UNFI (United Natural Foods, Inc.), a Rhode Island-based wholesaler, became the owner of Cub when it acquired SuperValu in 2018 for $2.9 billion.
The Acquisition of SuperValu
The direct acquisition of Cub was part of a larger strategic move by UNFI to expand its distribution and retail footprint. SuperValu, which owned Cub at the time, was a key target for UNFI. The 2018 transaction significantly reshaped the grocery landscape, bringing Cub under UNFI's corporate umbrella. This acquisition allowed UNFI to integrate a major retail chain into its extensive distribution network.
UNFI's Current Ownership and Portfolio
Following the acquisition and subsequent strategic decisions, UNFI has streamlined its retail portfolio. While some retail brands previously owned by SuperValu have been divested over the years, UNFI continues to operate a significant number of grocery stores, including Cub.
Currently, UNFI owns:
- 54 Cub locations: Primarily concentrated in the Twin Cities area.
- 22 Shoppers stores: Located on the East Coast.
This ownership structure highlights UNFI's commitment to these specific retail brands as core components of its business strategy, focusing on their continued relevance and performance in their respective markets.