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7 Surprising Ways Piggly Wiggly Mount Olive NC Became An Eastern Carolina Legend

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For many residents in Wayne County and the greater Eastern North Carolina region, the Piggly Wiggly at 615 North Breazeale Avenue in Mount Olive, NC, is far more than just a grocery store. As of the current date in late 2025, it remains a vibrant, essential community hub, standing as a testament to local ownership, exceptional customer service, and a deep commitment to the town’s unique culture.

This particular location, operated by the locally-rooted Crescent Foods company, embodies the spirit of the original "self-service" supermarket while consistently adapting to meet the modern needs of Mount Olive shoppers. From sponsoring the town’s most famous event—the N.C. Pickle Festival—to providing the daily lunch menu that fuels local workers, the Mount Olive Piggly Wiggly has cemented its status as a true local legend.

The Local Legacy: Crescent Foods, Moses King, and the Piggly Wiggly Empire

The story of the Piggly Wiggly in Mount Olive is inextricably linked to the history of a single, dedicated local business and its visionary owner. This specific store operates under the umbrella of Crescent Foods, Inc., a corporation that has been a long-standing fixture in the North Carolina grocery scene.

Crescent Foods owns and operates two independent Piggly Wiggly stores in the state, with the Mount Olive location being one and the other situated nearby in Faison, NC.

A Tribute to Local Ownership: The Moses E. King Connection

The heart of this local operation was the late Moses E. King, who served as the owner/operator of both the Mount Olive and Faison Piggly Wiggly grocery stores, as well as owning the parent company, Crescent Foods. King's journey was rooted in local business, transitioning from operating King Farms to running the popular Piggly Wiggly franchises. His leadership ensured that the store maintained a focus on community values and personalized service, a tradition that continues to define the shopping experience on Breazeale Avenue today.

This deep local connection is a critical component of the store's success, distinguishing it from major national chains. The store's commitment to the community reflects a personal touch that was championed by its founders and is carried on by the current management.

7 Surprising Ways the Mount Olive Piggly Wiggly Serves the Community

The Piggly Wiggly at 615 N Breazeale Ave is not just a place to buy groceries; it’s a vital piece of the Mount Olive infrastructure and social calendar. Its involvement goes far beyond simple commerce, making it a powerful force for local identity and celebration.

Here are seven specific ways this Eastern North Carolina institution has solidified its legendary status:

1. The Anchor of the N.C. Pickle Festival

The store is one of the most visible and consistent sponsors of the annual N.C. Pickle Festival, one of the state's largest and most famous local celebrations. The festival, which celebrates the town's namesake, Mount Olive Pickle Company, has grown significantly over the last two decades, with the local Piggly Wiggly remaining a key partner in its success. This sponsorship aligns the store directly with the town's most cherished cultural event.

2. The Daily Deli Destination

Ask a local, and they’ll often mention the deli first. The Mount Olive Piggly Wiggly is highly regarded for its deli offerings and is a go-to spot for a quick, quality meal. The deli features a Daily Lunch Menu and is famous for its catering options, including popular items like the Chicken Tender Tray, Lunch Meat Tray, Cheese Tray, and Vegetable Tray. This service makes it essential for both daily meals and local events.

3. A Major Sponsor of AgFest at UMO

Demonstrating its commitment to the agricultural roots of Wayne County, the Piggly Wiggly is a presenting sponsor of AgFest at the University of Mount Olive (UMO). This event draws thousands of visitors and celebrates the region's strong agribusiness and commodity production, further establishing the store's topical authority in Eastern NC’s food and farm economy.

4. The Fourth of July Watermelon Provider

The store plays a sweet role in local patriotic events. For the annual Fourth of July celebration co-hosted by the Mount Olive Exchange and Rotary clubs, the Piggly Wiggly is known to provide refreshing watermelon slices for attendees. This small, consistent gesture highlights their dedication to community happiness and local traditions.

5. The Home of Exceptional Customer Service

Customer reviews consistently praise the store for its exceptional service and friendly staff. Shoppers often mention the clean environment and the positive experience provided by the employees, an enduring trait of the local, independent grocery model. This personal touch is a major reason why local patrons choose "The Pig" over larger chain stores.

6. A Geographical Landmark on US 117 Alt

Located prominently on US 117 Alt (N Breazeale Avenue), the store is a key geographical marker in the town. It is recognized as a major feature in local planning documents, such as the Town of Mount Olive's Bicycle & Pedestrian Plan, underscoring its role as a central point of commerce and access. Its location across from Westbrook Park also makes it a familiar reference point for local events.

7. The Source for Fresh, Quality Groceries

At its core, the Piggly Wiggly remains a reliable source for quality groceries and fresh produce. Through its affiliation with the broader Piggly Wiggly brand, which originated in Memphis, Tennessee, the Mount Olive store offers the combination of national buying power with a local, curated selection of items, including weekly hot deals & cool prices.

The Future of Piggly Wiggly in Mount Olive

As the town of Mount Olive continues to grow, the Piggly Wiggly, under the management of Crescent Foods, is poised to maintain its role as a local supermarket cornerstone. Its continued involvement in the N.C. Pickle Festival, AgFest, and other local initiatives ensures that it remains deeply woven into the fabric of Eastern North Carolina life.

For visitors and new residents, a trip to the 615 N Breazeale Ave location offers a unique glimpse into authentic small-town grocery shopping—a place where the staff knows your name, the deli is always stocked, and the commitment to the community is clear in every aisle. It is a genuine local treasure.

7 Surprising Ways Piggly Wiggly Mount Olive NC Became an Eastern Carolina Legend
piggly wiggly mount olive nc
piggly wiggly mount olive nc

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