CHARLOTTE, N.C. — Hardware stores in the Charlotte area are experiencing a rush for winter weather supplies as residents prepare for snow and ice this weekend.
At Southern Hardware in west Charlotte, shelves typically stocked with winter essentials are rapidly emptying as customers scramble to prepare for the incoming storm. The rush presents both an opportunity and challenge for retailers, who aren’t accustomed to maintaining inventory for significant snow events in the Charlotte area.
“Next week, I’ll have ice melts and other stuff, but our stuff comes out of Tennesee and Tennessee is about to get slammed,” manager Dean Brayboy said. “So we’ll see what happens.
The store has seen a particular run on ice melt, with both residents and businesses rushing to secure supplies. First-time buyer A.J. Cunningham noted Southern Hardware’s pricing was much cheaper than some of its competitors.
“I tell a few people about this store because I was looking for a lot of other stores charging maybe $50 or $60 a pack,” Cunningham said.
The scarcity of winter weather supplies reflects Charlotte’s typical climate patterns, where significant snowfall is rare. This unusual weather event has created supply chain challenges, as many regional distributors are also preparing for severe weather conditions.
Brayboy warned that the current inventory won’t last long.
“As soon as this is gone, boom,” he said. “I don’t have a whole lot left. So if you want it, come get it.”
The store’s remaining stock of winter weather essentials is expected to sell out quickly as the storm approaches. Management is attempting to secure additional inventory, though delivery timelines remain uncertain due to regional weather conditions.
This weekend’s storm would mark one of the most significant snowfalls the Charlotte area has seen in recent years, prompting residents and businesses to take extra precautions in their preparations.
Contact Myles Harris at mharris5@wcnc.com and follow him on Facebook, X and Instagram.
