Report: Bi-Lo goes up for sale

MAULDIN, S.C. Just a few months after completing its financial restructuring, Bi-Lo reportedly is for sale, according to published reports.

Reuters reported that the chain, which operates 207 stores across four states and is owned by Lone Star Funds, is being pursued by Kroger and Publix. Recently, Bi-Lo launched a health-and-wellness initiative called Thrive, which is designed to educate shoppers on healthy living alternatives. Bi-Lo also revealed itself as a "stronger, better" supermarket chain late last month at the grand reopening of its Greer, S.C., location.

“This redesigned store represents all the great things Bi-Lo is doing to provide customers tremendous savings without having to sacrifice the quality and service they desire,” Michael Byars, president and CEO of Bi-Lo, recently said. “We are proud of our teammates’ hard work on this collective effort and we look forward to exceeding the expectations of our customers.”

Lone Star declined to comment to the press regarding this matter.