Casey's Foods sold to longtime employee

Casey's Foods in Naperville announced Tuesday it will be sold to longtime employee and Naperville resident Kris Visher, who will assume ownership June 1.

Terms of the sale were not announced.

Owner Dan Casey will stay on as executive officer, with responsibilities to ensure the high quality of customer service and products Casey's Foods will continue to offer, according to a statement from the independent grocer.

Visher joined Casey's Foods in 2005 as business manager, human resources manager and accountant. Prior to that, she worked for companies in need of financial department restructuring and development of financial support systems.

She and her family moved to Naperville in 1985 where she became involved in the community through groups including Grace United Methodist Church, the Magical Starlight Theatre and Naperville Park District.

"It was important that we find the right ownership to take Casey's into the future, and there is no one better than Kris to do it," Casey said.

Visher said her goal is to maintain and expand the grocer's presence in the community while supporting the Naperville community,

"I have deep respect for the history of Casey's Foods and the values that have long been a priority," she said. "I look forward to maintaining and honoring that, while expanding our responsiveness to the changing tastes and lifestyles through innovation of ideas in products, and delivery of services."

Started in 1969 as Mike's Meat by Irish immigrants Mike Casey and Mike Kelly, the business evolved into the grocery store run that has been run by second-generation Dan Casey. The store has been at its current location at 124 W. Gartner Road since 1991.

Casey's Foods has been a cornerstone of the Naperville community, supporting countless organizations and serving customers it's signature meats, produce, bakery and grocery items, according to the statement.