Reports: Analyst names Ahold as 'most logical' buyer of Harris Teeter

NEW YORK — Supermarket operator Ahold USA could be in a position to buy Matthews, N.C.-based supermarket chain Harris Teeter, according to published reports.

Citing remarks by BMO Capital Markets analyst Karen Short, the Wall Street Journal reported that Ahold, Publix Super Markets and Kroger Co. would be candidates for a purchase of Harris Teeter, with Ahold named as the most logical candidate due to an acquisitive nature and a desire to enter the southern United States.

Last Thursday, Harris Teeter confirmed reports in the Journal that it had been approached by two private equity firms and was exploring strategic options.