Homeland Stores Purchases Four Super Save Foods Stores in North Texas

Homeland Stores, Inc., a regional supermarket chain and subsidiary of Associated Wholesale Grocers, plans to purchase four Super Save Food stores in north Texas owned by William “Bill” Kiker that range in square footage from 25,000 to 39,000 square feet.

The Oklahoma City-based Homeland Stores has expanded its operations in Oklahoma the past five years, primarily through three strategic acquisitions. The company purchased seven Oklahoma stores from Albertsons in 2007, 26 from United Supermarkets, and five more stores from Williams Discount Food Stores (formerly Albertsons) in December 2008. The four Super Save stores are located in the Texas cities of Weatherford, Sanger, Justin and River Oaks.

“The purchase of these four Super Save Food stores marks our return to the growing north Texas market,” said Oklahoma City-based Homeland’s CEO, Darryl Fitzgerald. “Bill Kiker is respected in our industry as one of the best grocery store operators in the area. His personal involvement in the operations and historic focus on customers has resulted in a loyal following in the community. Since the brand is so well thought of in these communities, we will keep the Super Save Food name. These stores have consistently performed well in a competitive market, which is a tribute to Bill and his team. As a result, we expect minimal changes in the stores and a seamless transition. For customers, it will be business as usual, and they can count on the same impeccable service provided by the same smiling faces.”

Kiker said he had been courted by a number of potential buyers of the four stores, but was waiting or an offer from the right retailer. “We have been approached several times in the past few years by companies wanting to purchase our stores,” Kiker said. “We would not sell our stores to just any operator. It had to be the right one. These stores have been our life, and we consider the customers part of our family. For us to sell, we had to meet a special operator who shared our commitment to customers. We found the right operator in Homeland Stores. They not only recognized what these stores mean to the community, but also respected what we had accomplished through the years. Most importantly, they share our focus on value, quality and service. We are confident that the future is bright for Super Save Foods as part of the Homeland Stores family.”

The transaction is expected to close on August 26, 2011, and Associated Wholesale Grocers will supply the four stores. The purchase price was not disclosed.