SpartanNash to take over supply for Gordy's

SpartanNash said Wednesday that it has signed a long-term contract to be the primary wholesaler to Gordy’s Market, the largest locally owned and operated grocer in Western Wisconsin.

Gordy’s Market was founded by Gordon Ray and Donna Schafer in 1966 in Chippewa Falls, Wis., and has grown into a family-owned, 21-store and 13-fuel station chain.

Gordy’s will be serviced out of SpartanNash’s St. Cloud, Minn., distribution center. SpartanNash, headquartered in Grand Rapids, Mich., said it would begin distributing private brands to Gordy’s next month and will take over primary distribution in mid-May. The chain’s current primary wholesaler is Supervalu.

“As a wholesale/retail operator, SpartanNash’s leadership clearly understands what it takes to deliver quality products, competitive pricing and exceptional customer service,” said David Schafer, CFO of Gordy’s. “We have been impressed by SpartanNash’s leadership, commitment to growth, private brand offerings, and portfolio of value added services.”

In addition to national brand products, SpartanNash will distribute its exclusive Our Family brand, as well as the value-added Top Care, Valu Time and natural/organic and eco-friendly Full Circle brands.

“Gordy’s is a perfect fit for our distribution operations,” Dennis Eidson, SpartanNash president and CEO, said in a statement. “We have years of experience meeting our Wisconsin customers’ preferences, our St. Cloud DC is strategically located to minimize food miles, and we are positioned to help Gordy’s grow. We see this agreement as a win:win for both parties.”