Albertson’s LLC announced late Monday afternoon that it intends to acquire United Supermarkets LLC (The United Family), based in Lubbock, Texas. United operates 50 retail stores under three banners: United Supermarkets, Market Street and Amigos. Additionally, its United Express brand has seven convenience stores and 26 fuel centers. United operates two divisions: RC Taylor, which distributes tobacco, candy and general merchandise, and Praters, which manufactures many different prepared foods like meats, side dishes and fresh tortillas; and one subsidiary: Llano Logistics, which operates two distribution centers in Lubbock and Roanoke, Texas. Upon completion of the transaction, United will operate as a new business unit under Albertson’s LLC’s company structure. Robert Taylor, current CEO, will continue to lead United in his new capacity of president, reporting directly to Bob Miller, CEO of Albertson’s LLC.
Terms of the transaction were not disclosed.
Matt Bumstead, United co-president and ownership family member, said, “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. Our deepest thanks go out to all who have supported United and our family throughout the years. We believe United’s best days are all ahead.”
Albertson’s CEO Miller said, “United has built an exemplary operation in Texas, complementary to our own go-to-market strategy in many respects. The family and leadership team have done a tremendous job in establishing and perpetuating a remarkable service culture and commitment to fresh, quality foods throughout their stores, even as they’ve grown. They’ve also developed strong community programs that have engaged team members and given back tremendously to their Texas communities, just as our Albertsons stores do every day. Our team feels there is an exceptional opportunity to invest in and grow their brands.”
The chain, which had been family-owned since 1916, will continue to operate much as it does today following the acquisition. United will continue to make decisions locally, similar to the other operating divisions in Albertson’s LLC. This transaction is expected to be complete by the end of October, subject to customary government approvals.
“United has an entrepreneurial spirit, just like Albertsons,” Miller said. “We’ve learned over the last seven years that our decentralized operating strategy empowers local management to build stronger brands across diverse market areas. United has operated much the same way in their acquisitions of R.C. Taylor and Praters in 2007 and 2009, respectively. It’s a great fit between two great companies. United runs a fantastic operation, and will maintain its own unique identity.”
Taylor added, “United will continue to make decisions locally and maintain a strong commitment to our Texas communities, our guests and our team members. The opportunities presented to us to invest in our stores and grow with this transaction are tremendous.”
Currently, Boise, Idaho-based Albertson’s LLC operates 76 stores in Texas, the majority of which are in the Dallas-Fort Worth Metroplex, and has just more than 600 stores company-wide. After the acquisition is complete, Albertson’s LLC will operate approximately 650 stores and 11 distribution centers in 16 states.
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