Merge & Acquisition
C&S Wholesale Grocers to Acquire SpartanNash for $1.77B
C&S SpartanNash Acquisition Set to Reshape U.S. Grocery Landscape
The C&S SpartanNash acquisition is making headlines as the two grocery giants join forces in a $1.77 billion agreement. This deal brings significant changes to both wholesale and retail grocery operations across the country.
Details Behind the $1.77 Billion Deal
C&S Wholesale Grocers announced this week that it will acquire SpartanNash in a deal expected to close in late 2025. Together, the combined company will operate over 200 grocery stores and nearly 60 distribution centers nationwide.
C&S CEO Eric Winn emphasized the importance of this move. “Our industry faces rising costs and slower growth,” he explained. “This integration helps expand our wholesale and retail reach for long-term success.”
This marks C&S’s second major acquisition this year. In February, the company, alongside other investors, acquired Southeastern Grocers. That deal included the Winn-Dixie and Harveys Supermarket banners.
SpartanNash’s Growth and Strategic Vision
SpartanNash has also been active in expanding its footprint. In late 2024, the company acquired Fresh Encounter Inc. and Markham Enterprises’ convenience stores. These deals added 49 grocery stores across Ohio, Indiana, and Kentucky, along with three convenience locations.
SpartanNash CEO Tony Sarsam shared his long-term vision for growth. “Mergers and acquisitions remain central to our strategy,” he said. “We actively pursue opportunities that create value for shareholders and support our success.”
Sarsam believes the C&S SpartanNash acquisition aligns perfectly with that mission. The deal offers new career opportunities for SpartanNash employees while supporting the company’s People First culture.
What the Deal Means for Independent Grocers
Industry experts see this acquisition as a positive step for independent retailers. The combined purchasing power will help neighborhood grocers compete with big-box chains.
Sarsam highlighted this point, stating, “Neighborhood grocers are vital to our communities. This deal helps preserve and strengthen them.” He added that thriving local stores support farmers, boost the economy, and promote community health.
C&S’s Commitment to Growth Despite Challenges
Despite recent progress, C&S has also faced obstacles. In May, the company announced the closure of a Florida distribution center, resulting in nearly 500 layoffs. However, its retail business continues to grow following its investment in Southeastern Grocers.
This acquisition of SpartanNash further solidifies C&S’s position as a major player in both wholesale and retail grocery operations.
Conclusion
The C&S SpartanNash acquisition represents a major shift in the U.S. grocery market. With expanded scale, improved efficiency, and stronger purchasing power, both companies are poised for long-term success.