Albertson’s LLC to Acquire United Supermarkets
Albertson’s LLC plans to acquire Lubbock, Texas-based regional independent United Supermarkets, LLC -- DBA The United Family -- which operates 50 retail stores under the banners of United Supermarkets, Market Street and Amigos, as well as three distribution centers, seven convenience stores and 26 fuel centers.
“United has built an exemplary operation in Texas, complementary to our own go-to-market strategy in many respects,” explained Bob Miller, CEO of Albertson’s LLC. “The family and leadership team have done a tremendous job in establishing and perpetuating a remarkable service culture and commitment to fresh, quality foods throughout their stores, even as they’ve grown. They’ve also developed strong community programs that have engaged team members and given back tremendously to their Texas communities, just as our Albertsons stores do every day. Our team feels there is an exceptional opportunity to invest in and grow their brands.”
Upon completion of the transaction, United will operate as a new business unit under Albertson’s LLC’s company structure. Robert Taylor, current CEO, will continue to lead United in his new capacity of president, reporting directly to Miller.
United will continue to operate much as it does today following the acquisition, according to Albertsons LLC, and will continue to make decisions locally, similar to the other operating divisions in Albertson’s LLC. The transaction is expected to be complete by the end of October, subject to customary government approvals.
“United has an entrepreneurial spirit, just like Albertsons,” continued Miller. “We’ve learned over the last seven years that our decentralized operating strategy empowers local management to build stronger brands across diverse market areas. United has operated much the same way in their acquisitions of R.C. Taylor and Praters in 2007 and 2009, respectively. It’s a great fit between two great companies. United runs a fantastic operation, and will maintain its own unique identity.”
"United will continue to make decisions locally and maintain a strong commitment to our Texas communities, our guests and our team members," Taylor said. "The opportunities presented to us to invest in our stores and grow with this transaction are tremendous.”
In addition to its retail operations, United operates RC Taylor, which distributes tobacco, candy and general merchandise; Praters, which manufactures many different prepared foods including meats, side dishes and fresh tortillas; and one subsidiary, Llano Logistics, which operates two distribution centers in Lubbock and Roanoke, Texas.
Boise, Idaho-based Albertson’s LLC operates 76 stores in Texas, the majority of which are in the Dallas-Fort Worth Metroplex, and has just over 600 stores company-wide. After the acquisition is complete, it will operate approximately 650 stores and 11 distribution centers in 16 states.