With the opening of Harris Teeter on 9th Street, Whole Foods has been facing steep competition. The Chronicle's Jenna Zhang spoke to students about where they prefer to shop for groceries, and why.
Those who prefer Whole Foods:
“Whole Foods. Why not pay $10 for an apple?”
—freshman Tanner Lockhead
“Whole Foods. They made a really good sandwich. No wait, they made an average sandwich. Actually, they made a sandwich.”
—freshman Calder Alfano
“Whole Foods, because I’m a person with a lot of ethics behind my food. Harris Teeter just doesn’t care that much.”
—freshman Mark Botterill
“I’m from California so Whole Foods.”
—freshman Emre Sonmez
“I’m a wholesome individual, a holy person, and I holistically care about everyone, so it’s only right I shop at Whole Foods.”
—freshman Gilbert Brooks
“Whole Foods has great pastries and terrible snacks.”
—freshman Edward Yoon
Those who prefer Harris Teeter:
“Harris Teeter—free cookies when you walk in.”
—freshman Nick Younger
"I like [Harris Teeter], because I'm a college student, and I'm broke."
—sophomore Calvin Xiao
“We are literally going to Harris Teeter right now.”
—freshman Jeff Knaide
“I love going to the Hairy Teat.”
—freshman Bryce McAteer
“You get celery for $2.”
—freshman Marina Poole
"I prefer Harris Teeter—it's open 24/7, and the prices are cheaper."
—freshman Eddie Hanlon
"I lean 100 percent towards Harris Teeter. Their stores are always clean, neat and easy to navigate. They carry good brands and have a great selection of meat and produce. I also love the fresh items from their bakery. I am saddened by Kroger's acquisition."
—senior Eric Stach
“Harris Teeter is massive. And I bought good cheese there.”
—freshman Izzi Clark
"Harris Teeter has a lot more choice and is much more affordable than Whole Foods. Plus they have free cookies!"
—freshman Jessica Van Meir
Those who have no preference:
“Who needs Harris Teeter or Whole Foods when you have Marketplace?”
—freshman Chelsea Anasi
“Whole Foods wins on eating options. Harris Teeter wins on financial options.”
—freshman Farhan Khan
“Both are too expensive—I prefer the [East Campus store].”
—freshman Edgeri Hudlin
“I’ll shop at Kroger.”
—junior Jason Rice
Get The Chronicle straight to your inbox
Signup for our weekly newsletter. Cancel at any time.