Athens-based Bell's grocery stores acquired by another Georgia grocery chain

After nearly 100 years in business, Bell's Food Stores is being purchased by another Georgia-based grocery chain.

Bell's posted on social media on Tuesday, Oct. 17 confirming the sale to B&T's Food Fresh Market, first reported by the Oglethorpe Echo on Oct. 12.

"The legacy of Bell's Food Stores is in fantastic hands," the press release stated. "For those of you who like the old-fashioned way, you get to keep it. For those who want more innovation, you will get it."

Bell's was founded in 1926 with the store's first location downtown on the corner of Washington and Pulaski streets. There are currently five Bell's groceries stores: one in Athens, Lexington, Jefferson, Lincolnton and Watkinsville.

B&T's operates four stores in central and southeastern Georgia and one location in South Carolina.

This article originally appeared on Savannah Morning News: Bell's Food Stores purchased by B&T's Food Fresh Market