Kroger and Albertsons’ attempt to combine dominated the grocery M&A spotlight in 2024, with pivotal moments including an updated divestiture deal, three separate lawsuits and trials, and now an explosive post-decision lawsuit.
Against the background of this mega-merger saga, other grocery companies were also busy building out their operations.
SpartanNash, in particular, made significant strides throughout the year, acquiring two regional grocers and a convenience store operator. In April, the company announced the acquisition of Metcalfe’s Market, a three-store Wisconsin grocery chain, and then in October bought Fresh Encounter, which operates 49 stores across Ohio, Indiana and Kentucky. The latter deal grew SpantanNash’s store portfolio by a third.
While SpartanNash also picked up a convenience store and fueling company, Giant Eagle sold off its c-store assets. The Pennsylvania-based chain in August sold its 270 GetGo Cafe + Market stores to Alimentation Couche-Tard.
Hy-Vee also partook in M&A activity this year when it acquired Strack & Van Til. The deal adds 22 stores to the Iowa grocer’s footprint and comes at a time when Hy-Vee is looking to bolster its presence across the Midwest.
As 2024 wraps up, here’s a roundup of other major M&A grocery news from the past 12 months.
