Village Super Market (VLGEA) 10-K 12 Oct 16 2016 FY Annual report Financial data

Document and Entity Information

Document and Entity Information - USD ($) $ in Millions	12 Months Ended
	Jul. 30, 2016	Oct. 12, 2016	Jan. 23, 2016
Entity Registrant Name	VILLAGE SUPER MARKET INC
Entity Central Index Key	103,595
Current Fiscal Year End Date	--07-30
Entity Filer Category	Accelerated Filer
Document Type	10-K
Document Period End Date	Jul. 30, 2016
Document Fiscal Year Focus	2,016
Document Fiscal Period Focus	FY
Amendment Flag	false
Entity Well-known Seasoned Issuer	No
Entity Voluntary Filers	No
Entity Current Reporting Status	Yes
Class A Common Stock
Entity Common Stock, Shares Outstanding (in shares)		9,843,625
Entity Public Float			$ 187.8
Class B Common Stock
Entity Common Stock, Shares Outstanding (in shares)		4,319,256
Entity Public Float			$ 0.5

CONSOLIDATED BALANCE SHEETS

CONSOLIDATED BALANCE SHEETS - USD ($) $ in Thousands	Jul. 30, 2016	Jul. 25, 2015
Current Assets
Cash and cash equivalents	$ 88,379	$ 59,040
Merchandise inventories	42,011	45,772
Patronage dividend receivable	13,185	12,831
Income taxes receivable	0	3,917
Other current assets	16,259	14,351
Total current assets	159,834	135,911
Notes receivable from Wakefern	42,735	41,421
Property, equipment and fixtures, net	201,470	206,594
Investment in Wakefern	26,467	25,750
Goodwill	12,057	12,057
Other assets	7,691	10,156
Total assets	450,254	431,889
Current Liabilities
Capital and financing lease obligations	514	469
Notes payable to Wakefern	341	430
Accounts payable to Wakefern	59,186	58,337
Accounts payable and accrued expenses	17,240	19,033
Accrued wages and benefits	16,313	15,117
Income taxes payable	5,702	765
Total current liabilities	99,296	94,151
Long-term debt
Capital and financing lease obligations	43,184	43,699
Notes payable to Wakefern	377	726
Total long-term debt	43,561	44,425
Pension and Other Postretirement Defined Benefit Plans, Liabilities, Noncurrent	26,740	32,232
Other liabilities	8,922	8,314
Commitments and Contingencies
Shareholders' Equity
Preferred stock, no par value: Authorized 10,000 shares, none issued	0	0
Retained earnings	234,175	221,765
Accumulated other comprehensive loss	(13,339)	(16,874)
Total shareholders’ equity	271,735	252,767
Total liabilities and shareholders' equity	450,254	431,889
Class A Common Stock
Shareholders' Equity
Common stock	55,196	51,618
Less treasury stock, Class A, at cost: 353 shares at July 30, 2016 and 343 shares at July 25, 2015	(4,998)	(4,443)
Class B Common Stock
Shareholders' Equity
Common stock	$ 701	$ 701

CONSOLIDATED BALANCE SHEETS (Pa

CONSOLIDATED BALANCE SHEETS (Parenthetical) - shares	Jul. 30, 2016	Jul. 25, 2015
Preferred stock shares authorized (in shares)	10,000,000	10,000,000
Preferred stock shares issued (in shares)	0
Class A Common Stock
Common stock shares authorized (in shares)	20,000,000	20,000,000
Common stock shares issued (in shares)	10,190,000	10,192,000
Treasury stock shares (in shares)	353,000	343,000
Class B Common Stock
Common stock shares authorized (in shares)	20,000,000	20,000,000
Common stock shares issued (in shares)	4,319,000	4,319,000
Common Stock, Shares, Outstanding	4,319,000	4,319,000

CONSOLIDATED STATEMENTS OF OPER

CONSOLIDATED STATEMENTS OF OPERATIONS - USD ($) $ in Thousands	12 Months Ended
	Jul. 30, 2016	Jul. 25, 2015	Jul. 26, 2014
Sales	$ 1,634,904	$ 1,583,789	$ 1,518,636
Cost of sales	1,189,874	1,150,674	1,110,138
Gross profit	445,030	433,115	408,498
Operating and administrative expense	376,601	366,254	356,396
Depreciation and amortization	24,101	23,330	22,274
Operating income	44,328	43,531	29,828
Interest expense	(4,495)	(4,535)	(3,602)
Interest income	2,506	2,399	2,622
Income before income taxes	42,339	41,395	28,848
Income taxes	17,295	10,775	23,803
Net income	$ 25,044	$ 30,620	$ 5,045
Class A Common Stock
Net income per share:
Basic (in dollars per share)	$ 1.98	$ 2.44	$ 0.41
Diluted (in dollars per share)	1.77	2.16	0.36
Class B Common Stock
Net income per share:
Basic (in dollars per share)	1.29	1.58	0.26
Diluted (in dollars per share)	$ 1.29	$ 1.58	$ 0.26

CONSOLIDATED CONDENSED STATEMEN

CONSOLIDATED CONDENSED STATEMENTS OF COMPREHENSIVE INCOME - USD ($) $ in Thousands		12 Months Ended
		Jul. 30, 2016	Jul. 25, 2015	Jul. 26, 2014
Comprehensive Income (Loss), Net of Tax, Attributable to Parent [Abstract]
Net income		$ 25,044	$ 30,620	$ 5,045
Other comprehensive income (loss):
Amortization of pension actuarial loss, net of tax		892	768	475	[1]
Pension adjustment to funded status, net of tax	[2]	(7,973)	(5,177)	(4,473)
Other Comprehensive Income (Loss), Finalization of Pension and Other Postretirement Benefit Plan Valuation, Net of Tax		10,616	0	0
Total other comprehensive income (loss)		3,535	(4,409)	(3,998)
Comprehensive income		$ 28,579	$ 26,211	$ 1,047
[1]	Amounts are net of tax of $612, $527 and $329 for 2016, 2015 and 2014, respectively.
[2]	Amounts are net of tax of $5,478, $3,559 and $3,238 for 2016, 2015 and 2014, respectively.

CONSOLIDATED CONDENSED STATEME6

CONSOLIDATED CONDENSED STATEMENTS OF COMPREHENSIVE INCOME (Parentheticals) - USD ($) $ in Thousands	12 Months Ended
	Jul. 30, 2016	Jul. 25, 2015	Jul. 26, 2014
Statement of Comprehensive Income [Abstract]
Tax of amortization of pension actuarial loss	$ 612	$ 527	$ 329
Tax (expense) benefit of pension adjustment to funded status	(5,478)	$ (3,559)	$ (3,238)
Other Comprehensive Income (Loss), Finalization of Pension and Other Postretirement Benefit Plan Valuation, Tax	$ (7,288)

CONSOLIDATED STATEMENTS OF SHAR

CONSOLIDATED STATEMENTS OF SHAREHOLDERS' EQUITY - USD ($) shares in Thousands, $ in Thousands	Total	Common StockClass A Common Stock	Common StockClass B Common Stock	Retained Earnings	Accumulated Other Comprehensive Income (Loss)	Treasury Stock Class A
Balance (in shares) at Jul. 27, 2013		9,440	4,780			375
Balance at Jul. 27, 2013	$ 244,560	$ 44,543	$ 776	$ 211,109	$ (8,467)	$ (3,401)
Increase (Decrease) in Stockholders' Equity [Roll Forward]
Net income	5,045			5,045
Other comprehensive income (loss), net of tax	(3,998)				(3,998)
Dividends	(12,432)			(12,432)
Exercise of stock options	$ 217	$ 132				$ 85
Exercise of stock options (in shares)	(9)					(9)
Treasury stock purchases (in shares)						88
Treasury stock purchases	$ (2,569)					$ (2,569)
Share-based compensation expense (in shares)		288
Share-based compensation expense	3,229	$ 3,229
Tax (deficit) benefit from exercise of stock options and restricted share vesting	(916)	$ (916)
Conversion of Class B shares to Class A shares (in shares)		419	(419)
Conversion of Class B shares to Class A shares	0	$ 68	$ (68)
Balance (in shares) at Jul. 26, 2014		10,147	4,361			454
Balance at Jul. 26, 2014	233,136	$ 47,056	$ 708	203,722	(12,465)	$ (5,885)
Increase (Decrease) in Stockholders' Equity [Roll Forward]
Net income	30,620			30,620
Other comprehensive income (loss), net of tax	(4,409)				(4,409)
Dividends	(12,577)			(12,577)
Exercise of stock options	$ 2,392	$ 950				$ 1,442
Exercise of stock options (in shares)	(111)					(111)
Share-based compensation expense (in shares)		3
Share-based compensation expense	$ 3,169	$ 3,169
Tax (deficit) benefit from exercise of stock options and restricted share vesting	436	$ 436
Conversion of Class B shares to Class A shares (in shares)		42	(42)
Conversion of Class B shares to Class A shares	0	$ 7	$ (7)
Balance (in shares) at Jul. 25, 2015		10,192	4,319			343
Balance at Jul. 25, 2015	252,767	$ 51,618	$ 701	221,765	(16,874)	$ (4,443)
Increase (Decrease) in Stockholders' Equity [Roll Forward]
Net income	25,044			25,044
Other comprehensive income (loss), net of tax	3,535				3,535
Dividends	(12,634)			(12,634)
Exercise of stock options	$ 813	$ 390				$ 423
Exercise of stock options (in shares)	(30)					(30)
Treasury stock purchases (in shares)						40
Treasury stock purchases	$ (978)					$ (978)
Stock Issued During Period, Shares, Restricted Stock Award, Forfeited		(4)
Stock Granted, Value, Share-based Compensation, Forfeited	(55)	$ (55)
Share-based compensation expense (in shares)		2
Share-based compensation expense	3,250	$ 3,250
Tax (deficit) benefit from exercise of stock options and restricted share vesting	(7)	$ (7)
Balance (in shares) at Jul. 30, 2016		10,190	4,319			353
Balance at Jul. 30, 2016	$ 271,735	$ 55,196	$ 701	$ 234,175	$ (13,339)	$ (4,998)

CONSOLIDATED STATEMENTS OF SHA8

CONSOLIDATED STATEMENTS OF SHAREHOLDERS' EQUITY AND COMPREHENSIVE INCOME PARENTHETICAL - USD ($) $ in Thousands	12 Months Ended
	Jul. 30, 2016	Jul. 25, 2015	Jul. 26, 2014
Statement of Stockholders' Equity [Abstract]
Tax expense (benefit) associated with other comprehensive loss and income	$ (2,422)	$ 3,032	$ 2,909

CONSOLIDATED STATEMENTS OF CASH

CONSOLIDATED STATEMENTS OF CASH FLOWS - USD ($) $ in Thousands	12 Months Ended
	Jul. 30, 2016	Jul. 25, 2015	Jul. 26, 2014
CASH FLOWS FROM OPERATING ACTIVITIES
Net income	$ 25,044	$ 30,620	$ 5,045
Adjustments to reconcile net income to net cash provided by operating activities:
Depreciation and amortization	24,101	23,330	22,274
Non-cash share-based compensation	3,195	3,169	3,229
Deferred taxes	(70)	14,841	(8,048)
Provision to value inventories at LIFO	(171)	124	(216)
Changes in assets and liabilities:
Merchandise inventories	3,932	(1,202)	(2,963)
Patronage dividend receivable	(354)	92	(1,113)
Accounts payable to Wakefern	849	(5,372)	4,244
Accounts payable and accrued expenses	(1,389)	1,329	3,228
Accrued wages and benefits	1,196	(3,739)	4,146
Income taxes receivable / payable	8,819	(47,539)	24,144
Other assets and liabilities	(1,051)	1,815	(1,523)
Net cash provided by operating activities	64,101	17,468	52,447
CASH FLOWS FROM INVESTING ACTIVITIES
Capital expenditures	(19,971)	(23,517)	(50,322)
Proceeds from Sale of Property, Plant, and Equipment	919	0	0
Investment in notes receivable from Wakefern	(1,314)	(823)	(41,597)
Maturity of notes receivable from Wakefern	0	0	23,420
Net cash used in investing activities	(20,366)	(24,340)	(68,499)
CASH FLOWS FROM FINANCING ACTIVITIES
Proceeds from exercise of stock options	813	2,392	217
Excess tax benefit related to share-based compensation	28	436	46
Principal payments of long-term debt	(1,625)	(1,691)	(1,429)
Dividends	(12,634)	(12,577)	(12,432)
Treasury stock purchases	(978)	0	(2,569)
Net cash used in financing activities	(14,396)	(11,440)	(16,167)
NET INCREASE (DECREASE) IN CASH AND CASH EQUIVALENTS	29,339	(18,312)	(32,219)
CASH AND CASH EQUIVALENTS, BEGINNING OF YEAR	59,040	77,352	109,571
CASH AND CASH EQUIVALENTS, END OF YEAR	88,379	59,040	77,352
SUPPLEMENTAL DISCLOSURES OF CASH PAYMENTS MADE FOR:
Interest	4,495	4,446	4,240
Income taxes	8,518	43,038	7,661
NONCASH SUPPLEMENTAL DISCLOSURES:
Capital lease obligations	$ 0	$ 0	$ 3,525

SUMMARY OF SIGNIFICANT ACCOUNTI

SUMMARY OF SIGNIFICANT ACCOUNTING POLICIES	12 Months Ended
	Jul. 30, 2016
Accounting Policies [Abstract]
SUMMARY OF SIGNIFICANT ACCOUNTING POLICIES	SUMMARY OF SIGNIFICANT ACCOUNTING POLICIES Nature of operations Village Super Market, Inc. (the “Company” or “Village”) operates a chain of 29 ShopRite supermarkets in New Jersey, eastern Pennsylvania and Maryland. The Company is a member of Wakefern Food Corporation ("Wakefern"), the nation's largest retailer-owned food cooperative and owner of the ShopRite name. This relationship provides Village many of the economies of scale in purchasing, distribution, private label products, advanced retail technology, marketing and advertising associated with chains of greater size and geographic coverage. Principles of consolidation The consolidated financial statements include the accounts of Village Super Market, Inc. and its subsidiaries, which are wholly owned. Intercompany balances and transactions have been eliminated. Fiscal year The Company and its subsidiaries utilize a 52-53 week fiscal year ending on the last Saturday in the month of July. Fiscal 2016 contains 53 weeks. Fiscal 2015 and 2014 contain 52 weeks. Use of estimates In conformity with U.S. generally accepted accounting principles, management of the Company has made a number of estimates and assumptions relating to the reporting of assets and liabilities and the disclosure of contingent assets and liabilities at the date of the consolidated financial statements and the reported amounts of revenues and expenses during the reporting period. Some of the more significant estimates are patronage dividends, pension accounting assumptions, accounting for uncertain tax positions, accounting for contingencies and the impairment of long-lived assets and goodwill. Actual results could differ from those estimates. Industry segment The Company consists of one operating segment, the retail sale of food and nonfood products. Revenue recognition Merchandise sales are recognized at the point of sale to the customer. Sales tax is excluded from revenue. Discounts provided to customers through ShopRite coupons and loyalty programs are recognized as a reduction of sales as the products are sold. Cash and cash equivalents The Company considers all highly liquid investments purchased with a maturity of three months or less to be cash equivalents. Included in cash and cash equivalents are proceeds due from credit and debit card transactions, which typically settle within five business days, of $7,534 and $7,633 at July 30, 2016 and July 25, 2015 , respectively. Included in cash and cash equivalents at July 30, 2016 and July 25, 2015 are $63,609 and $35,428 , respectively, of demand deposits invested at Wakefern at overnight money market rates. Merchandise inventories Approximately 64% of merchandise inventories are stated at the lower of LIFO (last-in, first-out) cost or market. If the FIFO (first-in, first-out) method had been used, inventories would have been $14,522 and $14,693 higher than reported in fiscal 2016 and 2015 , respectively. All other inventories are stated at the lower of FIFO cost or market. Vendor allowances and rebates The Company receives vendor allowances and rebates, including the patronage dividend and amounts received as a pass through from Wakefern, related to the Company’s buying and merchandising activities. Vendor allowances and rebates are recognized as a reduction in cost of sales when the related merchandise is sold or when the required contractual terms are completed. Property, equipment and fixtures Property, equipment and fixtures are recorded at cost. Interest cost incurred to finance construction is capitalized as part of the cost of the asset. Maintenance and repairs are expensed as incurred. Depreciation is provided on a straight-line basis over estimated useful lives of thirty years for buildings, ten years for store fixtures and equipment, and three years for vehicles. Leasehold improvements are amortized over the shorter of the related lease terms or the estimated useful lives of the related assets. When assets are sold or retired, their cost and accumulated depreciation are removed from the accounts, and any gain or loss is reflected in the consolidated financial statements. Investments The Company’s investments in its principal supplier, Wakefern, and a Wakefern affiliate, Insure-Rite, Ltd., are stated at cost (see Note 3). Village evaluates its investments in Wakefern and Insure-Rite, Ltd. for impairment through consideration of previous, current and projected levels of profit of those entities. The Company’s 20%-50% investments in certain real estate partnerships are accounted for under the equity method. One of these partnerships is a variable interest entity which does not require consolidation as Village is not the primary beneficiary (see Note 6). Store opening and closing costs All store opening costs are expensed as incurred. The Company records a liability for the future minimum lease payments and related costs for closed stores from the date of closure to the end of the remaining lease term, net of estimated cost recoveries that may be achieved through subletting, discounted using a risk-adjusted interest rate. Leases Leases that meet certain criteria are classified as capital leases, and assets and liabilities are recorded at amounts equal to the lesser of the present value of the minimum lease payments or the fair value of the leased properties at the inception of the respective leases. Such assets are amortized on a straight-line basis over the shorter of the related lease terms or the estimated useful lives of the related assets. Amounts representing interest expense relating to the lease obligations are recorded to effect constant rates of interest over the terms of the leases. Leases that do not qualify as capital leases are classified as operating leases. The Company accounts for rent holidays, escalating rent provisions, and construction allowances on a straight-line basis over the term of the lease. For leases in which the Company is involved with the construction of the store, if Village concludes that it has substantially all of the risks of ownership during construction of the leased property and therefore is deemed the owner of the project for accounting purposes, an asset and related financing obligation are recorded for the costs paid by the landlord. Once construction is complete, the Company considers the requirements for sale-leaseback treatment. If the arrangement does not qualify for sale-leaseback treatment, the Company amortizes the financing obligation and depreciates the building over the lease term. Advertising Advertising costs are expensed as incurred. Advertising expense was $11,644 , $11,121 and $11,474 in fiscal 2016 , 2015 and 2014 , respectively. Income taxes Deferred tax assets and liabilities are recognized for the future tax consequences attributable to differences between the financial statement carrying amounts of existing assets and liabilities and their respective tax bases. Deferred tax assets and liabilities are measured using enacted tax rates expected to apply to taxable income in the years in which those temporary differences are expected to be recovered or settled. The effect on deferred tax assets and liabilities of a change in tax rates is recognized in operations in the period that includes the enactment date. The Company recognizes a tax benefit for uncertain tax positions if it is “more likely than not” that the position is sustainable, based on its technical merits. The tax benefit of a qualifying position is the largest amount of tax benefit that is greater than 50% likely of being realized upon effective settlement with a taxing authority having full knowledge of all relevant information. Fair value Fair value is defined as the exit price that would be received to sell an asset or paid to transfer a liability in an orderly transaction between market participants. Fair value is a market-based measurement that should be determined using assumptions that market participants would use in pricing an asset or liability. The fair value guidance establishes a three-level hierarchy to prioritize the inputs used in measuring fair value. Level 1 inputs are quoted prices (unadjusted) in active markets for identical assets or liabilities that the Company has the ability to access at the measurement date. Level 2 inputs are inputs other than quoted prices within Level 1 that are observable for the asset or liability, either directly or indirectly, such as quoted prices for similar assets or liabilities in active markets observable at commonly quoted intervals. Level 3 inputs are unobservable inputs for the asset or liability. Cash and cash equivalents, patronage dividend receivable, income taxes receivable/payable, accounts payable and accrued expenses are reflected in the consolidated financial statements at carrying value, which approximates fair value because of the short-term maturity of these instruments. The carrying values of the Company’s notes receivable from Wakefern approximate their fair value as interest is earned at variable market rates. As the Company’s investment in Wakefern can only be sold to Wakefern at amounts that approximate the Company’s cost, it is not practicable to estimate the fair value of such investment. Long-lived assets The Company reviews long-lived assets, such as property, equipment and fixtures on an individual store basis for impairment when circumstances indicate the carrying amount of an asset group may not be recoverable. Such review analyzes the undiscounted estimated future cash flows from such assets to determine if the carrying value of such assets are recoverable from their respective cash flows. If impairment is indicated, it is measured by comparing the fair value of the long-lived assets to their carrying value. Goodwill Goodwill is tested at the end of each fiscal year, or more frequently if circumstances dictate, for impairment. An impairment loss is recognized to the extent that the carrying amount of goodwill exceeds its implied fair value. Village operates as a single reporting unit for purposes of evaluating goodwill for impairment and primarily considers earnings multiples and other valuation techniques to measure fair value, in addition to the value of the Company’s stock. Net income per share The Company has two classes of common stock. Class A common stock is entitled to cash dividends as declared 54% greater than those paid on Class B common stock. Shares of Class B common stock are convertible on a share-for-share basis for Class A common stock at any time. The Company utilizes the two-class method of computing and presenting net income per share. The two-class method is an earnings allocation formula that calculates basic and diluted net income per share for each class of common stock separately based on dividends declared and participation rights in undistributed earnings. Under the two-class method, Class A common stock is assumed to receive a 54% greater participation in undistributed earnings than Class B common stock, in accordance with the classes' respective dividend rights. Unvested share-based payment awards that contain nonforfeitable rights to dividends are treated as participating securities and therefore included in computing net income per share using the two-class method. Diluted net income per share for Class A common stock is calculated utilizing the if-converted method, which assumes the conversion of all shares of Class B common stock to Class A common stock on a share-for-share basis, as this method is more dilutive than the two-class method. Diluted net income per share for Class B common stock does not assume conversion of Class B common stock to shares of Class A common stock. The tables below reconcile the numerators and denominators of basic and diluted net income per share for all periods presented. 2016 2015 2014 Class A Class B Class A Class B Class A Class B Numerator: Net income allocated, basic $ 18,967 $ 5,563 $ 23,050 $ 6,885 $ 3,788 $ 1,141 Conversion of Class B to Class A shares 5,563 — 6,885 — 1,141 — Effect of share-based compensation on allocated net income — (3 ) 46 (23 ) (20 ) (11 ) Net income allocated, diluted $ 24,530 $ 5,560 $ 29,981 $ 6,862 $ 4,909 $ 1,130 Denominator: Weighted average shares outstanding, basic 9,567 4,319 9,459 4,353 9,258 4,374 Conversion of Class B to Class A shares 4,319 — 4,353 — 4,374 — Dilutive effect of share-based compensation — — 48 — 62 — Weighted average shares outstanding, diluted 13,886 4,319 13,860 4,353 13,694 4,374 Net income per share is as follows: 2016 2015 2014 Class A Class B Class A Class B Class A Class B Basic $ 1.98 $ 1.29 $ 2.44 $ 1.58 $ 0.41 $ 0.26 Diluted $ 1.77 $ 1.29 $ 2.16 $ 1.58 $ 0.36 $ 0.26 Outstanding stock options to purchase Class A shares of 226 , 224 and 540 were excluded from the calculation of diluted net income per share at July 30, 2016 , July 25, 2015 and July 26, 2014 , respectively, as a result of their anti-dilutive effect. In addition, 250 , 271 and 288 non-vested restricted Class A shares, which are considered participating securities, and their allocated net income were excluded from the diluted net income per share calculation at July 30, 2016 , July 25, 2015 and July 26, 2014 , respectively, due to their anti-dilutive effect. Share-based compensation All share-based payments to employees are recognized in the financial statements as compensation costs based on the fair market value on the date of the grant. Benefit plans The Company recognizes the funded status of its Company sponsored retirement plans on the consolidated balance sheet. Actuarial gains or losses, curtailments, prior service costs or credits, and transition obligations not previously recognized are recorded as a component of Accumulated Other Comprehensive Loss. The Company uses July 31 as the measurement date for these plans. The Company also contributes to several multi-employer pension plans under the terms of collective bargaining agreements that cover certain union-represented employees. Pension expense for these plans is recognized as contributions are made. Recently Adopted Accounting Standards Effective April 24, 2016, the Company early adopted the Financial Accounting Standards Board ("FASB") ASU 2015-17, "Income Taxes (Topic 740): Balance Sheet Classification of Deferred Taxes," which requires all deferred tax assets and liabilities to be classified as noncurrent on the balance sheet. Current deferred tax liabilities of $2,013 have been reclassified from accounts payable and accrued expenses to other assets in the consolidated balance sheet as of July 25, 2015 to conform with the ASU. Recently issued accounting standards In May 2014, the FASB issued ASU No. 2014-09, “Revenue from Contracts with Customers,” which provides guidance for revenue recognition. The standard’s core principle is that a company will recognize revenue when it transfers promised goods or services to customers in an amount that reflects the consideration to which the company expects to be entitled in exchange for those goods or services. The new guidance is effective for fiscal years, and interim periods within those years, beginning after December 15, 2017. The Company is currently assessing the potential impact of ASU No. 2014-09 on its financial statements. In February 2015, the FASB issued ASU 2015-02, "Consolidation (Topic 810): Amendments to the Consolidations Analysis", which changes the guidance for evaluating whether to consolidate certain legal entities. Specifically, the amendments modify the evaluation of whether limited partnerships and similar legal entities are variable interest entities ("VIEs") or voting interest entities. Further, the amendments eliminate the presumption that a general partner should consolidate a limited partnership, as well as affect the consolidation analysis of reporting entities that are involved with VIEs, particularly those that have fee arrangements and related party relationships. The updated guidance is effective for fiscal years, and interim periods within those years, beginning after December 15, 2015. Early adoption is permitted. Companies have an option of using either a full retrospective or modified retrospective adoption approach. The Company is evaluating the effect that ASU 2015-02 will have on its consolidated financial statements and related disclosures. In February 2016, the FASB issued ASU 2016-02, "Leases." This guidance requires lessees to recognize lease liabilities and a right-of-use asset for all leases with terms of more than 12 months on the balance sheet. This guidance is effective for fiscal years, and interim periods within those years, beginning after December 15, 2018, with earlier adoption permitted. ASU 2016-02 requires a modified retrospective approach for all leases existing at or entered into after the date of initial adoption. The Company is evaluating the effect that ASU 2016-02 will have on its consolidated financial statements and related disclosures. In March 2016, the FASB issued ASU 2016-09, "Improvements to Employee Share-Based Payment Accounting." The guidance changes several aspects of the accounting for share-based payment award transactions, including accounting for income taxes, classification of awards as either equity or liabilities, and classification on the statement of cash flows. This guidance is effective for fiscal years, and interim periods within those years, beginning after December 15, 2016, with earlier adoption permitted. The Company is evaluating the effect that ASU 2016-09 will have on its consolidated financial statements and related disclosures.

PROPERTY, EQUIPMENT and FIXTURE

PROPERTY, EQUIPMENT and FIXTURES	12 Months Ended
	Jul. 30, 2016
Property, Plant and Equipment [Abstract]
PROPERTY, EQUIPMENT and FIXTURES	NOTE 2 — PROPERTY, EQUIPMENT and FIXTURES Property, equipment and fixtures are comprised as follows: July 30, July 25, Land and buildings $ 104,451 $ 103,437 Store fixtures and equipment 234,094 222,429 Leasehold improvements 100,076 94,241 Leased property under capital leases 25,211 25,211 Construction in progress 215 1,404 Vehicles 3,225 2,968 Total property, equipment and fixtures 467,272 449,690 Accumulated depreciation (258,356 ) (236,672 ) Accumulated amortization of property under capital leases (7,446 ) (6,424 ) Property, equipment and fixtures, net $ 201,470 $ 206,594 Amortization of leased property under capital and financing leases is included in depreciation and amortization expense.

RELATED PARTY INFORMATION - WAK

RELATED PARTY INFORMATION - WAKEFERN	12 Months Ended
	Jul. 30, 2016
Related Party Transactions [Abstract]
RELATED PARTY INFORMATION - WAKEFERN	RELATED PARTY INFORMATION - WAKEFERN The Company’s ownership interest in its principal supplier, Wakefern, which is operated on a cooperative basis for its stockholder members, is 13.2% of the outstanding shares of Wakefern at July 30, 2016 . The investment is stated at cost and is pledged as collateral for any obligations to Wakefern. In addition, all obligations to Wakefern are personally guaranteed by certain shareholders of Village. The Company is obligated to purchase 85% of its primary merchandise requirements from Wakefern until ten years from the date that stockholders representing 75% of Wakefern sales notify Wakefern that those stockholders request that the Wakefern Stockholder Agreement be terminated. If this purchase obligation is not met, Village is required to pay Wakefern’s profit contribution shortfall attributable to this failure. Similar payments are due if Wakefern loses volume by reason of the sale of Company stores or a merger with another entity. Village fulfilled the above obligation in fiscal 2016 , 2015 and 2014 . The Company also has an investment of approximately 8.1% in Insure-Rite, Ltd., a Wakefern affiliated company, that provides Village with liability and property insurance coverage. Wakefern has increased from time to time the required investment in its common stock for each supermarket owned by a member, with the exact amount per store computed based on the amount of each store’s purchases from Wakefern. At July 30, 2016 , the Company’s indebtedness to Wakefern for the outstanding amount of these stock subscriptions was $718 . Installment payments are due as follows: 2016 - $341 ; 2017 - $285 ; 2018 - $92 and none thereafter. The maximum per store investment, which is currently $900 , increased by $25 in both fiscal 2016 and 2015 , resulting in additional investments of $717 and $738 , respectively. Village receives additional shares of common stock to the extent paid for at the end of each fiscal year (which ends on or about September 30) of Wakefern calculated at the then book value per share. The payments, together with any stock issued thereunder, at the option of Wakefern, may be null and void and all payments on this subscription shall become the property of Wakefern in the event the Company does not complete the payment of this subscription in a timely manner. Village purchases substantially all of its merchandise from Wakefern. As a stockholder of Wakefern, Village earns a share of Wakefern’s earnings, which are distributed as a “patronage dividend.” This dividend is based on a distribution of substantially all of Wakefern’s operating profits for its fiscal year in proportion to the dollar volume of purchases by each member from Wakefern during that fiscal year. Patronage dividends are recorded as a reduction of cost of sales as merchandise is sold. Village accrues estimated patronage dividends due from Wakefern quarterly based on an estimate of the annual Wakefern patronage dividend and an estimate of Village’s share of this annual dividend based on Village’s estimated proportional share of the dollar volume of business transacted with Wakefern that year. Patronage dividends and other vendor allowances and rebates amounted to $30,559 , $27,557 and $26,438 in fiscal 2016 , 2015 and 2014 , respectively. Wakefern provides the Company with support services in numerous areas including advertising, liability and property insurance, supplies, certain equipment purchasing, coupon processing, certain financial accounting applications, retail technology support, and other store services. Village incurred charges of $33,526 , $33,306 and $32,808 from Wakefern in fiscal 2016 , 2015 and 2014 , respectively, for these services, which are reflected in operating and administrative expense in the consolidated statements of operations. Additionally, the Company has certain related party leases (see Note 6) with Wakefern. At July 30, 2016 , the Company had $42,735 in notes receivable due from Wakefern. Half of these notes earn interest at the prime rate plus .25% and mature on August 15, 2017 and half earn interest at the prime rate plus 1.25% and mature on February 15, 2019 . Wakefern has the right to prepay these notes at any time. Under certain conditions, the Company can require Wakefern to prepay the notes, although interest earned since inception would be reduced as if it was earned based on overnight money market rates as paid by Wakefern on demand deposits. At July 30, 2016 , the Company had demand deposits invested at Wakefern in the amount of $63,609 . These deposits earn overnight money market rates. Interest income earned on investments with Wakefern was $2,506 , $2,399 and $2,622 in fiscal 2016 , 2015 and 2014 , respectively.

DEBT

DEBT	12 Months Ended
	Jul. 30, 2016
Debt Disclosure [Abstract]
DEBT	NOTE 4 — DEBT Village has an unsecured revolving credit agreement providing a maximum amount available for borrowing of $25,000 . This loan agreement expires on December 31, 2017 . The revolving credit line can be used for general corporate purposes. Indebtedness under this agreement bears interest at the prime rate, or at the Eurodollar rate, at the Company’s option, plus applicable margins based on the Company’s fixed charge coverage ratio. There were no amounts outstanding at July 30, 2016 or July 25, 2015 under this facility. The revolving loan agreement provides for up to $3,000 of letters of credit ( $129 outstanding at July 30, 2016 ), which secure obligations for construction performance guarantees to municipalities. The revolving loan agreement contains covenants that, among other conditions, require a maximum liabilities to tangible net worth ratio, a minimum fixed charge coverage ratio and a positive net income. At July 30, 2016 , the Company was in compliance with all covenants of the revolving loan agreement.

INCOME TAXES

INCOME TAXES	12 Months Ended
	Jul. 30, 2016
Income Tax Disclosure [Abstract]
INCOME TAXES	NOTE 5 — INCOME TAXES The components of the provision for income taxes are: 2016 2015 2014 Federal: Current $ 13,150 $ 2,424 $ 10,808 Deferred 183 13,954 (6,938 ) State: Current 4,215 (6,490 ) 21,043 Deferred (253 ) 887 (1,110 ) $ 17,295 $ 10,775 $ 23,803 Deferred income taxes reflect the net tax effects of temporary differences between the carrying amounts of assets and liabilities for financial reporting purposes and the amounts used for income tax purposes. Significant components of the Company’s deferred tax assets and liabilities are as follows: July 30, July 25, Deferred tax assets: Leasing activities $ 7,922 $ 7,882 Federal benefit of uncertain tax positions 282 230 Compensation related costs 4,209 3,696 Pension costs 11,097 13,333 Other 704 734 Total deferred tax assets 24,214 25,875 Deferred tax liabilities: Tax over book depreciation 17,114 16,559 Patronage dividend receivable 5,270 5,193 Investment in partnerships 1,476 1,418 Other 171 172 Total deferred tax liabilities 24,031 23,342 Net deferred tax asset (liability) $ 183 $ 2,533 Deferred income tax assets (liabilities) are included in the following captions on the consolidated balance sheets at July 30, 2016 and July 25, 2015 : 2016 2015 Other assets 1,576 2,533 Other liabilities (1,393 ) — Effective April 24, 2016, the Company early adopted FASB ASU 2015-17, "Income Taxes (Topic 740): Balance Sheet Classification of Deferred Taxes," which requires all deferred tax assets and liabilities to be classified as noncurrent on the balance sheet. Current deferred tax liabilities of $ 2,013 have been reclassified from accounts payable and accrued expenses to other assets in the consolidated balance sheet for the period ended July 25, 2015 to conform with the ASU. A valuation allowance is provided when it is more likely than not that some portion of the deferred tax assets will not be realized. In management’s opinion, in view of the Company’s previous, current and projected taxable income and reversal of deferred tax liabilities, such tax assets will more likely than not be fully realized. Accordingly, no valuation allowance was deemed to be required at July 30, 2016 and July 25, 2015 . The effective income tax rate differs from the statutory federal income tax rate as follows: 2016 2015 2014 Statutory federal income tax rate 35.0 % 35.0 % 35.0 % State income taxes, net of federal tax benefit 5.9 % 6.1 % 6.4 % Unrecognized tax benefits, interest and penalties on prior year tax positions — % (17.6 )% 34.9 % Current year interest and penalties on unrecognized tax benefits 0.2 % 2.0 % 5.4 % Other (0.3 )% 0.5 % 0.8 % Effective income tax rate 40.8 % 26.0 % 82.5 % In prior years, the state of New Jersey issued two separate tax assessments related to nexus beginning in fiscal 2000 and the deductibility of certain payments between subsidiaries beginning in fiscal 2002. Village contested both of these assessments through the state’s conference and appeals process and was subsequently denied. The Company then filed two complaints in Tax Court against the New Jersey Division of Taxation (the "Division") contesting these assessments and a trial limited to the nexus dispute was conducted in June 2013. On October 23, 2013, the Tax Court issued their opinion on the matter in favor of the Division. As a result, the Company recorded a $10,052 charge, net of federal benefit, to income tax expense in the fiscal quarter ended October 26, 2013, to increase unrecognized tax benefits and related interest and penalties for tax positions taken in prior years. On February 27, 2015, the Company reached an agreement with the Division whereby the Company paid $33,000 in March 2015 to settle the disputes with the Division for fiscal years 2000 through 2014. Net of federal benefit, the total cash outflow as a result of the settlement was approximately $21,000 . Under the terms of the agreement, the Company withdrew its appeal of the Tax Court opinion on the nexus dispute. In addition, the case pending on the deductibility of certain payments between subsidiaries has been dismissed and the Division has withdrawn the related assessments. The Company recorded an income tax benefit of $7,293 , net of federal taxes, in the fiscal quarter ending April 25, 2015 to reverse remaining unrecognized tax benefits and related interest and penalties in excess of the settlement. The Division is currently auditing tax years 2011 through 2014 for all applicable entities and tax years 2000 through 2014 related to the February 2015 settlement agreement. The Company is open to examination by the remaining relevant tax authorities with varying statutes of limitations, generally ranging from three to four years. A reconciliation of the beginning and ending amount of gross unrecognized tax benefits is as follows: 2016 2015 Balance at beginning of year $ 514 $ 27,846 Additions based on tax positions related to the current year 117 76 Reductions based on tax positions related to prior periods — (546 ) Cash paid on settlements — (26,862 ) Balance at end of year $ 631 $ 514 Unrecognized tax benefits at July 30, 2016 and July 25, 2015 include tax positions of $541 and $334 (net of federal benefit), respectively, that would reduce the Company’s effective income tax rate, if recognized in future periods. Although the outcome and timing are uncertain, the Company anticipates that the balance of gross unrecognized tax benefits will reverse during the next twelve months. The Company recognizes interest and penalties on income taxes in income tax expense. The Company recognized expense (benefit) of $39 , $(9,811) and $10,287 in fiscal 2016 , 2015 and 2014 , respectively, related to interest and penalties on income taxes. The amount of accrued interest and penalties included in the consolidated balance sheet was $192 and $158 at July 30, 2016 and July 25, 2015 , respectively.

LEASES

LEASES	12 Months Ended
	Jul. 30, 2016
Leases [Abstract]
LEASES	NOTE 6 — LEASES Description of leasing arrangements The Company leased 23 stores at July 30, 2016 , including five that are capitalized for financial reporting purposes. The majority of initial lease terms range from 20 to 30 years . Most of the Company’s leases contain renewal options at increased rents of five years each. These options enable Village to retain the use of facilities in desirable operating areas. Management expects that in the normal course of business, most leases will be renewed or replaced by other leases. The Company is obligated under all leases to pay for real estate taxes, utilities and liability insurance, and under certain leases to pay additional amounts based on maintenance and a percentage of sales in excess of stipulated amounts. Future minimum lease payments by year and in the aggregate for all non-cancelable leases with initial terms of one year or more consist of the following at July 30, 2016 : Capital and financing leases Operating leases 2017 $ 4,875 $ 10,763 2018 4,959 10,383 2019 5,001 8,552 2020 5,173 7,197 2021 5,240 5,871 Thereafter 59,596 38,711 Minimum lease payments 84,844 $ 81,477 Less amount representing interest 41,146 Present value of minimum lease payments 43,698 Less current portion 514 $ 43,184 The following schedule shows the composition of total rental expense for the following years: 2016 2015 2014 Minimum rentals $ 11,585 $ 11,090 $ 11,308 Contingent rentals 929 893 872 $ 12,514 $ 11,983 $ 12,180 On November 6, 2013, the Company closed the Morris Plains, New Jersey store and opened a 77,000 sq. ft. replacement store in Hanover Township, New Jersey. The Company recorded a $3,481 charge to Operating and administrative expense in fiscal 2014 for the remaining lease obligations, net of estimated sublease rentals, on the Morris Plains store. The Company has paid $918 , $982 and $710 of these costs in fiscal 2016 , 2015 and 2014 , respectively, with a remaining liability of $871 in Accounts payable and accrued expenses as of July 30, 2016 . On April 30, 2014, Village opened a 59,000 sq. ft. store in Union, New Jersey and closed our existing 40,000 sq. ft. store. The Company recorded a $929 charge to Operating and administrative expense in fiscal 2014 for the remaining lease obligations, net of estimated sublease rentals, on the old Union store. The Company has paid $266 , $531 and $132 of these costs in fiscal 2016 , 2015 and 2014 , respectively, with no remaining liability as of July 30, 2016 . Related party leases The Company leases a supermarket from a realty firm 30% owned by certain officers of Village. The Company paid rent to related parties under this lease of $642 , $640 and $640 in fiscal years 2016 , 2015 and 2014 , respectively. This lease expires in fiscal 2021 with options to extend at increasing annual rent. The Company has ownership interests in three real estate partnerships. Village paid aggregate rents to two of these partnerships for leased stores of $1,400 , $1,300 and $1,008 in fiscal 2016 , 2015 and 2014 , respectively. One of these partnerships is a variable interest entity, which is not consolidated as Village is not the primary beneficiary. This partnership owns one property, a stand-alone supermarket leased to the Company since 1974. Village is a general partner entitled to 33% of the partnership's profits and losses. The Company subleases the Galloway and Vineland stores from Wakefern under sublease agreements which provided for combined annual rents of $1,316 , $ 1,296 and $ 1,296 in fiscal 2016 , 2015 and 2014 , respectively. Both leases contain normal periodic rent increases and options to extend the lease.

SHAREHOLDERS_ EQUITY

SHAREHOLDERS’ EQUITY	12 Months Ended
	Jul. 30, 2016
Equity [Abstract]
SHAREHOLDERS’ EQUITY	NOTE 7 — SHAREHOLDERS’ EQUITY The Company has two classes of common stock. Class A common stock is entitled to one vote per share and to cash dividends as declared 54% greater than those paid on Class B common stock. Class B common stock is entitled to 10 votes per share. Class A and Class B common stock share equally on a per share basis in any distributions in liquidation. Shares of Class B common stock are convertible on a share-for-share basis for Class A common stock at any time. Class B common stock is not transferable except to another holder of Class B common stock or by will or under the laws of intestacy or pursuant to a resolution of the Board of Directors of the Company approving the transfer. As a result of this voting structure, the holders of the Class B common stock control greater than 50% of the total voting power of the shareholders of the Company and control the election of the Board of Directors. The Company has authorized 10,000 shares of preferred stock. No shares have been issued. The Board of Directors is authorized to designate series, preferences, powers and participations of any preferred stock issued. During fiscal 2015 the Company’s Board of Directors authorized a share repurchase program of up to $5,000 of its Class A Common Stock. Repurchases may be made from time to time through a variety of methods, including open market purchases and other negotiated transactions, including through plans designed to comply with Rule 10b5-1 under the Securities Exchange Act of 1934. The Company made open market purchases totaling $ 978 under this repurchase program in fiscal 2016. Village has three share-based compensation plans, which are described below. The compensation cost charged against income for these plans was $3,195 , $3,169 and $3,229 in fiscal 2016 , 2015 and 2014 , respectively. Total income tax benefit recognized in the consolidated statements of operations for share-based compensation arrangements was $1,131 , $1,134 and $1,148 in fiscal 2016 , 2015 and 2014 , respectively. The Village Super Market, Inc. 2004 Stock Plan (the “2004 Plan”) provides for awards of incentive and nonqualified stock options and restricted stock. There are 1,200 shares of Class A common stock authorized for issuance to employees and directors under the 2004 Plan. Terms and conditions of awards are determined by the Board of Directors. Option awards are primarily granted at the fair value of the Company’s stock at the date of grant, cliff vest three years from the grant date and are exercisable up to ten years from the date of grant. Restricted stock awards primarily cliff vest three years from the grant date. There are no shares remaining for future grants under the 2004 Plan. On December 17, 2010, the shareholders of the Company approved the Village Super Market, Inc. 2010 Stock Plan (the “2010 Plan”) under which awards of incentive and non-qualified stock options and restricted stock may be made. There are 1,200 shares of Class A common stock authorized for issuance to employees and directors under the 2010 Plan. Terms and conditions of awards are determined by the Board of Directors. Option awards granted to date were granted at the fair value of the Company's stock on the date of grant, primarily cliff vest three years from the grant date and are exercisable up to ten years from the grant date. Restricted stock awards primarily cliff vest three years from the date of grant. There are 385 shares remaining for future grants under the 2010 Plan. The following table summarizes option activity under all plans for the following years: 2016 2015 2014 Shares Weighted-average exercise price Shares Weighted-average exercise price Shares Weighted-average exercise price Outstanding at beginning of year 473 $ 27.75 591 $ 26.41 380 $ 24.91 Granted 7 26.79 4 24.51 224 28.83 Exercised (30 ) 27.08 (111 ) 21.41 (9 ) 23.23 Forfeited (26 ) 27.99 (11 ) 18.83 (4 ) 27.51 Outstanding at end of year 424 $ 27.77 473 $ 27.75 591 $ 26.41 Options exercisable at end of year 203 $ 26.76 248 $ 26.80 365 $ 24.89 As of July 30, 2016 , the weighted-average remaining contractual term of options outstanding and options exercisable was 5.7 years and 3.5 years , respectively. As of July 30, 2016 , the aggregate intrinsic value of options outstanding and options exercisable was $1,654 and $1,002 , respectively. The weighted-average grant date fair value of options granted was $4.79 and $4.32 per share in fiscal 2016 and 2015 , respectively. The total intrinsic value of options exercised was $70 , $1,090 and $113 in fiscal 2016 , 2015 and 2014 , respectively. The fair value of each option award is estimated on the date of grant using the Black-Scholes Option Pricing Model using the weighted-average assumptions in the following table. The Company uses historical data for similar groups of employees in order to estimate the expected life of options granted. Expected volatility is based on the historical volatility of the Company’s stock for a period of years corresponding to the expected life of the option. The risk free interest rate is based on the U.S. Treasury yield curve at the time of grant for securities with a maturity period similar to the expected life of the option. 2016 2015 Expected life (years) 5.0 5.0 Expected volatility 31.1 % 29.8 % Expected dividend yield 3.8 % 4.1 % Risk-free interest rate 1.5 % 1.5 % The following table summarizes restricted stock activity under the 2004 and 2010 Plans for fiscal 2016 , 2015 and 2014 : 2016 2015 2014 Shares Weighted-average grant date fair value Shares Weighted-average grant date fair value Shares Weighted-average grant date fair value Nonvested at beginning of year 271 $ 28.78 288 $ 28.83 299 $ 27.60 Granted 2 28.55 3 23.77 288 28.83 Vested (19 ) 28.83 (20 ) 28.83 (299 ) 27.60 Forfeited (4 ) 28.83 — — — — Nonvested at end of year 250 $ 28.77 271 $ 28.78 288 $ 28.83 The total fair value of restricted shares vested during fiscal 2016 , 2015 and 2014 was $549 , $576 and $8,663 , respectively. As of July 30, 2016 , there was $2,134 of total unrecognized compensation costs related to nonvested stock options and restricted stock granted under the above plans. That cost is expected to be recognized over a weighted-average period of 0.7 years . Cash received from option exercises under all share-based compensation arrangements was $813 , $2,392 and $217 in fiscal 2016 , 2015 and 2014 , respectively. The actual tax benefit realized for tax deductions from option exercises under share-based compensation arrangements was $29 , $424 and $46 in fiscal 2016 , 2015 and 2014 , respectively. The Company declared and paid cash dividends on common stock as follows: 2016 2015 2014 Per share: Class A common stock $ 1.000 $ 1.000 $ 1.000 Class B common stock 0.650 0.650 0.650 Aggregate: Class A common stock $ 9,827 $ 9,749 $ 9,598 Class B common stock 2,807 2,828 2,834 $ 12,634 $ 12,577 $ 12,432

PENSION PLANS

PENSION PLANS	12 Months Ended
	Jul. 30, 2016
Compensation Related Costs [Abstract]
PENSION PLANS	PENSION PLANS Company-Sponsored Pension Plans The Company sponsors four defined benefit pension plans. Two are tax-qualified plans covering members of unions. Benefits under these two plans are based on a fixed amount for each year of service. One is a tax-qualified plan covering nonunion associates. Benefits under this plan are based upon percentages of annual compensation. Funding for these plans is based on an analysis of the specific requirements and an evaluation of the assets and liabilities of each plan. The fourth plan is an unfunded, nonqualified plan providing supplemental pension benefits to certain executives. On February 15, 2016, the Company amended the Village Super Market Employees Retirement Plan, which covers nonunion employees and pharmacists, to freeze all benefits effective March 31, 2016. As a result of this amendment, the Company recognized a pre-tax curtailment gain totaling $ 17,904 in accumulated other comprehensive loss during fiscal 2016. Net periodic pension cost for the four plans include the following components: 2016 2015 2014 Service cost $ 3,099 $ 3,642 $ 2,926 Interest cost on projected benefit obligation 3,031 3,055 2,775 Expected return on plan assets (3,645 ) (3,719 ) (3,194 ) Gain on settlement — (239 ) — Amortization of gains and losses 1,504 1,295 804 Net periodic pension cost $ 3,989 $ 4,034 $ 3,311 The changes in benefit obligations and the reconciliation of the funded status of the Company’s plans to the consolidated balance sheets were as follows: 2016 2015 Changes in Benefit Obligation: Benefit obligation at beginning of year $ 83,961 $ 77,090 Service cost 3,099 3,642 Interest cost 3,031 3,055 Benefits paid (3,440 ) (3,769 ) Curtailment (17,904 ) — Settlement — (3,033 ) Actuarial loss 11,274 6,976 Benefit obligation at end of year $ 80,021 $ 83,961 Changes in Plan Assets: Fair value of plan assets at beginning of year $ 51,729 $ 50,129 Actual return on plan assets 1,468 2,279 Employer contributions 3,524 6,203 Benefits paid (3,440 ) (3,769 ) Settlements paid — (3,113 ) Fair value of plan assets at end of year 53,281 51,729 Funded status at end of year $ (26,740 ) $ (32,232 ) Amounts recognized in the consolidated balance sheets: Pension liabilities (26,740 ) (32,232 ) Accumulated other comprehensive loss, net of income taxes 13,339 16,874 Amounts included in Accumulated other comprehensive loss (pre-tax): Net actuarial loss $ 22,502 $ 28,459 The Company expects approximately $1,511 of the net actuarial loss to be recognized as a component of net periodic benefit costs in fiscal 2017 . The accumulated benefit obligations of the four plans were $80,021 and $66,809 at July 30, 2016 and July 25, 2015 , respectively. The following information is presented for those plans with an accumulated benefit obligation in excess of plan assets: 2016 2015 Projected benefit obligation $ 80,021 $ 83,961 Accumulated benefit obligation 80,021 66,809 Fair value of plan assets 53,281 51,729 Weighted average assumptions used to determine benefit obligations and net periodic pension cost for the Company’s defined benefit plans were as follows: 2016 2015 2014 Assumed discount rate — net periodic pension cost 4.02 % 3.95 % 4.43 % Assumed discount rate — benefit obligation 3.08 % 4.02 % 3.95 % Assumed rate of increase in compensation levels 4 - 4.5 % 4 - 4.5 % 4 - 4.5 % Expected rate of return on plan assets 7.50 % 7.50 % 7.50 % Investments in the pension trusts are overseen by the trustees of the plans, who are officers of Village. The Company’s overall investment strategy is to maintain a broadly diversified portfolio of stocks, bonds and money market instruments that, along with periodic plan contributions, provide the necessary funds for ongoing benefit obligations. Expected rates of return on plan assets are developed by determining projected stock and bond returns and then applying these returns to the target asset allocations of the trusts, resulting in a weighted-average rate of return on plan assets. Equity returns were based primarily on historical returns of the S&P 500 Index. Fixed-income projected returns were based primarily on historical returns for the broad U.S. bond market. The target allocations for plan assets are 50 - 70% equity securities, 25 - 40% fixed income securities and 0 - 10% cash. Asset allocations are reviewed periodically and appropriate rebalancing is performed. Equity securities include investments in large-cap, small-cap and mid-cap companies located both in and outside the United States. Fixed income securities include U.S. treasuries, mortgage-backed securities and corporate bonds of companies from diversified industries. Investments in securities are made both directly and through mutual funds. In addition, one plan held Class A common stock of Village in the amount of $770 and $651 at July 30, 2016 and July 25, 2015 , respectively. Risk management is accomplished through diversification across asset classes and fund strategies, multiple investment portfolios and investment guidelines. The plans do not allow for investments in derivative instruments. The fair value of the pension assets were as follows: July 30, 2016 July 25, 2015 Asset Category Level 1 Level 2 Total Level 1 Level 2 Total Cash $ 1,173 $ — $ 1,173 $ 718 $ — $ 718 Equity securities: Company stock 770 — 770 651 — 651 U.S large cap (1) 18,416 — 18,416 18,368 — 18,368 U.S. small/mid cap (2) 6,591 — 6,591 6,602 — 6,602 International (3) 6,752 — 6,752 6,431 — 6,431 Emerging markets (4) 1,219 — 1,219 1,193 — 1,193 Fixed income securities: U.S treasuries (5) 10,560 — 10,560 9,911 — 9,911 Mortgage-backed (5) — 1,918 1,918 — 2,014 2,014 Corporate bonds (5) 3,054 2,140 5,194 2,810 2,370 5,180 International (6) 688 — 688 661 — 661 Total $ 49,223 $ 4,058 $ 53,281 $ 47,345 $ 4,384 $ 51,729 (1) Includes directly owned securities and mutual funds, primarily low-cost equity index funds not actively managed that track the S&P 500. (2) Includes directly owned securities and mutual funds, which invest in diversified portfolios of publicly traded U.S. common stocks of small and medium cap companies. (3) Includes directly owned securities and mutual funds, which invest in diversified portfolios of publicly traded common stocks of large, non-U.S. companies. (4) Consists of mutual and exchange traded funds which invest in non-U.S. stocks in emerging markets. (5) Includes directly owned securities, mutual funds and exchange traded funds. (6) Consists of exchange traded funds which invest in non-U.S. bonds in emerging markets. Based on actuarial assumptions, estimated future defined benefit payments, which may be significantly impacted by participant elections related to retirement dates and forms of payment, are as follows: Fiscal Year 2017 $ 2,820 2018 2,386 2019 2,928 2020 2,941 2021 14,958 2022 - 2026 17,903 The Company expects to contribute $3,000 in cash to all defined benefit pension plans in fiscal 2017 . Multi-Employer Plans The Company contributes to three multi-employer pension plans under collective bargaining agreements covering union-represented employees. These plans provide benefits to participants that are generally based on a fixed amount for each year of service. Based on the most recent information available, certain of these multi-employer plans are underfunded. The amount of any increase or decrease in Village’s required contributions to these multi-employer pension plans will depend upon the outcome of collective bargaining, actions taken by trustees who manage the plans, government regulations and the actual return on assets held in the plans, among other factors. The risks of participating in multi-employer pension plans are different from the risks of participating in single-employer pension plans in the following respects: • Assets contributed to a multi-employer plan by one employer may be used to provide benefits to employees of other participating employers. • If a participating employer stops contributing to the plan, the unfunded obligations of the plan allocable to such withdrawing employer may be borne by the remaining participating employers. • If the Company stops participating in some of its multi-employer pension plans, the Company may be required to pay those plans an amount based on its allocable share of the underfunded status of the plan, referred to as a withdrawal liability. The Company’s participation in these plans is outlined in the following tables. The “EIN / Pension Plan Number” column provides the Employer Identification Number (“EIN”) and the three-digit pension plan number. The most recent “Pension Protection Act Zone Status” available in 2015 and 2014 is for the plan’s year-end at December 31, 2015 and December 31, 2014 , respectively, unless otherwise noted. Among other factors, generally, plans in the red zone are less than 65 percent funded, plans in the yellow zone are between 65 and 80 percent funded and plans in the green zone are at least 80 percent funded. The “FIP/RP Status Pending / Implemented” column indicates plans for which a funding improvement plan (“FIP”) or a rehabilitation plan (“RP”) is either pending or has been implemented. Pension Protection Act Zone Status FIP/RP Status Pending / Implemented Contributions for the year ended (5) Expiration date of Collective- Bargaining Agreement Pension Fund EIN / Pension Plan Number 2015 2014 July 30, July 25, July 26, Surcharge Imposed (6) Pension Plan of Local 464A (1) 22-6051600-001 Green Green N/A $ 679 $ 665 $ 615 N/A October 2020 UFCW Local 1262 & Employers Pension Fund (2), (4) 22-6074414-001 Red Red Implemented 3,510 3,501 3,273 No October 2018 UFCW Regional Pension Plan (3), (4) 16-6062287-074 Red Red Implemented 1,275 1,235 1,225 No December 2017 Total Contributions $ 5,464 $ 5,401 $ 5,113 (1) The information for this fund was obtained from the Form 5500 filed for the plan’s year-end at December 31, 2015 and December 31, 2014 . (2) The information for this fund was obtained from the Form 5500 filed for the plan’s year-end at December 31, 2014 and December 31, 2013 . (3) The information for this fund was obtained from the Form 5500 filed for the plan’s year-end at September 30, 2015 and September 30, 2014 . (4) This plan has elected to utilize special amortization provisions provided under the Preservation of Access to Care for Medicare Beneficiaries and Pension Relief Act of 2010. There were no changes to the plan’s zone status as a result of this election. (5) The Company’s contributions represent more than 5% of the total contributions received by each applicable pension fund for all periods presented. (6) Under the Pension Protection Act, a surcharge may be imposed when employers make contributions under a collective bargaining agreement that is not in compliance with a rehabilitation plan. As of July 30, 2016 , the collective bargaining agreements under which the Company was making contributions were in compliance with rehabilitation plans adopted by each applicable pension fund. Other Multi-Employer Benefit Plans The Company also contributes to various other multi-employer benefit plans that provide health and welfare benefits to active and retired participants. Total contributions made by the Company to these other multi-employer benefit plans were approximately $27,965 , $26,932 and $25,531 in fiscal 2016 , 2015 and 2014 , respectively. Defined Contribution Plans The Company sponsors a 401(k) savings plan for certain eligible associates. Company contributions under that plan, which are based on specified percentages of associate contributions, were $641 , $392 and $393 in fiscal 2016 , 2015 and 2014 , respectively. The Company also contributes to union sponsored defined contribution plans for certain eligible associates. Company contributions under these plans were $836 , $817 and $813 in fiscal 2016 , 2015 and 2014 , respectively.

COMMITMENTS and CONTINGENCIES

COMMITMENTS and CONTINGENCIES	12 Months Ended
	Jul. 30, 2016
Commitments and Contingencies Disclosure [Abstract]
COMMITMENTS and CONTINGENCIES	NOTE 9 — COMMITMENTS and CONTINGENCIES Superstorm Sandy devastated our area on October 29, 2012 and resulted in the closure of almost all of our stores for periods of time ranging from a few hours to eight days. Village disposed of substantial amounts of perishable product and also incurred repair, labor and other costs as a result of the storm. The Company has property, casualty and business interruption insurance, subject to deductibles and coverage limits. During fiscal 2013, Wakefern began the process of working with our insurers to recover the damages and Village recorded estimated insurance recoveries of $ 4,913 . In October 2013, Wakefern, as the policy holder, filed suit against the carrier seeking payment of the remaining claims due for all Wakefern members. The suit was the result of different interpretations of policy terms, including whether the policy's named storm deductible applied. On October 29, 2014, the Court issued their opinion on the matter in favor of the carrier. Based on this decision and its related impact, the Company concluded that recovery of further proceeds was not probable and recorded a $ 2,270 charge to operating and administrative expense in the first quarter of fiscal 2015 to write-off the remaining insurance receivable. Wakefern continues to pursue further recovery of uncollected amounts from the carrier and other sources. As a result, the Company received an additional $ 940 in insurance proceeds in February 2016 which was recognized as a reduction in Operating and administrative expense in fiscal 2016. Any further proceeds recovered will be recognized as they are received. As of July 30, 2016 , Village has collected $ 3,583 . Approximately 92% of our employees are covered by collective bargaining agreements. Contracts with the Company’s seven unions expire between June 2015 and October 2020. Approximately 13% of our associates are represented by unions whose contracts have already expired or expire within one year . Any work stoppages could have an adverse impact on our financial results. The Company is involved in other litigation incidental to the normal course of business. Company management is of the opinion that the ultimate resolution of these legal proceedings should not have a material adverse effect on the consolidated financial position, results of operations or liquidity of the Company.

SUMMARY OF SIGNIFICANT ACCOUN19

SUMMARY OF SIGNIFICANT ACCOUNTING POLICIES (Policies)	12 Months Ended
	Jul. 30, 2016
Accounting Policies [Abstract]
Nature of operations	Village Super Market, Inc. (the “Company” or “Village”) operates a chain of 29 ShopRite supermarkets in New Jersey, eastern Pennsylvania and Maryland. The Company is a member of Wakefern Food Corporation ("Wakefern"), the nation's largest retailer-owned food cooperative and owner of the ShopRite name. This relationship provides Village many of the economies of scale in purchasing, distribution, private label products, advanced retail technology, marketing and advertising associated with chains of greater size and geographic coverage.
Principles of consolidation	The consolidated financial statements include the accounts of Village Super Market, Inc. and its subsidiaries, which are wholly owned. Intercompany balances and transactions have been eliminated.
Fiscal year	The Company and its subsidiaries utilize a 52-53 week fiscal year ending on the last Saturday in the month of July. Fiscal 2016 contains 53 weeks. Fiscal 2015 and 2014 contain 52 weeks.
Use of estimates	In conformity with U.S. generally accepted accounting principles, management of the Company has made a number of estimates and assumptions relating to the reporting of assets and liabilities and the disclosure of contingent assets and liabilities at the date of the consolidated financial statements and the reported amounts of revenues and expenses during the reporting period. Some of the more significant estimates are patronage dividends, pension accounting assumptions, accounting for uncertain tax positions, accounting for contingencies and the impairment of long-lived assets and goodwill. Actual results could differ from those estimates.
Industry segment	The Company consists of one operating segment, the retail sale of food and nonfood products.
Revenue recognition	Merchandise sales are recognized at the point of sale to the customer. Sales tax is excluded from revenue. Discounts provided to customers through ShopRite coupons and loyalty programs are recognized as a reduction of sales as the products are sold.
Cash and cash equivalents	The Company considers all highly liquid investments purchased with a maturity of three months or less to be cash equivalents. Included in cash and cash equivalents are proceeds due from credit and debit card transactions, which typically settle within five business days, of $7,534 and $7,633 at July 30, 2016 and July 25, 2015 , respectively. Included in cash and cash equivalents at July 30, 2016 and July 25, 2015 are $63,609 and $35,428 , respectively, of demand deposits invested at Wakefern at overnight money market rates.
Merchandise inventories	Approximately 64% of merchandise inventories are stated at the lower of LIFO (last-in, first-out) cost or market. If the FIFO (first-in, first-out) method had been used, inventories would have been $14,522 and $14,693 higher than reported in fiscal 2016 and 2015 , respectively. All other inventories are stated at the lower of FIFO cost or market.
Vendor allowances and rebates	The Company receives vendor allowances and rebates, including the patronage dividend and amounts received as a pass through from Wakefern, related to the Company’s buying and merchandising activities. Vendor allowances and rebates are recognized as a reduction in cost of sales when the related merchandise is sold or when the required contractual terms are completed.
Property, equipment and fixtures	Property, equipment and fixtures are recorded at cost. Interest cost incurred to finance construction is capitalized as part of the cost of the asset. Maintenance and repairs are expensed as incurred. Depreciation is provided on a straight-line basis over estimated useful lives of thirty years for buildings, ten years for store fixtures and equipment, and three years for vehicles. Leasehold improvements are amortized over the shorter of the related lease terms or the estimated useful lives of the related assets. When assets are sold or retired, their cost and accumulated depreciation are removed from the accounts, and any gain or loss is reflected in the consolidated financial statements.
Investments	The Company’s investments in its principal supplier, Wakefern, and a Wakefern affiliate, Insure-Rite, Ltd., are stated at cost (see Note 3). Village evaluates its investments in Wakefern and Insure-Rite, Ltd. for impairment through consideration of previous, current and projected levels of profit of those entities. The Company’s 20%-50% investments in certain real estate partnerships are accounted for under the equity method. One of these partnerships is a variable interest entity which does not require consolidation as Village is not the primary beneficiary (see Note 6).
Store opening and closing costs	All store opening costs are expensed as incurred. The Company records a liability for the future minimum lease payments and related costs for closed stores from the date of closure to the end of the remaining lease term, net of estimated cost recoveries that may be achieved through subletting, discounted using a risk-adjusted interest rate.
Leases	Leases that meet certain criteria are classified as capital leases, and assets and liabilities are recorded at amounts equal to the lesser of the present value of the minimum lease payments or the fair value of the leased properties at the inception of the respective leases. Such assets are amortized on a straight-line basis over the shorter of the related lease terms or the estimated useful lives of the related assets. Amounts representing interest expense relating to the lease obligations are recorded to effect constant rates of interest over the terms of the leases. Leases that do not qualify as capital leases are classified as operating leases. The Company accounts for rent holidays, escalating rent provisions, and construction allowances on a straight-line basis over the term of the lease. For leases in which the Company is involved with the construction of the store, if Village concludes that it has substantially all of the risks of ownership during construction of the leased property and therefore is deemed the owner of the project for accounting purposes, an asset and related financing obligation are recorded for the costs paid by the landlord. Once construction is complete, the Company considers the requirements for sale-leaseback treatment. If the arrangement does not qualify for sale-leaseback treatment, the Company amortizes the financing obligation and depreciates the building over the lease term.
Advertising	Advertising Advertising costs are expensed as incurred. Advertising expense was $11,644 , $11,121 and $11,474 in fiscal 2016 , 2015 and 2014 , respectively.
Income taxes	Deferred tax assets and liabilities are recognized for the future tax consequences attributable to differences between the financial statement carrying amounts of existing assets and liabilities and their respective tax bases. Deferred tax assets and liabilities are measured using enacted tax rates expected to apply to taxable income in the years in which those temporary differences are expected to be recovered or settled. The effect on deferred tax assets and liabilities of a change in tax rates is recognized in operations in the period that includes the enactment date. The Company recognizes a tax benefit for uncertain tax positions if it is “more likely than not” that the position is sustainable, based on its technical merits. The tax benefit of a qualifying position is the largest amount of tax benefit that is greater than 50% likely of being realized upon effective settlement with a taxing authority having full knowledge of all relevant information.
Fair value	Fair value is defined as the exit price that would be received to sell an asset or paid to transfer a liability in an orderly transaction between market participants. Fair value is a market-based measurement that should be determined using assumptions that market participants would use in pricing an asset or liability. The fair value guidance establishes a three-level hierarchy to prioritize the inputs used in measuring fair value. Level 1 inputs are quoted prices (unadjusted) in active markets for identical assets or liabilities that the Company has the ability to access at the measurement date. Level 2 inputs are inputs other than quoted prices within Level 1 that are observable for the asset or liability, either directly or indirectly, such as quoted prices for similar assets or liabilities in active markets observable at commonly quoted intervals. Level 3 inputs are unobservable inputs for the asset or liability. Cash and cash equivalents, patronage dividend receivable, income taxes receivable/payable, accounts payable and accrued expenses are reflected in the consolidated financial statements at carrying value, which approximates fair value because of the short-term maturity of these instruments. The carrying values of the Company’s notes receivable from Wakefern approximate their fair value as interest is earned at variable market rates. As the Company’s investment in Wakefern can only be sold to Wakefern at amounts that approximate the Company’s cost, it is not practicable to estimate the fair value of such investment.
Long-lived assets	The Company reviews long-lived assets, such as property, equipment and fixtures on an individual store basis for impairment when circumstances indicate the carrying amount of an asset group may not be recoverable. Such review analyzes the undiscounted estimated future cash flows from such assets to determine if the carrying value of such assets are recoverable from their respective cash flows. If impairment is indicated, it is measured by comparing the fair value of the long-lived assets to their carrying value.
Goodwill	Goodwill is tested at the end of each fiscal year, or more frequently if circumstances dictate, for impairment. An impairment loss is recognized to the extent that the carrying amount of goodwill exceeds its implied fair value. Village operates as a single reporting unit for purposes of evaluating goodwill for impairment and primarily considers earnings multiples and other valuation techniques to measure fair value, in addition to the value of the Company’s stock.
Net income per share	The Company has two classes of common stock. Class A common stock is entitled to cash dividends as declared 54% greater than those paid on Class B common stock. Shares of Class B common stock are convertible on a share-for-share basis for Class A common stock at any time. The Company utilizes the two-class method of computing and presenting net income per share. The two-class method is an earnings allocation formula that calculates basic and diluted net income per share for each class of common stock separately based on dividends declared and participation rights in undistributed earnings. Under the two-class method, Class A common stock is assumed to receive a 54% greater participation in undistributed earnings than Class B common stock, in accordance with the classes' respective dividend rights. Unvested share-based payment awards that contain nonforfeitable rights to dividends are treated as participating securities and therefore included in computing net income per share using the two-class method. Diluted net income per share for Class A common stock is calculated utilizing the if-converted method, which assumes the conversion of all shares of Class B common stock to Class A common stock on a share-for-share basis, as this method is more dilutive than the two-class method. Diluted net income per share for Class B common stock does not assume conversion of Class B common stock to shares of Class A common stock.
Share-based compensation	All share-based payments to employees are recognized in the financial statements as compensation costs based on the fair market value on the date of the grant.
Benefit plans	The Company recognizes the funded status of its Company sponsored retirement plans on the consolidated balance sheet. Actuarial gains or losses, curtailments, prior service costs or credits, and transition obligations not previously recognized are recorded as a component of Accumulated Other Comprehensive Loss. The Company uses July 31 as the measurement date for these plans. The Company also contributes to several multi-employer pension plans under the terms of collective bargaining agreements that cover certain union-represented employees. Pension expense for these plans is recognized as contributions are made.
Recently issued accounting standards	Recently Adopted Accounting Standards Effective April 24, 2016, the Company early adopted the Financial Accounting Standards Board ("FASB") ASU 2015-17, "Income Taxes (Topic 740): Balance Sheet Classification of Deferred Taxes," which requires all deferred tax assets and liabilities to be classified as noncurrent on the balance sheet. Current deferred tax liabilities of $2,013 have been reclassified from accounts payable and accrued expenses to other assets in the consolidated balance sheet as of July 25, 2015 to conform with the ASU. Recently issued accounting standards In May 2014, the FASB issued ASU No. 2014-09, “Revenue from Contracts with Customers,” which provides guidance for revenue recognition. The standard’s core principle is that a company will recognize revenue when it transfers promised goods or services to customers in an amount that reflects the consideration to which the company expects to be entitled in exchange for those goods or services. The new guidance is effective for fiscal years, and interim periods within those years, beginning after December 15, 2017. The Company is currently assessing the potential impact of ASU No. 2014-09 on its financial statements. In February 2015, the FASB issued ASU 2015-02, "Consolidation (Topic 810): Amendments to the Consolidations Analysis", which changes the guidance for evaluating whether to consolidate certain legal entities. Specifically, the amendments modify the evaluation of whether limited partnerships and similar legal entities are variable interest entities ("VIEs") or voting interest entities. Further, the amendments eliminate the presumption that a general partner should consolidate a limited partnership, as well as affect the consolidation analysis of reporting entities that are involved with VIEs, particularly those that have fee arrangements and related party relationships. The updated guidance is effective for fiscal years, and interim periods within those years, beginning after December 15, 2015. Early adoption is permitted. Companies have an option of using either a full retrospective or modified retrospective adoption approach. The Company is evaluating the effect that ASU 2015-02 will have on its consolidated financial statements and related disclosures. In February 2016, the FASB issued ASU 2016-02, "Leases." This guidance requires lessees to recognize lease liabilities and a right-of-use asset for all leases with terms of more than 12 months on the balance sheet. This guidance is effective for fiscal years, and interim periods within those years, beginning after December 15, 2018, with earlier adoption permitted. ASU 2016-02 requires a modified retrospective approach for all leases existing at or entered into after the date of initial adoption. The Company is evaluating the effect that ASU 2016-02 will have on its consolidated financial statements and related disclosures. In March 2016, the FASB issued ASU 2016-09, "Improvements to Employee Share-Based Payment Accounting." The guidance changes several aspects of the accounting for share-based payment award transactions, including accounting for income taxes, classification of awards as either equity or liabilities, and classification on the statement of cash flows. This guidance is effective for fiscal years, and interim periods within those years, beginning after December 15, 2016, with earlier adoption permitted. The Company is evaluating the effect that ASU 2016-09 will have on its consolidated financial statements and related disclosures.

SUMMARY OF SIGNIFICANT ACCOUN20

SUMMARY OF SIGNIFICANT ACCOUNTING POLICIES (Tables)	12 Months Ended
	Jul. 30, 2016
Accounting Policies [Abstract]
Schedule of Earnings Per Share, Basic and Diluted	The tables below reconcile the numerators and denominators of basic and diluted net income per share for all periods presented. 2016 2015 2014 Class A Class B Class A Class B Class A Class B Numerator: Net income allocated, basic $ 18,967 $ 5,563 $ 23,050 $ 6,885 $ 3,788 $ 1,141 Conversion of Class B to Class A shares 5,563 — 6,885 — 1,141 — Effect of share-based compensation on allocated net income — (3 ) 46 (23 ) (20 ) (11 ) Net income allocated, diluted $ 24,530 $ 5,560 $ 29,981 $ 6,862 $ 4,909 $ 1,130 Denominator: Weighted average shares outstanding, basic 9,567 4,319 9,459 4,353 9,258 4,374 Conversion of Class B to Class A shares 4,319 — 4,353 — 4,374 — Dilutive effect of share-based compensation — — 48 — 62 — Weighted average shares outstanding, diluted 13,886 4,319 13,860 4,353 13,694 4,374 Net income per share is as follows: 2016 2015 2014 Class A Class B Class A Class B Class A Class B Basic $ 1.98 $ 1.29 $ 2.44 $ 1.58 $ 0.41 $ 0.26 Diluted $ 1.77 $ 1.29 $ 2.16 $ 1.58 $ 0.36 $ 0.26 Outstanding stock options to purchase Class A shares of 226 , 224 and 540 were excluded from the calculation of diluted net income per share at July 30, 2016 , July 25, 2015 and July 26, 2014 , respectively, as a result of their anti-dilutive effect. In addition, 250 , 271 and 288 non-vested restricted Class A shares, which are considered participating securities, and their allocated net income were excluded from the diluted net income per share calculation at July 30, 2016 , July 25, 2015 and July 26, 2014 , respectively, due to their anti-dilutive effect.

PROPERTY, EQUIPMENT and FIXTU21

PROPERTY, EQUIPMENT and FIXTURES (Tables)	12 Months Ended
	Jul. 30, 2016
Property, Plant and Equipment [Abstract]
Property, Plant and Equipment	Property, equipment and fixtures are comprised as follows: July 30, July 25, Land and buildings $ 104,451 $ 103,437 Store fixtures and equipment 234,094 222,429 Leasehold improvements 100,076 94,241 Leased property under capital leases 25,211 25,211 Construction in progress 215 1,404 Vehicles 3,225 2,968 Total property, equipment and fixtures 467,272 449,690 Accumulated depreciation (258,356 ) (236,672 ) Accumulated amortization of property under capital leases (7,446 ) (6,424 ) Property, equipment and fixtures, net $ 201,470 $ 206,594

INCOME TAXES (Tables)

INCOME TAXES (Tables)	12 Months Ended
	Jul. 30, 2016
Income Tax Disclosure [Abstract]
Schedule of Components of Income Tax Expense (Benefit)	The components of the provision for income taxes are: 2016 2015 2014 Federal: Current $ 13,150 $ 2,424 $ 10,808 Deferred 183 13,954 (6,938 ) State: Current 4,215 (6,490 ) 21,043 Deferred (253 ) 887 (1,110 ) $ 17,295 $ 10,775 $ 23,803
Schedule of Deferred Tax Assets and Liabilities	Significant components of the Company’s deferred tax assets and liabilities are as follows: July 30, July 25, Deferred tax assets: Leasing activities $ 7,922 $ 7,882 Federal benefit of uncertain tax positions 282 230 Compensation related costs 4,209 3,696 Pension costs 11,097 13,333 Other 704 734 Total deferred tax assets 24,214 25,875 Deferred tax liabilities: Tax over book depreciation 17,114 16,559 Patronage dividend receivable 5,270 5,193 Investment in partnerships 1,476 1,418 Other 171 172 Total deferred tax liabilities 24,031 23,342 Net deferred tax asset (liability) $ 183 $ 2,533 Deferred income tax assets (liabilities) are included in the following captions on the consolidated balance sheets at July 30, 2016 and July 25, 2015 : 2016 2015 Other assets 1,576 2,533 Other liabilities (1,393 ) —
Schedule of Effective Income Tax Rate Reconciliation	The effective income tax rate differs from the statutory federal income tax rate as follows: 2016 2015 2014 Statutory federal income tax rate 35.0 % 35.0 % 35.0 % State income taxes, net of federal tax benefit 5.9 % 6.1 % 6.4 % Unrecognized tax benefits, interest and penalties on prior year tax positions — % (17.6 )% 34.9 % Current year interest and penalties on unrecognized tax benefits 0.2 % 2.0 % 5.4 % Other (0.3 )% 0.5 % 0.8 % Effective income tax rate 40.8 % 26.0 % 82.5 %
Schedule of Unrecognized Tax Benefits Roll Forward	A reconciliation of the beginning and ending amount of gross unrecognized tax benefits is as follows: 2016 2015 Balance at beginning of year $ 514 $ 27,846 Additions based on tax positions related to the current year 117 76 Reductions based on tax positions related to prior periods — (546 ) Cash paid on settlements — (26,862 ) Balance at end of year $ 631 $ 514

LEASES (Tables)

LEASES (Tables)	12 Months Ended
	Jul. 30, 2016
Leases [Abstract]
Schedule of Future Minimum Lease Payments for Capital Leases	Future minimum lease payments by year and in the aggregate for all non-cancelable leases with initial terms of one year or more consist of the following at July 30, 2016 : Capital and financing leases Operating leases 2017 $ 4,875 $ 10,763 2018 4,959 10,383 2019 5,001 8,552 2020 5,173 7,197 2021 5,240 5,871 Thereafter 59,596 38,711 Minimum lease payments 84,844 $ 81,477 Less amount representing interest 41,146 Present value of minimum lease payments 43,698 Less current portion 514 $ 43,184
Schedule of Rent Expense	The following schedule shows the composition of total rental expense for the following years: 2016 2015 2014 Minimum rentals $ 11,585 $ 11,090 $ 11,308 Contingent rentals 929 893 872 $ 12,514 $ 11,983 $ 12,180

SHAREHOLDERS_ EQUITY (Tables)

SHAREHOLDERS’ EQUITY (Tables)	12 Months Ended
	Jul. 30, 2016
Equity [Abstract]
Schedule of Share-based Compensation, Stock Options and Stock Appreciation Rights Award Activity	The following table summarizes option activity under all plans for the following years: 2016 2015 2014 Shares Weighted-average exercise price Shares Weighted-average exercise price Shares Weighted-average exercise price Outstanding at beginning of year 473 $ 27.75 591 $ 26.41 380 $ 24.91 Granted 7 26.79 4 24.51 224 28.83 Exercised (30 ) 27.08 (111 ) 21.41 (9 ) 23.23 Forfeited (26 ) 27.99 (11 ) 18.83 (4 ) 27.51 Outstanding at end of year 424 $ 27.77 473 $ 27.75 591 $ 26.41 Options exercisable at end of year 203 $ 26.76 248 $ 26.80 365 $ 24.89
Schedule of Share-based Payment Award, Stock Options, Valuation Assumptions	The fair value of each option award is estimated on the date of grant using the Black-Scholes Option Pricing Model using the weighted-average assumptions in the following table. The Company uses historical data for similar groups of employees in order to estimate the expected life of options granted. Expected volatility is based on the historical volatility of the Company’s stock for a period of years corresponding to the expected life of the option. The risk free interest rate is based on the U.S. Treasury yield curve at the time of grant for securities with a maturity period similar to the expected life of the option. 2016 2015 Expected life (years) 5.0 5.0 Expected volatility 31.1 % 29.8 % Expected dividend yield 3.8 % 4.1 % Risk-free interest rate 1.5 % 1.5 %
Schedule of Share-based Compensation, Restricted Stock Units Award Activity	The following table summarizes restricted stock activity under the 2004 and 2010 Plans for fiscal 2016 , 2015 and 2014 : 2016 2015 2014 Shares Weighted-average grant date fair value Shares Weighted-average grant date fair value Shares Weighted-average grant date fair value Nonvested at beginning of year 271 $ 28.78 288 $ 28.83 299 $ 27.60 Granted 2 28.55 3 23.77 288 28.83 Vested (19 ) 28.83 (20 ) 28.83 (299 ) 27.60 Forfeited (4 ) 28.83 — — — — Nonvested at end of year 250 $ 28.77 271 $ 28.78 288 $ 28.83
Schedule of Dividends Declared and Paid	The Company declared and paid cash dividends on common stock as follows: 2016 2015 2014 Per share: Class A common stock $ 1.000 $ 1.000 $ 1.000 Class B common stock 0.650 0.650 0.650 Aggregate: Class A common stock $ 9,827 $ 9,749 $ 9,598 Class B common stock 2,807 2,828 2,834 $ 12,634 $ 12,577 $ 12,432

PENSION PLANS (Tables)

PENSION PLANS (Tables)	12 Months Ended
	Jul. 30, 2016
Compensation Related Costs [Abstract]
Schedule of Net Benefit Costs Recognized	Net periodic pension cost for the four plans include the following components: 2016 2015 2014 Service cost $ 3,099 $ 3,642 $ 2,926 Interest cost on projected benefit obligation 3,031 3,055 2,775 Expected return on plan assets (3,645 ) (3,719 ) (3,194 ) Gain on settlement — (239 ) — Amortization of gains and losses 1,504 1,295 804 Net periodic pension cost $ 3,989 $ 4,034 $ 3,311
Schedule of Amounts Recognized In Plan Assets and Benefit Obligations Recognized	The changes in benefit obligations and the reconciliation of the funded status of the Company’s plans to the consolidated balance sheets were as follows: 2016 2015 Changes in Benefit Obligation: Benefit obligation at beginning of year $ 83,961 $ 77,090 Service cost 3,099 3,642 Interest cost 3,031 3,055 Benefits paid (3,440 ) (3,769 ) Curtailment (17,904 ) — Settlement — (3,033 ) Actuarial loss 11,274 6,976 Benefit obligation at end of year $ 80,021 $ 83,961 Changes in Plan Assets: Fair value of plan assets at beginning of year $ 51,729 $ 50,129 Actual return on plan assets 1,468 2,279 Employer contributions 3,524 6,203 Benefits paid (3,440 ) (3,769 ) Settlements paid — (3,113 ) Fair value of plan assets at end of year 53,281 51,729 Funded status at end of year $ (26,740 ) $ (32,232 ) Amounts recognized in the consolidated balance sheets: Pension liabilities (26,740 ) (32,232 ) Accumulated other comprehensive loss, net of income taxes 13,339 16,874 Amounts included in Accumulated other comprehensive loss (pre-tax): Net actuarial loss $ 22,502 $ 28,459
Schedule of Accumulated Benefit Obligations in Excess of Fair Value of Plan Assets	The following information is presented for those plans with an accumulated benefit obligation in excess of plan assets: 2016 2015 Projected benefit obligation $ 80,021 $ 83,961 Accumulated benefit obligation 80,021 66,809 Fair value of plan assets 53,281 51,729
Schedule of Assumptions Used	Weighted average assumptions used to determine benefit obligations and net periodic pension cost for the Company’s defined benefit plans were as follows: 2016 2015 2014 Assumed discount rate — net periodic pension cost 4.02 % 3.95 % 4.43 % Assumed discount rate — benefit obligation 3.08 % 4.02 % 3.95 % Assumed rate of increase in compensation levels 4 - 4.5 % 4 - 4.5 % 4 - 4.5 % Expected rate of return on plan assets 7.50 % 7.50 % 7.50 %
Schedule of Allocation of Plan Assets	The fair value of the pension assets were as follows: July 30, 2016 July 25, 2015 Asset Category Level 1 Level 2 Total Level 1 Level 2 Total Cash $ 1,173 $ — $ 1,173 $ 718 $ — $ 718 Equity securities: Company stock 770 — 770 651 — 651 U.S large cap (1) 18,416 — 18,416 18,368 — 18,368 U.S. small/mid cap (2) 6,591 — 6,591 6,602 — 6,602 International (3) 6,752 — 6,752 6,431 — 6,431 Emerging markets (4) 1,219 — 1,219 1,193 — 1,193 Fixed income securities: U.S treasuries (5) 10,560 — 10,560 9,911 — 9,911 Mortgage-backed (5) — 1,918 1,918 — 2,014 2,014 Corporate bonds (5) 3,054 2,140 5,194 2,810 2,370 5,180 International (6) 688 — 688 661 — 661 Total $ 49,223 $ 4,058 $ 53,281 $ 47,345 $ 4,384 $ 51,729 (1) Includes directly owned securities and mutual funds, primarily low-cost equity index funds not actively managed that track the S&P 500. (2) Includes directly owned securities and mutual funds, which invest in diversified portfolios of publicly traded U.S. common stocks of small and medium cap companies. (3) Includes directly owned securities and mutual funds, which invest in diversified portfolios of publicly traded common stocks of large, non-U.S. companies. (4) Consists of mutual and exchange traded funds which invest in non-U.S. stocks in emerging markets. (5) Includes directly owned securities, mutual funds and exchange traded funds. (6) Consists of exchange traded funds which invest in non-U.S. bonds in emerging markets.
Schedule of Expected Benefit Payments	Based on actuarial assumptions, estimated future defined benefit payments, which may be significantly impacted by participant elections related to retirement dates and forms of payment, are as follows: Fiscal Year 2017 $ 2,820 2018 2,386 2019 2,928 2020 2,941 2021 14,958 2022 - 2026 17,903
Schedule of Multiemployer Plans	The Company’s participation in these plans is outlined in the following tables. The “EIN / Pension Plan Number” column provides the Employer Identification Number (“EIN”) and the three-digit pension plan number. The most recent “Pension Protection Act Zone Status” available in 2015 and 2014 is for the plan’s year-end at December 31, 2015 and December 31, 2014 , respectively, unless otherwise noted. Among other factors, generally, plans in the red zone are less than 65 percent funded, plans in the yellow zone are between 65 and 80 percent funded and plans in the green zone are at least 80 percent funded. The “FIP/RP Status Pending / Implemented” column indicates plans for which a funding improvement plan (“FIP”) or a rehabilitation plan (“RP”) is either pending or has been implemented. Pension Protection Act Zone Status FIP/RP Status Pending / Implemented Contributions for the year ended (5) Expiration date of Collective- Bargaining Agreement Pension Fund EIN / Pension Plan Number 2015 2014 July 30, July 25, July 26, Surcharge Imposed (6) Pension Plan of Local 464A (1) 22-6051600-001 Green Green N/A $ 679 $ 665 $ 615 N/A October 2020 UFCW Local 1262 & Employers Pension Fund (2), (4) 22-6074414-001 Red Red Implemented 3,510 3,501 3,273 No October 2018 UFCW Regional Pension Plan (3), (4) 16-6062287-074 Red Red Implemented 1,275 1,235 1,225 No December 2017 Total Contributions $ 5,464 $ 5,401 $ 5,113 (1) The information for this fund was obtained from the Form 5500 filed for the plan’s year-end at December 31, 2015 and December 31, 2014 . (2) The information for this fund was obtained from the Form 5500 filed for the plan’s year-end at December 31, 2014 and December 31, 2013 . (3) The information for this fund was obtained from the Form 5500 filed for the plan’s year-end at September 30, 2015 and September 30, 2014 . (4) This plan has elected to utilize special amortization provisions provided under the Preservation of Access to Care for Medicare Beneficiaries and Pension Relief Act of 2010. There were no changes to the plan’s zone status as a result of this election. (5) The Company’s contributions represent more than 5% of the total contributions received by each applicable pension fund for all periods presented. (6) Under the Pension Protection Act, a surcharge may be imposed when employers make contributions under a collective bargaining agreement that is not in compliance with a rehabilitation plan. As of July 30, 2016 , the collective bargaining agreements under which the Company was making contributions were in compliance with rehabilitation plans adopted by each applicable pension fund.

SUMMARY OF SIGNIFICANT ACCOUN26

SUMMARY OF SIGNIFICANT ACCOUNTING POLICIES - Additional Information (Details) $ in Thousands	12 Months Ended
	Jul. 30, 2016USD ($)storesegment	Jul. 25, 2015USD ($)	Jul. 26, 2014USD ($)
Accounting Policies [Abstract]
Number of stores | store	29
Fiscal period duration	371 days	364 days	364 days
Number of operating segments | segment	1
Recently Adopted Accounting Standards [Abstract]
Cumulative Effect of New Accounting Principle in Period of Adoption		$ 2,013
Cash and Cash Equivalents [Abstract]
Credit and debit card receivables	$ 7,534	7,633
Inventory Disclosure [Abstract]
Percentage of LIFO inventory	64.00%
LIFO reserve inventory	$ 14,522	14,693
Marketing and Advertising Expense [Abstract]
Advertising expense	$ 11,644	11,121	$ 11,474
Buildings
Property, Plant and Equipment [Line Items]
Useful life	30 years
Store fixtures and equipment
Property, Plant and Equipment [Line Items]
Useful life	10 years
Vehicles
Property, Plant and Equipment [Line Items]
Useful life	3 years
Wakefern
Related Party Transaction [Line Items]
Demand deposits invested at related party Wakefern	$ 63,609	$ 35,428

SUMMARY OF SIGNIFICANT ACCOUN27

SUMMARY OF SIGNIFICANT ACCOUNTING POLICIES - Net Income Per Share (Details) $ / shares in Units, shares in Thousands, $ in Thousands	12 Months Ended
	Jul. 30, 2016USD ($)class_common_stock$ / sharesshares	Jul. 25, 2015USD ($)$ / sharesshares	Jul. 26, 2014USD ($)$ / sharesshares
Accounting Policies [Abstract]
Number of common stock classes | class_common_stock	2
Common stock cash dividends, percent Class A is entitled greater than Class B	54.00%
Class A Common Stock
Numerator:
Net income allocated, basic | $	$ 18,967	$ 23,050	$ 3,788
Conversion of Class B to Class A shares | $	5,563	6,885	1,141
Effect of share-based compensation on allocated net income | $	0	46	(20)
Net income allocated, diluted | $	$ 24,530	$ 29,981	$ 4,909
Denominator:
Weighted average shares outstanding, basic (in shares) | shares	9,567	9,459	9,258
Conversion of Class B to Class A shares (in shares) | shares	4,319	4,353	4,374
Dilutive effect of share-based compensation (in shares) | shares	0	48	62
Weighted average shares outstanding, diluted (in shares) | shares	13,886	13,860	13,694
Net income per share
Basic (in dollars per share) | $ / shares	$ 1.98	$ 2.44	$ 0.41
Diluted (in dollars per share) | $ / shares	$ 1.77	$ 2.16	$ 0.36
Class B Common Stock
Numerator:
Net income allocated, basic | $	$ 5,563	$ 6,885	$ 1,141
Conversion of Class B to Class A shares | $	0	0	0
Effect of share-based compensation on allocated net income | $	(3)	(23)	(11)
Net income allocated, diluted | $	$ 5,560	$ 6,862	$ 1,130
Denominator:
Weighted average shares outstanding, basic (in shares) | shares	4,319	4,353	4,374
Conversion of Class B to Class A shares (in shares) | shares	0	0	0
Dilutive effect of share-based compensation (in shares) | shares	0	0	0
Weighted average shares outstanding, diluted (in shares) | shares	4,319	4,353	4,374
Net income per share
Basic (in dollars per share) | $ / shares	$ 1.29	$ 1.58	$ 0.26
Diluted (in dollars per share) | $ / shares	$ 1.29	$ 1.58	$ 0.26

SUMMARY OF SIGNIFICANT ACCOUN28

SUMMARY OF SIGNIFICANT ACCOUNTING POLICIES - Net Income Per Share, Additional Information (Details) - shares shares in Thousands	12 Months Ended
	Jul. 30, 2016	Jul. 25, 2015	Jul. 26, 2014
Class A Common Stock
Antidilutive Securities Excluded from Computation of Earnings Per Share [Line Items]
Class A shares excluded from computation of earnings per share (in shares)	226	224	540
Restricted Stock Units (RSUs)
Antidilutive Securities Excluded from Computation of Earnings Per Share [Line Items]
Class A shares excluded from computation of earnings per share (in shares)	250	271	288

PROPERTY, EQUIPMENT and FIXTU29

PROPERTY, EQUIPMENT and FIXTURES (Details) - USD ($) $ in Thousands	Jul. 30, 2016	Jul. 25, 2015
Property, Plant and Equipment [Line Items]
Total property, equipment and fixtures	$ 467,272	$ 449,690
Accumulated depreciation	(258,356)	(236,672)
Accumulated amortization of property under capital leases	(7,446)	(6,424)
Property, equipment and fixtures, net	201,470	206,594
Land and buildings
Property, Plant and Equipment [Line Items]
Total property, equipment and fixtures	104,451	103,437
Store fixtures and equipment
Property, Plant and Equipment [Line Items]
Total property, equipment and fixtures	234,094	222,429
Leasehold improvements
Property, Plant and Equipment [Line Items]
Total property, equipment and fixtures	100,076	94,241
Leased property under capital leases
Property, Plant and Equipment [Line Items]
Total property, equipment and fixtures	25,211	25,211
Construction in progress
Property, Plant and Equipment [Line Items]
Total property, equipment and fixtures	215	1,404
Vehicles
Property, Plant and Equipment [Line Items]
Total property, equipment and fixtures	$ 3,225	$ 2,968

RELATED PARTY INFORMATION - W30

RELATED PARTY INFORMATION - WAKEFERN (Details) - USD ($)	Feb. 15, 2014	Jul. 30, 2016	Jul. 25, 2015	Jul. 26, 2014
Related Party Transaction [Line Items]
Notes receivable from Wakefern		$ 42,735,000	$ 41,421,000
Wakefern
Related Party Transaction [Line Items]
Ownership interest in Wakefern		13.20%
Purchase obligation, as a percentage of merchandise requirements		85.00%
Purchase obligation period		10 years
Percentage of stockholders to request termination		75.00%
Indebtedness to Wakefern		$ 718,000
Installment payments year one		341,000
Installment payments year two		285,000
Installment payments year three		92,000
Installment payments after year four		0
Maximum per store investment		900,000
Per store investment increase		25,000	25,000
Additional investment		717,000	738,000
Vendor allowances and rebates		30,559,000	27,557,000	$ 26,438,000
Support services incurred charges		33,526,000	33,306,000	32,808,000
Demand deposits invested at related party Wakefern		63,609,000	35,428,000
Interest income earned on investments related entity		$ 2,506,000	$ 2,399,000	$ 2,622,000
Wakefern | Related Party Note Receivable Maturing August 2017
Related Party Transaction [Line Items]
Related Party Transaction, Basis Spread on Variable Rate	0.25%
Percent of notes receivable	50.00%
Wakefern | Related Party Note Receivable Maturing February 2019
Related Party Transaction [Line Items]
Related Party Transaction, Basis Spread on Variable Rate	1.25%
Percent of notes receivable	50.00%
Insure-Rite Ltd. | Wakefern
Related Party Transaction [Line Items]
Investment in Insure-Rite, Ltd		8.10%

DEBT (Details)

DEBT (Details) - USD ($)	Jul. 30, 2016	Jul. 25, 2015
Debt Disclosure [Abstract]
Maximum borrowing amount	$ 25,000,000
Amount outstanding	0	$ 0
Revolving loan agreement amount of letters of credit (maximum)	3,000,000
Letters of credit outstanding	$ 129,000

INCOME TAXES - Components of In

INCOME TAXES - Components of Income Tax Provision (Details) - USD ($) $ in Thousands	12 Months Ended
	Jul. 30, 2016	Jul. 25, 2015	Jul. 26, 2014
Federal:
Current	$ 13,150	$ 2,424	$ 10,808
Deferred	183	13,954	(6,938)
State:
Current	4,215	(6,490)	21,043
Deferred	(253)	887	(1,110)
Income taxes	$ 17,295	$ 10,775	$ 23,803

INCOME TAXES - Components of De

INCOME TAXES - Components of Deferred Tax Assets and Liabilities (Details) - USD ($) $ in Thousands	Jul. 30, 2016	Jul. 25, 2015
Deferred tax assets:
Leasing activities	$ 7,922	$ 7,882
Federal benefit of uncertain tax positions	282	230
Compensation related costs	4,209	3,696
Pension costs	11,097	13,333
Other	704	734
Total deferred tax assets	24,214	25,875
Deferred tax liabilities:
Tax over book depreciation	17,114	16,559
Patronage dividend receivable	5,270	5,193
Investment in partnerships	1,476	1,418
Other	171	172
Total deferred tax liabilities	24,031	23,342
Net deferred tax asset (liability)	$ 183	$ 2,533

INCOME TAXES - Deferred Income

INCOME TAXES - Deferred Income Tax Assets And Liabilities Included on Consolidated Balance Sheet (Details) - USD ($) $ in Thousands	Jul. 30, 2016	Jul. 25, 2015
Income Tax Disclosure [Abstract]
Cumulative Effect of New Accounting Principle in Period of Adoption		$ 2,013
Other assets	$ 1,576	2,533
Other liabilities	$ 1,393	$ 0

INCOME TAXES - Effective Income

INCOME TAXES - Effective Income Tax Rate Reconciliation (Details)	12 Months Ended
	Jul. 30, 2016	Jul. 25, 2015	Jul. 26, 2014
Income Tax Disclosure [Abstract]
Statutory federal income tax rate	35.00%	35.00%	35.00%
State income taxes, net of federal tax benefit	5.90%	6.10%	6.40%
Unrecognized tax benefits, interest and penalties on prior year tax positions	0.00%	(17.60%)	34.90%
Current year interest and penalties on unrecognized tax benefits	0.20%	2.00%	5.40%
Other	(0.30%)	0.50%	0.80%
Effective income tax rate	40.80%	26.00%	82.50%

INCOME TAXES - Additional Infor

INCOME TAXES - Additional Information (Details) $ in Thousands	1 Months Ended	12 Months Ended			36 Months Ended
	Mar. 31, 2015USD ($)	Jul. 30, 2016USD ($)	Jul. 25, 2015USD ($)	Jul. 26, 2014USD ($)	Jul. 27, 2002complainttax_assessment	Apr. 25, 2015USD ($)	Oct. 26, 2013USD ($)
Income Tax Contingency [Line Items]
Tax settlement	$ 33,000
Cash outflow as a result of tax settlement			$ 21,000
Tax positions that would reduce effective income tax rate		$ 541	334
(Benefit) expense related to interest and penalties		39	(9,811)	$ 10,287
Accrued interest and penalties included in the consolidated balance sheet		$ 192	$ 158
Income Tax Expense on Prior Year Tax Positions
Income Tax Contingency [Line Items]
Income tax expense							$ 10,052
Income tax benefit						$ 7,293
State and Local Jurisdiction [Member]
Income Tax Contingency [Line Items]
Number of tax assessments | tax_assessment					2
Number of complaints filed | complaint					2

INCOME TAXES - Unrecognized Tax

INCOME TAXES - Unrecognized Tax Benefits Reconciliation (Details) - USD ($) $ in Thousands	12 Months Ended
	Jul. 30, 2016	Jul. 25, 2015
Reconciliation of Unrecognized Tax Benefits, Excluding Amounts Pertaining to Examined Tax Returns [Roll Forward]
Balance at beginning of year	$ 514	$ 27,846
Additions based on tax positions related to the current year	117	76
Reductions based on tax positions related to prior periods	0	(546)
Cash paid on settlements	0	(26,862)
Balance at end of year	$ 631	$ 514

LEASES - Future Minimum Lease P

LEASES - Future Minimum Lease Payments (Details) - USD ($) $ in Thousands	Jul. 30, 2016	Jul. 25, 2015
Capital and financing leases
2,016	$ 4,875
2,017	4,959
2,018	5,001
2,019	5,173
2,020	5,240
Thereafter	59,596
Less amount representing interest	41,146
Present value of minimum lease payments	43,698
Less current portion	514	$ 469
Capital and financing lease obligations	43,184	$ 43,699
Operating leases
2,016	10,763
2,017	10,383
2,018	8,552
2,019	7,197
2,020	5,871
Thereafter	38,711
Capital Leases, Future Minimum Payments Due	84,844
Minimum lease payments	$ 81,477

LEASES - Rent Expense (Details)

LEASES - Rent Expense (Details) - USD ($) $ in Thousands	12 Months Ended
	Jul. 30, 2016	Jul. 25, 2015	Jul. 26, 2014
Leases [Abstract]
Minimum rentals	$ 11,585	$ 11,090	$ 11,308
Contingent rentals	929	893	872
Total rental expense	$ 12,514	$ 11,983	$ 12,180

LEASES - Additional Information

LEASES - Additional Information (Details) ft² in Thousands, $ in Thousands	Apr. 30, 2014ft²	Nov. 06, 2013ft²	Jul. 30, 2016USD ($)real_estate_partnershipstoreproperty	Jul. 25, 2015USD ($)	Jul. 26, 2014USD ($)
Leased Assets [Line Items]
Number of stores leased | store			23
Number of leased stores capitalized | store			5
Renewal term			5 years
Number of real estate partnerships with company ownership interests | real_estate_partnership			3
Number of partnerships to which rent was paid for leased stores | real_estate_partnership			2
Rent paid to related partnership			$ 1,400	$ 1,300	$ 1,008
Rent paid to Wakefern under sublease agreement			1,316	1,296	1,296
Hanover Township, New Jersey
Leased Assets [Line Items]
Square feet of store | ft²		77
Morris Plains, New Jersey
Leased Assets [Line Items]
Business exit costs					3,481
Exit costs paid			918	982	710
Remaining exit cost liability			871
New Store, Union, New Jersey
Leased Assets [Line Items]
Square feet of store | ft²	59
Union, New Jersey
Leased Assets [Line Items]
Square feet of store | ft²	40
Business exit costs					929
Exit costs paid			$ 266	531	132
Minimum
Leased Assets [Line Items]
Lease terms			20 years
Term of non-cancelable leases			1 year
Maximum
Leased Assets [Line Items]
Lease terms			30 years
Variable Interest Entity, Not Primary Beneficiary
Leased Assets [Line Items]
Number of variable interest entity real estate partnerships | real_estate_partnership			1
Number of properties owned by VIE partnership | property			1
Percentage of profits and losses entitled to Company			33.00%
Officer
Leased Assets [Line Items]
Officer ownership percentage in leasing property realty firm			30.00%
Rent paid to related parties			$ 642	$ 640	$ 640

SHAREHOLDERS_ EQUITY - Addition

SHAREHOLDERS’ EQUITY - Additional Information (Details)	12 Months Ended
	Jul. 30, 2016USD ($)class_common_stockplanvote$ / sharesshares	Jul. 25, 2015USD ($)$ / sharesshares	Jul. 26, 2014USD ($)
Share-based Compensation Arrangement by Share-based Payment Award [Line Items]
Number of common stock classes | class_common_stock	2
Common stock cash dividends, percent Class A is entitled greater than Class B	54.00%
Preferred stock shares authorized (in shares) | shares	10,000,000	10,000,000
Preferred stock shares issued (in shares) | shares	0
Number of share-based compensation plans | plan	3
Compensation cost charged against income	$ 3,195,000	$ 3,169,000	$ 3,229,000
Income tax benefit recognized	$ 1,131,000	$ 1,134,000	1,148,000
Weighted-average remaining contractual term of options outstanding	5 years 8 months 12 days
Weighted-average remaining contractual term of options exercisable	3 years 6 months
Aggregate intrinsic value of options outstanding	$ 1,654,000
Aggregate intrinsic value of options exercisable	$ 1,002,000
Weighted-average grant date fair value of options granted | $ / shares	$ 4.79	$ 4.32
Intrinsic value of options exercised	$ 70,000	$ 1,090,000	113,000
Fair value of restricted shares vested	549,000	576,000	8,663,000
Unrecognized compensation costs related to nonvested stock options and restricted stock granted	$ 2,134,000
Weighted-average period of compensation cost expected to be recognized	8 months 16 days
Cash received from option exercises under share-based compensation arrangements	$ 813,000	2,392,000	217,000
Actual tax benefit realized	$ 29,000	$ 424,000	$ 46,000
Class A Common Stock
Share-based Compensation Arrangement by Share-based Payment Award [Line Items]
Number of votes entitled per share | vote	1
Authorized amount of share repurchase program	$ 5,000,000
Stock Repurchased During Period, Value	$ 978,000
Class A Common Stock | 2004 Plan
Share-based Compensation Arrangement by Share-based Payment Award [Line Items]
Number of shares authorized | shares	1,200,000
Vesting period	3 years
Expiration period	10 years
Shares remaining for future grants (in shares) | shares	0
Class A Common Stock | 2004 Plan | Restricted Stock
Share-based Compensation Arrangement by Share-based Payment Award [Line Items]
Vesting period	3 years
Class A Common Stock | 2010 Plan
Share-based Compensation Arrangement by Share-based Payment Award [Line Items]
Number of shares authorized | shares	1,200,000
Vesting period	3 years
Expiration period	10 years
Shares remaining for future grants (in shares) | shares	385,291
Class A Common Stock | 2010 Plan | Restricted Stock
Share-based Compensation Arrangement by Share-based Payment Award [Line Items]
Vesting period	3 years
Class B Common Stock
Share-based Compensation Arrangement by Share-based Payment Award [Line Items]
Number of votes entitled per share | vote	10
Percentage of voting power (greater than)	50.00%

SHAREHOLDERS_ EQUITY - Summary

SHAREHOLDERS’ EQUITY - Summary of Option Activity (Details) - $ / shares shares in Thousands	12 Months Ended
	Jul. 30, 2016	Jul. 25, 2015	Jul. 26, 2014
Shares
Outstanding at beginning of year (in shares)	473	591	380
Granted (in shares)	7	4	224
Exercised (in shares)	(30)	(111)	(9)
Forfeited (in shares)	(26)	(11)	(4)
Outstanding at end of year (in shares)	424	473	591
Weighted-average exercise price
Outstanding at beginning of year (in dollars per share)	$ 27.75	$ 26.41	$ 24.91
Granted (in dollars per share)	26.79	24.51	28.83
Exercised (in dollars per share)	27.08	21.41	23.23
Forfeited (in dollars per share)	27.99	18.83	27.51
Outstanding at end of year (in dollars per share)	$ 27.77	$ 27.75	$ 26.41
Options exercisable at end of year (in shares)	203	248	365
Options exercisable at end of year (in dollars per share)	$ 26.76	$ 26.80	$ 24.89

SHAREHOLDERS_ EQUITY - Valuatio

SHAREHOLDERS’ EQUITY - Valuation Assumptions (Details)	12 Months Ended
	Jul. 30, 2016	Jul. 25, 2015
Equity [Abstract]
Expected life (years)	5 years	5 years
Expected volatility	31.10%	29.80%
Expected dividend yield	3.80%	4.10%
Risk-free interest rate	1.50%	1.50%

SHAREHOLDERS_ EQUITY - Restric

SHAREHOLDERS’ EQUITY - Restricted Stock Activity (Details) - $ / shares shares in Thousands	12 Months Ended
	Jul. 30, 2016	Jul. 25, 2015	Jul. 26, 2014
Shares
Nonvested at beginning of year (in shares)	271	288	299
Granted (in shares)	2	3	288
Vested (in shares)	(19)	(20)	(299)
Forfeited (in shares)	(4)	0	0
Nonvested at end of year (in shares)	250	271	288
Weighted-average grant date fair value
Nonvested at beginning of year (in dollars per share)	$ 28.78	$ 28.83	$ 27.60
Granted (in dollars per share)	28.55	23.77	28.83
Vested (in dollars per share)	28.83	28.83	27.60
Forfeited (in dollars per share)	28.83	0	0
Nonvested at end of year (in dollars per share)	$ 28.77	$ 28.78	$ 28.83

SHAREHOLDERS_ EQUITY - Dividend

SHAREHOLDERS’ EQUITY - Dividends declared and paid (Details) - USD ($) $ / shares in Units, $ in Thousands	12 Months Ended
	Jul. 30, 2016	Jul. 25, 2015	Jul. 26, 2014
Aggregate:
Total common stock dividends paid	$ 12,634	$ 12,577	$ 12,432
Class A Common Stock
Per share:
Common stock dividends paid (in dollars per share)	$ 1	$ 1	$ 1
Aggregate:
Common stock dividends paid	$ 9,827	$ 9,749	$ 9,598
Class B Common Stock
Per share:
Common stock dividends paid (in dollars per share)	$ 0.650	$ 0.650	$ 0.650
Aggregate:
Common stock dividends paid	$ 2,807	$ 2,828	$ 2,834

PENSION PLANS - Additional Info

PENSION PLANS - Additional Information (Details)	12 Months Ended
	Jul. 29, 2017USD ($)	Jul. 30, 2016USD ($)pension_plan	Jul. 25, 2015USD ($)pension_plan	Jul. 26, 2014USD ($)
Compensation Related Costs [Abstract]
Number of defined benefit plans | pension_plan		4	4,000
Number of defined benefit plans covering union members | pension_plan		2
Number of defined benefit plans covering non-union members | pension_plan		1
Defined Benefit Plan, Curtailments		$ 17,904,000	$ 0
Accumulated benefit obligations		80,021,000	66,809,000
Defined Benefit Plan Disclosure [Line Items]
Class A common stock held in plan		770,000	651,000
Company contributions to other multi-employer benefit plans		27,965,000	26,932,000	$ 25,531,000
401(k) company contributions		641,000	392,000	393,000
Company contributions to union sponsored plans		$ 836,000	$ 817,000	$ 813,000
Equity Securities
Defined Benefit Plan Disclosure [Line Items]
Minimum target allocation		50.00%
Maximum target allocation		70.00%
Fixed Income Funds
Defined Benefit Plan Disclosure [Line Items]
Minimum target allocation		25.00%
Maximum target allocation		40.00%
Cash and Cash Equivalents
Defined Benefit Plan Disclosure [Line Items]
Minimum target allocation		0.00%
Maximum target allocation		10.00%
Scenario, Forecast [Member]
Defined Benefit Plan Disclosure [Line Items]
Expected net actuarial loss to be recognized	$ 1,511,000
Expected cash contributions next fiscal year	$ 3,000,000

PENSION PLANS - Net Periodic Pe

PENSION PLANS - Net Periodic Pension Costs (Details) - USD ($) $ in Thousands	12 Months Ended
	Jul. 30, 2016	Jul. 25, 2015	Jul. 26, 2014
Compensation Related Costs [Abstract]
Service cost	$ 3,099	$ 3,642	$ 2,926
Interest cost on projected benefit obligation	3,031	3,055	2,775
Expected return on plan assets	(3,645)	(3,719)	(3,194)
Gain on settlement	0	(239)	0
Amortization of gains and losses	1,504	1,295	804
Net periodic pension cost	$ 3,989	$ 4,034	$ 3,311

PENSION PLANS - Changes in Bene

PENSION PLANS - Changes in Benefit Obligations and Reconciliation of Funded Status (Details) - USD ($)	12 Months Ended
	Jul. 30, 2016	Jul. 25, 2015	Jul. 26, 2014
Compensation Related Costs [Abstract]
Defined Benefit Plan, Curtailments	$ 17,904,000	$ 0
Changes in Benefit Obligation:
Benefit obligation at beginning of year	83,961,000	77,090,000
Service cost	3,099,000	3,642,000	$ 2,926,000
Interest cost on projected benefit obligation	3,031,000	3,055,000	2,775,000
Benefits paid	(3,440,000)	(3,769,000)
Settlement	0	(3,033,000)
Actuarial loss	11,274,000	6,976,000
Benefit obligation at end of year	80,021,000	83,961,000	77,090,000
Changes in Plan Assets:
Fair value of plan assets at beginning of year	51,729,000	50,129,000
Actual return on plan assets	1,468,000	2,279,000
Employer contributions	3,524,000	6,203,000
Benefits paid	(3,440,000)	(3,769,000)
Settlements paid	0	(3,113,000)
Fair value of plan assets at end of year	53,281,000	51,729,000	$ 50,129,000
Funded status at end of year	(26,740,000)	(32,232,000)
Amounts recognized in the consolidated balance sheets:
Pension liabilities	(26,740,000)	(32,232,000)
Accumulated other comprehensive loss, net of income taxes	13,339,000	16,874,000
Amounts included in Accumulated other comprehensive loss (pre-tax):
Net actuarial loss	$ 22,502,000	$ 28,459,000

PENSION PLANS - Accumulated Ben

PENSION PLANS - Accumulated Benefit Obligations (Details) - USD ($) $ in Thousands	Jul. 30, 2016	Jul. 25, 2015
Compensation Related Costs [Abstract]
Projected benefit obligation	$ 80,021	$ 83,961
Accumulated benefit obligation	80,021	66,809
Fair value of plan assets	$ 53,281	$ 51,729

PENSION PLANS - Assumptions Use

PENSION PLANS - Assumptions Used (Details)	12 Months Ended
	Jul. 30, 2016	Jul. 25, 2015	Jul. 26, 2014
Defined Benefit Plan Disclosure [Line Items]
Assumed discount rate — net periodic pension cost	4.02%	3.95%	4.43%
Assumed discount rate — benefit obligation	3.08%	4.02%	3.95%
Expected rate of return on plan assets	7.50%	7.50%	7.50%
Minimum
Defined Benefit Plan Disclosure [Line Items]
Assumed rate of increase in compensation levels	4.00%	4.00%	4.00%
Maximum
Defined Benefit Plan Disclosure [Line Items]
Assumed rate of increase in compensation levels	4.50%	4.50%	4.50%

PENSION PLANS - Fair Value of P

PENSION PLANS - Fair Value of Pension Assets (Details) - USD ($) $ in Thousands	Jul. 30, 2016	Jul. 25, 2015
Defined Benefit Plan Disclosure [Line Items]
Cash	$ 1,173	$ 718
Equity Securities [Abstract]
Company stock	770	651
U.S large cap	18,416	18,368
U.S. small/mid cap	6,591	6,602
International	6,752	6,431
Emerging markets	1,219	1,193
Fixed Income Securities [Abstract]
U.S treasuries	10,560	9,911
Mortgage-backed	1,918	2,014
Corporate bonds	5,194	5,180
International	688	661
Total	53,281	51,729
Level 1
Defined Benefit Plan Disclosure [Line Items]
Cash	1,173	718
Equity Securities [Abstract]
Company stock	770	651
U.S large cap	18,416	18,368
U.S. small/mid cap	6,591	6,602
International	6,752	6,431
Emerging markets	1,219	1,193
Fixed Income Securities [Abstract]
U.S treasuries	10,560	9,911
Mortgage-backed	0	0
Corporate bonds	3,054	2,810
International	688	661
Total	49,223	47,345
Level 2
Defined Benefit Plan Disclosure [Line Items]
Cash	0	0
Equity Securities [Abstract]
Company stock	0	0
U.S large cap	0	0
U.S. small/mid cap	0	0
International	0	0
Emerging markets	0	0
Fixed Income Securities [Abstract]
U.S treasuries	0	0
Mortgage-backed	1,918	2,014
Corporate bonds	2,140	2,370
International	0	0
Total	$ 4,058	$ 4,384

PENSION PLANS - Estimated Futur

PENSION PLANS - Estimated Future Benefit Payments (Details) $ in Thousands	Jul. 30, 2016USD ($)
Defined Benefit Plan, Expected Future Benefit Payments, Fiscal Year Maturity [Abstract]
2,016	$ 2,820
2,017	2,386
2,018	2,928
2,019	2,941
2,020	14,958
2021-2025	$ 17,903

PENSION PLANS - Schedule of Mul

PENSION PLANS - Schedule of Multiemployer Plans (Details) - Multiemployer Plans, Pension - USD ($) $ in Thousands	12 Months Ended
	Jul. 30, 2016	Jul. 25, 2015	Jul. 26, 2014
Multiemployer Plans [Line Items]
Total Contributions	$ 5,464	$ 5,401	$ 5,113
Pension Plan of Local 464A
Multiemployer Plans [Line Items]
EIN / Pension Plan Number	226,051,600
Multiemployer Plan Number	1
Pension Protection Act Zone Status		Green	Green
Total Contributions	$ 679	$ 665	$ 615
Expiration date of collective-bargaining agreement	October 2,020
UFCW Local 1262 & Employers Pension Fund
Multiemployer Plans [Line Items]
EIN / Pension Plan Number	226,074,414
Multiemployer Plan Number	1
Pension Protection Act Zone Status		Red	Red
FIP/RP Status Pending / Implemented	Implemented
Total Contributions	$ 3,510	$ 3,501	$ 3,273
Surcharge Imposed	No
Expiration date of collective-bargaining agreement	October 2,018
UFCW Regional Pension Plan
Multiemployer Plans [Line Items]
EIN / Pension Plan Number	166,062,287
Multiemployer Plan Number	74
Pension Protection Act Zone Status		Red	Red
FIP/RP Status Pending / Implemented	Implemented
Total Contributions	$ 1,275	$ 1,235	$ 1,225
Surcharge Imposed	No
Expiration date of collective-bargaining agreement	December 2,017
Employer contribution, percentage of pension fund contributions (more than)	5.00%

COMMITMENTS and CONTINGENCIES (

COMMITMENTS and CONTINGENCIES (Details) $ in Thousands	3 Months Ended	12 Months Ended		45 Months Ended
	Apr. 23, 2016USD ($)	Jul. 30, 2016union	Jul. 25, 2015USD ($)	Jul. 30, 2016USD ($)	Jul. 26, 2014USD ($)
Commitments and Contingencies Disclosure [Abstract]
Insurance settlements receivable					$ 4,913
Insurance receivable write-off			$ (2,270)
Insurance recoveries	$ 940			$ 3,583
Concentration Risk [Line Items]
Number of unions | union		7
Expiration period of union contracts		1 year
Labor Force Concentration Risk | Workforce Subject to Collective Bargaining Arrangements
Concentration Risk [Line Items]
Percentage of employees covered by collective bargaining agreements		92.00%		92.00%
Unionized Employees Concentration Risk | Workforce Subject to Collective Bargaining Arrangements Expired or Expiring within One Year
Concentration Risk [Line Items]
Percentage of employees covered by collective bargaining agreements		13.00%		13.00%