In 1960, Harris Super Markets and Teeters Food Marts officially merged to form Harris Teeter. It is a wholly owned subsidiary of Ruddick Corporation. Harris Teeter operates a chain of food markets in North Carolina, Virginia, Georgia, Tennessee, Florida and South Carolina. The company operates more than 150 retail stores and various grocery, frozen food and perishable distribution centers. It offers a range of food items, including meat, seafood and produce. Harris Teeter organizes a fresh foods program that includes over 800 bakery and deli products and offers daily samples to its customers. In addition, the company operates several Hunter Farms milk and ice-cream facilities in North Carolina. Its VIC program provides special savings and benefits, as well as rewards and free groceries. In addition, the company provides weekly specials and in-store rewards. Harris Teeter employs nearly 18,000 employees. It operates approximately 550,000 square-foot nonperishable distribution and transportation facility.