KEASBEY, N.J. — Wakefern Food Corp., the largest retailer-owned supermarket cooperative in the United States, is looking ahead to its 80th anniversary with a renewed focus on growth, innovation and family enterprise. At its annual shareholders’ meeting on October 16, leadership outlined a strategy built on leveraging technology, expanding its wholesale and retail reach, and strengthening the network of family-owned businesses that form the cooperative’s foundation.
Wakefern reported retail sales of $20.7 billion for the fiscal year ended September 27, 2025, a 3.1% increase from the prior year. The cooperative’s members opened three new ShopRite stores and one The Fresh Grocer, while also completing a significant acquisition — the 17-store Morton Williams supermarket chain, with locations in Manhattan, the Bronx and Jersey City.
“We are embracing bold ideas, exploring new business models, and seizing opportunities — all with a clear focus on building a sustainable future,” said Sean McMenamin, chairman of Wakefern’s board. “The entrepreneurial spirit and bold thinking that established Wakefern nearly 80 years ago will continue to guide us in the future.”
McMenamin told the 500 attendees gathered at the Hilton in Parsippany, N.J., that Wakefern’s cooperative model — grounded in local ownership and collaboration — remains its greatest strength. Thousands more team members joined virtually as executives reviewed fiscal 2025 results and previewed plans for 2026.
President Mike Stigers, who joined Wakefern last year, emphasized continued investment in technology, wholesale partnerships and brand development. “We’re focused on growing our brands and wholesale business and expanding market share — without losing sight of what makes us unique,” Stigers said. “We will continue to unlock our full potential and push the limits of what is possible while never taking our eye off our core business and family-owned Member companies.”
The addition of Morton Williams extends Wakefern’s reach into dense urban markets and follows its 2024 acquisition of Philadelphia-based Di Bruno Bros., the specialty grocer known for its gourmet foods. Together, they bring Wakefern’s family of banners to eight, including ShopRite, Price Rite Marketplace, The Fresh Grocer, Gourmet Garage, Fairway Market, Morton Williams, Di Bruno Bros., and Dearborn Market.
Leadership highlighted ongoing investments in store remodels, supply-chain innovation and artificial intelligence applications designed to improve both in-store and online experiences. Wakefern also continues to grow its wholesale customer base, positioning itself as a regional powerhouse in food distribution.
In keeping with its community-first philosophy, Wakefern reaffirmed its commitment to fighting hunger and supporting local organizations. The cooperative’s ShopRite Partners In Caring initiative remained a key pillar in 2025, while its sponsorship of the ShopRite LPGA Classic reached new milestones.
This year’s event delivered a record $1.8 million in grants to charitable organizations and introduced new programs, including a student scholarship fund, expanded LPGA athlete sponsorships and a TeamSmile dental clinic with Colgate that provided care to more than 140 children.
“These initiatives demonstrate how Wakefern’s reach extends far beyond our stores,” McMenamin said. “We are not just building a stronger business — we’re helping to build stronger communities.”
The meeting also featured recognition of several longtime leaders. Paul Patten, group vice president of Center Store, received the Chairman’s Award for his 43 years of service and leadership within the cooperative. McMenamin also announced the retirement of board members Irv Glass (Glass Gardens), Ned Gladstein (Sunrise ShopRite), and Larri Wolfson (ShopRite of Lincoln Park), thanking them for decades of contributions.
Wakefern shareholders re-elected the board of directors, with McMenamin continuing as chairman and Stigers reaffirmed as president.
Founded in 1946 by eight independent grocers, Wakefern now represents hundreds of family-owned supermarkets operating across nine states. As the cooperative approaches its 80th anniversary, leadership emphasized a forward-looking agenda centered on innovation, partnership and people.
“Wakefern’s strength has always come from its members — local families who care deeply about their customers and communities,” Stigers said. “Together, we’re ensuring that this cooperative thrives for generations to come.”
