Albertson’s Set to Purchase United Supermarkets

Albertson’s LLC has agreed to purchase 51 stores from United Supermarkets. Albertson’s has quite a reach across the U.S., with over 600 stores in 16 states. United Supermarkets is based out of Lubbock, TX, and operates under the names United Supermarkets, Market Street, and Amigos and has stores in Wichita Falls, Amarillo and Lubbock - as well as many smaller Texas markets.

The terms of the sale have not been revealed, but United will not operate under the Albertson’s name. Robert Taylor, CEO for United, stated:

We are all very excited to be joining the Albertson’s family, which will provide us tremendous opportunities to invest in our stores and grow. We will continue to make decisions locally, consistent with Albertson’s LLC’s decentralized structure, and faithfully maintain our unwavering commitment to our Texas communities, guests and team members.

United has been family owned since 1916, so the purchase comes as a surprise to many. Matt Bumstead is United Co-President and an ownership family member. He also issued a statement regarding the purchase:

We are grateful for and humbled by the 97 years we have had to be a part of United’s mission of service. With this ownership transition, we see a chance for United’s impact and legacy to grow for decades to come. With the strength and stability they (Albertson’s LLC) have to offer our team members, we believe that this new ownership, working with our world-class team, can take United’s vision and mission to places and levels previously beyond our reach. ... We believe United’s best days are ahead.

The transaction is expected to take place by the end of October.

[Amarillo.com]