Metcalfe’s to Take Over Cub in Madison

Metcalfe’s Market is expanding its commitment to Wisconsin’s capital city and its relationship with local farmers and food suppliers with its acquisition of the Cub Foods West Towne location.

“This is extremely exciting for Metcalfe’s,” said Tim Metcalfe, co-owner of Madison, Wis.-based Metcalfe’s Market. “Shoppers are telling us they want more fresh locally produced foods. This expansion will increase our customers’ access to those foods and benefit our community as a whole.”

The Cub Foods location, 7455 Mineral Point Road, is one of two Madison stores that Minneapolis-based Cub parent Supervalu Inc. will close in mid-January. “It’s going to be a miracle marathon transformation with all hands on deck working through the night to open as Metcalfe’s and beginning a new chapter in our growing business,” Metcalfe said.

Metcalfe anticipates that about 150 people will be employed at the new West Towne location, which is almost twice the number of employees under the previous owner. Former Cub employees will be offered the opportunity to apply for open positions at either Metcalfe’s Market store, the original Hilldale location or the new West Towne store.

Metcalfe’s plan includes a substantial reinvestment and remodeling of the Mineral Point Road location, which will begin in early 2012. The new Metcalfe’s will remain open during renovations, with plans to be completed by November of next year.

“We are looking forward to renovating the space,” commented co-owner Kevin Metcalfe. “It will be everything you woud expect from a Metcalfe’s, with some exciting refinements.”

Supervalu said its decision to close the Cub stores in Madison after 25 years in operation is due to a “highly competitive marketplace” and the need to “take steps to improve the strength of its company overall while positioning itself for the future.”

Metcalfe’s Market is an independent retailer that currently owns and operates two stores, in Madison and Wauwatosa, Wis.