C&S Wholesale Grocers Boosts Winn-Dixie Stake

C&S Wholesale Grocers is significantly increasing its ownership in Winn-Dixie, signaling an accelerated push into the Southeast retail grocery market. This strategic move, anticipated to finalize in early 2027, will grant the wholesale giant majority control over the established Southeastern grocer. This development builds upon a prior transaction in 2025 where C&S was part of a consortium that acquired Winn-Dixie from ALDI U.S.

The enhanced stake is designed to bolster Winn-Dixie's operational efficiency and supply chain capabilities. C&S aims to inject resources that will enable a revitalization of the Winn-Dixie brand, including store renovations, new location openings, and an expansion of its private-label product offerings. This strategic infusion is expected to support Winn-Dixie's long-term expansion blueprint, reinforcing its presence in key markets like Florida, where it has a century-long history.

This latest acquisition follows C&S's recent integration with SpartanNash, a move that management asserts has fortified its capacity to serve a diverse range of grocery retail formats nationwide. The company views the Southeast as a critical growth corridor, leveraging its expanding retail footprint alongside its core wholesale distribution business. C&S now operates over 200 corporate-owned stores under various banners, including D&W Fresh Market and Family Fare, in addition to its extensive distribution network serving numerous independent and chain grocers.

The long-standing relationship between C&S and Winn-Dixie, spanning over two decades, is expected to facilitate a smoother integration process. This established rapport is anticipated to unlock significant operational synergies in purchasing, logistics, and supply chain management. For Winn-Dixie, the backing of C&S's considerable scale offers crucial capital for store development and modernization initiatives.

Eric Winn, CEO of C&S Wholesale Grocers, highlighted the company's transformative M&A strategy, stating, “Our combination has already strengthened the skills and capabilities we need to win in the marketplace while clearly demonstrating that our continued growth has been greatly enhanced with our transformative M&A.” He further emphasized the strategic importance of the Southeast, noting, “there is even more opportunity within our retail footprint, especially in the Southeast.”

Anthony Hucker, current CEO of Winn-Dixie, expressed confidence in the transition, remarking, “This proposed next step with C&S is a natural evolution of a partnership built on trust, shared purpose and a deep belief in what the hometown grocer still means to the communities we serve.” He added, “I have full confidence in Raymond and this leadership team, as they are deeply experienced and fully committed to the future we are building.” Raymond Rhee will assume the CEO role at Winn-Dixie until the transaction closes, while Hucker will serve as a special advisor.