FLORENCE, Mont. — Stokes Markets has announced that they will purchase the Gary and Leo’s locations in Montana starting next month.

In a press release obtained by NBC Montana, Stokes and Gary and Leo’s reached a mutual agreement, to have Stokes take over the Gary and Leo’s locations in Florence on May 22, Conrad on May 29, and Havre on June 5.

As part of the transition, Stokes will introduce a rewards program, and a digital coupon platform.

Stokes Markets and Gary and Leo’s sent out the following release:

Stokes Markets is excited to announce it will be acquiring the three Gary & Leo’s stores, located in Montana, after the two businesses reached a mutual agreement. The transition will take place over a three-week period, with Stokes officially assuming operations in Florence on May 22, Conrad on May 29, and Havre on June 5.

This acquisition represents a natural and friendly transition between two family-owned grocery businesses that share a deep commitment to serving their communities. Stokes Markets, a fourth-generation family grocer with locations in Montana, Idaho, and Utah, is excited to continue the legacy established by Gary & Leo’s and the Malisani family. Stokes Markets is committed to retaining employees and ensuring a stable transition.

“We are honored to carry forward the strong community traditions that Gary & Leo’s has built,” said Steve Stokes, owner of Stokes Markets. “Our priority is ensuring a seamless transition for employees and customers while maintaining the same great service and commitment to the community, local fundraising efforts, and quality products including scratch-baked goods.”

“Our family has been proud to serve these communities for many years, and we are confident that Stokes Markets will continue our tradition.” said Joe Malisani. “We are grateful for the support of our customers and employees, and we look forward to seeing these stores thrive under Stokes’ leadership.”

As part of the transition, Stokes will introduce its rewards program and digital coupon platform, offering customers enhanced savings opportunities. The new rewards program will allow customers to earn points on purchases, receive exclusive discounts, and access digital coupons through an easy-to-use app and website.

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Stokes Markets will maintain the same store hours and operations the Gary & Leo’s stores are currently operating. Facility upgrades and renovations will be made where needed to best serve each community.

Stokes Markets remains dedicated to being a community-focused, independently owned business, and looks forward to building relationships with the residents of Conrad, Florence, and Havre.

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About Stokes Markets

Stokes Markets is a fourth-generation, family-owned grocery company that began in Burley, Idaho, in the 1960s. Since then, it has grown to serve communities in Idaho, Utah, and Montana while remaining locally owned and operated. Stokes is committed to providing a high-quality shopping experience, offering fresh, scratch-baked goods, in-house cut meats, and a strong dedication to community involvement through local schools, charities, and scholarship programs.For more information about Stokes Market visit www.stokesmarket.com.