Houchens Food Group, Inc.

Houchens Food Group, Inc. is a diversified, 100% employee-owned company headquartered in Bowling Green, Kentucky. Established in 1917 by Ervin G. Houchens, the company has grown into one of the nation's largest independent retailers. It operates over 400 stores across 15 states.

Retail Operations

Houchens Food Group's retail operations encompass a variety of grocery and convenience store formats. The company operates more than 35 IGA (Independent Grocers Alliance) stores in states including Alabama, Illinois, Indiana, Kentucky, Ohio, Tennessee, and Virginia.

Additionally, HFG manages several other grocery chains such as Price Less, Save A Lot, and Food Giant, providing a wide range of products to meet diverse customer needs.

Convenience Stores

The company also operates convenience stores under the Crossroads IGA and Crossroads Express brands. These stores offer customers quick access to essential items, catering to on-the-go shoppers.

Restaurant Operations

In the restaurant sector, Houchens Food Group has expanded its portfolio to include several well-known brands. It operates multiple Slim Chickens locations, with the ninth opening in Elizabethtown, Kentucky, in October 2023.

Other restaurant brands under HFG's management include Subway, Sonic, and Which Wich, with locations primarily in Kentucky and Tennessee.

Hardware Stores

HFG has also entered the hardware retail market by operating Ace Hardware stores. The company opened its first Ace Hardware store in May 2015 and has since expanded to 25 additional locations, with plans for further growth.

Employee Ownership

A distinctive feature of Houchens Food Group is its employee ownership structure. Since 1988, the company has been 100% employee-owned through an Employee Stock Ownership Plan (ESOP).

This ownership model ensures employees have a vested interest in the company's success, fostering a culture of shared responsibility and growth.

Community Engagement

Houchens Food Group is committed to community involvement and support. The company sponsors the annual Kentucky High School Athletic Association's Girls' "Sweet 16" Basketball Championship Tournament.

It also contributes to local organizations, including Western Kentucky University, demonstrating its ongoing community commitment.

Locations

Houchens Food Group operates over 400 stores across 15 states. Key locations include Kentucky, Tennessee, Indiana, Ohio, and Georgia. Its headquarters is at 700 Church Street, Bowling Green, Kentucky, 42101.

The company's major location is Louisville, KY, USA as well.

• Headquarters: Bowling Green, Kentucky
• Louisville, KY, USA
• Presence in Alabama, Illinois, Indiana, Kentucky, Ohio, Tennessee, Virginia
• Restaurant locations mainly in Kentucky and Tennessee
• Over 400 stores in 15 states

Through a diverse set of operations and an employee-focused culture, Houchens Food Group continues to serve communities across the United States, offering a wide variety of products and services to meet customer needs.