MINNEAPOLIS, MN - SuperValu will serve as a grocery wholesaler and distributor for the Fresh Market, according to a long-term agreement that was announced this morning, August 15.

“We are excited about this relationship with SuperValu,” said The Fresh Market’s President and CEO Rick Anicetti, according to a press release. He went on to say that this new relationship would enhance its customer experience, with a focus on providing superior quality and freshness at a greater value, adding, “SuperValu’s experience in wholesale grocery and logistics capabilities aligns well with our strategic vision and will make them a valuable strategic partner for our future.”

In this new role, SuperValu will supply The Fresh Market with signature grocery products ranging several departments of the store.

According to both companies, the intention is for SuperValu to become the primary distributor once The Fresh Market completes the transition with current distribution relationships.

“The Fresh Market is a terrific organization with a tremendous store base and a great consumer offering,” SuperValu President and CEO Mark Gross commented. “The stores offer a great shopping experience. They are extremely well merchandised, meet customer demand with a keen focus on fresh, and provide a wonderful mix of traditional and specialty products. This is an excellent example of how our experience, strong distribution network, and overall wholesale capabilities can serve larger grocery chains while also being flexible to the needs of specialty-focused retailers.”

As we’ve previously reported, it has been a year of changes and transitions for The Fresh Market, having been acquired by Apollo Global Management, LLC, last spring and, most recently, delaying the opening of new locations in several states.

Currently, the expectation is that SuperValu will begin serving some of The Fresh Market’s stores as early as this fall, taking on additional stores throughout the transition.

SuperValu The Fresh Market