UNFI, Whole Foods Extend Agreement

AUSTIN, Texas--Whole Foods Markets Inc. (NASDAQ:WFMI) signed a definitive, three-year distribution agreement with United Natural Foods Inc. (NASDAQ:UNFI). Slated to begin Jan 1, 2005, the deal extends a long-standing partnership between the two companies, whereby UNFI will continue as the primary U.S. distributor to Whole Foods in UNFIs existing regions of service. According to Whole Foods, terms and conditions of the new agreement are consistent with existing agreements between its wholly owned subsidiary, Whole Foods Distribution Inc., and UNFI.

"Whole Foods Market and UNFI have a long history of working together to provide shoppers with the highest quality organic and natural foods, and we look forward to continuing our long and successful relationship," said Betsy Foster, vice president of purchasing and distribution for WFMI (www.wholefoods.com).