Seven retail stores across six North Carolina counties have paid fines to the North Carolina Department of Agriculture and Consumer Services’ Standards Division for price scanning errors identified during the third quarter of 2025.
“Even small errors can add up. As we head into the busy holiday shopping season, we’re reminding consumers to remember to check their receipts,” said Agriculture Commissioner Steve Troxler. “Our inspectors are continuing to inspect convenience stores, grocery stores and department stores across the state to protect consumers and ensure pricing accuracy.”
The Standards Division carries out unannounced inspections at businesses using price-scanner systems, comparing advertised prices with those charged at checkout. Stores found with more than a 2% overcharge error rate must undergo follow-up inspections. Undercharges are also reported but do not count against a store’s compliance. Consumers can report scanner errors by calling the Standards Division at 984-236-4750.
If a store fails a follow-up inspection, it is fined and will be reinspected every 60 days until its error rate drops below 2%. Continued failures may result in additional penalties.
The following penalties were issued:
– Circle K at 4923 South Tryon St., Charlotte (Mecklenburg County), was fined $3,420 after multiple failed inspections showing error rates between 6% and 13%. The store paid fines in August and September and will be reinspected.
– Family Dollar at 2100 Beatties Ford Road, Charlotte (Mecklenburg County), was fined $1,670 after failing an inspection in July with a 3% error rate on a large sample size. The store passed its next inspection in September.
– Circle K at 1627 East Main St., Lincolnton (Lincoln County), received a $1,725 fine after two failed inspections with error rates as high as 22%. The store will be reinspected.
– Dollar General at 250 North Main St., Star (Montgomery County), was fined $1,155 after June and July inspections revealed overcharge rates above acceptable limits. The store faces reinspection.
– Rural King at 1227 Burkemont Ave., Morganton (Burke County), paid a $2,445 fine after failing an April follow-up inspection but later passed in June.
– Target at 4841 Grove Barton Road, Raleigh (Wake County), was fined $735 following failed inspections in June and July; it passed reinspection in September.
– Target at 4711 New Centre Drive, Wilmington (New Hanover County), was fined $1,140 after two failed inspections this summer and will face further review.
These actions reflect ongoing efforts by state officials to monitor pricing practices among retailers and ensure consumer protection through regular oversight.
