Delhaize Completes Divestment of 3 Banners

Delhaize Group has completed the divestment of its Sweetbay, Harveys and Reid's operations to Jacksonville, Fla.-based Bi-Lo Holdings for $246 million in cash, subject to customary post-closing adjustments.

In a separate transaction, the Brussels-based retail conglomerate also completed the sale of its distribution center in Plant City, Fla., to Keene, N.H.-based C&S Wholesale Grocers for $28 million.

Delhaize Belgium and Luxembourg CEO Named

In other Delhaize news, the company has appointed Denis Knoops its new CEO for Delhaize Belgium and Luxembourg, effective immediately. Knoops replaces Dirk Van den Berghe, who resigned last week.

A 22-year Delhaize veteran, Knoops has held a range of commercial, operational, strategic and real estate roles across Belgium, the United States and Asia. Since 2006, he has been a member of the Delhaize Belgium Executive Committee, where he led the network of affiliates, in addition to new markets and real estate.

"Denis is a seasoned leader with a strong customer orientation and a thorough knowledge of both food retail and Delhaize Group," said Frans Muller, the company's president and CEO.

Delhaize is present in nine countries on three continents. Its U.S. operations are Food Lion, Hannaford Supermarkets and Bottom Dollar Food.