Business stories in Charlotte

Prysmian has purchased a former Bed Bath & Beyond data center in Claremont for $17.2 million as part of a $1 billion expansion project. This investment is expected to create at least 385 new jobs and marks the largest manufacturing expansion in Catawba County's history.

Microsoft is set to offer buyouts to around 60,000 employees as part of its strategy to reduce costs. The voluntary exit program targets workers in the U.S., Canada, India, and the U.K., with decisions due by December.

The change was announced in a public update released Friday by CEO John Reilly.

The owners of Elvis Presley's music catalog have filed a lawsuit against Anthropic for using 274 of his songs to train AI models without permission. They are seeking $41.1 million in damages, claiming copyright infringement and asserting that Anthropic's business model relies on such practices.

Hornets Sports and Entertainment has teamed up with Payactiv to provide employees with Earned Wage Access and financial wellness tools. This initiative aims to improve financial management for staff, particularly front-line event workers.

Local Steals & Deals presents exclusive offers on smart products designed to enhance daily life. The Proper Hills wallet tracker and Evolight flashlight are highlighted as practical solutions for common inconveniences.

Planning a vacation can be stressful, especially when it comes to choosing the right hotel. This guide offers essential tips on researching locations, reading reviews, and understanding pricing to ensure a smooth booking experience.

Crumbl Cookie has announced the launch of a new value menu featuring affordable cookies and dirty sodas. This move comes as the chain faces reports of closing several locations, including some in Charlotte.

Trader Joe’s has announced the opening of 28 new stores across 15 states, but North Carolina will not see any new locations. The new stores will be primarily located in states like California, Florida, and Texas, with specific opening dates yet to be revealed.

Bath & Body Works has introduced its first next-generation store concept at SouthPark Mall in Charlotte, enhancing the shopping experience with a modern design. The new 'Feel Good' store prototype aims to simplify fragrance discovery while maintaining the brand's core mission of making customers feel good.

Halloween candy prices in Charlotte are causing concern among shoppers, leading to decreased sales. Economic advocates are questioning the factors behind rising costs.

Shoppers are experiencing sticker shock as Halloween candy prices rise, leading to a decline in sales. Economic advocates are questioning the factors driving these price increases.

Tom Barkin, President of the Richmond Fed, addressed economic challenges including inflation and labor market dynamics at a recent breakfast event. He highlighted the uncertainty in the economy and the implications for businesses and workforce trends.

Pfizer has revealed plans for layoffs at its Rocky Mount and Sanford facilities, impacting its sterile injectable and vaccine manufacturing operations. The company has not disclosed the number of positions affected or the timeline for the layoffs.

Fifth Third Bank has reached its goal of opening eight new branches in the Charlotte area by 2028 and plans to add two more. The bank aims to continue its expansion in the Southeast, prioritizing Charlotte as a key market.

Lithonia Lighting has issued a recall for over 11,500 lights with adjustable tilt-arm mountings due to a joint failure risk. The Consumer Product Safety Commission reported 13 incidents of the mountings breaking, although no injuries have been reported.

The Charlotte City Council is set to vote on a new budget that will alter the city's business inclusion policy, removing requirements for minority- and women-owned businesses. The city plans to implement a small business enterprise program to support all small businesses in competing for contracts.

Airbnb has introduced new house rules that allow hosts to set clearer expectations for guests. The updates include seven standard rules and options for 'reasonable requests' to enhance the guest experience.

Meadow’s Woodfired is set to open a new location at Gibson Mill Market in Concord, expanding its presence in the region. The addition of wood-fired pizza aims to enhance the food offerings at this historic mill site.

State Employees Credit Union (SECU) has been ranked as the largest credit union in the Charlotte area, boasting total assets of $60 billion. The credit union has also seen significant growth, with an 8.3% increase in assets since 2025.

Charlotte gas stations are facing over 500 complaints regarding the slow passing of gas savings to drivers. Approximately 70% of these complaints were filed within the first week after a suspension of price adjustments.

Walmart has introduced drone delivery at seven stores in the Charlotte area, enabling customers to receive select items within 30 minutes. The service is part of a broader expansion plan, with more locations expected to join soon.

US Conec Ltd. is set to invest over $149.7 million to build a new manufacturing facility in Hickory, Catawba County, creating 224 jobs. The expansion aims to meet the growing demand in telecommunications and advanced computing infrastructure.

Triad Business Bank of Greensboro has identified itself as a rival bidder for M&F Bank, challenging its merger with Optus Bank. Shareholders' vote on the merger has been postponed to allow for further review of Triad's unsolicited offer.

Former Charlotte Hornets star LaMelo Ball is attempting to sell his Uptown condo for $2.6 million. A recent private showing attracted numerous interested buyers, highlighting the property's appeal.

The Michelin Guide American South has honored 17 restaurants in Charlotte, including four newcomers. Notably, Counter earned a One Star rating, while Lang Van and The Story of Mi Cariño received Bib Gourmand recognition.

Walmart has initiated drone deliveries in the Charlotte area, raising important questions about privacy and safety. The new service aims to enhance delivery efficiency but has prompted discussions on its implications for residents.

Former Charlotte Hornets star LaMelo Ball is attempting to sell his Uptown condo for $2.6 million. A recent private showing attracted numerous interested buyers, highlighting the property's appeal.

Misael Rosario, a metal processing business owner, claims he lost over $6 million due to fraudulent wire transfers from his bank account. He is suing First Horizon Bank after similar scams targeted other customers.

Electronic Arts is laying off approximately 400 employees, including 50 at BioWare, the studio known for 'Dragon Age' and 'Mass Effect.' The company is refocusing its efforts on sports and action-adventure games while discontinuing certain projects.