Springdale, Arkansas-based Harps Food Stores Inc. has entered into a purchase agreement to acquire Janise’s Supermarket, a local grocery store at 147 Oak Tree Park Drive in Sunset, Louisiana.
Janise’s Supermarket has been a cornerstone of the Sunset community for more than 40 years, known for its friendly atmosphere, personalized customer service and a diverse selection of products. Harps Food Stores shares the same values and plans on preserving and enhancing the traditions that have made Janise’s Supermarket a staple in the local community.
“We are thrilled to welcome Janise’s Supermarket into the Harps Food Stores family,” said Kim Eskew, chairman and CEO.
“This acquisition aligns perfectly with our strategic growth plans and allows us to expand our footprint in Louisiana. We are committed to honoring Janise’s Supermarket’s legacy and serving the Sunset community with the same level of excellence they have come to expect.”
As part of the acquisition, Harps Food Stores will retain the current staff at Janise’s Supermarket. While the timing of the transaction has not been finalized, both parties anticipate completing the transaction by the end of July 2023.
“It is with great honor that we, Janise’s Supermarket, announce the acquisition of our business by Harps Food Stores,” said Michael Dwayne Janise, co-owner.
“We firmly believe that this partnership will be immensely beneficial to the residents of Sunset, Louisiana and the surrounding area. As an ESOP [Employee Stock Ownership Plan] company, we are delighted to offer our employees a remarkable opportunity for career growth in the grocery industry. We extend our heartfelt gratitude to all our valued customers and dedicated employees for their unwavering support and patronage throughout our 49-year journey.”
The Harps store will offer customers a large variety of fresh fruits and vegetables, along with Harps Black Angus beef, all natural pork and poultry, in addition to well-stocked grocery, health and beauty care, dairy and frozen departments.
The acquisition is a significant milestone for Harps Food Stores Inc., marking its continued growth and expansion into new markets. Harps Food Stores has also recently acquired Beachler’s Hometown Market in Oklahoma, as well as seven stores in Louisiana and Mississippi.
Harps is a 100 percent employee-owned company, which operates 146 stores in six states: Arkansas, Oklahoma, Missouri, Mississippi, Louisiana and Kansas. Harps is the largest employee-owned company in Arkansas and was founded by Harvard and Floy Harp in Springdale, Arkansas in 1930.
