Save-A-Lot

Save A Lot is a discount grocery chain that has been serving communities across the United States since its founding in 1977 by Bill Moran in Cahokia, Illinois. The company began as an innovator in the limited-assortment grocery space, focusing on a streamlined selection of private label and national brands to keep prices low and shopping convenient. Over the years, Save A Lot grew its store base steadily, reaching more than 1,300 locations by the early 2010s.

As of November 2025, Save A Lot operates about 700 stores in 30 states, with most locations run by independent operators under a wholesale supply agreement. The company’s headquarters is in Saint Ann, Missouri, near St. Louis. Save A Lot’s stores are typically found in urban, suburban, and rural areas where access to affordable groceries is limited, and the brand is recognized for its emphasis on private label products, fresh produce, USDA-inspected meats, and essential household items.

A pivotal moment in the company’s history came in 2021, when Save A Lot transitioned from owning and operating most of its stores to a wholesale supply model. This shift involved selling the majority of company-operated stores to independent licensees, allowing Save A Lot to focus on supporting these retail partners and investing in its supply chain, store remodels, and brand updates. The company’s distribution network includes seven regional centers, which help maintain efficient delivery and consistent product quality.

In recent years, Save A Lot has concentrated its growth in the Midwest, Southeast, Southwest, and in both urban food deserts and rural communities. The company’s approach centers on converting independent operators and remodeling stores, supported by investments in distribution and branding. Save A Lot’s flexible store formats and efficient supply chain have enabled it to adapt quickly to changing market conditions and consumer needs.

Privately held by Onex Corporation since 2016, Save A Lot employs around 2,000 people at the corporate and distribution level, with thousands more working for its independent retail partners. Its continued focus on upgrading stores, expanding into underserved areas, and supporting independent operators has helped the brand remain a resilient and credible presence in the U.S. grocery sector.