WOW Supermarket has been named the 2024 Community Impact Award winner, for the Union County Chamber Excellence in Business Awards. Their work goes far beyond the aisles of their supermarket—they are a powerful force addressing some of the community’s most pressing needs and providing invaluable support to local nonprofits. With deep roots in Monroe, they have become not just a place to shop but a beacon of service, especially for the Latin/Hispanic community.
Building Community Connections in Union County
Since the 1980s, the Latin population in Monroe and Union County has grown significantly, now employing over 30 people in Monroe alone. As a leader within the Latin community, WOW Supermarket helps create a sense of belonging for thousands of residents.
Supporting Local Schools and Families
WOW Supermarket shows its dedication to the community through a partnership with East Elementary School, one of the most economically challenged schools in Union County Public Schools. Every year, WOW organizes a “WOW Christmas” for the 450 students, that brings together WOW employees, local police and fire departments, and even Santa to create an unforgettable experience where each student receives a toy and enjoys refreshments with their classmates.
Increasing Healthcare Access
Healthcare access is another priority for WOW Supermarket, and their partnership with Atrium Health has been a game-changer for many residents. By hosting a mobile healthcare unit in their parking lot multiple times each year, WOW makes it easier for people in the community to access essential healthcare services. Their efforts in marketing these events ensure that members of the Latin community, who may lack access to regular healthcare, know when and where they can receive medical attention outside of emergency room visits.
Supporting Higher Education
WOW Supermarket also provides crucial support to South Piedmont Community College students, stepping in when a student faces financial or other challenges that may prevent them from completing their education. WOW’s contributions to these students not only help individuals but strengthen the community as a whole by encouraging educational achievement and workforce readiness.
Celebrating Culture and Bringing the Community Together
In 2024, WOW Supermarket spearheaded the inaugural Monroe Latin Festival, a groundbreaking event that celebrated the rich Latin/Hispanic culture in Monroe. WOW led the planning, secured funding, booked music acts, and organized food vendors that showcased the diversity within the Latin community. Their hands-on, dedicated approach made the festival a success, attracting over 5,000 attendees from diverse backgrounds.
A Commitment to Union County
Since their first store opened in Monroe in 2014, WOW Supermarket has expanded to three other locations across Mecklenburg and Gaston Counties, with their headquarters firmly based in Monroe. The owners chose Monroe as the heart of their business and have invested in the community, renovating a building on Skyway Drive and creating job opportunities. For WOW Supermarket, serving the community is more than a mission—it’s a way of life.
WOW Supermarket will be honored along with the other Excellence in Business finalists and recipients at the Annual Awards Gala on December 5, 2025.
Last modified: November 19, 2024
