Based in Keasbey, Wakefern holds distinction as the nation’s largest retailers’ cooperative of supermarkets. But, perhaps, you’re more familiar with the names of its banners, among them ShopRite, Price Rite Marketplace, The Fresh Grocer and Gourmet Garage. In October, it expanded that roster, acquiring Philadelphia-based specialty grocer Di Bruno Bros.

Wakefern’s 45 member companies independently own and operate 365 supermarkets across the Northeast.

In 2024, the co-op maintained its place atop the NJBIZ Top 250 Private Companies list this summer, posting 5% revenue growth from 2022 to 2023 to hit $19.6 billion. In October, it announced another increase from last year to 2024, up 2.2% to $20.1 billion.

Commenting on the results, Wakefern President Mike Stigers said, “That pioneering spirit that drove this cooperative in the beginning will drive us into the future. We are putting in place an exciting new strategy that will help our family-owned businesses grow and continue to serve their customers and communities.”

The company saw four new ShopRite stores introduced over the year to much fanfare.

Additionally, it continues to embrace technology. Beyond developing its e-commerce experience, Wakefern has also pioneered AI-powered shopping carts at its stores with Instacart’s Caper Cart. You may have also seen Tally at work. The autonomous robot roams now more than 70 ShopRite stores to check inventory.

This summer, the organization teamed up with fellow Power Business TerraCylce. Dedicated kiosks at five North Jersey ShopRite stores now offer customers a way to recycle flexible-film packaging, such as chip bags and candy wrappers.