News Summary
Southeastern Grocers (SEG) has rebranded as The Winn-Dixie Company to commemorate its 100th anniversary. This strategic move aims to strengthen its presence in Florida, starting with the acquisition of Hitchcock’s Markets. SEG will focus on transforming stores and optimizing operations while divesting non-Florida locations. Despite closures, some stores in Southern Georgia will remain operational. The company plans to improve customer service through new projects and is committed to supporting its employees during this transition.
Jacksonville, Florida
Southeastern Grocers (SEG) has announced a major rebranding as The Winn-Dixie Company, a decision that coincides with the company’s 100th anniversary. The headquarters for Southeastern Grocers, which governs several supermarket chains including Harveys Supermarkets and Winn-Dixie, is situated in Jacksonville, Florida. This rebranding reflects the company’s renewed focus on expanding its presence in Florida and optimizing its operational efficiency.
As part of this strategic shift, the company has set plans in motion to enhance its growth trajectory in North Florida. This initiative will begin with the acquisition of Hitchcock’s Markets, based in Alachua, which is expected to lead to the conversion of stores in Keystone Heights and Alachua into the Winn-Dixie brand. The conversion process is projected to be completed by the summer of 2026.
SEG has also announced it will be divesting many non-Florida locations and closing certain stores, with all closures anticipated by the end of 2025. However, some locations in Southern Georgia, specifically in Brunswick, Folkston, and St. Simons Island, will remain operational. Following these changes, The Winn-Dixie Company expects to operate approximately 130 conventional grocery stores, alongside roughly 140 liquor stores while contemplating new, innovative formats for these liquor outlets.
Impact on Employees and Community
The store closures are expected to affect numerous employees, particularly those positioned outside of Florida and Georgia. In light of this transition, SEG has emphasized its commitment to ensuring a respectful transition for its affected team members. The company expressed gratitude towards its employees and the communities that have supported its brands over the years, indicating a focus on maintaining strong local ties even during this restructuring.
In the wake of the rebranding and operational changes, SEG has initiated various new projects. The company plans to remodel existing stores and develop new store concepts. Additionally, it’s launching pilot programs aimed at improving customer service, which include third-party online grocery delivery options and return kiosks.
Recent Developments and Future Plans
In recent changes within the supermarket landscape, some local Winn-Dixie and Harveys Supermarkets locations were previously acquired by Aldi in 2024. The current focus on rebranding and expansion positions The Winn-Dixie Company to strengthen its presence in the competitive grocery market, particularly in Florida.
Looking ahead, Anthony Hucker, who currently serves as the Chairman and CEO of Southeastern Grocers, will continue to lead The Winn-Dixie Company following the rebranding. His leadership will be crucial as the company navigates this new path, reinforcing its commitment to local communities and sustainable growth.
This rebranding marks a significant chapter in the company’s history, aiming to celebrate a legacy of 100 years while adapting to meet the evolving needs of consumers in Florida and beyond.
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Additional Resources
- First Coast News
- Jacksonville.com
- Business Wire
- Wikipedia: Winn-Dixie
- Google Search: Southeastern Grocers
Author: STAFF HERE JACKSONVILLE WRITER
The JACKSONVILLE STAFF WRITER represents the experienced team at HEREJacksonville.com, your go-to source for actionable local news and information in Jacksonville, Duval 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 Jacksonville Jazz Festival, Riverside Arts Market, and World of Nations Celebration. Our coverage extends to key organizations like the Jacksonville Chamber of Commerce and JAXUSA Partnership, plus leading businesses in logistics, healthcare, and entertainment that power the local economy such as CSX Corporation, Baptist Health, and VyStar Credit Union. As part of the broader HERE network, including HEREOrlando.com, HEREStPetersburg.com, HERETallahassee.com, and HERETampa.com, we provide comprehensive, credible insights into Florida's dynamic landscape.
