The Winn-Dixie Company, formerly known as Southeastern Grocers, has announced a major restructuring and rebranding plan that will see more than 30 stores either sold or permanently closed across several Southern states. The company says the move is part of a renewed focus on its historical home base in Florida and nearby Georgia.
What is happening with Winn-Dixie’s store network?
The company has confirmed that 32 Winn-Dixie stores and eight Harveys Supermarkets in Alabama, Georgia, Louisiana, and Mississippi will be sold or closed by early 2026.
The company will be rebranded officially as The Winn-Dixie Company in 2026. Its primary focus will now be on Florida and southern Georgia, where the chain has its strongest presence.
Some of the affected stores have already been sold to Food City and Piggly Wiggly, with more sales expected to follow.
Which states will lose Winn-Dixie stores?
If you live in one of the affected states, you might be wondering whether your local Winn-Dixie or Harveys will be part of the change. Here is what the company has announced so far:
Alabama
Several stores across Alabama are set to be sold or closed as part of the restructuring effort.
Georgia
In Georgia, multiple Harveys and Winn-Dixie stores will either be sold or shut down. Some of the affected locations include:
- 1631 Gordon Highway, Augusta
- 813 South Peterson Avenue, Douglas
- 120 West Oak Street, McRae-Helena
However, the company will keep operating stores in southern Georgia areas such as Valdosta and St. Simons Island, where customer traffic and community support remain strong.
Louisiana
A number of stores in Louisiana are also on the list for sale or closure. Some of these will transition under new ownership, while others will close permanently.
Mississippi
The company plans to completely withdraw from several Mississippi locations as it shifts its focus toward strengthening its presence in Florida and Georgia.
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What about Florida and locations being added?
For Florida residents, the news is more encouraging. Winn-Dixie says it plans to expand in the state by converting three Hitchcock’s Markets—in Alachua, Keystone Heights, and Williston into new Winn-Dixie stores. These stores will open in phases over the next few months.
So, while the company is reducing its footprint in other Southern states, it is growing its brand presence in Florida, where Winn-Dixie was originally founded nearly a century ago.
Why is Winn-Dixie doing this now?
The company’s leadership explained that this decision marks a new chapter in its 100-year history.
In the words of CEO and Chairman Anthony Hucker:
“As we enter our next century as The Winn-Dixie Company – a brand-new 100-year-old company – we are accelerating growth where our roots run deepest while staying true to our purpose of feeding and enriching the communities, families, and neighbors who have supported us for generations.”
This rebranding strategy is designed to help the company modernize its stores, improve customer experience, and invest more heavily in areas where it has a loyal customer base.
What should customers and employees know?
If you shop in any of the stores affected, it is important to know the following:
- Customers: The transition process at some stores is going to take place shortly, which may result in changes in hours, stocks, or even the store logo.
- Employees: Workers from areas that are going to be closed will, most probably, get jobs in the surrounding stores or the newly opened ones. This is specifically aimed at those closing locations in Florida.
- For communities: New store openings in Florida will replace some of the stores closing elsewhere, allowing Winn-Dixie to focus its efforts where it can grow sustainably.
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