Jackson Mitchell Holdings, Inc., Atlanta, acquired Little Giant Farmers Market Corp., a Jonesboro, Ga.-based farm-fresh produce supermarket that operates five grocery stores in Georgia.

Little Giant Farmers Market will continue to operate under the current corporate structure, and will be a wholly owned subsidiary of Jackson Mitchell Holdings. The deal includes the original Riverdale, Ga., location, the flagship store in Jonesboro, both Newnan, Ga., locations and the Decatur, Ga., site. Thirty years after opening the Riverdale produce store, Little Giant Farmer's Market owner Mickey Dixon is stepping away.

"I'm very pleased with Jackson taking over this operation. Little Giant has been my family away from family for the last 30 years, and I feel very confident about these great people going forward with our vision. I feel that they have the same morals and standards that align with our company values, and that is very important to me. The fact that they are honoring all employees by allowing them to continue to work here makes me feel good, and I am confident that I am leaving our loyal customers and employees in great hands," says Dixon.

Jackson Mitchell, founder and CEO of Jackson Mitchell Holdings, is a fourth-generation member of his family's business, Mitchell Grocery Corp. After serving as director of store development for the last five years, he will work to develop FreshTake, his own chain of stores and grow Little Giant Farmer's Market.

"It's a unique opportunity to be a part of a great family-owned business that's stable, established and has great people," says Mitchell.

Mitchell’s plans include enhancing each location, and improving customer experience. All 175 current employees of the chain received the opportunity to continue working under the new parent company. Mitchell Grocery Corp. will serve as all five stores’ primary wholesaler. Future plans include expanding variety across the store, and adding fresh seafood, bulk foods and more grab-and-go options. Mitchell also plans to add a deli and bakery and expand the deli and bakery offerings in the Newnan locations.

"I look forward to serving the Metro Atlanta area and the Riverdale, Jonesboro, Decatur, Newnan, and Sargent communities by offering value, fresh products, convenience and fresh thinking to enhance the customer shopping experience," says Mitchell.