Wakefern Food Corporation

Wakefern Food Corporation

Wakefern Food Corporation is a retailers' cooperative (co-op) of supermarkets in the northeastern United States. It was founded in 1946 and is currently the largest supermarket co-op in the United States. The corporation comprises 50 members who individually own and operate supermarkets under the ShopRite and Price Rite Marketplace banners.

History

Wakefern Food Corporation was established in 1946 by a group of eight New Jersey grocers who were struggling to survive in the competitive grocery market. The grocers decided to combine their buying power to receive better prices from suppliers and pass the savings onto their customers. The name "Wakefern" is derived from the initials of the founders' names.

Operations

The Wakefern Food Corporation operates more than 350 supermarkets throughout the northeastern United States. These supermarkets operate under the ShopRite and Price Rite Marketplace banners. In addition to its supermarket operations, Wakefern also operates warehouses and distribution centers that supply its member stores with groceries and other goods.

Membership

Membership in the Wakefern Food Corporation is open to independent grocers who wish to benefit from the co-op's buying power and other services. Each member of the co-op owns and operates their own supermarket, but benefits from the collective buying power of the co-op.

ShopRite and Price Rite Marketplace

ShopRite and Price Rite Marketplace are the two supermarket banners under which Wakefern members operate. ShopRite stores are full-service supermarkets that offer a wide variety of groceries, fresh produce, meat, and bakery items. Price Rite Marketplace stores are smaller, discount supermarkets that offer a more limited selection of items at lower prices.

Corporate Responsibility

The Wakefern Food Corporation is committed to corporate responsibility and sustainability. The corporation has implemented a number of initiatives to reduce its environmental impact, including energy conservation, waste reduction, and sustainable sourcing practices. In addition, Wakefern supports a number of charitable organizations and community initiatives through its corporate giving program.

See Also

• Retailers' cooperative
• ShopRite (United States)
• Price Rite

External Links

• Official website