Wow! Thanks for that info .. I don't shop at Whole Foods - too expensive. But .. I have shopped at Wild Oats a lot - because they get their produce and meat from local farmers and ranchers and it's just the best food. I'm sorry to hear they are selling out to Burkle.
In San Diego County the stores are called "Henry's" and other folksy names. But .. the food is great and the prices are really wonderful. Guess I won't be able to shop with them anymore .. bummer!