A significant development in the retail grocery sector has taken place as Harps Foods, headquartered in Springdale, announces its acquisition of Craven Foods, a cherished family-owned establishment. This transition marks a new chapter for the Fairfield Bay community, where the familiar store will temporarily close on May 19 before reopening under the Harp’s Food Store banner just two days later. The move reflects a strategic expansion by Harps Foods, demonstrating their commitment to preserving local traditions while integrating modern amenities.

The legacy of Craven Foods is deeply rooted in the community, and its owners, Jimmy and Teresa Craven, express mixed emotions about stepping away from their business. However, they find comfort in knowing that Harp’s shares similar core values centered around service, quality, and community engagement. According to Harp’s leadership, customers can anticipate a smooth transformation process without disruptions. CEO Kim Eskew emphasizes the company's excitement in welcoming Craven Foods into their network, acknowledging the unique contributions made by Jimmy and his team over the years.

This acquisition aligns with Harps Foods' broader growth strategy, which includes recent openings such as the 10Box Cost-Plus store in Van Buren and plans to establish additional locations in Conway and Fort Smith. As an entirely employee-owned organization operating across six states, Harps Foods continues to set benchmarks in corporate responsibility and workforce empowerment. With more than 6,500 employees and 148 stores nationwide, this latest venture not only strengthens their market presence but also underscores their dedication to fostering vibrant communities through meaningful partnerships.