News Summary

Southeastern Grocers (SEG) is rebranding as The Winn-Dixie Company, focusing solely on the Florida market by early 2026. This strategic move involves exiting several states and enhancing store operations within Florida. The company plans to acquire existing markets and strengthen community connections, aiming for approximately 130 grocery stores in Florida and Georgia. CEO Anthony Hucker assures support for affected employees during this transition.

Florida

Southeastern Grocers (SEG) has announced a significant rebranding initiative as it transitions to The Winn-Dixie Company, slated for early 2026. This strategic pivot comes following the grocery chain’s 100th anniversary and marks a renewed focus solely on the Florida market, where the company has longstanding roots.

As part of this rebranding effort, SEG will exit several states, including Alabama, Georgia, Louisiana, and Mississippi. The transfer of ownership will involve 32 Winn-Dixie stores and eight Harvey’s Supermarkets outside of Florida to other grocery companies. This divestment is expected to conclude by early 2026, signifying a concentrated effort to enhance operations within Florida while maintaining select locations in southern Georgia.

Notably, some stores located in southern Georgia will continue their operations, including those in Brunswick, Folkston, Lake Park, St. Simons Island, and Valdosta. Earlier this month, SEG announced a transition plan for three stores in Alabama, specifically in Fultondale, Trussville, and Jasper, which will be taken over by Food City by early November. Food City has pledged to hire most associates affected by these transitions.

Current Store Operations

Currently, Winn-Dixie operates 20 stores in Alabama; however, the company had previously closed four locations across three cities in the state this year. The restructuring comes in the wake of Aldi’s earlier acquisition of 220 Winn-Dixie and Harvey’s stores, which includes locations in Alabama.

Strengthening Florida Presence

The rebranding initiative aims to allow The Winn-Dixie Company to reinvest in Florida and strengthen community connections. In line with this strategy, the company plans to enhance its North Florida presence, starting with the acquisition of Hitchcock’s Markets. The conversions of the Hitchcock’s Markets in Alachua, Keystone Heights, and Williston to Winn-Dixie are expected to be finalized by late 2025 and summer 2026.

Once the transition is complete, The Winn-Dixie Company anticipates operating approximately 130 grocery stores and 140 liquor stores across Florida and Georgia. Several remodeling and store projects are currently in the planning stages to create more inviting and community-centered shopping environments.

Future Plans and Community Engagement

The company is also set to expand its liquor store portfolio and improve its Own Brand product assortment. Enhancing competitive pricing, innovative store designs, and community connections for Florida consumers are key aspects of The Winn-Dixie Company’s future plans. The operational headquarters will remain in Jacksonville during this transition period.

SEG assures that all transitions and closures will be handled with the necessary support and respect for affected employees. CEO Anthony Hucker has expressed gratitude to associates and customers for their continued loyalty during this transitional phase. With these developments, The Winn-Dixie Company aims to solidify its footprint in Florida’s competitive grocery market while ensuring service excellence for its clientele.

Deeper Dive: News & Info About This Topic

• First Coast News
• Jacksonville.com
• Business Wire
• Wikipedia: Winn-Dixie
• Google Search: Southeastern Grocers Winn-Dixie

Author: STAFF HERE BIRMINGHAM WRITER

The BIRMINGHAM STAFF WRITER represents the experienced team at HEREBirmingham.com, your go-to source for actionable local news and information in Birmingham, Jefferson County, and beyond. Specializing in "news you can use," we cover essential topics like product reviews for personal and business needs, local business directories, politics, real estate trends, neighborhood insights, and state news affecting the area—with deep expertise drawn from years of dedicated reporting and strong community input, including local press releases and business updates. We deliver top reporting on high-value events such as the Sidewalk Film Festival, Sloss Music & Arts Festival, Magic City Classic, and civil rights commemorations. Our coverage extends to key organizations like the Birmingham Business Alliance and the Birmingham Civil Rights Institute, plus leading businesses in healthcare, finance, and manufacturing that power the local economy such as UAB Medicine, Regions Bank, and Encompass Health. As part of the broader HERE network, including HEREHuntsville.com, we provide comprehensive, credible insights into Alabama's dynamic landscape.