The two companies should leave about 450 vacancies, he says. Albertsons will have closures as a result of its sale to competitor Supervalu and other investment groups, while Winn-Dixie is closing store as part of its Chapter 11 bankruptcy restructuring plan.
Otherwise, the 113-store chain plans to grow through expansion of its current concepts, Wild Oats Natural Marketplace, Henry's Farmers Markets, Sun Harvest and Capers Community Markets. "There does not appear to be any acquisitions out there that make sense," Odak says.
In all, Wild Oats executives are planning 450 units across North America and do not foresee any expansion to Europe in the near future, where Austin, TX-based competitor Whole Foods has started opening stores. Most Wild Oats' domestic expansion will take place on the coasts, Odak says.
Last year Wild Oats opened eight new stores under the Wild Oats and Henry's banners. Executives are planning an additional 10 units this year and have 16 leases or letters of intent signed through 2007.
© 2025 ALM Global, LLC, All Rights Reserved. Request academic re-use from www.copyright.com. All other uses, submit a request to [email protected]. For more information visit Asset & Logo Licensing.
