Supervalu said Friday that it has sold its Southern California-based Bristol Farms Bristol Farms small grocery chain to a company formed through a partnership with the Bristol Farms management team and Endeavour Capital, an investment firm experienced in grocery and retail businesses. Under the terms of the sale, the stores will change ownership effective today, but will continue to operate under the Bristol Farms name and the existing management and associate base will continue to serve customers without disruption.

Bristol Farms, formed in 1982, operates 14 stores and was part of Supervalu’s acquisition of huge Albertsons several years ago. Bristol Farms, based in Carson, operates mostly in Los Angeles County and is known for its organic products and seasonal edible gifts, thanks to an in-house catering service that cooks up everything from gourmet pastries to full holiday meals — all with upscale prices to match.

“SUPERVALU continuously evaluates its operations to identify opportunities to strengthen its overall business and, when necessary, makes decisions that involve the sale of some locations,” said Brian Huff, SUPERVALU senior vice president, Specialty Retail. “This move will ultimately allow SUPERVALU to operate more efficiently and effectively and focus on improving the shopping experience throughout its entire network of owned and supplied stores.”