Grocery outlet Aldi has agreed to purchase two Southeastern grocery store chains, giving Aldi almost 400 new stores under its ownership.

The two grocery chains that Aldi is purchasing are Winn-Dixie and Harveys Supermarket, both of which will help Aldi expand its growth. Anthony Hucker, the president and CEO of Southeastern Grocers, which owns the two chains, has praised the acquisition, stating that Aldi shares "our vision to provide exceptional quality, service and value," according to a press release.

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"This merger agreement is a testament to our successful transformational journey and the tireless work of our dedicated associates who serve our communities," Hucker said. "ALDI shares our vision to provide exceptional quality, service and value - and this unique opportunity will evolve our business to benefit our customers, associates and neighbors throughout the Southeast."

The locations that Aldi is acquiring are located across Alabama, Florida, Georgia, Louisiana, and Mississippi. Jason Hart, Aldi's CEO, stated that Aldi would evaluate which Winn-Dixie and Harveys Supermarket locations to convert to Aldi; outlets that are not converted will retain their original chain names. Winn-Dixie was founded in 1925. Harveys was founded in 1924.

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"Like ALDI, Winn-Dixie and Harveys Supermarket have long histories and many loyal customers in the Southeast and we look forward to serving them in the years to come," Hart said. "The time was right to build on our growth momentum and help residents in the Southeast save on their grocery bills. The transaction supports our long-term growth strategy across the United States, including plans to add 120 new stores nationwide this year to reach a total of more than 2,400 stores by year-end."

This transaction is expected to close in the first half of 2024 and will be subject to regulatory approval.