Aldi to Acquire Winn-Dixie and Harveys Supermarkets
In a bold move, Aldi announced that they have an agreement to acquire Winn-Dixie and Harveys Supermarkets in the Southeast. This will add 400 locations in five states which should further Aldi’s aggressive growth plans. “The time is right to build on our growth momentum and help residents in the Southeast save on grocery bills. The transaction supports our long-term growth strategy across the United States” said Aldi CEO Jason Hart. “Like Aldi, Winn-Dixie and Harveys Supermarkets have long histories and many loyal customers in the Southeast and we look forward to serving them in years to come.” Aldi was already one of the fastest growing grocery chains in the U.S. market with goals that included adding 120 new stores by the end of 2023. The Batavia, Illinois-based chain now plans on having 2,400 stores by the end of the year. Winn-Dixie and Harveys Supermarkets expands Aldi’s footprint in Georgia, Florida, Alabama, Louisiana, and Mississippi.
“Aldi shares our vision to provide quality, service and value and this unique opportunity will evolve our business to benefit customers, associates, and neighbors throughout the Southeast,” said Southeastern Grocers President and CEO Anthony Hucker. This merger agreement is a testament to our successful transformational journey.” In 2018, Southeast Grocers was exiting bankruptcy and has been able to get back on track in the years since. Prior to the merger, Aldi had invested approximately $2.5 billion in the Southeast market. There is no indication how many banners will be converted to Aldi at this time.