A local supermarket chain is expanding its network of stores. Geissler’s Supermarket will acquire Simsbury grocery store Fitzgerald’s Foods, though the store will keep its name.
Geissler’s officials announced Friday morning that they hopes to retain the entire staff of Fitzgerald’s Foods, including its current owners, under a purchase agreement that is expected to close in mid-June.
The deal will expand on Geissler’s group of seven stores across Connecticut and Massachusetts, including in Granby, East Windsor, Somers, and South Windsor.
Fitzgerald’s Foods is currently independently owned and operated by Bryan and Sandy DeVoe, who purchased it from the Fitzgerald family in July 2010.
Geissler’s spokesperson Carol Carlson said Friday afternoon that the sale came about due to an existing close relationship between the two companies, including sharing the same wholesaler.
Carlson said Fitzgerald’s Foods will stay as Fitzgerald’s Foods once the sale is completed, “until or if ever comes a time to change it.”
Geissler’s plans to “bring the best of Fitzgerald’s and best of Geissler’s together to create a better shopping experience,” Carlson said.
Bob Rybick, president and CEO of Geissler’s, said in a statement that Fitzgerald’s Foods has a long history in Simsbury that Geissler’s plans to uphold.
“It was clear, early on, that we share the same commitment to fresh, quality foods and locally produced products as the DeVoes,” Rybick said. “We plan to continue those great traditions, and learn from their expertise in fresh to enhance both Fitzgerald’s and all the Geissler’s stores in the future.”
Geissler’s acquisition comes at a time of transformation for two of the company’s existing stores. The Geissler’s in Granby celebrated its grand reopening on May 4, adding on a new kitchen and expanded bakery and deli departments, while the South Windsor supermarket and its immediate surroundings could receive a major facelift as a development is planned for the plaza it occupies.
Carlson said the landlord of its South Windsor store and the developer looking to revitalize the property are working with the town on redevelopment plans.
“In the meantime, we will continue to support the South Windsor community,” Carlson said.
Original article found at CT Insider.
