Jacksonville, Florida, November 25, 2025
Southeastern Grocers, the parent company of Winn-Dixie, is rebranding to The Winn-Dixie Company to focus on Florida operations. They plan to acquire three Hitchcock’s Markets and enhance customer experience through store remodels and new projects. The first new store in Williston is expected to open by late 2025, with more following in 2026. Additionally, the company is transitioning its operations outside of Florida, closing several locations to strengthen its presence in the state.
Jacksonville, Florida – Winn-Dixie Rebrands and Refocuses on Florida Expansion
Jacksonville, Florida – Southeastern Grocers, the parent company of Winn-Dixie, has announced a significant rebranding to The Winn-Dixie Company, effective early 2026, marking a renewed emphasis on its Florida operations. This strategic shift includes the acquisition of three Hitchcock’s Markets in Alachua, Keystone Heights, and Williston, with plans to convert these locations into Winn-Dixie stores starting in late 2025. The Williston store is set to open in early December 2025, followed by the Alachua and Keystone Heights stores by summer 2026. Additionally, the company is undertaking numerous store remodels and new projects statewide to enhance the customer experience and strengthen its community presence.
As part of its Florida-focused strategy, Southeastern Grocers has finalized an agreement to acquire Hitchcock’s Markets in Alachua, Keystone Heights, and Williston. These stores will be converted to Winn-Dixie locations and opened in phases beginning late 2025. The new Williston Winn-Dixie, located at 434 E. Noble Ave., is expected to open in early December 2025, ahead of the scheduled closing of the nearby Winn-Dixie at 727 W. Noble Ave. Associates from the nearby Williston location will have the opportunity to continue serving customers in the new store. The Alachua and Keystone Heights Winn-Dixie stores are slated to open by summer 2026.
In addition to the acquisitions, Southeastern Grocers is investing in dozens of store remodels and new projects across Florida. These upgrades are designed to create inviting, community-centered stores that reflect the needs of local customers. The company is also expanding its liquor store portfolio with innovative formats and growing its Own Brand product assortment, highlighted by the return of its iconic Lip Lickin’ Chicken in early 2026.
To support its renewed focus on Florida, Southeastern Grocers has made the decision to transition ownership of most of its locations outside the state. The company has reached agreements or is advancing plans with multiple grocers to sell 32 Winn-Dixie stores and eight Harveys Supermarkets in Alabama, Georgia, Louisiana, and Mississippi. Southeastern Grocers will continue to serve southern Georgia with stores in Brunswick, Folkston, Lake Park, St. Simons Island, and Valdosta. Store closings are expected to be completed by year’s end.
Following these transactions, The Winn-Dixie Company will operate approximately 130 conventional grocery stores and 140 freestanding and grocery-adjacent liquor stores in Florida and southern Georgia. This strategic refocus aims to strengthen the company’s presence in its home state and enhance its service to local communities.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
What is the new name of Southeastern Grocers?
Southeastern Grocers is rebranding to The Winn-Dixie Company, effective early 2026, to emphasize its renewed focus on Florida operations.
Which stores is The Winn-Dixie Company acquiring?
The company has finalized agreements to acquire Hitchcock’s Markets in Alachua, Keystone Heights, and Williston, Florida. These stores will be converted to Winn-Dixie locations starting in late 2025.
When will the new Winn-Dixie stores open?
The new Williston Winn-Dixie is expected to open in early December 2025, followed by the Alachua and Keystone Heights stores by summer 2026.
What other initiatives is The Winn-Dixie Company undertaking?
The company is investing in store remodels and new projects across Florida, expanding its liquor store portfolio, and reintroducing its Own Brand product assortment, including the iconic Lip Lickin’ Chicken in early 2026.
What is happening to stores outside Florida?
The Winn-Dixie Company is transitioning ownership of most of its locations outside Florida, including 32 Winn-Dixie stores and eight Harveys Supermarkets in Alabama, Georgia, Louisiana, and Mississippi. Store closings are expected to be completed by year’s end.
Key Features of The Winn-Dixie Company’s Florida Expansion
| Feature | Details |
|---|---|
| Rebranding | The company will rebrand to The Winn-Dixie Company in early 2026, focusing on Florida operations. |
| Acquisitions | Acquiring Hitchcock’s Markets in Alachua, Keystone Heights, and Williston, Florida, to convert into Winn-Dixie stores starting late 2025. |
| Store Openings | New Williston store opening in early December 2025; Alachua and Keystone Heights stores by summer 2026. |
| Store Remodels | Dozens of store remodels and new projects planned across Florida to enhance customer experience. |
| Product Expansion | Expanding liquor store portfolio and reintroducing Own Brand products, including Lip Lickin’ Chicken in early 2026. |
| Store Closures | Transitioning ownership of most locations outside Florida, with store closings expected by year’s end. |
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