Albertson's Plans To Acquire United Supermarkets
By Sam Lewis
Addition of local retailer expands national grocer’s brand
Based out of Boise, ID, and operating more than 600 stores, Albertson’s aims to acquire Lubbock, TX-based, independent grocer, United Supermarkets. In addition to its namesake, United Supermarkets operates Market Street and Amigos stores, seven convenience stores, three distribution centers, and 26 fuel centers. The acquisition would push Albertson’s to over 650 retail stores and 11 distribution centers throughout 16 states.
When the transaction completes — currently projected at the end of October pending government approval — United will operate as a new business built under Albertson’s structure. “United has built an exemplary operation in Texas, complementary to our own go-to-market strategy in many respects,” says Bob Miller, CEO of Albertson’s. “Our team feels there is an exceptional opportunity to invest in and grow their (United) brands.”
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Current CEO of United, Robert Taylor, will remain the leader of United in his new role as president, reporting directly to Miller. According to Albertson’s, United will continue operating much in the same way as before transaction. “United will continue to make decisions locally and maintain a strong commitment to our Texas communities, our guests, and our team members,” Taylor explains. “The opportunities presented to us to invest in our stores and grow with this transaction are tremendous.”
United not only has its hand in retail, it also operates RC Taylor — a distributor of tobacco, candy, hardware, and general merchandise. In addition, it manages Praters — a manufacturer of several prepared food items like meat, side dishes, and tortillas — and Llano Logistics, which has two distribution centers located in Lubbock and Roanoke, TX. “United has an entrepreneurial spirit, just like Albertsons,” continued Miller. “We’ve learned over the last seven years that our decentralized operating strategy empowers local management to build stronger brands across diverse market areas. United has operated much the same way in their acquisitions of R.C. Taylor and Praters in 2007 and 2009, respectively. It’s a great fit between two great companies. United runs a fantastic operation, and will maintain its own unique identity.”
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