Winn-Dixie Reborn: SEG Bets Big on Florida in Centennial Overhaul

JACKSONVILLE, FL – December 29, 2025 – As Southeastern Grocers (SEG) closes the chapter on its centennial year, the parent company of Winn-Dixie and Harveys Supermarket is not merely celebrating a century of history—it is launching a bold strategic reinvention. The company has announced it will transition into The Winn-Dixie Company in early 2026, anchoring its future firmly in its home state of Florida and southern Georgia. This pivot, marked by significant store divestitures, new acquisitions, and widespread remodels, signals a concentrated effort to fortify its position in a fiercely competitive market, all while leaning on a legacy of community engagement and award-winning value that defined its first 100 years.

A Strategic Consolidation for a New Century

The transformation into The Winn-Dixie Company is the centerpiece of a deliberate strategy to streamline operations and concentrate capital where it matters most. The move involves divesting the majority of its stores outside of its core Florida market. A total of 32 Winn-Dixie locations and eight Harveys Supermarkets across Alabama, Louisiana, Mississippi, and non-core regions of Georgia are being sold or transitioned, with the process expected to conclude by early 2026. Following this consolidation, the newly branded company will operate a focused portfolio of approximately 130 traditional grocery stores and 140 liquor stores, primarily in the Sunshine State.

This strategic retreat sharpens the company's focus on a battleground it knows best but where competition is intense. Florida's grocery landscape is dominated by giants like Publix and Walmart, and further complicated by ALDI's aggressive expansion. The German discounter is in the midst of a multi-year plan to convert hundreds of former Winn-Dixie and Harveys stores—acquired in a separate, earlier transaction—to its own format, a process slated to continue into 2027.

In this high-stakes environment, The Winn-Dixie Company is fighting back with targeted investments. It recently finalized an agreement to acquire three Hitchcock's Markets in North Florida, with the Williston location impressively remodeled and reopened under the Winn-Dixie banner in just 45 days. Two other locations in Alachua and Keystone Heights are set to debut by summer 2026. This rapid turnaround, along with a newly remodeled store in St. Cloud, underscores a renewed commitment to enhancing the in-store customer experience with modern layouts, expanded offerings, and a community-centric feel.

“Our incredible achievements this year underscore a defining moment in our history as we celebrated 100 years of serving our communities while setting a solid foundation to evolve for the future,” said Anthony Hucker, Chairman and CEO of Southeastern Grocers. “Looking ahead to 2026, we enter the next chapter grounded in our values, carrying a century of legacy and stepping boldly into a future full of purpose and possibility.”

Building Trust Through Value and Recognition

Underpinning this strategic pivot is a foundation of proven quality and customer trust, validated by a trove of national accolades earned in 2025. The grocer secured 69 national industry awards, a testament to its excellence in product, service, and corporate responsibility. A significant portion of this recognition—nearly 50 awards—was for its Own Brand portfolio, which includes nearly 8,000 items offering customers an average savings of more than 20% compared to national brands.

These private-label products earned top marks from respected industry authorities, including the American Pie Council, World Dairy Expo, and the Private Label Manufacturers Association (PLMA). The accolades demonstrate a successful strategy of providing high-quality alternatives that help customers save money without sacrificing quality, a critical advantage in an economy where value is paramount.

The company’s efforts to build a reliable brand were also recognized on a national scale. In 2025, Newsweek named SEG one of the “Most Trustworthy Companies in America.” This trust is cultivated not only through its products but also through its popular loyalty program. The Winn-Dixie Rewards program was named one of “America's Best Loyalty & Rewards Programs” by USA Today and, for the fifth consecutive year, was included on Newsweek’s list of “America’s Best Loyalty Programs.”

The program's appeal lies in its straightforward value proposition. Members earn points on nearly every purchase, which can be redeemed for discounts on groceries. It also provides access to exclusive digital coupons, personalized offers, and special perks like a free birthday gift, creating a sticky ecosystem that encourages repeat business and deepens the customer relationship.

A Foundation of Community Commitment

While store remodels and corporate rebranding capture headlines, SEG’s centennial year was equally defined by its deep-seated commitment to community service. Through its charitable arm, the SEG Gives Foundation, the company donated more than $2.8 million to causes its customers and associates care about most. This philanthropic work is not an afterthought but a core pillar of its brand identity.

Hunger relief remains a central focus. The grocer provided nearly $700,000 in monetary and product donations to its long-standing partner Feeding America® and local food banks. This included a $100,000 donation during Hunger Action Month, aimed at providing over 1 million meals to families in need. Customers were also brought into the mission, contributing nearly $200,000 worth of food through the purchase of pre-packed holiday donation bags. Furthermore, the company’s associates participated in 25 mobile food pantry events, providing hands-on support in some of the most food-insecure regions in the country.

Beyond hunger, the company’s giving was broad and impactful. It invested $250,000 in the American Red Cross for disaster preparedness, donated $300,000 to Folds of Honor to fund educational scholarships for the families of fallen and disabled service members, and contributed over $100,000 to support local pediatric care facilities. A unique initiative, the Romay Davis Belonging, Inclusion and Diversity Grant program, awarded $400,000 to 40 nonprofits working to address racial disparities in health, education, and food security.

This extensive community work earned its own recognition, with SEG being named to Forbes’ list of Best Brands for Social Impact. As the company transitions to The Winn-Dixie Company, this century-long legacy of being a trusted neighborhood partner remains a vital asset.

As 2025 concludes, Southeastern Grocers celebrates not only its past but a future strategically redesigned around its most iconic brand. The evolution into The Winn-Dixie Company represents a calculated wager on regional strength, customer loyalty, and deep community ties. As the calendar turns to 2026, the company is poised to leverage a century of experience to redefine its presence and deepen its roots across the Sunshine State and southern Georgia.