C&S Sells Southern Family Markets

BIRMINGHAM, Ala. — Belle Foods, a company here formed by industry veteran Bill White, said Tuesday that it has agreed to acquire the Southern Family Markets chain, also based here.

The agreement includes all 57 stores, which operate in Alabama, Florida, Georgia and Mississippi under the Food World, Piggly Wiggly, Bruno’s and Southern Family Markets banners. Terms of the transaction are not disclosed.

White formed Belle Foods for the purpose of the acquisition and is president and chief executive officer.  His son, Jeff, is chief  administrative officer. Bill White has spent the past 30 years in retail and wholesale distribution.  He has served as chief financial officer with several companies since 1987.

“We are very excited about this acquisition and look forward with great anticipation to growing this business, being strong partners in the communities we will serve, and bringing back the family-owned roots which have always made these stores so special,” he said in a statement.

“This transaction brings many great opportunities to all who are involved,” said Max Henderson, president of Southern Family Markets. “It will allow the business to continue its commitment to its communities, to develop and grow its associates, and to improve operations.”

The Food Partners is acting as Southern Family Markets’ strategic and financial advisor for the transaction, which is expected to be finalized during the coming weeks.  After the transition is complete, Birmingham Logistics LLC, a subsidiary of C&S Wholesale Grocers, will continue to provide warehousing, distribution and procurement services to all stores.