Coborn’s, a Minnesota-based retailer, recently announced its agreement to acquire two Kessler’s Food and Grocery stores from the family that currently owns them. The deal is set to close in early April, and specific terms were not disclosed. Coborn’s plans to continue operating the Kessler’s stores, located in Aberdeen and Miller, South Dakota, under their existing name and retain all current employees.
Kessler’s made the decision to sell the stores to Coborn’s due to rapidly changing conditions in the retail sector, which would have made it increasingly difficult for the company to remain competitive on its own. The sale was described as the best way forward for the employees of the two stores and the northeast South Dakota communities they serve.
Reed Kessler, the fourth-generation owner of Kessler’s, expressed his confidence in the deal, stating, “Coborn’s is a respected company that shares our values, commitment to employees, and community support. We’re grateful to our customers and employees for seven decades of success and know they’re in good hands.” Coborn’s provides the scale and resources needed to help Kessler’s stay cutting-edge and competitive in the market.
As part of the acquisition, Coborn’s employees will have the opportunity to purchase shares in the company through Coborn’s employee stock ownership plan. This move is expected to secure Kessler’s position as a market leader for years to come, create new opportunities for the team, and enhance the shopping experience for customers.
Currently, Coborn’s operates 79 stores across Minnesota, North Dakota, South Dakota, Wisconsin, Michigan, and Illinois. Their banners include Coborn’s, Cash Wise Foods, Marketplace Foods, Hornbacher’s, Kessler’s Food and Grocery, and Sullivan’s Foods. The company is also planning to open a new store in Plymouth, Minnesota, in early 2026.
Chris Coborn, President and CEO of Coborn’s, expressed his excitement about the acquisition, stating, “The Kessler family has run their family of stores with great care and is a highly respected retailer. We look forward to having the entire Kessler’s team join us and to learn more about their operations and communities.”
Overall, the acquisition of Kessler’s Food and Grocery stores by Coborn’s represents a strategic move to ensure the long-term success and competitiveness of both companies. By combining resources, expertise, and a shared commitment to employees and communities, Coborn’s and Kessler’s are poised to continue serving customers and thriving in the ever-evolving retail landscape.
