long-targeted development strategy.

The European Union has imposed a $1 billion fine on Google for violating antitrust rules related to its Play Store and search engine. The ruling emphasizes the need for fair competition in the tech industry.

A lightsaber and Luke Skywalker's prosthetic hand from 'Star Wars: The Empire Strikes Back' sold for a record $3.75 million at auction. This sale highlights the enduring popularity and value of Hollywood memorabilia.

American Efficient, a Durham-based energy efficiency firm, has filed for bankruptcy protection after facing over $1 billion in federal fines for allegedly manipulating electricity markets. The Federal Energy Regulatory Commission ruled that the company defrauded grid operators, leading to significant financial penalties.