The worst-kept secret in Blaine County is confirmed. In an article dated May 16 in a grocery store trade publication, it was announced that Harps Food Stores has agreed to purchase Doc’s Food Stores, including the store in Watonga.
Other Oklahoma locations include Bixby, Collinsville, Coweta, Fairview, Glenpool, Newkirk, Okmulgee, Oologah and Sapulpa.
Harps operates 148 stores in six states – Arkansas, Kansas, Louisiana, Mississippi, Missouri and Oklahoma. Founded by Harvard and Floy Harp in Springdale, Ark. in 1930, it has grown to become the largest employee-owned company in that state.
The exact date of the change over has not been determined, but both Doc’s and Harps expect it to be this fall.
Courtney Brown, president and CEO of Doc’s told employees that employment and operations across Oklahoma would remain basically the same, with little or no interruption.
“We want to extend our heartfelt gratitude to all our friends, family, associates and loyal customers who have supported us,” Brown said. “Your continued trust and encouragement have been the cornerstone of our success. We are confident with this sale Harps will continue to uphold the values and service standards that our customers have come to expect.”
Kim Eskew, chairman and CEO of Harps said “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.”