Austin, Texas-based Whole Food Market plans to open four stores in Hawaii – three on Oahu and one on Maui – according to KHNL-TV. "The culture and the lifestyle of Hawaii is so aligned with the culture of Whole Foods Market that I think it's the perfect fit for us," said Michael Besancon, Southern Pacific region president of Whole Foods Market. The stores are expected to open starting in late 2008 through 2010.

Harris-Teeter Super Markets Inc., Charlotte, N.C., expects to add 15 new stores this year and remodel seven existing locations, according to the Charlotte Observer. The chain opened 19 stores last year and has more than 160 locations in six states. The company plans to expand its organic and natural products to help the chain stay competitive, the newspaper reported.

Freedom Foods Inc., Erlanger, Ky., has sold seven Save-A-Lot stores in Northern Kentucky and the Cincinnati area to Houchens Industries, Bowling Green, Ky., the Cincinnati Enquirer reported. Employee-owned Houchens operates stores under the Food Giant, IGA, Piggly Wiggly and Mad Butcher banners and also is involved in other businesses.

Weis Markets Inc., a Sanbury, Pa.-based food and pet supply retailer, has named David J. Hepfinger as president and chief operating officer, according to an Associated Press story in the Houston Chronicle. He replaces Norman S. Rich as president. Rich will continue to serve as the firm's chief executive. Hepfinger was with Rotterdam, N.Y.-based Price Chopper for 32 years, most recently as senior vice president of retailing and administration.

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