Harps Food Stores to purchase Doc’s Food Stores in Oklahoma

Springdale-based grocery retailer Harps Food Stores Inc. will acquire Doc’s Food Stores Inc., an independent grocery retailer with 10 stores across Oklahoma, according to a Friday (May 16) news release.

Financial terms of the deal were not disclosed. The transaction is expected to be completed by this fall.

“Opportunities like this are rare,” said Kim Eskew, chairman and CEO of Harps Food Stores. “We are extremely excited about adding these stores to our Harps family. They will make a great addition to our company as we strive to continue to grow.”

The stores are in Bixby, Collinsville, Coweta, Fairview, Glenpool, Newkirk, Okmulgee, Oologah, Sapulpa and Watonga. Courtney Brown, president and CEO of Doc’s Food Stores, said its store banners, employment and operations across eastern Oklahoma will continue with minimal change or interruption.

“As we approach our 80th year, we want to extend our heartfelt gratitude to all our friends, family, associates and loyal customers who have supported us throughout this journey,” Brown said. “Your continued trust and encouragement have been the cornerstone of our success. This collaboration represents an incredible opportunity not only for our family and associates but also for the communities we serve. We are confident with this sale Harps will continue to uphold the values and service standards that our customers have come to expect.”

Harps has 148 stores in six states, including Arkansas, Kansas, Louisiana, Mississippi, Missouri and Oklahoma. The 100% employee-owned company has more than 6,500 employees. Harvard and Floy Harp founded the company in Springdale in 1930.