In the wake of Hurricane Helene, we recognize that Ingles was among many businesses to sustain major damage to a number of its properties, including the one in Swannanoa.  Determining the future of each one is a business decision that, as a private company, Ingles is in its right to make for its best interest.  However, because Ingles has chosen to purchase and retain all easily available properties for a grocery store, ensuring that you will not have competition, your decisions have a direct impact on our community of Swannanoa.  When the only grocery store in reach of those without transportation closes, it creates a serious hardship. Along with long-time residents, two new apartment buildings were built here for low-income tenants specifically because of walking access to a grocery store.

We the residents of Swannanoa request transparency on the part of Ingles leadership in informing the public about your plans for reopening a grocery store in our community.  If you do not plan to reopen here, we request that you work with local officials to make possible the locating of a new grocery business here, within walking distance of residents.  As your neighbors who depend on your services, we deserve to know your plans.