Continuing its expansion to reach across the southern United States, Publix has announced it is adding two more stores to its roster.

Todd Jones, CEO, Publix

“Publix is always seeking locations where we can serve our customers and offer an exceptional shopping experience,” said Publix CEO Todd Jones of the move. The retailer has acquired the leases for two Western Market locations near Birmingham, Alabama, after Western Market announced it would be closing up shop. “This acquisition allows us to expand our presence in the Birmingham area, and we are very excited to bring one of our GreenWise Markets to this region,” Jones continued.

Publix has acquired the leases for two Western Market locations near Birmingham, Alabama

The two stores, and their expected opening times, are listed below:

1000 Jemison Lane, Mountain Brook, AL; expected to be open by the Q3 20193350 Morgan Drive, Vestavia Hills, AL; opening date not yet determined

The location in Mountain Brook will open as a GreenWise Market, the retailer’s specialty, organic market; the Vestavia Hills location will open as a Publix. The acquisition is expected to close in March.

Ken Hubbard, CEO, Western Market

“Western Market has been serving Alabama for 70 years,” said Western Market CEO Ken Hubbard. “I am happy to know our spirit of service, dedication to our people, and community involvement will continue through Publix. I believe this is the best grocer to serve our loyal customers into the future.” The current Western Market store at the Vestavia Hills location will be torn down and turned into a 35,000-square-foot Publix, according to a press release, while the Mountain Brook location will make the seventh announced GreenWise Market