Iselin, New Jersey-based Allegiance Retail Services, a retailer-owned grocery co-op, has announced that three Brigido’s Fresh Markets in Rhode Island have joined its roster of independently-owned supermarkets.
The stores were acquired by independent grocers Mike and Melissa Fernandez, who are Allegiance Retail Service members and operate stores under the Foodtown banner.
Established by Augusto Brigido in 1943, the supermarkets in North Scituate, Pascoag and Slatersville were part of the Brigido family for more than 80 years.
Although the stores are already operating, grand openings with special events will occur in early September. They will be sourced through Allegiance.
“This was an ideal opportunity for our family,” said Mike Fernandez on the transaction. “We wanted to expand our footprint and, as a family, hoped to move farther up the East Coast.
“When Brigido’s markets became available, it was a perfect match for both families. The Brigido’s were looking to sell the markets to someone who would run them as a family-run fresh market and we only operate family-owned stores.”
The Fernandez family operate three other stores and have been in the industry for more than 30 years.
“It’s a very tough business today, but my wife and I love the customers, learning about them and hearing their stories,” he said. “You have to love what you do in order to find success and we love going to work every day and serving our customers.”
Each Brigido’s has recently been updated, and customers soon will see a larger, diversified product line and promotional program.
In addition to traditional grocery items, new lines of organic and natural foods will be offered, as well as expanded sections for dairy and prepared foods and an island of imported meats and cheeses.
Other additions worth noting include a loyalty rewards program, home delivery services and curbside pickup.
“The changes we made have positioned us to be more competitive with other grocers in the area while maintaining a fresh product line in all departments, especially in our perishable department,” Fernandez said.
