Southeastern Grocers transitions to new ownership as C&S Wholesale Grocers leads acquisition

Southeastern Grocers Inc. (SEG), the parent company of Winn-Dixie grocery stores and Harveys Supermarket, has officially transitioned to new ownership. A consortium of private investors, led by C&S Wholesale Grocers alongside SEG’s current President, CEO, and newly appointed Chair, Anthony Hucker, has acquired SEG from ALDI U.S., marking a pivotal moment in the company’s century-long history.

This strategic acquisition repositions SEG for sustained growth and operational stability while reinforcing its deep-rooted commitment to the communities it serves across the Southeastern United States. The deal encompasses all SEG grocery and liquor store operations under the Winn-Dixie and Harveys Supermarket banners, including approximately 170 stores across Alabama, Florida, Georgia, Louisiana, and Mississippi.

With the new ownership now in place, the consortium has assumed day-to-day operations, while ALDI U.S. will continue its planned conversion of certain SEG locations into ALDI stores—a process that began in 2024 and is expected to conclude in 2027.

What does the Southeastern Grocers acquisition mean for customers?

The Southeastern Grocers acquisition promises continuity and growth, ensuring that customers will continue to receive the same level of service and product quality they’ve come to expect. According to SEG’s new leadership, the company’s core mission remains unchanged: to serve its communities with excellence, foster strong neighbourhood ties, and deliver value-driven shopping experiences.

Anthony Hucker, who now holds the roles of Chair, CEO, and President, emphasised that SEG’s 100-year legacy will guide its path forward. “We are profoundly grateful and deeply honoured to continue serving the communities we cherish,” Hucker said. He highlighted that SEG’s growth strategy will focus on reinvestment in its store fleet and enhancing customer experiences, with initiatives grounded in direct feedback from loyal shoppers.

Hucker’s leadership is expected to play a central role in navigating Southeastern Grocers through this new chapter. His extensive experience in the grocery retail sector positions him to lead the company with a clear vision for sustainable growth, operational excellence, and community engagement.

How will C&S Wholesale Grocers influence Southeastern Grocers’ future?

C&S Wholesale Grocers, a key player in the U.S. grocery supply chain since its founding in 1918, brings over a century of industry expertise to its new partnership with SEG. The company services more than 7,500 independent supermarkets, chain stores, military bases, and institutions nationwide, with a portfolio of over 100,000 products.

Eric Winn, CEO of C&S Wholesale Grocers, expressed optimism about the future of SEG under the consortium’s leadership. “This consortium continues C&S and SEG’s longstanding relationship. For 20 years, we have worked together to feed our communities,” Winn stated. He reaffirmed C&S’s commitment to supporting SEG’s transformation strategy, which aligns with C&S’s broader goals of being both an industry-leading grocery wholesaler and an active player in the retail market.

Winn further noted that C&S will leverage its supply chain expertise to improve operational efficiencies across SEG’s store network. By focusing on cost-effective sourcing, logistics optimisation, and enhancing product availability, C&S aims to strengthen SEG’s competitive position in the Southeastern U.S. grocery market.

What happens to Winn-Dixie and Harveys Supermarket stores under the new ownership?

The acquisition covers all Winn-Dixie grocery stores, liquor stores, and Harveys Supermarket locations currently operated by SEG. Approximately 170 stores across five Southeastern states will remain under SEG’s management, with no immediate changes expected in their daily operations. Customers can continue shopping at their local stores, with the same familiar faces and a consistent focus on quality service.

However, the agreement also honours ALDI U.S.’s previously announced plans to convert around 220 SEG stores to the ALDI format. This multi-year conversion process, which began in March 2024, will continue as scheduled through 2027. During this time, Southeastern Grocers will maintain operations at these locations until each store is temporarily closed for conversion. Both ALDI and SEG leadership have committed to ensuring a smooth transition, with dedicated teams overseeing the process to minimise disruptions for employees and customers.

Why is this acquisition significant for the Southeastern grocery market?

The acquisition reflects broader trends in the U.S. grocery industry, where consolidation and strategic partnerships are reshaping the competitive landscape. The Southeastern U.S., in particular, has become a hotbed for grocery expansion, with regional brands like Winn-Dixie and Harveys Supermarket holding strong cultural and economic significance.

For SEG, this change in ownership represents an opportunity to strengthen its market position amid growing competition from national chains like ALDI, Publix, and Kroger. By aligning with C&S Wholesale Grocers, SEG gains access to advanced supply chain capabilities, improved product sourcing, and operational efficiencies that can help drive growth in both traditional retail and e-commerce channels.

Financial experts have noted that the deal could help Southeastern Grocers streamline its operations while focusing on reinvesting in store renovations, digital transformation, and customer-centric initiatives. RBC Capital Markets, LLC, which served as the financial advisor to the consortium, highlighted the strategic importance of the acquisition in fostering long-term growth and stability for SEG. Legal counsel for the deal was provided by Foley & Lardner LLP and Sullivan & Cromwell LLP.

What’s next for Southeastern Grocers?

As SEG embarks on this new chapter, its leadership remains committed to honouring the company’s rich heritage while embracing innovation and growth. The focus will be on reinvestment in store infrastructure, enhancing the customer experience, and deepening community engagement.

Under the guidance of Anthony Hucker and with the strategic support of C&S Wholesale Grocers, SEG aims to expand its footprint, diversify its offerings, and adapt to the evolving needs of modern consumers. While the grocery landscape continues to change, SEG’s commitment to quality, service, and community remains steadfast—a legacy it plans to carry forward for generations to come.