Distribution

In a blockbuster deal, online giant Amazon is acquiring Whole Foods Market in an all cash transaction valued at $13.7 billion, or $42 a share.    John Mackey, co-founder and CEO of Whole Foods, will remain CEO of the grocer after the deal closes. Stores will continue to operate under the Whole Foods banner, and the company's headquarters will remain in Austin, Texas.  

Chuck Grom, analyst, Gordon Haskett analyst:

Newegg is making a push to reach even more customers.   The tech-focused retailer is extending its online global reach to dozens of countries in key parts of Asia Pacific, Europe, Latin America and the Middle East. Newegg’s expansion plan will ultimately help the retailer reach customers in a total of 50 countries, according to the company.  

German discount grocery retailer Lidl made its hotly-awaited debut in the United States on Thursday, opening the first nine of 20 locations it plan to open over the summer.  The chain expects to have 100 stores up and running within a year.   

There's been another development in the planned Walgreens Boot Alliance and Rite Aid merger.  

Amazon’s newest distribution center will use robotics to streamline operations.   The online giant plans to open its second Colorado fulfillment center in Thornton. This will be the first Amazon Robotics facility in the Centennial State.   

Amazon continues to expand its footprint of distribution centers.   Amazon is set to break ground on its first fulfillment center in the state of Oregon. The 855,000-sq.-ft. facility, which will be located in Troutdale, will augment the company’s sortation center in Hillsboro, and Prime Now hub in Portland.  

BJ's Wholesale Club is set to open its first location in South Carolina.   The retailer will celebrate the grand opening of its new location in Summerville, South Carolina on Saturday, June 10. The store, which marks BJ's expansion into South Carolina, is located at the intersection of Interstate 26 and North Main Street, Summerville's primary retail corridor.