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ALACHUA – Southeastern Grocers, LLC (SEG), parent company of Winn-Dixie, announced Tuesday that it will rebrand as The Winn-Dixie Company in early 2026, uniting under one iconic name as it refocuses on its Florida roots and expands its North Florida footprint.

As part of its Florida-focused strategy, SEG has finalized an agreement to acquire Hitchcock’s Markets in Alachua, Keystone Heights, and Williston, a move that will strengthen the company’s presence across North Florida.

The new Williston Winn-Dixie, located at 434 E. Noble Ave., is scheduled to open in early December 2025, replacing the current store at 727 W. Noble Ave. Associates from the closing location will have the opportunity to continue serving customers at the new site.

Additional Hitchcock’s Markets in Alachua and Keystone Heights will be converted to Winn-Dixie locations and are expected to open by summer 2026, according to the company.

SEG said the new stores are part of a broader plan that includes dozens of remodels and upgrades statewide to create inviting, community-centered grocery environments designed around local needs.

The transition marks the start of a new chapter for the century-old grocery chain, aligning all operations under the Winn-Dixie banner while modernizing stores, growing its presence in key Florida markets, and investing in customer-centered innovation.

The company said it will move forward with dozens of remodels and new store projects, both planned and underway. These investments include expanding its liquor store portfolio, enhancing its Own Brand product line, and reintroducing the fan-favorite Lip Lickin’ Chicken in early 2026.

SEG is also testing new customer conveniences, such as third-party delivery services and in-store return kiosks, as part of its broader effort to modernize the shopping experience.

In addition to its Florida expansion, SEG announced plans to transition ownership of most of its locations outside the state, enabling the company to reinvest more heavily in its core Florida and southern Georgia markets.

Agreements have been reached or are underway with multiple grocery companies involving 32 Winn-Dixie stores and eight Harveys Supermarkets in Alabama, Georgia, Louisiana, and Mississippi. Store transitions and closures are expected to conclude by early 2026.

Afterward, the company will operate approximately 130 grocery stores and 140 liquor stores across Florida and southern Georgia, continuing service in Brunswick, Folkston, Lake Park, St. Simons Island, and Valdosta.

The Winn-Dixie Company plans to strengthen its operations through new store investments, modern technology, and community partnerships. Company leaders said the goal is to blend tradition with innovation while maintaining its neighborhood grocer identity.

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