Wakefern Fiscal Year Sales Grow

Fiscal year sales at Wakefern were up mid-single digits as the company’s CEO reaffirmed the grocer’s commitment to growing its private label assortment.

For the 52-week period ending Oct. 1, total sales were $18.6 billion, an increase of 4.69% from the previous year. The retailer-owned cooperative during the past 12 months opened three new ShopRite stores, a Gourmet Garage and welcomed a new member, family-owned Gerrity’s Supermarkets in Pennsylvania, which now operates 10 Fresh Grocer supermarkets in the northeastern part of the state. 

Price Rite Marketplace reported retail sales of $850 million, up 6% from the previous year.

Joseph S. Colalillo, chairman and CEO of Wakefern, highlighted company’s continued technological advancements, its e-commerce programs, and growth opportunities for Wakefern’s six supermarket banners: ShopRite, Price Rite Marketplace, The Fresh Grocer, Dearborn Market, Gourmet Garage, and Fairway Market.

He also said Wakefern is also committed to growing its popular Own Brand lines Bowl & Basket, Wholesome Pantry, and Paperbird while continuing to sharpen its promotions and pricing.

“We are committed to giving customers the value they depend on from our stores and we will go beyond again in 2023 to be laser focused on helping our shoppers,” said Colalillo.

He also highlighted some of the challenges faced by Wakefern during the prior fiscal year, including issues with supply chain, a tight labor market and competitive industry headwinds.  

"There’s no doubt that the supermarket industry has faced challenges in recent years," Colaillo said. "But as we’ve always done, Wakefern Members will succeed thanks to their own expertise as grocers and their dedicated teams of retail associates. We are committed to providing our customers with the best possible shopping experience at every touchpoint."