Welcome to The Friday 5, Progressive Grocer’s weekly roundup of the top news and trends in the food retail industry. Each Friday, we take a look at the stories that are most important to our readers while keeping tabs on trends poised to impact grocers.

1. SpartanNash Makes Another Acquisition
In recent weeks, SpartanNash, a Michigan-based food solutions company, has attracted attention due to its strategic growth plan. After acquiring Ohio-based regional grocer Fresh Encounter in mid-October, SpartanNash announced it would also be acquiring Markham Enterprises, which operates three stores and serves as a fuel distributor. Masiar Tayebi, SpartanNash’s EVP and Chief Strategy and Information Officer, stated, “Markham Enterprises fits well in our current retail portfolio, as we look to expand our fuel center and convenience store footprint.” This acquisition is intended to complement their ongoing initiatives to refresh existing fuel centers, marking another significant step in their growth strategy. The deal is expected to close in early December.

2. Changes in Leadership at Grocery Outlet and Albertsons
This week saw a shift in leadership at Grocery Outlet as Eric Lindberg was appointed interim CEO following the sudden resignation of R.J. Sheedy. Lindberg previously occupied the role of CEO and co-CEO from January 2006 to December 2022, indicating a return to familiar territory. Meanwhile, Albertsons Companies also saw changes in its board, electing Jim Donald as the sole independent chair and welcoming Stephen Feinberg to the team after Chan Galbato stepped down as co-chairman. CEO Vivek Sankaran expressed confidence in Donald’s leadership, highlighting a deliberate shift towards stabilizing the company’s governance.

3. Trader Joe’s and Brookshire Grocery Expanding
October was an eventful month for Trader Joe’s, marked by the opening of several new stores across the United States in places like Vancouver, Washington, Sugar Land, Texas, and South Lake City, Utah. Tara Miller, Trader Joe’s marketing director, confirmed the company is, “growing at a pretty good rate right now.” On a similar note, Brookshire Grocery announced its acquisition of four Shoppin’ Baskit locations in Texas. These stores will be rebranded as Spring Market stores, featuring an expanded grocery assortment and additional products from ACE Hardware as part of a new partnership.

4. Kroger’s Food Trends for 2025
Kroger recently released its list of anticipated food trends for the upcoming year, catching the interest of many in the industry. Major themes include “Food Dupes,” which refer to affordable alternatives for premium products; “Bold & Briny,” emphasizing robust flavor profiles; and “Protein Renaissance,” illustrating a renewed focus on protein-rich foods. Other trends involve the “Pepper Palette” showcasing diverse pepper varieties, and “Hail, Caesar,” which highlights innovative take on traditional dishes. These insights not only reflect consumer preferences but also serve as a guide for grocery retailers looking to adapt their offerings.

5. Exclusive Insight Into Target’s Thanksgiving Marketing Strategy
In preparation for the busy Thanksgiving shopping season, Target shared insights into its marketing strategy. The retailer is positioning itself as a go-to destination for seasonal foods and beverages, promoting a Thanksgiving meal deal priced at $20—$5 less than last year’s offering. John Conlin, SVP of merchandising for food and beverage at Target, emphasized that the brand Good & Gather will be central to its Thanksgiving offerings. This strategic approach indicates Target’s effort to influence consumer shopping habits pre-holiday, encouraging families to choose them for holiday meal planning.

Conclusion
As the food retail landscape continues to evolve, companies like SpartanNash, Trader Joe’s, and Target are adapting through strategic expansions and marketing innovations. Keeping pace with consumer preferences and market trends will be critical for retailers aiming to capture more market share and build lasting relationships with their customers.