Chicago based companies Foxtrot Market and Dom’s Kitchen & Market announced that the two companies have agreed to merge, according to a company press release. The deal is expected to close by the end of the year.

Foxtrot, an upscale convenience store brand, has 15 locations in Chicago and 17 stores across Dallas and Austin, Texas, and Washington D.C. Dom’s Kitchen & Market has two locations in Chicago, with plans for a third to open next summer. According to the Chicago Sun Times, both companies have smaller store formats compared with mass-market grocers with focus on upscale audiences.

Upon closing, the companies will fall under a new company, Outfox Hospitality. Liz Williams will be the CEO, leading the company’s day-to-day operations with Don Fitzgerald serving as Dom's Kitchen & Market president and COO through a transition period.

"Foxtrot was created with the vision of building a community of people who love to discover new and interesting products, either by gathering at our stores or having them delivered from our user-friendly app—a goal we've proudly accomplished over the past 10 years," said Williams. "We're excited for this new venture with Dom's Kitchen & Market because we share a common mission of modernizing the way people shop. Merging our two brands will elevate the experience for our customers and move the retail industry forward."

Jay Owen, Dom’s co-founder and co-chairman, said “Our shared vision centers on bringing the convenience of a market together with the experience of a restaurant into hospitable spaces that are destinations in the communities we serve. We do this by curating high-quality goods, preparing expertly crafted meals and delivering warm and friendly service.”

The merging of these companies will provide food and wines from both brands across all stores. According to a press release, the two companies want to disrupt the food shopping and cafe landscape, while redefining the neighborhood market with a multi-format and e-commerce experience built for the next-generation consumer.

"We are thrilled to share Foxtrot cult favorites like our gummy candies, savory snacks and unique wines with the Dom's community and to bring Dom's delicious, expertly prepared meal options to local Foxtrot stores," added Williams. "In addition to our markets, our cafe and coffee businesses are at the heart of our stores, and we look forward to continued growth through our partnership. Together, we will bring together community, convenience and curated culinary to create a unique experience for consumers."

Guggenheim Securities is acting as financial advisor to Foxtrot Market and Latham & Watkins is serving as the legal advisor. Greenberg Traurig, LLP is serving as legal advisor to Dom's Kitchen & Market.