KEASBEY, NJ – Wakefern Food Corp., the powerhouse cooperative behind ShopRite, Price Rite Marketplace, and several other grocery banners, has officially completed its acquisition of the 17-store New York City-based grocery chain Morton Williams. Announced on October 2, 2025, the move strengthens Wakefern’s presence in New York and Jersey City while ensuring that the Morton Williams name and its founding family’s leadership remain integral to operations.
Founded in 1952, Morton Williams has built a reputation for premium grocery offerings, from fresh produce and gourmet cheeses to high-quality meats and chef-prepared selections. All 17 stores are located across New York City, with one outpost in Newport, Jersey City. Wakefern confirmed that all current associates and leadership personnel, including members of the Kaner family who founded Morton Williams, will remain in place, ensuring continuity for loyal customers and employees alike.
PRRC Inc., a Wakefern subsidiary, will oversee the operations of Morton Williams’ stores and online platform. Kevin McDonnell, President of PRRC Inc., highlighted the benefits of the union, noting that combining Morton Williams’ community-focused service with the scale and resources of the Wakefern cooperative creates “a winning combination.” McDonnell emphasized that the cooperative’s buying power and extensive infrastructure will allow the chain to compete and thrive in an increasingly competitive market.
The acquisition aligns with Wakefern’s long-term growth strategy, which emphasizes expanding cooperative operations, supporting existing family-owned banners, and strategically acquiring complementary businesses. Wakefern Chairman Sean McMenamin underscored the cooperative’s vision for sustainable growth, explaining that integrating Morton Williams is part of a broader plan to strengthen wholesale distribution networks while preserving the local character that has made the chain successful.
For Morton Williams, the acquisition represents a continuation of a multigenerational legacy. Avi Kaner, representing the chain’s third generation of grocers, praised the cooperative for maintaining the brand’s identity and expressed confidence that both employees and customers would flourish under Wakefern’s guidance. “We’re proud to see that legacy continue under Wakefern’s leadership,” Kaner said. “It’s reassuring to know the future of Morton Williams is in such capable and caring hands.”
Wakefern President Mike Stigers highlighted the importance of preserving the community roots of Morton Williams while leveraging the cooperative’s resources to enhance efficiency and technological capabilities. “When a brand is so embedded in the community, it’s essential that we preserve that legacy,” Stigers stated. He added that the cooperative is excited to collaborate with Morton Williams’ highly skilled team and to build upon the brand’s reputation for quality and service.
This acquisition follows Wakefern’s recent purchase of Di Bruno Bros., a Philadelphia-based gourmet food chain, underscoring the cooperative’s strategy of integrating high-end specialty grocers into its broader network. With hundreds of stores under multiple banners across New Jersey, New York, and beyond, Wakefern continues to cement its role as a dominant player in the regional grocery industry while maintaining a focus on family-owned operations and community engagement.
For shoppers and industry observers interested in exploring the latest developments in New Jersey’s grocery landscape, including the growing footprint of Wakefern banners, visit Explore New Jersey Supermarkets.
