KeHE Distributors recently renewed and expanded its partnership with The Save Mart Companies (TSMC).
Under the terms of their multi-year agreement, KeHE said it will continue as the 67-year-old retailer’s primary distribution partner for natural, organic and specialty products, and will become TSMC’s primary distributor for perimeter categories, including fresh bakery, deli, specialty cheese and culinary products.
Based in Modesto CA, TSMC operates 207 stores in California and Nevada under the Save Mart, Lucky, Lucky California and FoodMaxx banners. Save Mart boasts an impressive growth trajectory over the last several years, moving up to 19th from 23rd in Progressive Grocer’s 2019 Top 50 Grocers ranking based on annual sales.
“Save Mart has proven that through innovation and a focus on customers, conventional supermarkets can thrive in today’s hyper-competitive retail environment,” said Gene Carter, KeHE’s chief operating officer. “We are delighted with the expansion of our partnership with The Save Mart Companies and look forward to serving as a growth partner to the company for years to come.”
Trey Johnson, TSMC’s chief merchandising officer, added, “We are proud of The Save Mart Companies’ growth over the last several years, and we look forward to continuing to execute our market penetration strategy.
“We appreciate our partnership with KeHE and are excited to continue working with their team to grow both our center store and perimeter business.”
