The Ledger: Publix not interested in Harris Teeter acquisition

LAKELAND, Fla. — While Publix has been tied to rumors it may put in a bid for Harris Teeter, local daily The Ledger on Monday reported that Publix isn't at all interested. 

Publix is in the midst of its first expansion into North Carolina, with plans to open two stores in the Charlotte area in 2014.

Officials with Harris Teeter recently confirmed that the 208-store chain will consider offers from potential buyers.

A February report from Reuters said large grocery chains, such as Publix and Kroger, would likely consider purchasing Harris Teeter, but Publix spokesman Maria Brous brushed off that idea, the Ledger reported.

"We are not in negotiation or conversations with Harris Teeter," Publix spokeswoman Maria Brous told the Ledger on Feb. 14, when rumors first circulated. "Most of our growth happens organically," she said, and not through store acquisitions.