The Fresh Market Names Supervalu as New Wholesaler

The Fresh Market has inked a long-term supply agreement with Supervalu to serve as its grocery wholesaler and distributor. The new supply alliance for the 176-store retailer begins this fall, when the Eden Prairie, Minn.-based wholesaler will supply the Greensboro, N.C.-based chain with traditional and signature products across a range of categories, including  meat, deli/bakery, grocery, frozen foods and dairy.

“Supervalu’s experience in wholesale grocery and logistics capabilities aligns well with our strategic vision and will make them a valuable strategic partner for our future,” said Rick Anicetti, The Fresh Market's president/CEO. Among the key benefits of the new contract with Supervalu, Anicetti continued, is an enhanced "customer experience, with a focus on providing superior quality and freshness at a greater value."

The addition of The Fresh Market is a big win for Supervalu. The wholesaler's president and CEO, Mark Gross, described the retailer as "a terrific organization with a tremendous store base and a great consumer offering. The stores offer a great shopping experience [and are] extremely well merchandised [and] meet customer demand with a keen focus on fresh," as well as offering "a wonderful mix of traditional and specialty products. This is an excellent example of how our experience, strong distribution network and overall wholesale capabilities can serve larger grocery chains while also being flexible to the needs of specialty-focused retailers.”

The Fresh Market previously worked with Milford, Del.-based Burris Logistics, which provided the chain with signature perishable offerings and health and beauty items.