United Natural Foods, Inc. (UNFI) is the largest wholesale distributor of health and specialty food in the United States and Canada. Founded in 1976 and headquartered in Providence, RI, UNFI owns several subsidiary companies that operate in various sectors, including fresh produce, natural and organic products, and wellness.
Some of the subsidiary companies owned by UNFI include Alberts Fresh Produce, Honest Green eSolutions, Nor-Cal Produce, Tony’s Fine Foods, UNFI Brands+, UNFI Canada, UNFI Easy Options, UNFI Wellness, and Woodstock Farms. Through mergers and acquisitions, UNFI has expanded its ownership structure over the years, becoming the largest distributor of natural products in the industry.
Key Takeaways:
- UNFI is the largest wholesale distributor of health and specialty food in the United States and Canada.
- UNFI owns several subsidiary companies operating in various sectors.
- Mergers and acquisitions have fueled UNFI’s growth and made it the industry’s largest distributor of natural products.
UNFI’s Owned Brands
As a leading distributor in the industry, UNFI not only owns subsidiary companies but also boasts a diverse portfolio of owned brands. These brands cater to a wide range of consumer needs and preferences, offering high-quality products across various categories. Some of the notable brands in UNFI’s ownership include:
1. Essential Everyday
Essential Everyday is a brand that offers a comprehensive range of grocery and non-food items. With over a hundred categories covered, it provides consumers with national brand-equivalent products at competitive prices.
2. Wild Harvest
Wild Harvest is dedicated to providing affordable natural and organic food products. This brand appeals to health-conscious consumers looking for wholesome options that align with their values.
3. Baby Basics
UNFI’s Baby Basics brand offers a full range of high-quality baby products. From diapers and wipes to baby food and toiletries, this brand ensures the well-being of little ones.
4. Shoppers Value
Shoppers Value is a value-priced brand that caters to budget-conscious consumers. It offers a wide selection of grocery and non-food products, providing affordable options without compromising on quality.
5. Arctic Shores
Arctic Shores focuses on providing a variety of seafood options to customers. From fresh catches to frozen seafood products, this brand ensures that seafood lovers can enjoy delicious and sustainable choices.
6. Culinary Circle
UNFI’s Culinary Circle brand brings restaurant-quality creations to the deli, bakery, frozen, and center store aisles. This brand enables shoppers to enjoy premium culinary experiences in the comfort of their own homes.
7. Stone Ridge Creamery
Stone Ridge Creamery is UNFI’s premium ice cream brand, offering indulgent and delicious frozen treats without the premium price. It brings joy to households across the country with its wide range of flavors.
8. Save-a-lot
Save-a-lot is a value-priced brand that offers a variety of grocery and non-food products. With its affordable options, this brand aims to provide cost-conscious customers with quality products that fit their budgets.
| Owned Brands | Description |
|---|---|
| Essential Everyday | A range of national brand-equivalent grocery and non-food items covering over a hundred categories. |
| Wild Harvest | Affordable natural and organic food products. |
| Baby Basics | A full range of quality baby products. |
| Shoppers Value | A value-priced range of grocery and non-food products. |
| Arctic Shores | Offers a variety of seafood options. |
| Culinary Circle | Offers restaurant-quality creations in the deli, bakery, frozen, and center store aisles. |
| Stone Ridge Creamery | Premium ice cream without the premium price. |
| Save-a-lot | A value-priced range of grocery and non-food products. |
UNFI’s Acquisitions and Partnerships
UNFI has a rich history of strategic acquisitions and partnerships, which have played a crucial role in expanding its business and strengthening its position in the market. These acquisitions have allowed UNFI to diversify its portfolio and offer a wider range of products and services to its customers.
One notable acquisition was the purchase of Millbrook Distribution Services in 2007, which helped UNFI expand its distribution network and reach more customers across the country. This acquisition further solidified UNFI’s position as a leading wholesale distributor in the health and specialty food industry.
In 2016, UNFI made several significant acquisitions, including Nor-Cal Produce, Inc., Haddon House Food Products, Inc., and Gourmet Guru, Inc. These acquisitions further expanded UNFI’s product offerings and allowed the company to tap into new markets. UNFI’s portfolio of companies grew stronger, and its ability to serve diverse customer needs became even more robust.
One of the most transformative acquisitions for UNFI was the purchase of SuperValu, Inc. in 2018. This strategic move allowed UNFI to significantly enhance its scale and capabilities, making it one of the largest wholesale distributors of natural products in the industry. Through this acquisition, UNFI gained access to a vast customer base and a broader range of products, strengthening its position in the market.
FAQ
What companies does UNFI own?
UNFI owns several subsidiary companies, including Alberts Fresh Produce, Honest Green eSolutions, Nor-Cal Produce, Tony’s Fine Foods, UNFI Brands+, UNFI Canada, UNFI Easy Options, UNFI Wellness, and Woodstock Farms.
What are some of the notable brands owned by UNFI?
Some notable brands owned by UNFI include Essential Everyday, Wild Harvest, Baby Basics, Shoppers Value, Arctic Shores, Culinary Circle, Stone Ridge Creamery, and Save-a-lot.
What strategic acquisitions and partnerships has UNFI made?
UNFI has made several strategic acquisitions over the years, including Millbrook Distribution Services in 2007, Nor-Cal Produce, Inc. in 2016, Haddon House Food Products, Inc. in 2016, Gourmet Guru, Inc. in 2016, and SuperValu, Inc. in 2018.