In early August discount grocery store operator Save A Lot sold the last of its 18 stores to become a wholesaler and licensor to the Save A Lot store network.

It was a natural transition for Saint Ann, Mo., based retailer, which will now focus on providing the right core offering and the right framework for its network of independent retailers.

“As we’ve made a strategic shift to become a licensed wholesaler, it’s clear that our long-term growth momentum must be rooted in the success of our strong network of retail partners,” said Leon Bergmann, CEO of Save A Lot, in a statement following the 18-store selloff.

The move to a wholesaler actually started in 2019 before Bergmann became CEO of Save A Lot, but he believes it was the right move to make.

Bergmann sat down with Supermarket News Senior Editor Bill Wilson to talk about the move to a full-fledged wholesaler as well as other topics like food deserts and grocery price inflation, which Bergmann believes has not reached its peak.

In this episode you will hear about:

• Why Save A Lot made the pivot to the wholesale level
• How Save A Lot will focus on fresh offerings in its distribution network
• Save A Lot’s strategy to promote a fresh approach
• Save A Lot’s pricing approach throughout its network
• The impact of food deserts in the U.S.
• The status of grocery price inflation

Take a listen.

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