Gordy's Market & Mega Co-op Form 'Win-Win' Alliance

EAU CLAIRE, Wis. — Gordy's Market and Mega Co-op have finalized an agreement through which the Mega Co-op grocery stores will become Gordy's Markets and the Gordy's Express convenience stores and gas stations will become Mega Holidays. This will allow each company to focus on their primary business, the companies said.

Once the transaction is completed, Gordy's will own and operate 24 grocery stores. Mega Co-op will own and operate 33 c-stores and gas stations.

"This is an exciting opportunity and a true win-win for both organizations," said David Schafer, chief financial officer of Gordy's Market. "This transaction will allow two strong, locally owned companies to bring enhanced value to our customers throughout western Wisconsin."

Although the companies will remain separate and independent, they plan to collaborate on future new locations and support each other with joint loyalty programs, including the Pump Perks and Gas Rewards Program. The programs' rewards will be available at all Gordy's Markets and Mega Holiday locations.

All existing Gordy's locations and all but one Mega Co-op location will remain open. The Mega-West, Barron and Whitehall grocery stores will become Gordy's Markets, and the Mega Co-op East will close as part of the transaction. All 14 Gordy's Express c-stores will become Mega Holiday locations.

"Both companies will be bigger and stronger as a result of this agreement," said Mega Co-op President Mike Buck. "This helps ensure a positive future for both of our businesses and will allow us to focus on reinvestment, growth in a highly competitive environment and returning patronage to our cooperative members."

The transaction is expected to close in late February. Both companies will maintain their current corporate offices.