Kings-Balducci’s Names KeHE Specialty Food Distributor

Kings Food Markets and Balducci’s Food Lover’s Market has selected KeHE Distributors as its specialty distributor for natural/organic, specialty and private label items. The agreement takes effect immediately, with the transition to be completed this summer.

An upscale gourmet food market, Kings is recognized as a pioneer within the specialty food industry. It began in 1936, selling the freshest produce possible, and now provides a unique shopping experience with the highest-quality foods. Kings operates 25 stores in New Jersey, New York and Connecticut.

Specialty food retailer Balducci’s started in 1916 and has grown into a gourmet powerhouse, specializing in hand-selected meats and cheeses, restaurant-quality prepared foods and fresh-baked products in its 10 locations in Maryland, Virginia, New York and Connecticut.

Both Kings and Balducci’s were acquired by Delaware-based KB Holdings in 2016.

“By choosing KeHE, we have selected a specialty supplier that shares our collective passion for food, which continues to be the enduring foundation of our success,” said Judith Spires, chairman and CEO, Kings and Balducci’s. “This partnership will continue to grow our business while enhancing our ability to deliver an expertly curated selection of offerings to the communities we serve.”

Naperville, Ill.-based KeHE Distributors supplies natural/organic, specialty and fresh products to natural food stores, chain grocery stores, independent grocery stores and other specialty product retailers throughout North America. It is B Corp Certified and employee-owned.