Nugget Markets said Wednesday it plans to acquire two Northern California independent stores that will expand its operations northeast of the San Francisco Bay Area.
Nugget, based in Woodland, Calif., operates 15 stores that stretch from just north of the Bay Area eastward to the Greater Sacramento market, with sales estimated at $315 million.
The stores being acquired are Sonoma Market and Glen Ellen Village Market, located in the Sonoma area north and east of three stores the company acquired last April north of San Francisco.
The two stores are co-owned by brothers-in-law Don Shone and Dale Downing. Nugget said the acquisition is scheduled to be completed by March 31.
“Don and Dale and their entire team have built a fabulous brand,” Eric Stille, president and CEO of Nugget, said. “Our core values align nicely, and I see both brands growing stronger with this acquisition.”

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According to Shone, “Though we have been sought after by many companies over the years, only now do we feel we have the perfect fit for our market family.”
Kate Stille, director of marketing for Nugget, told SN Nugget plans to retain the existing names on the stores “because they are true Sonoma destinations and icons in their communities, with a very strong brand.
“The stores have very strong perishables departments, and we will increase the center store grocery selection,” she said.
Sonoma Market is 23,000 square feet and Glen Ellen Market, about 15 miles away, is 16,000 square feet.