photo of Zack Wright, president of Market of Choice
Zack Wright, president, Market of Choice

Market of Choice has completed its acquisition of Basics Market in Portland’s Hillsdale neighborhood, adding a fifth location in the Portland metro area and bringing the company’s total statewide footprint to 13 stores. The transition to Market of Choice is expected to take place on June 23, with no store closure anticipated.

The deal, first announced in January, marks the latest step in the Eugene-based grocer’s expansion in Oregon. Zach Wright, president of Market of Choice, said the focus now shifts to executing a smooth handover and continuing the company’s rollout of e-commerce and delivery.

“This acquisition is a great fit for both Market of Choice and the Hillsdale community,” Wright said. “For Market of Choice, it allows us to continue growing thoughtfully in neighborhoods that value quality food, strong service and local connection.”

Plans for the Hillsdale location include an interior refresh and exterior remodel, along with a range of new offerings. Wright said the store will gain access to Market of Choice’s private label program, Supper Club meal program, DoorDash delivery, grab-and-go food and a curated selection of fresh organic produce, sustainable meat and seafood, basic staples and locally made products.

For Hillsdale shoppers, Wright said the goal is to preserve a familiar neighborhood grocery option while layering in the strengths of the broader brand.

“Our goal is to preserve a convenient local grocery option while bringing the strengths of Market of Choice to the store, including access to our private label products, fresh bakery items, natural and organic offerings, local products, and additional services over time like DoorDash ordering and Supper Club meals,” Wright said.

He said staffing continuity is a priority in the transition. Employment opportunities are being extended to current Basics Market staff.

“We value the existing store team and are pleased to be offering employment opportunities to current staff as part of the transition,” he said. “We know local employees and familiar faces matter to customers, and we’re committed to making the transition as smooth and positive as possible for both employees and shoppers.”

Basics Market founder Chuck Eggert approached Market of Choice about the acquisition, citing shared values around employee care, community investment and support for local producers.

“The legacy of Rick Wright and now the continued leadership from Zach make Market of Choice the perfect fit on every level,” Eggert said.

Oregon’s largest family-owned independent grocer, Market of Choice was founded in 1979 and operates stores in Ashland, Bend, Corvallis, Eugene, Medford and the Portland metro area. The company employs nearly 1,400 people statewide.

[RELATED: Market Of Choice Celebrates 10 Years Of MOJO Program]

 

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