US-based C&S Wholesale Grocers has revealed plans to acquire a majority stake in supermarket chain The Winn-Dixie Company.
The grocer had previously formed part of a group of private investors that acquired Winn-Dixie from ALDI US last year.
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Financial details of the new deal, including its value and the resulting ownership arrangement, have not been made public.
Winn-Dixie’s chief executive Anthony Hucker will move into a special adviser role over the next few months.
Raymond Rhee will take over as CEO until the deal is finalised.
Hucker said: “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.
“As my role evolves, my commitment to Winn-Dixie only grows stronger, and I have full confidence in Raymond and this leadership team, as they are deeply experienced and fully committed to the future we are building.”
Winn-Dixie is set to maintain an office base in Jacksonville, Florida.
According to the company, the transaction forms part of its broader “strategic growth plan”, which involves updating the Winn-Dixie brand and shopping experience, launching new store locations, renovating existing outlets, and growing its range of own-label products.
The transaction is anticipated to be finalised in early 2027.
Founded in 1918, C&S Wholesale Grocers runs a network of 60 distribution centres across the US.
The group’s portfolio of businesses includes Grocers Supply, Hansen Distribution Group, Davidson Specialty Foods and SpartanNash.
C&S CEO Eric Winn added: “To continue to grow in the industry – not only today, but well into the future – there is even more opportunity within our retail footprint, especially in the Southeast.
“I want to thank Anthony Hucker for his leadership as we continue the strong legacy of C&S and Winn-Dixie for many generations to come.”
Last September, C&S finalised its purchase of US food solutions provider SpartanNash Company in a $1.77bn deal that had been agreed in June 2025.
Last month, C&S cut prices on thousands of grocery items across its regional store banners, including Family Fare, Martin’s Super Markets and Piggly Wiggly, as part of an effort to give shoppers added value on frequently purchased goods during the summer period.
