The two companies should leave about 450 vacancies, he says. Albertsons will have closures as a result of its sale to competitor Supervalu and other investment groups, while Winn-Dixie is closing store as part of its Chapter 11 bankruptcy restructuring plan.

Otherwise, the 113-store chain plans to grow through expansion of its current concepts, Wild Oats Natural Marketplace, Henry's Farmers Markets, Sun Harvest and Capers Community Markets. "There does not appear to be any acquisitions out there that make sense," Odak says.

In all, Wild Oats executives are planning 450 units across North America and do not foresee any expansion to Europe in the near future, where Austin, TX-based competitor Whole Foods has started opening stores. Most Wild Oats' domestic expansion will take place on the coasts, Odak says.