73 January | February 2026 abasto.com Winn-Dixie Expands in Florida: SEG Rebrands, Sells 32 Stores BY ABASTO S outheastern Grocers (SEG) will sell 32 stores outside Florida to focus its efforts in the state, im- plementing a Winn-Dixie expansion strategy under the new corporate name: The Winn-Dixie Company. The move marks a decisi- ve step in the chains cen- tury-long history, aligning resources where the brand is strongest. The transition reflects the companys long-term strategy to modernize sto- res, enhance the customer experience, and invest in the communities that have supported it for gene- rations. Rebrand to The Winn-Dixie Company The rebranding unifies SEG operations under an iconic name, honoring more than 100 years of his- tory in Florida. Anthony Hucker, president and CEO, said, For a century, Winn-Dixie has proudly been part of Florida. Our history is built on the resi- lience and spirit of its peo- ple, and that foundation will guide our future. Hucker emphasized the vision of creating com- munity-focused stores that meet local customer needs while integrating modern elements. As we begin our next century as The Winn-Dixie Com- panya new company with 100 years of his- torywe are accelerating growth where our roots run deepest, he added. New Stores, Remodels, and Customer Innovations Numerous store remodels and new store projects are planned across Florida. Investments will enhan- ce space layouts, lighting, signage, and the shopping experience, creating at- tractive environments for families and communities. The chain is expanding its liquor store portfolio with innovative formats and strengthening its pri- vate-label line, highligh- ting the return of the ico- nic Lip Lickin Chicken in early 2026. Winn-Dixie is also tes- ting new customer conve- niences, including online grocery delivery through third parties and return kiosks, combining nei- ghborhood supermarket tradition with modern te- chnology. Hitchcocks Markets Acquisition Strengthens Northern Florida As part of its expansion strategy, SEG acquired Hit- chcocks Markets in Ala- chua, Keystone Heights, and Williston. The stores will be converted to Winn- Dixie branches, with stag- gered openings starting in late 2025. The new Williston sto- re at 434 E. Noble Ave. will open in early Decem- ber 2025, replacing the nearby location at 727 W. Noble Ave. Employees from the old store will continue at the new lo- cation. The Alachua and Keystone Heights stores are set to open before summer 2026, strengthe- ning Winn-Dixies pre- sence in northern Florida. Selling Stores Outside Florida To focus on Florida, SEG will sell 32 Winn- Dixie stores and eight Harveys Supermarkets in Alabama, Georgia, Louisiana, and Missis- sippi. After these moves, The Winn-Dixie Company will operate approxima- tely 130 supermarkets and 140 independent and grocery-adjacent li- quor stores. This is a decisive mo- ment for Winn-Dixie, Hucker said. We re- main committed to the people, communities, and employees who have supported us for gene- rations. Our Florida ex- pansion strategy ensures we grow stronger where our story began.