Topco Associates history

Shurfine, which had been founded in 1948, moved its operations to Skokie, and the expanded company became known as Topco Associates, LLC. The members of Topco would own 85.7 percent and those of Shurfine 14.3 percent.

In 1960, general merchandise, store equipment, and some health and beauty care products were introduced as well.

Though a lower court found in the company's favor, the case was appealed to the United States Supreme Court, which ruled against Topco in 1972.

1979: Revenues top $1 billion with help from new Valu Time generics.

In 1989, Topco named Robert Seelert president and CEO to replace Marcel Lussier, who had run the organization for a decade.

In 1990, the company introduced GreenMark, an environmentally friendly "green" product line.

1991: Daymon Associates is hired as a food broker to boost private-label sales.

In 1992, Topco reintroduced its stagnant World Classics line with new packaging and a greater promotional push.

Topco's membership was now growing and reached a total of 45 by 1994.

Topco president and CEO Steven Lauer, who had headed the firm since 1999, retained the top posts.

In 2000, Topco began marketing a line of organic foods known as Full Circle, which included frozen vegetables, soy milk, and cereal.

In 2003, Topco expanded the Full Circle natural and organic line with new rice, bean, popcorn, cookie and soy milk products, bringing its offerings to more than 125 items in 24 categories.

On February 1, 2006, Topco announced the acquisition of BrainTree Sourcing from Ahold USA, forming a new company called TopSource LLC (as a wholly owned subsidiary of Topco Associates LLC), which is now known as Topco's Indirect Spend program.