C&S Wholesale Grocers has entered into an agreement to purchase Wisconsin-based wholesaler Piggly Wiggly Midwest, which operates corporate stores and services independent franchisees under a chain-style program.
Since 1911, Sheboygan, Wisconsin has been the home to Piggly Wiggly Midwest's headquarters where it has its corporate offices and two of its distribution centers. A third distribution center is located in Milwaukee.
"With more than 102 years in the rapidly changing grocery industry, the foundation of C&S's success has been our ability to adapt and innovate ahead of market trends to better serve our customers. It's this legacy that drives our unrelenting focus on innovative go-to-market strategies and customer service. We consistently review opportunities to grow and expand into new geographies, segments and services to ensure the Company's long-term success," said Rick Cohen, executive chairman, C&S Wholesale Grocers, in a statement.
As part of the acquisition, C&S will operate 11 Piggly Wiggly Midwest corporate stores and service 14 Butera Market stores in the Chicagoland region, as well as 84 Wisconsin franchisees under the Piggly Wiggly brand. As part of this agreement, the current distribution centers and offices will continue to operate. The sale transaction is anticipated to close by the end of this month, subject to regulatory approval and other customary closing conditions.
"Although it has been a very difficult decision, the sale of Piggly Wiggly Midwest to C&S is a natural next step for this historic brand. Piggly Wiggly is more than a supermarket, it is a family of franchise operators, employees and loyal Pig Point customers too. C&S has the experience and knowledge to ensure that this 100-year old icon continues for the next 100 years," said Paul Butera Sr., president, Piggly Wiggly Midwest and founder, Butera Market, in a statement.
Related: Piggly Wiggly Store Owners Acquire Bi-Lo Locations; Bi-Lo Stores Sold to Alex Lee, B&T Foods.
Image: C&S Wholesaler Grocers