Giunta’s Meat Farms to Acquire King Kullen, America’s First Supermarket

Giunta’s Meat Farms, a family‑owned Long Island grocery operator, announced an agreement to purchase King Kullen Grocery Co., the chain recognized as America’s first supermarket. Founded in 1930 by Michael J. Cullen, King Kullen operates 24 supermarkets and four Wild by Nature natural‑foods stores on Long Island. The transaction, expected to close in September pending customary conditions, does not disclose financial terms.

Both companies said employees will retain their jobs and store operations will continue unchanged during the transition. Giunta’s said the deal expands its regional footprint, while the sale marks the end of nearly a century of Cullen family ownership. The acquisition reflects broader consolidation in the U.S. grocery sector as regional chains face pressure from national retailers, discount stores and online grocery services.