Fresh Encounter operates 49 supermarket stores. Credit: SpartanNash/PRNewswire.

US-based food solutions company SpartanNash has expanded its retail footprint with the acquisition of supermarket chain Fresh Encounter (FEI).

The move expands its retail operations by 33%.

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SpartanNash’s acquisition of FEI is in line with its 2025 long-term plan and follows the addition of Metcalfe’s Market in April 2024.  

Expansion into Kentucky and growth in Ohio and Indiana are expected to contribute to the company’s growth and earnings goals. 

Fresh Encounter, a food distribution customer of SpartanNash for 58 years, operates a network of 49 supermarket locations in Ohio, Indiana and Kentucky. 

The supermarket operates under the Community Markets, Remke Markets and Chief Markets banners.  

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SpartanNash will retain FEI’s 2,500 team members. 

SpartanNash CEO Tony Sarsam said: “Fresh Encounter has been a successful family-owned and operated business for decades, and we are proud to continue this legacy. 

“This acquisition is an exciting milestone in our company’s strategic growth plans. Not only will we welcome 2,500 new associates to the SpartanNash family, we will also begin serving shoppers in Kentucky and grow our existing footprint across Ohio and Indiana.  

“Retail is a critical component of our business model and long-term strategic plan, as we meet consumer needs and leverage insights from our stores to continuously innovate our products and operations across our wholesale business.”    

The transaction is set to close in late November 2024.  Financial terms have not been disclosed. 

FEI CEO Michael Needler Jr stated: “We are proud of the business our family has built and look forward to advancing our relationship with SpartanNash.”