WILLIAMSVILLE, N.Y. — Tops Friendly Markets here said it has completed the conversion of nine former Grand Union stores in upstate New York and Vermont to the Tops banner.

The new Tops branded stores are part of a 21-store acquisition the company made last year.

Grand opening ceremonies featured the announcement of capital improvements made at each store, as well as donations made on behalf of Tops to various local charities through the company’s “Living Here. Giving Here” community partnership program.

“The entire Tops team has worked very hard to that ensure our new store customers will have a more enjoyable shopping experience as they see the many changes in the setting, amenities and an increased variety of products that our neighborhood stores will offer,” said Frank Curci, Tops’ president and chief executive officer. “And we want to continue the tradition of being active members of the local community.”

The name change of the stores to Tops Friendly Markets was included in a rebranding effort announced in which all former Grand Union stores would be changed to Tops through the end of 2013.

More news: Tops Buys Four Big M Stores

Read More: http://supermarketnews.com/retail-amp-financial/tops-converts-nine-grand-unions#ixzz2Y04VhKcl