(Photo: Coborn’s)
ST. CLOUD, Minn. — Dec. 1, 2025
Minnesota-based grocery retailer Coborn’s Inc. has maintained a strong presence in northern Wisconsin through its acquisition of Marketplace Foods, a chain of four grocery and liquor stores in Hayward, Menomonie, Rice Lake and St. Croix Falls.
The acquisition, completed in 2015, allowed Coborn’s to extend its operations beyond Minnesota, where it operates Coborn’s, Cash Wise Foods and Save-A-Lot banners, and into Wisconsin’s smaller communities, a strategic move that continues to impact regional grocery markets in 2025.
Under the acquisition agreement, the Marketplace Foods stores retained their names and existing leadership teams. The locations employ roughly 400 workers and remain part of Coborn’s regional network, providing continuity for local shoppers while allowing the company to integrate supply chain efficiencies and loyalty programs across both states.
“This acquisition positioned us to better serve northern Wisconsin communities and offer the strengths of Coborn’s network while respecting the local identity of the Marketplace Foods stores,” said Chris Coborn, president and CEO of Coborn’s Inc.
Coborn’s operates nearly 77 stores across six states in the Upper Midwest, including Minnesota, Wisconsin, North Dakota, South Dakota, Michigan and Illinois. Analysts say the expansion exemplifies a trend in regional grocery consolidation, where mid-sized chains strengthen their reach to compete with national retailers while serving smaller communities near the Great Lakes region.
Industry observers note that Coborn’s approach — retaining local store branding and staff — has helped preserve customer loyalty while enhancing operational efficiency. The company continues to invest in technology and supply chain improvements to support its multi-state network.