Nash Finch to Buy Bag ‘N Save

Nash Finch Co. subsidiary U Save Foods Inc. has entered into an agreement to purchase the Bag ‘N Save supermarkets located in Omaha and York, Neb.

A family-owned business with roots in the grocery business in Omaha going back to the early 1940s, Bag ‘N Save was founded as a company in 1981. The transaction, which includes 12 stores, is expected to be completed by the second quarter of 2012.

“While the decision to sell the stores was a difficult one, we believe that there are many benefits for our employee associates, local suppliers and the community at large,” said Leon Shrago, owner of Bag ‘N Save. “With Nash Finch’s dedication towards assisting family-owned businesses, we believe they are the best fit as the new owners of Bag ‘N Save. And our customers can look forward to a seamless change since the same friendly faces everyone is so familiar with will continue to serve our customers in the stores. The stores will continue to be supplied by the Nash Finch distribution center located right here in Omaha.”

Alec Covington, Nash Finch president and CEO, added: “It is exciting for us to own the Bag ‘N Save stores and to continue the Shragos’ longstanding tradition of outstanding customer service. We look forward to welcoming Bag ‘N Save employees to the Nash Finch family.”

Minneapolis-based Nash Finch Co. distributes groceries to independent retailers and military commissaries in 36 states, the District of Columbia, Europe, Cuba, Puerto Rico the Azores, Bahrain and Egypt. The company also owns and operates retail stores under the Econofoods, Family Thrift Center, Avanza, Family Fresh Markets, Savers Choice, Wally’s Supermarkets and Sun Mart banners.