One of the most iconic northwest Indiana retail brands will become part of a bigger chain in an end of an era.
West Des Moines, Iowa-based Hy-Vee is buying Strack & Van Til, whose stores will maintain their names as the company becomes a subsidiary of Hy-Vee.
Strack & Van Til has 22 stores across Northwest Indiana and roots dating to 1929, when Ernie Strack and Nick Van Til formed the first Strack & Van Til store in Highland.
“As Northwest Indiana’s No. 1 grocery store, we know Hy-Vee is the perfect partner,” said Jeff Strack, Strack & Van Til’s CEO and president. “With our combined focus on providing excellent customer service, taking care of our employees and giving back to our local communities, we believe this acquisition is a win-win for both our associates and our company.”
Hy-Vee will add Strack & Van Til's 22 grocery stores to its portfolio of 550 stores, which includes supermarkets as well as drugstores, pharmacies, restaurants and convenience stores.
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Hy-Vee has stores on Madison's east and west sides, and in Fitchburg.
“As our company continues to expand into Indiana and the Southeast region, Strack & Van Til’s customer-centric focus and company vision to ‘make lives easier’ aligns with Hy-Vee’s values and growth strategy,” said Hy-Vee CEO Jeremy Gosch. “We look forward to welcoming Strack & Van Til’s approximately 2,800 employees into the Hy-Vee family in the weeks to come.”
Hy-Vee operates subsidiaries like Midwest Heritage, Perishable Distributors of Iowa, D&D Foods, Amber Specialty Pharmacy, Vivid Clear Rx and Wall to Wall Wine and Spirits. It plans to keep the Strack & Van Til brand going under the new ownership.
“Much like Hy-Vee founders Charles Hyde and David Vredenberg, Strack & Van Til’s growth and success remains rooted in the philosophy and principles of its two founders Ernie Strack and Nick Van Til,” said Randy Edeker, Hy-Vee’s executive chairman of the board. “Like Hy-Vee, the Strack & Van Til chain is also committed to delivering everyday value and providing quality groceries, perishables and freshly prepared foods. As we remain focused on our future growth, Strack & Van Til is a great addition to the Hy-Vee family.”