Whole Foods Market acquires four New Frontiers Natural Marketplace stores

Austin, Texas -- Whole Food Market will purchase four stores from New Frontiers Natural Marketplace. The stores, which average 22,000 sq. ft., are located in Flagstaff, Prescott and Sedona, Ariz.; and San Luis Obispo, Calif. The two companies expect the transaction to be finalized in the next few weeks.



The stores will continue to operate under the New Frontiers Natural Marketplace banner until they are re-signed as Whole Foods Market stores.



"Over the years, when I have at times wondered if our stores would someday merge with a larger strategic partner, Whole Foods Market has always been my premier choice," said Jonathan King, president of New Frontiers. "We are very enthusiastic about their ability to take our stores into a successful future. We know they will provide growth opportunities for our exceptional team members, and continue to bring retail excellence and outstanding service to our local communities."



As part of the agreement, Whole Foods Market will offer jobs to the team members at the four acquired locations.



"We are excited to expand our presence to new markets in Arizona and Central California, bringing our fresh, delicious and competitively-priced products with the highest quality standards in the business to these vibrant communities," said Patrick Bradley, Whole Foods Market Southern Pacific regional president.