AJ's Fine Foods, formerly known as AJ Bayless, is a supermarket chain formerly headquartered in Phoenix, Arizona. It was founded by Arthur Joseph Bayless in the 1930s.[1]
History
The company went through a bankruptcy in the late 1980s.[2] It was acquired by Bashas’ in 1993.[3] Under Bashas' ownership, AJ's has positioned itself as an upscale gourmet and specialty grocery chain with each store located in affluent neighborhoods. The stores feature chef-prepared entrees, an extensive wine collection with trained cellar staff, and specialty baked goods.[citation needed]
Some locations in middle-class and blue-collar neighborhoods were converted to Bashas' Food City format.[3]
References
- ^ "A. J. Bayless, Grocery Store Founder, Dies". The Arizona Republic. March 5, 1967. Retrieved July 31, 2020.
- ^ "Bayless Markets' new owner renames three stores Q-Fresh". Archived from the original on April 7, 2013. Retrieved July 31, 2020.
- ^ a b Gutekunst, John (April 21, 2015). "Bashas' being converted into Food City". Parker Pioneer. Retrieved July 31, 2020.