C&S Wholesale Grocers Acquires SpartanNash in $1.77 Billion Deal

C&S Wholesale Grocers, LLC has completed its acquisition of SpartanNash Company, a move that significantly reshapes the U.S. grocery distribution landscape. The transaction, valued at approximately $1.77 billion, was finalized on September 22, 2025, following its initial announcement on June 23, 2025.

The acquisition was structured as an all-cash deal, with C&S purchasing SpartanNash shares at $26.90 each. This price represents a 52.5% premium over SpartanNash's closing price of $17.64 on June 20, 2025. The combined entity now operates nearly 60 distribution centers across the United States, serving close to 10,000 independent retail locations and managing over 200 corporate-run grocery stores.

Eric Winn, CEO of C&S, highlighted the strategic benefits of the merger, stating, "The combination of these two great companies creates a platform for future success. As one, we bring the best team in the industry to provide advanced solutions to ensure braggingly happy customers and feed our communities for generations to come."

Tony Sarsam, President and CEO of SpartanNash, who will serve as an advisor during the transition, expressed optimism about the merger's potential: "We are grateful to our associates, customers and partners who have supported us throughout this process. Our combined capabilities will create meaningful new opportunities for our people, customers and shoppers as we continue to deliver the ingredients for a better life."

Founded in 1918 and headquartered in Keene, New Hampshire, C&S Wholesale Grocers has grown into a leading wholesale grocery supply company in the United States. The company operates over 50 distribution centers across 16 states, serving more than 7,500 independent supermarkets, chain stores, military bases, and institutions. C&S also owns the Piggly Wiggly and Grand Union supermarket brands.

SpartanNash, established in 1917 and headquartered in Byron Center, Michigan, operates 147 corporate-owned retail stores under banners such as Family Fare, Martin's Super Markets, and D&W Fresh Market. The company is a significant distributor to independent grocers and military commissaries, serving customers in 44 states and internationally.

The merger aims to enhance supply chain efficiency and competitiveness in the grocery industry. By combining resources, the new entity seeks to provide better service experiences for chain, independent, and military customers nationwide, offering the right products at competitive prices to support tailored assortments.

Financial advisors for the transaction included Solomon Partners for C&S and BofA Securities, Inc. for SpartanNash. Legal counsel was provided by Gibson, Dunn & Crutcher LLP and Sullivan & Cromwell LLP for C&S, and Cleary Gottlieb Steen & Hamilton LLP for SpartanNash.

This acquisition follows a previous attempt by C&S to expand its retail footprint. In 2024, C&S planned to acquire 579 stores from Kroger and Albertsons as part of their proposed merger. However, the deal was terminated after regulatory opposition.

The completion of this acquisition marks a significant consolidation in the U.S. grocery distribution and retail sector. The combined entity's expanded reach and resources are poised to reshape the competitive landscape, with potential benefits for consumers, independent retailers, and the broader supply chain.