Sobeys to buy Pete Luckett's retail and wholesale operations

Sobeys Capital Inc., Stellarton, Nova Scotia, said it entered into an agreement to purchase Pete Luckett's grocery retail and wholesale business, which operates as Pete's Fine Foods. The transaction includes the Bedford and Halifax Pete's Fine Foods grocery retail locations in Nova Scotia and one wholesale operation.

"Sobeys is an ideal match, truly an Atlantic Canadian success story, built on the same entrepreneurial spirit as Pete's," Luckett, the operation's founder, said. "It's the right time for me to transition from the grocery industry into the winery business."

Sobeys said it plans to continue to operate the stores under the Pete's Fine Foods brand and to maintain the unique market culture and customer-focused flair for food on which the business was built. Luckett will remain in a consulting capacity, contributing his expertise and passion for food while ensuring the integrity of the Pete's Fine Foods brand.

"With this agreement, customers can enjoy peace of mind knowing that the stores will continue to prosper and expand while offering that same extraordinary shopping experience. The 'Frootique' legacy will live on and prosper," Luckett added.

Peter Doucette, general manager, Sobeys Atlantic, had praise for Luckett.

"Pete has instilled a unique culture in his stores and a food offer that resonates with his customers," he remarked. "We don't want to change that. In fact, we want to build the Pete's brand and grow the opportunities for the business in Atlantic Canada. With Sobeys' resources and ability to support growth and expansion in the region, we can make that happen."

Pete's Fine Foods' management and employees will be provided with employment in their current roles, Sobeys said. The transaction is expected to close on Nov. 2.