Chicago-based Banner Wholesale Grocers is marking its 100th anniversary in 2026, a milestone that spans four generations of family leadership and a century of serving independent grocers across the Midwest. Founded in 1926 by Ben Friedman, Banner has built its reputation as a wholesale partner through economic cycles, shifting consumer demands and significant changes in […]
Category: Midwest
Posted inCenter Store, Featured News, Finance News, Midwest, News
Marzetti Co. To Acquire Bachan’s Japanese Barbecue Sauce Brand
Westerville, Ohio-based The Marzetti Co. has entered into an agreement to acquire Bachan’s Inc., a Japanese barbecue sauce brand, for $400 million. The transaction is expected to close before Marzetti’s fiscal year end of June 30, subject to regulatory approval and customary closing conditions. Marzetti intends to fund the acquisition with cash on hand and […]
Posted inOnline Grocery Technology, Associated Wholesale Grocers, Finance News, Midwest, News, Wholesaler/Distributor News
AWG Selects RELEX For AI-Driven Forecasting Across 3.5K Stores
Kansas City, Kansas-based Associated Wholesale Grocers (AWG) has selected RELEX Solutions to optimize distribution center forecasting and replenishment across its network of 3,500 member locations. AWG will implement the RELEX artificial intelligence-driven forecasting and replenishment solution to replace its legacy in-house proprietary systems and manual processes. The platform will deliver scalability and automation to improve forecasting […]
Posted inMeat/Seafood/Poultry, Midwest, News, Suppliers
Moo & Oink Celebrates 50th Anniversary In 2026
Chicago-based meat brand Moo & Oink is celebrating its 50th anniversary in 2026 with a yearlong series of special events, new products and retailer celebrations. Shoppers will see a commemorative badge across Moo & Oink packaging, along with in-store sampling events, mascot appearances and displays at participating retailers. “Moo & Oink has always been about […]
Posted inIndependent Store News, Featured News, Meijer, Midwest, News
Meijer Employees Kept Stores Open During Winter Storm Fern
Grand Rapids, Michigan-based Meijer is praising employees who braved dangerous conditions to keep stores open and communities stocked during Winter Storm Fern, which swept across the Midwest in January. The historic storm dropped more than a foot of snow in many areas, shutting down roads and halting daily life across the region. In several communities, Meijer […]
Posted inMeat/Seafood/Poultry, Finance News, Midwest, News, Supply Chain News
Smithfield Foods Plans $1.3B Processing Facility In Sioux Falls, SD
Smithfield Foods has initiated the approval process to build a packaged meats and fresh pork processing facility in Sioux Falls, South Dakota, representing a preliminary investment estimate of up to $1.3 billion over the next three years. The facility, subject to permitting and regulatory approvals, will be built in Foundation Park, a 1,000-acre heavy industrial […]
Posted inExecutive News, Featured News, Finance News, Independent Store News, Midwest, News, Southeast, Southwest
Second Annual HFG Awards Program Honors 15 Store Managers From 6 States
Houchens Food Group continued its Store Manager Appreciation Awards for the second year, culminating with the announcement of the 2025 HFG Store Manager of the Year. The company recently hosted 15 lunch banquets divided by region and banner. The events included individual recognition of store managers, as well as a selection of other awards. In […]
Posted inCorporate Store News, Fresh Thyme, Midwest, News
Fresh Thyme Market Extends Health, Hunger Relief Partnerships Into 2026
Fresh Thyme Market is continuing its partnerships with Vitamin Angels and Feeding America in 2026 while extending its Price Lock initiative, the Downers Grove, Illinois-based grocer announced Feb. 13. The retailer marked a decade-long partnership with Vitamin Angels in 2025, helping provide essential vitamins and minerals to more than 7 million women and children in […]