BEND, OR -- A popular discount grocery store changed names this week. Food 4 Less, located in the Cascade Village Shopping Center on the north end of Bend, is now Local Acres Marketplace.

In a Facebook post, the store notes, "We still have the same local ownership, the same amazing staff, the same store director, and the same dedication to bringing you the absolute best." The name change, the post says, is "to align with our commitment to providing the finest natural, organic, specialty and local products. As a locally owned store, we wanted a name that truly reflected our vibrant and unique vibe, distinguishing us from any association with those other corporate, warehouse-style stores in other states." 

Kroger Inc., the parent company for Fred Meyer, owns the "Food 4 Less" franchise, headquartered in Compton, CA. Although, the grocery giant does not own or operate the Bend store. In a Tuesday post, Local Acres Marketplace says, "Your locally owned Bend Food 4 Less, now Local Acres Marketplace, is 100% locally-owned and operated. We have literally never been nor will we ever be a part of any corporate owned stores or chains. In fact, we have had the same local ownership for over 20 years, now."