Winn- Dixie, a name many have trusted since 1955(though it was around since 1925 by another name) is closing it's doors in many of the places that rely on the brand,the prices and a friendly food store.

Here in our area, the Winn Dixie in Engle wood is closing it's doors.

This just seems so crazy to me. In the 90's Winn Dixie assimilated Thriftway and up until
1998 was in competition with Publix Markets , which also has had economic problems.

In 2000,Winn-Dixie purchased 68 grocery stores, 32 fuel centers and two liquor stores in Mississippi, Alabama and Louisiana.

So where did Winn Dixie go wrong?

Here is a time line :

2003:  Frank Lazaran is named President and CEO of Winn-Dixie Stores, Inc.

2003:  Winn-Dixie launches its store brand for nearly 3,000 items sold in all 1,073 stores. The new private label brand offers customers national brand quality at a great value.
 
2004:  Strategic initiatives are announced, including an Asset Rationalization plan, expense reductions, and key brand initiatives.
 
2004:  Peter L. Lynch is appointed as President and CEO of Winn-Dixie Stores, Inc.
 
2005:  Winn-Dixie Stores, Inc. files for Chapter 11 Reorganization to address financial and operational challenges

As you notice, the problems seem to have started in 2001.

It was known as the most profitable food chain prior to 2001.

Some People blame Wal-Mart for the Winn Dixie blues. I don't. I blame the Republican Administration and the lock down of the American Economy.