ST. JOSEPH COUNTY, Ind. -- The sale of Martin's Super Markets to SpartanNash will not affect the name of the store or the shopping experience customers have come to expect, according to Rob Bartels, the president and CEO of Martin's.

Bartels said store operations will be business as usual. SpartanNash has been a longtime supplier of Martin's so customers should not see any difference in stores.

In addition, the leaders at the corporate office and local stories will remain the same and no one is expected to lose their job.

The sale is expected to close on December 31.

Bartels said Martin's is only able to make money at the retail level. Because SpartanNash is a wholesaler, there are more opportunities for growth.

All stores will keep the Martin's name and the features that make Martin's unique will also remain the same - including Starbucks in stores and Paw Mart.

Once SpartanNash acquires Martin's they will continue the Martin's tradition of giving back to the community, Bartels said.