Buehler's Fresh Foods to acquire 3 Sander's stores in Ohio

Buehler's Fresh Foods, the Wooster, Ohio-based grocer, plans to acquire three Sander's stores in Ohio, according to The Shelby Report, which published the news on Wednesday, Oct. 21. The Wooster Daily Record also reported the deal and said Sander's employees are being offered an ownership opportunity.

The Shelby Report says Sander's website lists three Ohio stores, in Cadiz, Carrollton and Jefferson. The chain also has three stores in Pennsylvania (Franklin, Corry and North East) and one in Salamanca, New York. The reports describe the acquisition as covering the Ohio stores. Buehler's says it will expand its business and strengthen its presence in the state, subject to completion of the transaction.

What changes for shoppers

Buehler's intends to keep the Sander's name for the immediate future. It also plans a measured transition, meaning it will learn from the Sander's team and its customer relationships before making changes, according to The Shelby Report.

What changes for employees

Buehler's has been employee-owned since 2017. It will welcome Sander's Ohio team members into its employee stock ownership plan, or ESOP, a plan that lets employees hold shares in the company. Eligible employees will have the opportunity to become part owners, The Shelby Report says.

A statement quoted by The Shelby Report says the announcement is "about much more than three stores or additional sales."

Mark Sanders, co-owner of North East, Pa.-based Sander's Markets, said in Progressive Grocer's report: "This is definitely a bittersweet moment for our family and for me personally." Progressive Grocer also reported that The Food Partners served as strategic and financial advisor to Buehler's in the acquisition.

The sources reviewed do not give a purchase price or a closing date.

Why it matters

For shoppers in Cadiz, Carrollton and Jefferson, the Sander's name is slated to stay for the immediate future, and Buehler's says it plans a measured transition.