Unified Grocers 10-K 13 Dec 13 2013 FY Annual report Financial data

Document_and_Entity_Informatio

Document and Entity Information (USD $)	12 Months Ended
	Sep. 28, 2013	Mar. 30, 2013	Dec. 13, 2013	Dec. 13, 2013	Dec. 13, 2013	Dec. 13, 2013
			Class A	Class B	Class C	Class E
Document Information [Line Items]	'	'	'	'	'	'
Document Type	'10-K	'	'	'	'	'
Amendment Flag	'false	'	'	'	'	'
Document Period End Date	28-Sep-13	'	'	'	'	'
Document Fiscal Year Focus	'2013	'	'	'	'	'
Document Fiscal Period Focus	'FY	'	'	'	'	'
Entity Registrant Name	'UNIFIED GROCERS, INC.	'	'	'	'	'
Entity Central Index Key	'0000320431	'	'	'	'	'
Current Fiscal Year End Date	'--09-28	'	'	'	'	'
Entity Well-known Seasoned Issuer	'No	'	'	'	'	'
Entity Current Reporting Status	'Yes	'	'	'	'	'
Entity Voluntary Filers	'No	'	'	'	'	'
Entity Filer Category	'Non-accelerated Filer	'	'	'	'	'
Entity Common Stock, Shares Outstanding	'	'	137,550	431,037	15	251,403
Entity Public Float	'	$0	'	'	'	'

Consolidated_Balance_Sheets

Consolidated Balance Sheets (USD $)	Sep. 28, 2013	Sep. 29, 2012
In Thousands, unless otherwise specified
Current Assets:	'	'
Cash and cash equivalents	$8,974	$11,169
Accounts and current portion of notes receivable, net of allowances of $3,558 and $2,930 at September 28, 2013 and September 29, 2012, respectively	185,874	187,126
Inventories	251,243	247,267
Prepaid expenses and other current assets	10,770	11,023
Deferred income taxes	5,558	5,165
Total current assets	462,419	461,750
Properties and equipment, net	171,730	176,338
Investments	92,139	88,991
Notes receivable, less current portion and net of allowances of $43 and $877 at September 28, 2013 and September 29, 2012, respectively	21,890	16,693
Goodwill	37,846	38,997
Other assets, net	127,358	138,206
Total Assets	913,382	920,975
Current Liabilities:	'	'
Accounts payable	220,031	218,404
Accrued liabilities	68,564	64,285
Current portion of notes payable	11,287	3,878
Members' deposits and declared patronage dividends	11,692	12,109
Total current liabilities	311,574	298,676
Notes payable, less current portion	231,531	196,484
Long-term liabilities, other	183,842	263,411
Members' and Non-Members' deposits	5,789	7,475
Commitments and contingencies	'	'
Shareholders' equity:	'	'
Retained earnings-allocated	56,909	77,365
Retained earnings-non-allocated	6,864	6,864
Total retained earnings	63,773	84,229
Receivable from sale of Class A Shares to Members	-213	-661
Accumulated other comprehensive loss	-12,280	-60,153
Total shareholders' equity	180,646	154,929
Total Liabilities and Shareholders' Equity	913,382	920,975
Common stock Class A	'	'
Shareholders' equity:	'	'
Common stock	25,672	27,922
Common stock Class B	'	'
Shareholders' equity:	'	'
Common stock	78,554	78,411
Common stock Class E	'	'
Shareholders' equity:	'	'
Common stock	$25,140	$25,181

Consolidated_Balance_Sheets_Pa

Consolidated Balance Sheets (Parenthetical) (USD $)	Sep. 28, 2013	Sep. 29, 2012
In Thousands, except Share data, unless otherwise specified
Accounts and current portion of notes receivable, allowances	$3,558	$2,930
Notes receivable, less current portion allowances	$43	$877
Common stock Class A	'	'
Common stock, shares authorized	500,000	500,000
Common stock, shares outstanding	137,550	149,450
Common stock Class B	'	'
Common stock, shares authorized	2,000,000	2,000,000
Common stock, shares outstanding	431,037	434,598
Common stock Class E	'	'
Common stock, shares authorized	2,000,000	2,000,000
Common stock, shares outstanding	251,403	251,808

Consolidated_Statements_of_Los

Consolidated Statements of (Loss) Earnings (USD $)	12 Months Ended
In Thousands, unless otherwise specified	Sep. 28, 2013	Sep. 29, 2012	Oct. 01, 2011
Net sales	$3,691,564	$3,761,197	$3,799,229
Cost of sales	3,403,040	3,441,540	3,457,242
Distribution, selling and administrative expenses	284,050	294,538	304,554
Operating income	4,474	25,119	37,433
Interest expense	-12,803	-12,572	-12,342
Loss on early extinguishment of debt	-9,788	'	'
(Loss) earnings before patronage dividends and income taxes	-18,117	12,547	25,091
Patronage dividends	-9,609	-10,787	-12,431
(Loss) earnings before income taxes	-27,726	1,760	12,660
Income tax benefit (provision)	10,082	193	-5,273
Net (loss) earnings	($17,644)	$1,953	$7,387

Consolidated_Statements_of_Com

Consolidated Statements of Comprehensive Earnings (Loss) (USD $)	12 Months Ended
In Thousands, unless otherwise specified	Sep. 28, 2013	Sep. 29, 2012	Oct. 01, 2011
Net (loss) earnings	($17,644)	$1,953	$7,387
Other comprehensive (loss) earnings, net of income taxes:	'	'	'
Unrealized net holding (loss) gain on investments, net of income tax (benefit) expense of $(608), $655 and $(1,534) for fiscal years ended September 28, 2013, September 29, 2012 and October 1, 2011, respectively	-1,155	1,220	-2,747
Defined benefit pension plans and other postretirement benefit plans: Unrecognized prior service credits and gains arising during the period, and accelerated recognition of existing unrecognized prior service credit and unrecognized gains and losses, as a result of curtailment, net of income tax expense (benefit) of $25,812, $(11,812) and $(2,697) for fiscal years ended September 28, 2013, September 29, 2012 and October 1, 2011, respectively	49,028	-25,033	-5,906
Comprehensive earnings (loss)	$30,229	($21,860)	($1,266)

Consolidated_Statements_of_Com1

Consolidated Statements of Comprehensive Earnings (Loss) (Parenthetical) (USD $)	12 Months Ended
In Thousands, unless otherwise specified	Sep. 28, 2013	Sep. 29, 2012	Oct. 01, 2011
Unrealized net holding (loss) gain on investments, income tax (benefit) expense	($608)	$655	($1,534)
Defined benefit pension plans and other postretirement benefit plans: Unrecognized prior service credits and gains arising during the period, and accelerated recognition of existing unrecognized prior service credit and unrecognized gains and losses, as a result of curtailment, income tax expense (benefit)	$25,812	($11,812)	($2,697)

Consolidated_Statements_of_Sha

Consolidated Statements of Shareholders' Equity (USD $)

Total

Class A

Class B

Allocated

Non-allocated

Class E

Class A

Class A

Class B

Class B

Class B

Class E

Class E

Retained Earnings

Retained Earnings

Retained Earnings

Retained Earnings

Retained Earnings

Retained Earnings

Receivable from sale of Class A Shares

Accumulated Other Comprehensive Earnings (Loss)

In Thousands, except Share data

Class A

Class A

Class B

Allocated

Non-allocated

Class E

Beginning Balance at Oct. 02, 2010

$187,470

'

'

'

'

'

$31,200

'

$78,687

'

'

$25,181

'

$81,833

'

'

'

'

'

($1,744)

($27,687)

Beginning Balance (in shares) at Oct. 02, 2010

'

'

'

'

'

'

168,350

'

451,714

'

'

251,808

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

Shares issued (in shares)

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

1,400

'

'

10,864

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

Shares issued

'

426

3,363

'

'

'

'

426

'

'

3,363

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

Shares redeemed (in shares)

'

-11,200

-22,305

'

'

'

'

-11,200

'

'

-22,305

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

Shares redeemed

'

-3,370

-6,483

'

'

'

'

-2,095

'

'

-3,585

'

'

'

-1,275

-2,898

'

'

'

'

'

Net earnings

7,387

'

'

4,243

3,144

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

4,243

3,144

'

'

'

Decrease in receivable due to payment for Class A Shares by members

565

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

565

'

Net unrealized gain (loss) on appreciation (depreciation) of investments (net of deferred tax liability (asset) of ($608) in 2013, $655 in 2012 and ($1534) in 2011

-2,747

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

-2,747

Defined benefit pension plans and other postretirement benefit plans: Net unrecognized prior service credit, and accelerated recognition of existing unrecognized prior service credit and unrecognized gains and losses, as a result of curtailment and gains (losses) arising during period (net of deferred tax liability (asset) of $25,812 in 2013, ($11,812) in 2012 and ($2,697) in 2011)

-5,906

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

-5,906

Ending Balance at Oct. 01, 2011

180,705

'

'

'

'

'

29,531

'

78,465

'

'

25,181

'

85,047

'

'

'

'

'

-1,179

-36,340

Ending Balance (in shares) at Oct. 01, 2011

'

'

'

'

'

'

158,550

'

440,273

'

'

251,808

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

Shares issued (in shares)

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

1,400

'

'

5,883

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

Shares issued

'

437

1,852

'

'

'

'

437

'

'

1,852

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

Shares redeemed (in shares)

'

-10,500

-11,558

'

'

'

'

-10,500

'

'

-11,558

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

Shares redeemed

'

-3,257

-3,466

'

'

'

'

-2,046

'

'

-1,906

'

'

'

-1,211

-1,560

'

'

'

'

'

Net earnings

1,953

'

'

1,953

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

1,953

'

'

'

'

Decrease in receivable due to payment for Class A Shares by members

518

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

518

'

Net unrealized gain (loss) on appreciation (depreciation) of investments (net of deferred tax liability (asset) of ($608) in 2013, $655 in 2012 and ($1534) in 2011

1,220

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

1,220

Defined benefit pension plans and other postretirement benefit plans: Net unrecognized prior service credit, and accelerated recognition of existing unrecognized prior service credit and unrecognized gains and losses, as a result of curtailment and gains (losses) arising during period (net of deferred tax liability (asset) of $25,812 in 2013, ($11,812) in 2012 and ($2,697) in 2011)

-25,033

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

-25,033

Ending Balance at Sep. 29, 2012

154,929

'

'

'

'

'

27,922

'

78,411

'

'

25,181

'

84,229

'

'

'

'

'

-661

-60,153

Ending Balance (in shares) at Sep. 29, 2012

'

'

'

'

'

'

149,450

'

434,598

'

'

251,808

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

Shares issued (in shares)

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

350

'

'

5,656

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

Shares issued

'

111

1,633

'

'

'

'

111

'

'

1,633

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

Shares redeemed (in shares)

'

-11,900

-9,567

'

'

'

'

-11,900

'

'

-9,567

'

-405

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

Shares redeemed

'

-3,753

-2,914

'

'

-37

'

-2,275

'

'

-1,576

'

-41

'

-1,478

-1,338

'

'

4

'

'

Class A Shares converted to Class B Shares

-86

'

'

'

'

'

'

-86

'

86

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

Class A Shares converted to Class B Shares

'

-350

[1]

'

'

'

'

'

-350

'

350

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

Net earnings

-17,644

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

-17,644

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

Decrease in receivable due to payment for Class A Shares by members

448

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

448

'

Net unrealized gain (loss) on appreciation (depreciation) of investments (net of deferred tax liability (asset) of ($608) in 2013, $655 in 2012 and ($1534) in 2011

-1,155

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

-1,155

Defined benefit pension plans and other postretirement benefit plans: Net unrecognized prior service credit, and accelerated recognition of existing unrecognized prior service credit and unrecognized gains and losses, as a result of curtailment and gains (losses) arising during period (net of deferred tax liability (asset) of $25,812 in 2013, ($11,812) in 2012 and ($2,697) in 2011)

49,028

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

49,028

Ending Balance at Sep. 28, 2013

$180,646

'

'

'

'

'

$25,672

'

$78,554

'

'

$25,140

'

$63,773

'

'

'

'

'

($213)

($12,280)

Ending Balance (in shares) at Sep. 28, 2013

'

'

'

'

'

'

137,550

'

431,037

'

'

251,403

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

[1]

Typically, a conversion of Class A Shares to Class B Shares occurs when Members combine or a Member purchases another Member, and in order to avoid duplicative holding of Class A Shares, the additional Class A Shares acquired as a result of such activities are converted into Class B Shares.

Consolidated_Statements_of_Sha1

Consolidated Statements of Shareholders' Equity (Parenthetical) (USD $)	12 Months Ended
In Thousands, unless otherwise specified	Sep. 28, 2013	Sep. 29, 2012	Oct. 01, 2011
Net unrealized gain (loss) on appreciation (depreciation) of investments, deferred tax liability (asset)	($608)	$655	($1,534)
Defined benefit pension plans and other postretirement benefit plans: Unrecognized prior service credits and gains arising during the period, and accelerated recognition of existing unrecognized prior service credit and unrecognized gains and losses, as a result of curtailment, deferred tax liability (asset)	$25,812	($11,812)	($2,697)

Consolidated_Statements_of_Cas

Consolidated Statements of Cash Flows (USD $)	12 Months Ended
In Thousands, unless otherwise specified	Sep. 28, 2013	Sep. 29, 2012	Oct. 01, 2011
Cash flows from operating activities:	'	'	'
Net (loss) earnings	($17,644)	$1,953	$7,387
Adjustments to reconcile net (loss) earnings to net cash provided by operating activities:	'	'	'
Depreciation and amortization	25,572	26,079	23,239
Provision for doubtful accounts	1,268	1,778	390
Loss (gain) on sale of properties and equipment	596	-295	-307
Gain on curtailment of other postretirement benefit plans	-2,685	'	'
Loss on early extinguishment of debt	9,788	'	'
Deferred income taxes	-8,951	-672	-255
Pension contributions	-7,355	-10,941	-12,858
(Increase) decrease in assets:	'	'	'
Accounts receivable	-2,173	2,757	11,712
Inventories	-3,976	20,478	-13,813
Prepaid expenses and other current assets	253	-1,905	2,342
Increase (decrease) in liabilities:	'	'	'
Accounts payable	969	8,323	-1,157
Accrued liabilities	-113	678	-5,600
Long-term liabilities, other	9,214	19,616	13,822
Net cash provided by operating activities	4,763	67,849	24,902
Cash flows from investing activities:	'	'	'
Purchases of properties and equipment	-10,418	-12,799	-8,940
Purchases of securities and other investments	-49,831	-56,722	-72,707
Proceeds from maturities or sales of securities and other investments	45,768	58,521	76,264
Origination of notes receivable	-7,982	-4,732	-8,915
Collection of notes receivable	4,486	5,871	6,488
Proceeds from sales of properties and equipment	315	454	393
Increase in other assets	-12,322	-18,590	-9,186
Net cash utilized by investing activities	-29,984	-27,997	-16,603
Cash flows from financing activities:	'	'	'
Net revolver borrowings (repayments) under secured credit agreements	53,000	-25,800	5,000
Borrowings of notes payable	44,209	'	'
Repayments of notes payable	-54,753	-3,748	-2,722
Payment of deferred financing fees	-3,207	-563	-2,602
Payment of debt extinguishment costs	-9,608	'	'
Decrease in Members' deposits and declared patronage dividends	-417	-1,289	-864
(Decrease) increase in Members' and Non-Members' deposits	-1,686	1,516	-2,396
Decrease in receivable from sale of Class A Shares to Members, net	448	518	565
Repurchase of shares from Members	-6,704	-6,723	-9,853
Issuance of shares to Members	1,744	2,289	3,789
Net cash provided (utilized) by financing activities	23,026	-33,800	-9,083
Net (decrease) increase in cash and cash equivalents	-2,195	6,052	-784
Cash and cash equivalents at beginning of year	11,169	5,117	5,901
Cash and cash equivalents at end of year	8,974	11,169	5,117
Cash paid during the year for:	'	'	'
Interest	11,171	11,552	11,540
Income taxes	9	2,676	3,335
Supplemental disclosure of non-cash items:	'	'	'
Write-down of exit cost liability associated with acquisition of Associated Grocers, Inc.	1,151	'	'
Write-off of unamortized deferred financing fees due to debt extinguishment	180	'	'
Conversion of Class A Shares to Class B Shares	$86	'	'

Basis_of_Presentation_and_Summ

Basis of Presentation and Summary of Significant Accounting Policies	12 Months Ended
	Sep. 28, 2013
Basis of Presentation and Summary of Significant Accounting Policies	'
	1.    Basis of Presentation and Summary of Significant Accounting Policies
	Nature of Business.    Unified Grocers, Inc. (“Unified” or the “Company”) is a retailer-owned, grocery wholesale cooperative serving supermarket, specialty and convenience store operators located primarily in the western United States and the Pacific Rim. The Company’s customers range in size from single store operators to regional supermarket chains. The Company sells a wide variety of products typically found in supermarkets. The Company’s customers include its owners (“Members”) and non-owners (“Non-Members”). The Company sells products through Unified or through its specialty food subsidiary (Market Centre) and international sales subsidiary (Unified International, Inc.). The Company reports all product sales in its Wholesale Distribution segment. The Company also provides support services to its customers through the Wholesale Distribution segment, including promotional planning, retail technology, equipment purchasing services and real estate services, and through separate subsidiaries, including insurance and financing. Insurance activities are reported in Unified’s Insurance segment while finance activities are grouped within Unified’s All Other business activities. The availability of specific products and services may vary by geographic region. Members affiliated with directors of the Company purchase groceries and related products and services from the Company in the ordinary course of business pursuant to published terms or according to the provisions of individually negotiated supply agreements.
	Principles of Consolidation.    The consolidated financial statements include the accounts of the Company and all of its subsidiaries required to be consolidated in accordance with accounting principles generally accepted in the United States of America (“U.S. GAAP”) as established by the Financial Accounting Standards Board (“FASB”). The FASB Accounting Standards Codification (“ASC”) is the definitive U.S. GAAP for non-governmental entities in the United States. Intercompany accounts and transactions between the consolidated companies have been eliminated in consolidation.
	Investments in companies in which Unified has significant influence, or ownership between 20% and 50% of the investee, are accounted for using the equity method. Under the equity method, the investment is originally recorded at cost and adjusted to recognize the Company’s share of net earnings or losses of the investee. The adjustment is limited to the extent of the Company’s investment in and advances to the investee and financial guarantees made on behalf of the investee.
	Fiscal Year End.    The Company’s fiscal year ends on the Saturday nearest September 30. Fiscal 2013, 2012 and 2011 each comprised 52 weeks.
	Use of Estimates.    The preparation of the financial statements in accordance with U.S. GAAP requires management to make estimates and assumptions that affect the amounts reported in the consolidated financial statements and accompanying notes. On an ongoing basis, management evaluates its estimates. These estimates are based on historical experience and on various other factors that management believes to be reasonable under the circumstances, the results of which form the basis for making judgments about the carrying value of assets and liabilities that are not readily apparent from other sources. Actual results could differ from those estimates. These estimates and assumptions include, but are not limited to, assessing the following: the recoverability of accounts and notes receivable, investments, goodwill and other intangible assets, and deferred tax assets; the benefits related to uncertain tax positions; assumptions related to pension and other postretirement benefit expenses; and estimated losses related to insurance claims.
	Cash Equivalents.    The Company considers all highly liquid debt investments with maturities of three months or less when purchased to be cash equivalents.
	The Company’s banking arrangements allow the Company to fund outstanding checks when presented for payment to the financial institutions utilized by the Company for disbursements. This cash management practice frequently results in total issued checks exceeding available cash balances at a single financial institution. The Company’s policy is to record its cash disbursement accounts with a cash book overdraft in accounts payable. At September 28, 2013 and September 29, 2012, the Company had book overdrafts of $58.7 million and $69.4 million, respectively, classified in accounts payable and included in cash provided by operating activities.
	Inventories.    Inventories are valued at the lower of cost or market. Cost is determined on the first-in, first-out method. Inventory is primarily comprised of products available for sale.
	Depreciation.    Depreciation is computed using the straight-line method over the estimated useful lives of the assets, which range from 2 to 40 years as follows: buildings (10 – 40 years), computer equipment and software (3 – 4 years), machinery and equipment (2 – 10 years) and furniture and fixtures (5 – 10 years). Leasehold improvements and equipment under capital leases are amortized on a straight-line basis over the shorter of the remaining lease term or their estimated useful lives. Expenditures for replacements or major improvements are capitalized; expenditures for normal maintenance and repairs are charged to operations as incurred. Upon the sale or retirement of properties, the cost and accumulated depreciation are removed from the accounts, and any gain or loss is included in the results of operations.
	Investments.    Investments in equity securities and other fixed maturity securities are classified as investments available for sale. Unrealized gains and losses, net of taxes, on available for sale investments are recorded as a separate component of accumulated other comprehensive earnings (loss) unless impairment is determined to be other-than-temporary.
	Equity securities that do not have readily determinable fair values are accounted for using the cost or equity methods of accounting. The Company reviews the carrying value of its cost and equity method investments for impairment each reporting period unless (i) the investment’s fair value has not been estimated for any purpose, including estimates of fair value used to satisfy other financial reporting requirements, and (ii) there are no impairment indicators present for the investment during the period under review which would indicate there has been an event or change in circumstances that could have a negative effect on the investment’s fair value.
	When an impairment test demonstrates that the fair value of an investment is less than its carrying value, the Company’s management will determine whether the impairment is either temporary or other-than-temporary. Examples of factors which may be indicative of an other-than-temporary impairment include (i) the length of time and extent to which market value has been less than cost, (ii) the financial condition and near-term prospects of the issuer, and (iii) the intent and ability of the Company to retain its investment in the issuer for a period of time sufficient to allow for any anticipated recovery in market value.
	If the decline in fair value is determined by management to be other-than-temporary, the carrying value of the investment is written down to its estimated fair value as of the balance sheet date of the reporting period in which the assessment is made. This fair value becomes the investment’s new carrying value, which is not changed for subsequent recoveries in fair value. Any recorded impairment write-down will be included in earnings as a realized loss in the period such write-down occurs.
	Fair Value Measurements.    The Company evaluates the fair value of its assets and liabilities in accordance with ASC Topic 820, “Fair Value Measurements and Disclosures” (“ASC Topic 820”) and ASC Topic 825, “Financial Instruments” (“ASC Topic 825”).
	ASC Topic 820 establishes a hierarchy for evaluating assets and liabilities valued at fair value as follows:
		·		Level 1—Quoted prices (unadjusted) in active markets for identical assets or liabilities.
		·		Level 2—Inputs other than quoted prices included in Level 1 that are either directly or indirectly observable. These inputs include quoted prices for similar assets or liabilities other than quoted prices in Level 1, quoted prices in markets that are not active, or other inputs that are observable or can be derived principally from or corroborated by observable market data for substantially the full term of the assets or liabilities.
		·		Level 3—Unobservable inputs in which little or no market activity exists, therefore requiring an entity to develop its own assumptions about the assumptions that market participants would use in pricing.
	The Company records marketable securities at fair value in accordance with ASC Topic 320, “Investments—Debt and Equity Securities.” These assets are held by the Company’s Insurance segment. The Company’s Wholesale Distribution segment holds insurance contracts and mutual funds valued at fair value in support of certain employee benefits.
	See Note 16 “Fair Value of Financial Instruments” for further information.
	Goodwill and Intangible Assets.    Goodwill, arising from business combinations, represents the excess of the purchase price over the estimated fair value of net assets acquired. In accordance with the provisions of ASC Topic 350-20 “Intangibles – Goodwill and other – Goodwill” (“ASC Topic 350-20”), goodwill and intangible assets deemed to have indefinite lives are not amortized but are subject to annual impairment tests. Other intangible assets are amortized over their estimated useful lives. ASC Topic 350-20 requires that goodwill and certain intangible assets be assessed for impairment on an annual basis and between annual tests, when circumstances or events have occurred that may indicate a potential impairment, using fair value measurement techniques. For purposes of financial reporting and impairment testing in accordance with ASC Topic 350-20, the Company operates in two principal reporting segments, Wholesale Distribution and Insurance.
	For the annual impairment test, entities have the option of first performing a qualitative assessment to test goodwill for impairment on a reporting-unit-by reporting-unit basis. If after performing the qualitative assessment, an entity concludes that it is more likely than not that the fair value of a reporting unit is less than its carrying amount, the entity would perform the two-step goodwill impairment test described in ASC Topic 350. An entity that does not elect to use the qualitative analysis and proceeds directly to step one would not need to evaluate the qualitative factors as part of the annual impairment analysis.
	The two-step impairment test process consists of the following: In the first step, the estimated fair value of each reporting unit is compared to the carrying value of the respective reporting unit. If the estimated fair value exceeds the carrying value, the goodwill is considered not to be impaired and no additional steps are necessary. If the carrying value exceeds the estimated fair value, the second step of the impairment test is performed to determine the amount of impairment loss. The second step involves comparing the carrying amount of the reporting unit’s goodwill with its implied fair value. If the carrying amount of goodwill exceeds the respective reporting unit’s implied fair value, an impairment loss would be recognized in an amount equal to the excess.
	The Company evaluates goodwill (reported entirely within the Wholesale Distribution segment) for impairment at the end of the third quarter of each fiscal year. In addition to the annual impairment test required under ASC Topic 350-20, during fiscal 2013 and 2012, the Company assessed whether events or circumstances occurred that potentially indicate that the carrying amount of these assets may not be recoverable. The Company concluded that there were no such events or changes in circumstances during fiscal 2013 and 2012 and determined that the fair value of the Company’s reporting units was in excess of its carrying value as of September 28, 2013 and September 29, 2012. Consequently, no impairment charges were recorded in fiscal 2013 and 2012.
	On September 30, 2007, the Company completed the purchase of certain assets and assumed certain liabilities and obligations related to the operation of Associated Grocers, Incorporated and its subsidiaries of Seattle, Washington (the “Acquisition”). The Company estimated costs incurred to exit facilities acquired as part of the Acquisition, and such costs were accrued as purchase accounting exit cost liabilities and included in goodwill as part of the Acquisition, which was accounted for under FASB Statement No. 141, “Business Combinations” (“FAS 141”). The guidance under FAS 141 remains applicable to the Company given that the Acquisition date occurred prior to the effective date of the adoption of FASB Statement No. 141(R), “Business Combinations (Revised 2007)”—(now codified in ASC 805), which was adopted by the Company in the first quarter of fiscal 2010. During fiscal 2013, the actual cost of the exit plan for one of the Seattle facilities was determined to be $1.2 million less than the amount originally accrued, and the reduction in the exit cost liability was recognized with a corresponding reduction in goodwill.
	Intangible assets, excluding goodwill, are included in other assets in the consolidated balance sheets. Intangible assets, other than goodwill and trademarks, are recorded at cost, less accumulated amortization. Amortization of intangible assets with finite lives is provided over their estimated useful lives ranging from 3 to 168 months on a straight-line or accelerated basis. As of September 28, 2013 and September 29, 2012, balances of intangible assets with finite lives, net of accumulated amortization, goodwill and trademarks were as follows:
	(dollars in thousands)
	September 28, 2013		Remaining			Historical			Accumulated			Net
			Amortization			Cost			Amortization
			Period
	Intangible assets subject to amortization:
	Customer contracts			3-82 months		$	13,666		$	7,961		$	5,705
	Customer relationships			168 months			7,180			3,600			3,580
	Goodwill and Intangible assets not subject to amortization:
	Goodwill											$	37,846
	Trademarks												3,010
	(dollars in thousands)
	September 29, 2012		Remaining			Historical			Accumulated			Net
			Amortization			Cost			Amortization
			Period
	Intangible assets subject to amortization:
	Customer contracts			3-36 months		$	6,885		$	3,846		$	3,039
	Customer relationships			180 months			7,180			3,086			4,094
	Goodwill and Intangible assets not subject to amortization:
	Goodwill											$	38,997
	Trademarks												3,010
	Amortization expense for other intangible assets was $5.4 million, $4.7 million and $3.2 million for the fiscal years ended September 28, 2013, September 29, 2012 and October 1, 2011, respectively. Amortization expense for other intangible assets is estimated to be $2.9 million in fiscal 2014, $1.5 million in fiscal 2015, $1.0 million in fiscal 2016, $1.0 million in fiscal 2017, $0.8 million in fiscal 2018 and $2.1 million thereafter.
	Capitalized Software Costs.    The Company capitalizes costs associated with the development of software for internal use pursuant to ASC Topic 350-40 “Intangibles—Goodwill and Other—Internal use software” and amortizes the costs over a 3 to 5-year period. These costs were $10.9 million and $11.7 million (net of accumulated amortization of $46.6 million and $42.3 million) at September 28, 2013 and September 29, 2012, respectively, and are included in other assets in the consolidated balance sheets. Costs incurred in planning, training and post-implementation activities are expensed as incurred.
	Long-Lived Asset Groups.    The Company reviews long-lived asset groups for impairment whenever events or changes in circumstances indicate that the carrying amount of an asset may not be recoverable. An asset group is the unit of accounting for a long-lived asset or assets to be held and used, which represents the lowest level for which identifiable cash flows are largely independent of the cash flows of other groups of assets and liabilities. Recoverability of asset groups to be held and used is measured by a comparison of the carrying amount of an asset group to expected future cash flows generated by the asset group. If the carrying amount of an asset group exceeds its estimated undiscounted future cash flows, the carrying amount is compared to fair value and an impairment charge is recognized to the extent of the difference. On a quarterly basis, the Company assesses whether events or changes in circumstances have occurred that potentially indicate the carrying amount of long-lived asset groups may not be recoverable. The Company concluded that there were no material events or significant changes in circumstances that led to impairment during fiscal 2013 and 2012.
	Lease and Loan Guarantees.    The Company evaluates lease and loan guarantees pursuant to ASC Topic 460 “Guarantees” (“ASC Topic 460”). Guarantees meeting the characteristics described in the interpretation are initially recorded at fair value. The Company is contingently liable for certain leases guaranteed for certain Members (See Notes 7 and 17).
	Income Taxes.    Unified operates primarily as a grocery wholesaler serving independent supermarket operators. In addition, the Company has several wholly-owned subsidiaries providing support services to its customers. These services are provided on a non-patronage basis and any earnings from these activities are taxable. In addition, the Company conducts wholesale business with Non-Member customers on a non-patronage basis and such earnings are retained by the Company and are taxable. The earnings of the Company’s subsidiaries and the business conducted with Non-Member customers are collectively referred to as “Non-Patronage Business.” Otherwise, the Company principally operates as a non-exempt cooperative owned by the Members for income tax purposes. Earnings from business (other than Non-Patronage Business) conducted with its Members are distributed to its Members in the form of patronage dividends. This allows the Company to deduct, for federal and certain state income tax purposes, the patronage dividends paid to Members made in the form of qualified written notices of allocation based on their proportionate share of business done with the cooperative.
	Income taxes are accounted for under the asset and liability method. 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 and operating loss and tax credit carry-forwards. 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 Company’s ability to realize the deferred tax asset is assessed throughout the year and a valuation allowance is established accordingly.
	Revenue Recognition.    The Company recognizes revenue in accordance with U.S. GAAP and with Securities and Exchange Commission (“SEC”) issued Staff Accounting Bulletin Topic 13, “Revenue Recognition,” which clarifies certain existing accounting principles for the timing of revenue recognition and classification of revenues in the financial statements. Revenue is recognized when persuasive evidence of an arrangement exists, delivery has occurred, the price is fixed or determinable, and collectability is reasonably assured. Revenue generated from the Company’s Wholesale Distribution segment is not recognized until title and risk of loss is transferred to the customer, which occur upon delivery of the products. Provisions for discounts, rebates to customers, and returns are provided for at the time the related sales are recorded, and are reflected as a reduction of sales. Service revenues are recognized when such services have been rendered. Taxes collected from customers and remitted to governmental authorities are reported on a net basis.
	We make available to our customers additional products through vendor direct arrangements with certain preferred providers. Revenues and costs from these vendors are recorded gross when the Company is the primary obligor in a transaction, is subject to inventory or credit risk, has latitude in establishing price and selecting suppliers, or has several, but not all of these indicators. If the Company is not the primary obligor and amounts earned have little or no inventory or credit risk, revenue is recorded net when earned.
	The Company’s gross billings through vendor direct arrangements (recorded net) totaled $51.1 million, $35.1 million and $48.6 million for the years ended September 28, 2013, September 29, 2012 and October 1, 2011, respectively.
	Adjustment of Amounts Previously Stated.    Subsequent to the issuance of the Company’s unaudited June 29, 2013 consolidated condensed financial statements, management concluded that its gross presentation of sales and cost of sales related to certain transactions involving vendor direct arrangements should be corrected to present such sales and cost of sales on a net basis to conform to ASC 605-45-45. These transactions are all reported within the Company’s Wholesale Distribution segment. As a result of such adjustment, net sales was reduced by $35.1 million (from $3.796 billion to $3.761 billion) and $48.6 million (from $3.848 billion to $3.799 billion) for fiscal 2012 and 2011, respectively. Cost of sales was also reduced by $35.1 million (from $3.477 billion to $3.442 billion) and $48.6 million (from $3.506 billion to $3.457 billion) for fiscal 2012 and 2011, respectively. This adjustment did not have any impact on the Company’s consolidated (loss) earnings before patronage dividends and income taxes, consolidated balance sheet or consolidated statement of cash flows and was determined to be immaterial for all periods presented.
	Vendor Funds.    The Company receives funds from many of the vendors whose products the Company buys for resale to its Members. These vendor funds are provided to increase the sell-through of the related products. The Company receives funds for a variety of merchandising activities: placement of vendors’ products in the Members’ advertising; placement of vendors’ products in prominent locations in the Members’ stores; introduction of new products into the Company’s distribution system and Members’ stores; exclusivity rights in certain categories that have slower-turning products; and to compensate for temporary price reductions offered to customers on products held for sale at Members’ stores.
	Consideration received from the Company’s vendors is reflected as a reduction of inventory costs or as an offset to service costs incurred on behalf of the vendor for which the Company is being reimbursed. Amounts recorded as a reduction of inventory costs at the time of purchase are recognized in cost of sales upon the sale of the product and amounts received as reimbursement of specific incremental costs to sell the vendor’s products by the Company on behalf of the vendor are recognized as a reduction in distribution, selling and administrative expenses. Amounts due from vendors upon achievement of certain milestones, such as minimum purchase volumes, are accrued prior to the achievement of the milestone if the Company believes it is probable the milestone will be achieved, and the amounts to be received are reasonably estimable.
	As the Company provides sales incentives to its customers, the Company adheres to ASC Topic 605, “Revenue Recognition,” which requires vendors’ (and resellers’) sales incentives, paid in the form of cash consideration to customers, to be reflected as a reduction of revenue in the financial statements of a reseller.
	Shipping and Handling Costs.    Costs for shipping and handling are included as a component of distribution, selling and administrative expenses. Shipping and handling costs were $231.5 million, $232.5 million and $235.7 million for the fiscal years ended September 28, 2013, September 29, 2012 and October 1, 2011, respectively.
	Environmental Costs.    The Company expenses, on a current basis, certain recurring costs incurred in complying with environmental regulations and remediating environmental pollution. The Company also reserves for certain non-recurring future costs required to remediate environmental pollution for which the Company is liable whenever, by diligent legal and technical investigation, the scope or extent of pollution has been determined, the Company’s contribution to the pollution has been ascertained, remedial measures have been specifically identified as practical and viable, and the cost of remediation and the Company’s proportionate share can be reasonably estimated.
	Comprehensive Earnings (Loss).    Comprehensive earnings (loss) are net earnings, plus certain other items that are recorded by the Company directly to accumulated other comprehensive earnings (loss), bypassing net earnings. The balance and current period change for each component of comprehensive earnings (loss), net of taxes, are summarized as follows:
(dollars in thousands)
		Net Unrealized Gain (Loss)			Defined Benefit
		on Appreciation			Pension Plans and
		(Depreciation) of Investments			Other  Postretirement
					Benefit Plans:
					Unrecognized Prior
					Service Cost and (Loss)
					Gain Arising During the
					Period
Balance, October 2, 2010		$	3,183		$	(30,870	)
Current period change			(2,747	)		(5,906	)
Balance, October 1, 2011			436			(36,776	)
Current period change			1,220			(25,033	)
Balance, September 29, 2012			1,656			(61,809	)
Current period change			(1,155	)		49,028
Balance, September 28, 2013		$	501		$	(12,781	)
The following table indicates the benefit plans that comprise the adjustment to accumulated other comprehensive earnings (loss) as of September 28, 2013 for the impact of ASC Topic 715-20 “Compensation—Retirement Benefits—Defined Benefits Plans—General” (“ASC Topic 715-20”):
(dollars in thousands)
Description of Benefit Plan		Pre-tax Adjustment for Impact			Deferred Tax Benefit			Adjustment for Impact
		of ASC Topic 715-20			(Liability)			of ASC  Topic 715-20, Net of
		(charge)/credit						Taxes (charge)/credit
Cash Balance Plan		$	(37,477	)	$	13,330		$	(24,147	)
Executive Salary Protection Plan			(7,481	)		2,642			(4,839	)
Postretirement benefit plans			25,437			(9,531	)		15,906
Postemployment benefit plans			461			(162	)		299
Total, September 28, 2013		$	(19,060	)	$	6,279		$	(12,781	)
The following table indicates the benefit plans that comprise the adjustment to accumulated other comprehensive earnings (loss) as of September 29, 2012 for the impact of ASC Topic 715-20 “Compensation—Retirement Benefits—Defined Benefits Plans—General” (“ASC Topic 715-20”):
(dollars in thousands)
Description of Benefit Plan		Pre-tax Adjustment for Impact			Deferred Tax Benefit			Adjustment for Impact
		of ASC Topic 715-20			(Liability)			of ASC Topic 715-20, Net of
		(charge)/credit						Taxes (charge)/credit
Cash Balance Plan		$	(87,818	)	$	31,110		$	(56,708	)
Executive Salary Protection Plan			(11,160	)		3,942			(7,218	)
Postretirement benefit plans			4,583			(2,787	)		1,796
Postemployment benefit plans			496			(175	)		321
Total, September 29, 2012		$	(93,899	)	$	32,090		$	(61,809	)
The following table indicates the benefit plans that comprise the adjustment to accumulated other comprehensive earnings (loss) as of October 1, 2011 for the impact of ASC Topic 715-20 “Compensation—Retirement Benefits—Defined Benefits Plans—General” (“ASC Topic 715-20”):
(dollars in thousands)
Description of Benefit Plan		Pre-tax Adjustment for Impact			Deferred Tax Benefit			Adjustment for Impact
		of ASC Topic 715-20			(Liability)			of ASC  Topic 715-20, Net
		(charge)/credit						of Taxes (charge)/credit
Cash Balance Plan		$	(64,802	)	$	23,547		$	(41,255	)
Executive Salary Protection Plan			(7,870	)		2,871			(4,999	)
Postretirement benefit plans			15,098			(5,950	)		9,148
Postemployment benefit plans			520			(190	)		330
Total, October 1, 2011		$	(57,054	)	$	20,278		$	(36,776	)
The components of the change in net unrealized (losses) gains on investments, net of taxes, are as follows:
(dollars in thousands)
		September 28,			September 29,			October 1,
		2013			2012			2011
Unrealized holding losses arising during the period		$	(3,171	)	$	(12	)	$	(3,540	)
Reclassification adjustment for gains included in net earnings			2,016			1,232			793
Net unrealized holding (losses) gains		$	(1,155	)	$	1,220		$	(2,747	)
Recently Adopted and Recently Issued Authoritative Accounting Guidance
In July 2013, the FASB issued Accounting Standards Update (“ASU”) No. 2013-11, “Income Taxes (Topic 740): Presentation of an Unrecognized Tax Benefit When a Net Operating Loss Carryforward, a Similar Tax Loss, or a Tax Credit Carryforward Exists” (“ASU No. 2013-11”). ASU No. 2013-11 requires that an unrecognized tax benefit, or a portion of an unrecognized tax benefit, be presented in the financial statements as a reduction to a deferred tax asset for a net operating loss carryforward, a similar tax loss, or a tax credit carryforward if such asset is available. The assessment of whether a deferred tax asset is available is based on the unrecognized tax benefit and deferred tax asset that exist at the reporting date and should be made presuming disallowance of the tax position at the reporting date. ASU No. 2013-11 is effective for fiscal years, and interim periods within those years, beginning after December 15, 2014. The Company will adopt ASU No. 2013-11 commencing in the first quarter of fiscal 2016. The Company is currently assessing the impact this standard may have on its consolidated financial statements.
In February 2013, the FASB issued ASU No. 2013-02, “Comprehensive Income (Topic 220): Reporting of Amounts Reclassified Out of Other Comprehensive Income” (“ASU No. 2013-02”). ASU No. 2013-02 requires an entity to present information about significant items reclassified out of accumulated other comprehensive income by component either (1) on the face of the statement where net income is presented or (2) as a separate disclosure in the notes to the financial statements. ASU No. 2013-02 is effective for fiscal years, and interim periods within those years, beginning after December 15, 2012. Early adoption is permitted. The Company will adopt ASU No. 2013-02 commencing in the first quarter of fiscal 2014. Other than enhanced footnote disclosure, the adoption of ASU No. 2013-02 is not expected to have an impact on the consolidated financial statements.

Properties_and_Equipment

Properties and Equipment	12 Months Ended
	Sep. 28, 2013
Properties and Equipment	'
	2.    Properties and Equipment
	Properties and equipment, stated at cost, consisted of the following:
	(dollars in thousands)
		September 28,		September 29,
		2013		2012
	Land	$	60,538	$	61,182
	Buildings and leasehold improvements		142,503		142,646
	Equipment		115,390		116,370
	Equipment under capital leases		—		524
			318,431		320,722
	Less accumulated depreciation and amortization		146,701		144,384
		$	171,730	$	176,338
	Consolidated depreciation and amortization expense related to properties and equipment was $14.8 million, $16.3 million and $15.9 million for the years ended September 28, 2013, September 29, 2012 and October 1, 2011, respectively.
	Included in accumulated amortization at September 28, 2013 and September 29, 2012 is zero and $0.4 million, respectively, related to capital leases. Amortization expense related to capital leases aggregated zero, $0.1 million and $0.1 million for the years ended September 28, 2013, September 29, 2012 and October 1, 2011, respectively.

Investments

Investments	12 Months Ended
	Sep. 28, 2013
Investments	'
	3.    Investments
	The amortized cost and fair value of investments are as follows:
	(dollars in thousands)
	September 28, 2013	Amortized			Gross		Gross			Fair Value
		Cost			Unrealized		Unrealized
					Gains		Losses
	Available for sale securities:
	Fixed maturity securities:
	U.S. Treasury securities and obligations of U.S. government corporations and agencies	$	35,193		$	507	$	(147	)	$	35,553
	Municipal securities		245			9		—			254
	Corporate securities		32,695			350		(487	)		32,558
	Total fixed maturity securities		68,133			866		(634	)		68,365
	Equity securities		10,224			405		(105	)		10,524
	Total available for sale securities	$	78,357		$	1,271	$	(739	)		78,889
	Common stock, at cost										13,250
	Total investments									$	92,139
	(dollars in thousands)
	September 29, 2012	Amortized			Gross		Gross			Fair Value
		Cost			Unrealized		Unrealized
					Gains		Losses
	Available for sale securities:
	Fixed maturity securities:
	U.S. Treasury securities and obligations of U.S. government corporations and agencies	$	39,014		$	958	$	(8	)	$	39,964
	Municipal securities		245			13		—			258
	Corporate securities		25,617			761		(7	)		26,371
	Total fixed maturity securities		64,876			1,732		(15	)		66,593
	Equity securities		9,251			273		(376	)		9,148
	Total available for sale securities	$	74,127		$	2,005	$	(391	)		75,741
	Common stock, at cost										13,250
	Total investments									$	88,991
	During the fiscal years ended September 28, 2013 and September 29, 2012, the Company did not hold any trading or held-to-maturity securities.
	The Company’s insurance subsidiaries invest a significant portion of premiums received in fixed maturity securities and equity securities to fund loss reserves. As a result, the Company’s insurance subsidiaries are subject to both credit and interest rate risk. Management has established guidelines and practices to limit the amount of credit risk through limitation on investments in non-investment grade securities. The Company assesses whether unrealized losses are other-than-temporary. The discussion and table that follow describe the Company’s securities that have unrealized losses.
	Unrealized losses on the Company’s investments in fixed maturity securities were caused by interest rate increases rather than credit quality. Unrealized losses on the Company’s investments in equity securities were caused by market conditions deemed temporary by the Company. Because the Company’s insurance subsidiaries do not intend to sell, nor do they have or anticipate having a regulatory requirement to sell, these investments until recovery of fair value, which may be upon maturity, the Company does not consider these investments to be other-than-temporarily impaired at September 28, 2013.
	The table below illustrates the length of time available for sale fixed maturity securities and equity securities, not deemed to be other-than-temporarily impaired, have been in a continuous unrealized loss position at September 28, 2013:
	(dollars in thousands)
		Less than 12 Months					12 Months or Greater					Total
	Description of Securities	Fair Value			Unrealized		Fair			Unrealized		Fair Value		Unrealized
					Losses		Value			Losses				Losses
	U.S. Treasury securities and obligations of U.S. government corporations and agencies	$	14,454		$	139	$	735		$	8	$	15,189	$	147
	Corporate debt securities		17,004			484		206			3		17,210		487
	Equity securities		1,542			41		1,865			64		3,407		105
	Total investments	$	33,000		$	664	$	2,806		$	75	$	35,806	$	739
	The table below illustrates the length of time available for sale fixed maturity securities and equity securities, not deemed to be other-than-temporarily impaired, have been in a continuous unrealized loss position at September 29, 2012:
	(dollars in thousands)
		Less than 12 Months					12 Months or Greater					Total
	Description of Securities	Fair			Unrealized		Fair			Unrealized		Fair		Unrealized
		Value			Losses		Value			Losses		Value		Losses
	U.S. Treasury securities and obligations of U.S. government corporations and agencies	$	2,643		$	8	$	—		$	—	$	2,643	$	8
	Corporate debt securities		677			7		—			—		677		7
	Equity securities		3,164			54		1,607			322		4,771		376
	Total investments	$	6,484		$	69	$	1,607		$	322	$	8,091	$	391
	Available for sale fixed maturity securities are due as follows:
	(dollars in thousands)
	September 28, 2013	Amortized			Fair Value
		Cost
	Due in one year or less	$	5,124		$	5,201
	Due after one year through five years		29,376			29,575
	Due after five years through ten years		13,477			13,272
	Due after ten years		20,156			20,317
		$	68,133		$	68,365
	Expected maturities may differ from contractual maturities stated above because borrowers may have the right to call or prepay obligations with or without call or prepayment penalties. Corporate mortgage-backed securities are shown as being due at their average expected maturity dates.
	Amounts reported as “due in one year or less” are included in long-term investments, as the Company’s insurance subsidiaries are required to maintain investments in support of regulatory deposit requirements. Hence, investments with maturities less than one year maintained in support of this long-term commitment are generally sold to repurchase investments with longer maturities. As these investments continue to support a long-term commitment obligation related to insurance reserves, the Company classifies such amounts as long-term. At September 28, 2013 and September 29, 2012, the long-term portion of the related insurance reserves of $41.3 million and $36.1 million, respectively, are included in long-term liabilities, other in the consolidated balance sheets.
	Investments carried at fair values of $51.3 million and $45.6 million at September 28, 2013 and September 29, 2012 (which include zero and $0.3 million recorded in cash and cash equivalents), respectively, are maintained in support of regulatory deposit requirements ($48.3 million and $40.9 million in direct deposit of securities at September 28, 2013 and September 29, 2012, respectively) in compliance with statutory regulations. Investments with fair values of $7.8 million and $7.3 million at September 28, 2013 and September 29, 2012, respectively, (which include $0.1 million recorded in cash and cash equivalents at each respective balance sheet date) are on deposit with regulatory authorities in compliance with statutory regulations. Investments with fair values of $2.1 million and $0.9 million at September 28, 2013 and September 29, 2012 (which include $0.1 million and zero recorded in cash and cash equivalents), respectively, are on deposit in compliance with collateral requirements on reinsurance arrangements.
Net investment income, which is included in net sales, is summarized as follows:
(dollars in thousands)
	Fiscal Years Ended
	September 28,			September 29,		October 1,
	2013			2012		2011
Fixed maturity securities	$	1,147		$	3,926	$	4,515
Equity securities		1,423			529		1,562
Cash and cash equivalents		1			2		2
		2,571			4,457		6,079
Less investment expenses		(290	)		294		297
	$	2,281		$	4,163	$	5,782
Equity investments held by the Company that do not have readily determinable fair values are accounted for using the cost or equity methods of accounting. The Company evaluated its equity investments for impairment as of September 28, 2013 and September 29, 2012, and the Company did not consider any of these equity investments to be impaired.
The Company held investments in Western Family Holding Company (“Western Family”) common stock of $9.2 million at both September 28, 2013 and September 29, 2012. Western Family is a private cooperative located in Oregon from which the Company purchases food and general merchandise products. The investment represents approximately an 18% ownership interest at both September 28, 2013 and September 29, 2012. The Company’s ownership percentage in Western Family is based, in part, on the volume of purchases transacted with Western Family. During fiscal 2012, the Company received a return of invested capital in the amount of $0.2 million resulting from Western Family’s recalculation of its members’ ownership percentage in the cooperative based on purchase volume. The investment is accounted for using the equity method of accounting.
The Company’s wholly-owned finance subsidiary, Grocers Capital Company (“GCC”), has an investment in National Consumer Cooperative Bank (“NCB”), which operates as a cooperative and therefore its participants are required to own its Class B common stock. The investment in the Class B common stock of NCB, accounted for using the cost method of accounting, aggregated $4.1 million at both September 28, 2013 and September 29, 2012. The Company did not recognize dividend income from NCB in fiscal years 2013, 2012 or 2011.

Accrued_Liabilities

Accrued Liabilities	12 Months Ended
	Sep. 28, 2013
Accrued Liabilities	'
	4.    Accrued Liabilities
	Accrued liabilities are summarized as follows:
	(dollars in thousands)
		September 28,		September 29,
		2013		2012
	Insurance loss reserves and other insurance liabilities	$	27,564	$	23,626
	Accrued wages, current portion of retirement benefits and related taxes		25,362		23,810
	Accrued income and other taxes payable		4,809		5,402
	Accrued promotional liabilities		2,390		3,882
	Other accrued liabilities		8,439		7,565
		$	68,564	$	64,285

Notes_Payable

Notes Payable	12 Months Ended
	Sep. 28, 2013
Notes Payable	'
	5.    Notes Payable
	The Company’s notes payable and scheduled maturities are summarized as follows:
	(dollars in thousands)
		September 28,		September 29,
		2013		2012
	Secured revolver borrowings under credit agreements	$	148,500	$	95,500
	Secured term loan borrowings under credit agreement		40,209		—
	Senior secured notes		51,365		104,843
	Obligations under capital leases		—		19
	Other debt agreements		2,744		—
	Total notes payable		242,818		200,362
	Less portion due within one year		11,287		3,878
		$	231,531	$	196,484
	Maturities of notes payable as of September 28, 2013 are:
	(dollars in thousands)
	Fiscal year
	2014	$	11,287
	2015		7,502
	2016		223,273
	2017		692
	2018		64
	Thereafter		—
		$	242,818
	Secured Revolving Credit Agreements
	Credit Agreement
	The Company is party to an Amended and Restated Credit Agreement (the “Credit Agreement”), dated as of June 28, 2013, among the Company, the lenders party thereto, Wells Fargo Bank, National Association, as administrative agent (“Administrative Agent”), and the other agents party thereto. The Credit Agreement amends and restates the existing credit agreement dated as of October 8, 2010, as amended, restated, supplemented or otherwise modified from time to time prior to June 28, 2013 (the “Prior Credit Agreement”). The Credit Agreement provides for a revolving credit facility with total commitments in the principal amount of $275 million (the “Revolver”) and a term loan in the amount of $40.9 million (the “Term Loan”). Certain capitalized terms used in this description of the Credit Agreement have the meanings given to them in the Credit Agreement. The Credit Agreement matures the earlier of June 28, 2018 (“Original Maturity Date”), or 90 days prior to the scheduled January 1, 2016 maturity (as such scheduled maturity date may be extended) under a note purchase agreement dated September 29, 1999 (as amended, the “Senior Note Agreement”) as amended and restated effective January 6, 2006, further amended on November 3, 2009 and most recently amended on June 28, 2013, among the Company and the current noteholders (the “Noteholders”) and John Hancock Life Insurance Company (U.S.A.) (“John Hancock”), acting in its capacity as collateral agent for the Noteholders (collectively, the “Hancock Debt”), unless the Hancock Debt has been repaid, refinanced (including by exchange) or defeased.
	The aggregate commitments under the Credit Agreement may be increased from time to time, either through any of the existing lenders increasing its commitment or by means of the addition of new lenders, up to a maximum commitment of $400 million. While the consent of the lenders as a group is not required to any such increase, no lender is required to increase its own commitment to the Credit Agreement.
	The purpose of the Revolver is to finance working capital and other general corporate needs, which may include capital expenditures and Permitted Acquisitions. The purpose of the Term Loan is for the repayment of a portion of the Hancock Debt, and for payment of fees and expenses related to the payment of the Hancock Debt. The Term Loan is subject to prepayment, if any appraisal of the Term Loan Real Estate shows the outstanding balance of the Term Loan exceeds 60% of the appraised value of the Term Loan Real Estate, in the amount of such excess.
	The Company’s obligations under the Credit Agreement are guaranteed by certain of the Company’s subsidiaries, excluding its finance and insurance subsidiaries, and are secured by grants of security interests in the accounts receivable, inventory, deposit accounts and certain related collateral (subject to exceptions) of the Company and the guarantor subsidiaries, and in certain real property that is concurrently being released (see “Senior Secured Notes” below). The obligations are also senior to the rights of the Company’s Members with respect to Partially Subordinated Patrons’ Deposit Accounts and patronage dividend certificates, if any.
	Borrowings under the Revolver may be made as revolving loans, swing line loans or letters of credit. The Revolver provides for loans up to the lesser of (i) the Maximum Revolver Amount less the sum of any outstanding letter of credit usage plus swing line loans plus reserves as may be established by the Administrative Agent or (ii) the amount equal to the Borrowing Base at such date (based upon the most recent Borrowing Base Certificate delivered by the Company to the Administrative Agent) less the sum of any outstanding letter of credit usage plus any outstanding swing line loans. The Borrowing Base is calculated as 85% of all Eligible Accounts (primarily accounts receivable) less any Dilution Reserve, plus the lesser of (a) 70% of Eligible Inventory or (b) 90% of the Net Recovery Percentage of Eligible Inventory, less reserves, if any, established by the Administrative Agent.
	Borrowings under the Revolving Loan Commitment and Term Loan bear interest at an interest rate determined by reference either to the Base Rate or to the Eurodollar Rate with the rate election made by the Borrower at the time of the borrowing or at any time Borrower elects to continue or convert a Loan or Loans, while swing loan borrowings bear interest at an interest rate determined by reference to the Base Rate. Revolving Loans that are Base Rate Loans will bear interest margins of between 0.50% per annum and 1.00% per annum, dependent upon the Company’s Average Excess Availability for the most recently completed month for which a Borrowing Base Certificate has been filed. Revolving Loans that are Eurodollar Rate Loans will bear interest margins of between 1.50% per annum and 2.00% per annum, based upon the Company’s Average Excess Availability for the most recently completed month for which a Borrowing Base Certificate has been filed. Amounts of the Term Loan that are Base Rate Loans will bear an interest margin of 1.00% per annum; amounts of the Term Loan that are Eurodollar Loans will bear an interest margin of 2.00% per annum. Amounts available under Letters of Credit bear fees of 0.125% per annum plus the applicable Eurodollar Rate Margin for Revolving Loans. Undrawn portions of the commitments under the Credit Agreement bear commitment fees at a rate of either 0.25% per annum or 0.375% per annum, also dependent upon the Company’s Average Excess Availability.
	The Company is subject to certain financial covenants during the occurrence of a Financial Covenant Period. A Financial Covenant Period (a) commences when (i) an Event of Default occurs, (ii) Excess Availability is less than the greater of (A) $35 million and (B) 12.7272% of the Maximum Revolver amount for a period of five consecutive Business Days or (iii) Excess Availability is less than the greater of (A) $30 million and (B) 10.9090% of the Maximum Revolver Amount at any time and (b) continues until a period of 30 consecutive Business Days has elapsed during which at all times (i) no Event of Default exists and (ii) Excess Availability is equal to or greater than the greater of (A) $35 million and (B) 12.7272% of the Maximum Revolver Amount. During a Financial Covenant Period, the Company is obligated to maintain a Consolidated Fixed Charge Coverage Ratio of not less than 1.15 to 1.0, measured as of the end of the most recent Fiscal Month for which financial statements have been delivered prior to the date on which a Financial Covenant Period first begins and as of each Fiscal Month end while the Financial Covenant Period is in effect.
	On October 9, 2013, the Company entered into a Consent and Agreement with the Administrative Agent and the lenders party thereto. The Consent and Agreement temporarily modifies the Credit Agreement to provide for a modification of the Excess Availability calculations to accommodate normal seasonal working capital needs in the period from October 15, 2013 to January 15, 2014. The Consent and Agreement does not change the maximum amount that can be borrowed under the agreement of $275 million, but does provide additional flexibility under certain provisions of the Credit Agreement.
	The Credit Agreement imposes financial conditions on the Company redeeming any of its Class A Shares, Class B Shares and Class E Shares and paying cash dividends on Class E Shares (other cash dividends being generally prohibited), and prohibits distributions to shareholders and any repurchase of shares when an Event of Default has occurred and is continuing. The Credit Agreement also places certain restrictions on the payment of patronage dividends should an Event of Default occur. Events of Default include, but are not limited to, the failure to pay amounts due to lenders, violation of covenants, the making of false representations and warranties and specified insolvency-related events, subject to specified thresholds, cure periods and/or exceptions.
	The Credit Agreement eliminates a financial covenant that had been provided for in the Prior Credit Agreement relating to the Consolidated Total Funded Debt to EBITDAP Ratio (as that term was defined in the Prior Credit Agreement).
	The Company is subject to negative covenants limiting permitted indebtedness, contingent obligations, liens, investments, acquisitions, restricted payments and certain other matters.
	The Credit Agreement is an amended and restated agreement of the Prior Credit Agreement. Therefore, in accordance with ASC section 470-50-40 Debt—Modification and Extinguishments—Derecognition (“ASC 470”), the Company has treated the Credit Agreement as a modification of debt. Accordingly, unamortized deferred financing fees pertaining to the Prior Credit Agreement ($1.4 million) will be amortized through the Original Maturity Date of the Credit Agreement.
	The Company’s outstanding revolver borrowings under the Credit Agreement increased to $144.5 million at September 28, 2013 (Eurodollar and Base Rate Loans at a blended average rate of 1.97% per annum) from $90.0 million under the Prior Credit Agreement at September 29, 2012 (Eurodollar and Base Rate Loans at a blended average rate of 2.25% per annum). The Company’s outstanding term loan borrowings under the Credit Agreement were $40.2 million at September 28, 2013 (Eurodollar and Base Rate Loans at a blended average rate of 2.20% per annum) and zero at September 29, 2012. As of September 28, 2013, the Company was in compliance with all applicable financial covenants of the Credit Agreement.
	Subsidiary Financing Arrangement
	The Company’s wholly-owned finance subsidiary, GCC, is party to a Loan and Security Agreement, dated as of September 24, 2010, and then amended on September 19, 2013 (the “GCC Loan Agreement,” as amended), by and among GCC, the lenders party thereto, and California Bank & Trust, as Arranger and Administrative Agent (the “Agent”). The GCC Loan Agreement provides for a revolving credit facility with total commitments in the principal amount of $15 million. Borrowings under the GCC Loan Agreement may not exceed 80% of GCC’s eligible notes receivable (certain notes receivable restricted to 50%), less any reserves as may be established by the Agent. The GCC Loan Agreement matures on March 24, 2014, and the proceeds therefrom will be used to fund loans to the Company’s customers and for GCC’s general corporate purposes, including customary financing and operating activities.
	The GCC Loan Agreement provides for revolving loans. At the election of GCC, revolving loans shall bear interest at the LIBOR Rate or the Base Rate, plus an interest rate margin. The interest rate margin for LIBOR Rate loans is 3.00% per annum. The interest rate margin for Base Rate loans is 0.75% per annum. Notwithstanding the foregoing, revolving loans will be subject to daily interest rate floors. The daily minimum rate is based on a 4.00% per annum rate. Undrawn portions of the commitments under the GCC Loan Agreement bear commitment fees at the rate of 0.25% per annum. GCC had revolving loan borrowings of $4.0 million and $5.5 million bearing an interest rate of 4.00% (3.25% prime plus 0.75% interest rate margin), outstanding at September 28, 2013 and September 29, 2012, respectively.
	Prior to the amendment, the loan agreement had a term loan option. Term loans bore interest at the LIBOR/Swap Rate or the Base Rate, plus an interest rate margin. The interest rate margin for LIBOR/Swap Rate loans was 3.25% per annum. Notwithstanding the foregoing, term loans were subject to daily interest rate floors. For term loans that bore interest at a LIBOR/Swap Rate, the daily minimum rate was based on a 5.75% per annum rate. For term loans that bore the Base Rate, the daily minimum rate was based on a 4.00% per annum rate. There were no term loan borrowings outstanding at September 29, 2012.
	As of September 28, 2013, the Company was in compliance with all applicable financial covenants of the GCC Loan Agreement.
	Senior Secured Notes
	The Company is party to a Senior Note Agreement with the Noteholders and John Hancock, collectively the Hancock Debt, which originally consisted of three tranches of senior debt: $46.0 million, $40.0 million and $25.0 million with interest rates of 6.421%, 7.157% and 6.82%, respectively. On June 28, 2013, the Company entered into the seventh amendment (“Seventh Amendment”) to the Senior Note Agreement. Certain capitalized terms used in this description of the Seventh Amendment have the meanings given to them in the Seventh Amendment. The Seventh Amendment released the liens held by the Noteholders on certain real properties (the mechanized distribution center in Commerce, California and the dairy facility in Los Angeles, California) of the Company, provided for modifications to and deletions of certain financial covenants, including the deletion of a financial covenant that had been previously provided for relating to the maximum permitted Indebtedness to Consolidated EBITDAP Ratio. The released properties now are collateral security for the lenders party to the Credit Agreement. In exchange, the Company paid the Noteholders $50 million plus all accrued and unpaid interest on the prepayment and paid the applicable Make-Whole Amount of $9.4 million, as calculated per the Senior Note Agreement, as well as an amendment fee of 0.5% of the outstanding principal balance of the Hancock Debt after giving effect to the prepayment contemplated by the Seventh Amendment. The prepayment was applied first to the Tranche C Notes (paid in full) with the remainder applied to the Tranche B Notes. The Seventh Amendment increased the fixed interest rate, effective July 1, 2013, for the Tranche A Notes to 7.907% per annum until the January 1, 2016 maturity date. The fixed interest rate for the unpaid portion of the Tranche B Notes, effective July 1, 2013, increased to 7.171% per annum until the January 1, 2016 maturity date. At the January 1, 2016 maturity date, a balloon payment of $45.6 million is due.
	The Company had a total of $51.4 million and $104.8 million outstanding at September 28, 2013 and September 29, 2012, respectively, in Hancock Debt.
	In accordance with FASB ASC section 405-20-40—Liabilities—Extinguishments of Liabilities—Derecognition (“ASC 405”), the Company treated the prepayment of $50 million for the Hancock Notes as early debt extinguishment, as the Company was released from further obligation for that portion of the Hancock Debt. As indicated above, due to the prepayment of the Hancock Debt, the Company incurred a Make-Whole Amount of $9.4 million. Additionally, the Company had $0.4 million of unamortized fees associated with the Hancock Debt and incurred an additional $0.3 million of fees related to the Seventh Amendment. As a result of the extinguishment of the liability and in accordance with ASC 405, the Company recorded a loss on early debt extinguishment of $9.8 million during fiscal 2013. This amount is comprised of the $9.4 million Make-Whole Amount plus a pro-rata portion (percentage of early debt prepayment to total debt) of (1) unamortized fees associated with the prepayment of the Hancock Debt ($0.2 million) and (2) new fees related to the Seventh Amendment of $0.2 million. These amounts are included within a separate line item in the Company’s Consolidated Statements of (Loss) Earnings following interest expense.
	The notes continue to be secured by certain of the Company’s personal and real property and contain customary covenants, default provisions (including acceleration of the debt in the event of an uncured default), and prepayment penalties similar to those included in the original note purchase agreement.
	The Senior Note Agreement contains customary representations, warranties, financial covenants, default and pre-payment provisions for these types of financing. Obligations under this agreement are senior to the rights of Members with respect to Required Deposits and subordinated notes (see Notes 9 and 10). In the event the Company is not in compliance with the financial covenants of the Senior Note Agreement, the continued availability of loan funds or the terms upon which such loans would be available could be negatively impacted, and the impact to the Company could be material. As of September 28, 2013, the Company was in compliance with all applicable financial covenants of its Senior Note Agreement.
	Other Debt Agreements
	During fiscal 2013, the Company entered into three note and security agreements for the purchase of tractors. These agreements bear interest at a rate of 2.2% and mature in fiscal 2018. At September 28, 2013, the outstanding loan balance under these three agreements totaled $2.7 million.
	Standby Letters of Credit
	The Company had $1.5 million in standby letters of credit outstanding at both September 28, 2013 and September 29, 2012 to secure various bank, insurance and vendor obligations.

Longterm_Liabilities_Other

Long-term Liabilities, Other	12 Months Ended
	Sep. 28, 2013
Long-term Liabilities, Other	'
	6.    Long-term Liabilities, Other
	Long-term liabilities, other are summarized as follows:
	(dollars in thousands)
		September 28,		September 29,
		2013		2012
	Pension and postretirement benefit liabilities	$	120,183	$	205,821
	Insurance loss reserves and other insurance liabilities		41,316		36,124
	Other long-term liabilities		22,343		21,466
		$	183,842	$	263,411

Leases

Leases	12 Months Ended
	Sep. 28, 2013
Leases	'
	7.    Leases
	Operating Leases
	The Company has entered into operating leases for warehouse, transportation and data processing equipment.
	The Company has also entered into operating leases for approximately thirty-one retail supermarkets. The majority of these locations are subleased to various Members of the Company. The operating leases and subleases are non-cancelable, renewable in certain instances, include purchase options that are not bargain purchase options, and require payment of real estate taxes, insurance and maintenance.
	Rent expense for operating leases was $21.8 million, $21.7 million and $22.7 million for the fiscal years ended September 28, 2013, September 29, 2012 and October 1, 2011, respectively. Sublease rental income was $5.2 million, $3.5 million and $3.8 million for the fiscal years ended September 28, 2013, September 29, 2012 and October 1, 2011, respectively.
	Minimum rentals on equipment and properties leased by the Company, including properties subleased to third parties, as of September 28, 2013, are summarized as follows:
	(dollars in thousands)
	Fiscal year	Operating
		Leases
	2014	$	21,343
	2015		19,011
	2016		14,088
	2017		8,122
	2018		6,602
	Thereafter		12,074
	Total minimum lease payments	$	81,240
	Future minimum sublease rental income on operating leases as of September 28, 2013 is summarized as follows:
	(dollars in thousands)
	Fiscal year	Operating
		Leases
	2014	$	8,066
	2015		7,071
	2016		5,650
	2017		4,225
	2018		2,645
	Thereafter		7,747
	Total future minimum sublease income	$	35,404
	Lease Guarantees
	At September 28, 2013, the Company was contingently liable with respect to three lease guarantees for certain Members with commitments expiring through 2017. The Company believes the locations underlying these leases are marketable and, accordingly, that it will be able to recover a substantial portion of the guaranteed amounts in the event the Company is required to satisfy its obligations under the guarantees.
	The Company’s guarantees of these leases as of September 28, 2013 are summarized in the table below.
	(dollars in thousands)
	Remaining Lease Term	Guaranteed
		Leases
	Less than 1 year	$	1,189
	1-3 years		1,013
	4-5 years		338
	More than 5 years		—
	Total lease guarantees	$	2,540
	In consideration of lease guarantees and subleases, the Company typically receives a monthly fee equal to 5% of the monthly rent under the lease guarantees and subleases. Obligations of Members to the Company, including lease guarantees, are generally supported by the Company’s right of offset, upon default, against the Members’ cash deposits and shareholdings, as well as in certain instances, personal guarantees and reimbursement and indemnification agreements.

Income_Taxes

Income Taxes	12 Months Ended
	Sep. 28, 2013
Income Taxes	'
	8.    Income Taxes
	The significant components of income tax (benefit) expense are summarized as follows:
	(dollars in thousands)	Fiscal Years Ended
		September 28,			September 29,			October 1,
		2013			2012			2011
	Federal:
	Current	$	(1,187	)	$	501		$	4,875
	Deferred		(9,484	)		(170	)		167
	Total federal		(10,671	)		331			5,042
	State:
	Current		56			(22	)		653
	Deferred		533			(502	)		(422	)
	Total state		589			(524	)		231
	Income taxes	$	(10,082	)	$	(193	)	$	5,273
	The effects of temporary differences and other items that give rise to deferred tax assets and liabilities are presented below:
	(dollars in thousands)
		September 28,			September 29,
		2013			2012
	Deferred tax assets:
	Accounts receivable	$	1,508		$	1,635
	Accrued benefits		49,243			80,376
	Lease reserves		3,174			3,442
	Insurance reserves		3,913			3,822
	Net operating loss carry forwards		6,504			490
	Deferred patronage loss		8,475			1,740
	Non-qualified written notice of allocation		12,855			12,883
	Inventory reserve		585			862
	Credits		1,020			2,441
	Interest capitalization		344			387
	Deferred revenue		220			82
	Other		340			—
	Total gross deferred tax assets	$	88,181		$	108,160
	Deferred tax liabilities:
	Depreciation of properties and equipment	$	39,641		$	40,633
	Market value adjustment		1,868			2,667
	Capitalized software		4,300			4,668
	Deferred state taxes		1,179			1,860
	Other		165			478
	Total gross deferred tax liabilities	$	47,153		$	50,306
	Net deferred tax assets	$	41,028		$	57,854
	The Company had net deferred tax assets of $41.0 million and $57.9 million, of which $5.6 million and $5.2 million are classified as deferred income taxes in current assets and $35.4 million and $52.7 million are included in other assets in the consolidated balance sheets as of September 28, 2013 and September 29, 2012, respectively.
	A valuation allowance is required to be provided to reduce the deferred tax assets to a level which, more likely than not, will be realized. The Company’s net deferred tax assets of approximately $41.0 million and $57.9 million were not reduced by tax valuation allowances at September 28, 2013 and September 29, 2012, respectively. Management evaluated the available positive and negative evidence in determining the realizability of the net deferred tax assets at September 28, 2013 and September 29, 2012 and concluded it is more likely than not that the Company should realize its net deferred tax assets through future operating results, the reversal of taxable temporary differences, and tax planning. While the Company has considered future taxable income and ongoing prudent and feasible tax planning strategies in assessing the need for a valuation allowance, in the event the Company was to determine that it would not be able to realize all or part of its net deferred tax asset in the future, an adjustment to the deferred tax asset would be a charge to income in the period such determination was made.
	The Company had federal net operating loss carryforwards of approximately $5.6 million and $1.4 million and state net operating loss carryforwards of approximately $0.9 million and zero as of the fiscal years ended September 28, 2013 and September 29, 2012, respectively. A portion of the federal net operating loss is being carried forward under Internal Revenue Code Section 382 and expires in fiscal 2018 for federal income taxes. The remaining net operating loss carryforwards expire in fiscal 2033.
	The (benefit) provision for income taxes at the Company’s effective tax rate differed from the provision for income taxes at the federal statutory rate (34%, 34% and 35% in 2013, 2012 and 2011, respectively) as follows:
	(dollars in thousands)
		Fiscal Years Ended
		September 28,			September 29,			October 1,
		2013			2012			2011
	Federal income tax (benefit) expense at the statutory rate	$	(9,426	)	$	598		$	4,431
	State income taxes, net of federal income tax benefit		389			(346	)		150
	Life insurance		(901	)		(1,308	)		544
	Adjustment to prior year tax liabilities		(21	)		(39	)		26
	Meals and entertainment		172			183			227
	Change in statutory tax rate from prior year		—			529			—
	Other, net		(295	)		190			(105	)
	(Benefit) provision for income taxes	$	(10,082	)	$	(193	)	$	5,273
	At September 28, 2013, management is currently unaware of any issues under review that could result in significant payments, accruals or material deviations from its recognized tax positions. The Company continues to recognize interest and penalties accrued related to unrecognized tax benefits and penalties within its provision for income taxes. The Company had no material interest and penalties accrued at September 28, 2013.
	As of September 28, 2013, the Company is subject to income tax examinations for its U.S. federal income taxes for fiscal years 2008 and thereafter and for state and local income taxes for fiscal years 2007 and thereafter. The Company is currently not under audit for any of its income tax jurisdictions.

Patronage_Dividends

Patronage Dividends	12 Months Ended
	Sep. 28, 2013
Patronage Dividends	'
	9.    Patronage Dividends
	Unified distributes patronage dividends to its Members based upon its patronage earnings during a fiscal year. Non-Member customers are not entitled to receive patronage dividends. The Board approves the payment of patronage dividends and the form of such payment for the Company’s three patronage earnings divisions: the Southern California Dairy Division, the Pacific Northwest Dairy Division and the Cooperative Division.
		·		Southern California Dairy Division: Patronage earnings attributable to the Southern California Dairy Division are produced from sales of products primarily manufactured at a milk and fruit drink bottling plant located in Los Angeles, California. Patronage dividends for this division are paid solely to Members who purchase dairy and other related products from the Southern California Dairy Division.
		·		Pacific Northwest Dairy Division: Patronage earnings attributable to the Pacific Northwest Dairy Division are produced from sales of dairy products manufactured by third party suppliers located in Oregon. Patronage dividends for this division are paid solely to Members who purchase dairy products from the Pacific Northwest Dairy Division.
		·		Cooperative Division: Patronage earnings attributable to the Cooperative Division are produced from all patronage activities of Unified other than the Southern California and Pacific Northwest Dairy Divisions regardless of geographic location. Patronage dividends for this division are paid based on the qualified patronage purchases of the following types of products: dry grocery, deli, health and beauty care, tobacco, general merchandise, frozen food, ice cream, meat, produce and bakery.
	The following table summarizes the patronage dividend earnings of Unified during the past three fiscal years.
	(dollars in thousands)
	Division		2013		2012		2011
	Cooperative		$	—	$	—	$	301
	Southern California Dairy			8,609		9,676		10,710
	Pacific Northwest Dairy			1,000		1,111		1,420
	Total		$	9,609	$	10,787	$	12,431
	For fiscal 2013 and 2012, there were no Cooperative Division patronage earnings available for distribution.
	For fiscal 2011, the entire patronage dividend was distributed in cash.
	The financial statements reflect patronage dividends earned by Members as of the fiscal year ended September 28, 2013.
	Patronage dividends produced by the dairy divisions are paid quarterly and have historically been paid in cash.

Capital_Shares

Capital Shares

12 Months Ended

Sep. 28, 2013

Capital Shares

'

10.    Capital Shares

Member Requirements

Members of Unified are both owners and customers of the Company. A Member must (1) own 350 Class A Shares and a number of Class B Shares based upon the amount of such Member’s average weekly purchases of product from the Company, or as otherwise specified by the Board; (2) be of approved financial standing; (3) be engaged in selling grocery and related products at retail or wholesale; (4) purchase products from the Company in amounts and in a manner that is established by the Board; (5) make application in such form as is prescribed by the Company; and (6) be accepted as a Member by Board action.

Members of Unified are typically required to satisfy a minimum purchase requirement of $1 million in annual purchases from the Company. This requirement may be modified from time to time by the Board, having been most recently changed in April 2008 at the time of the purchase of certain assets and assumption of certain liabilities of Associated Grocers, Incorporated (“AG”) and its subsidiaries, a retailer-owned grocery cooperative headquartered in Seattle, Washington (the “Acquisition”). Members at the time of this change, or who were shareholders or customers of AG who became Members in connection with the AG Acquisition, remain subject to the earlier requirement of $5,000 per week in purchases from the Company. Exceptions to the minimum purchase requirements may be granted by the Board.

A customer that does not meet the requirements to be a Member, or does not desire to become a Member, may conduct business with the Company as a Non-Member. However, any customer that purchases more than $3 million of product from the Company annually is typically required to be a Member.

Ownership and Exchange of Shares

The Class A and Class B Shares are issued by Unified to its Members, and repurchased by the Company from its Members, a process referred to as the exchange of shares, in accordance with the Company’s share purchase requirements and at a price (the “Exchange Value Per Share”) based on a formula approved by the Board. The Exchange Value Per Share, as currently calculated, is equal to Book Value (as defined below) divided by the number of Class A and Class B Shares outstanding at the end of the fiscal year, excluding shares tendered for redemption. “Book Value” is computed based on (1) the fiscal year end balance of Class A and Class B Shares, excluding the redemption value of unredeemed shares tendered for redemption, plus (2) retained earnings, excluding non-allocated retained earnings. Prior to February 23, 2010, the Company computed the Exchange Value Per Share of the Class A and Class B Shares as Book Value divided by the number of Class A and Class B Shares outstanding at the end of the fiscal year. For purposes of such earlier calculation, “Book Value” was computed based on the sum of the fiscal year end balances of Class A and Class B Shares, plus retained earnings. At the Company’s annual meeting of shareholders held on February 23, 2010, the shareholders authorized the Board, in its sole discretion, to retain a portion of the Company’s annual earnings from its non-patronage business and not allocate those earnings to the Exchange Value Per Share. Additionally, the Company modified its Exchange Value Per Share computation, effective for fiscal year end 2010, to also exclude from Book Value non-allocated retained earnings (loss) and the redemption value of unredeemed shares tendered for redemption, and to exclude the number of shares tendered for redemption from the outstanding number of Class A and Class B Shares.

Exchange Value Per Share does not necessarily reflect the amount for which the net assets of the Company could be sold or the dollar amount that would be required to replace them.

The Non-Allocated Earnings Program authorizes the Board, in its sole discretion, to retain a portion of the Company’s annual earnings from its non-patronage business and not allocate those earnings to the Exchange Value Per Share. The Company retained zero of fiscal 2013 and fiscal 2012 non-patronage earnings under the Non-Allocated Earnings Program. The amount retained is not included in computing the issuance and redemption prices of the Class A or Class B Shares. In addition, the Non-Allocated Earnings Program grants the Board the authority to reallocate the non-allocated earnings back to the Exchange Value Per Share. The Non-Allocated Earnings Program authorizes the Board to establish a category of non-allocated equity, but does not restrict the uses of that non-allocated equity. The Board intends to use the non-allocated equity authorized by the Non-Allocated Earnings Program for the same general purposes as the Board uses the Company’s retained earnings, including support of the growth of its business, other than the payment of the redemption price of Class A and Class B Shares.

The Class C and Class E Shares are exchanged with the Company’s directors and Members, respectively, at a fixed stated value.

Classes of Shares

Class A Shares

The Company’s Bylaws require that each Member own 350 Class A Shares, though in certain instances the Board may accept an affiliate of a Member without such affiliate holding any Class A Shares where the owners of such affiliate are the same, or sufficiently the same, as those of the Member, and the Member already holds the required number of Class A Shares. Holders of Class A Shares are entitled to one vote per share on all matters to be voted upon by the shareholders, and the holders of the Class A Shares are entitled to elect 80% of the Company’s authorized number of directors. If a person holding Class A Shares ceases to be a Member, the Class A Shares held by such outgoing Member are subject to redemption. See “—Redemption of Class A, Class B and Class E Shares.”

Such persons or entities who from time to time may be accepted as new Members of Unified will be required to purchase or subscribe for the purchase of the number of Class A Shares in the manner set forth in the preceding paragraph. The price for these shares is the Exchange Value Per Share of the Company’s outstanding shares at the close of the fiscal year end prior to purchase. At September 28, 2013 and September 29, 2012, the Exchange Value Per Share was $279.50 and $316.11, respectively.

Class B Shares

The Company’s Bylaws require that each Member own such amount of Class B Shares as may be established by the Board. The holders of Class B Shares have the right to elect 20% of the Company’s authorized number of directors. Except as provided above or by California law, the holders of Class B Shares do not have any other voting rights. Any Class B Shares held by an outgoing Member or which are held by a Member in an amount in excess of that required by the Board are subject to redemption. See “—Redemption of Class A, Class B and Class E Shares.”

The Company’s Board currently requires each Member to hold Class B Shares having an issuance value equal to approximately twice the Member’s average weekly purchases from the Cooperative Division, except that as to meat and produce purchases the requirement is approximately one times the Member’s average weekly purchases from the Cooperative Division (the “Class B Share Requirement”). If purchases are not made weekly, the average weekly purchases are based on the number of weeks in which purchases were actually made. For purposes of determining whether a Member holds Class B Shares having an issuance value satisfying the Class B Share Requirement, the issuance value of each Class B Share held by the Member is deemed to be the Exchange Value Per Share in effect at the close of the fiscal year end prior to the issuance of such Class B Share.

One of the ways in which Members may acquire Class B Shares is through the Company’s payment of Cooperative Division patronage dividends at the end of the Company’s fiscal year. If a Member, at the time a patronage dividend is declared, does not satisfy its Class B Share Requirement, the Company may issue Class B Shares to such Member as a portion of the Cooperative Division patronage dividends paid. As Class B Shares are issued as part of a Member’s patronage dividend distribution, the issuance value of such Class B Shares adds to the amount of Class B Shares held by such Member for purposes of satisfying the Class B Share Requirement.

The Class B Share Requirement is determined twice a year, at the end of the Company’s second and fourth fiscal quarters, based on a Member’s purchases from the Cooperative Division during the preceding four quarters. If at the end of the Company’s second fiscal quarter, after giving effect to the value of Class B Shares estimated to be issued as part of the next Cooperative Division patronage dividend, a Member does not hold Class B Shares with a combined issuance value equal to the required amount of Class B Shares, the Company will typically require the Member to make a subordinated deposit (a “Required Deposit”) which may, at the Company’s option, be paid over a 26-week period. If at the end of the Company’s fourth fiscal quarter, after accounting for the issuance of Class B Shares as part of the Cooperative Division patronage dividend distribution declared for such fiscal year after the first year as a Member, a Member does not hold Class B Shares with a combined issuance value equal to the required amount of Class B Shares, then additional Class B Shares must be purchased by the Member in an amount sufficient to satisfy the requirement. The additional Class B Shares may be paid for by the Company charging the Member’s deposit fund in an amount equal to the issuance value of the additional Class B Shares or by direct purchase by the Member, which may be paid over a 26-week period. The Board may increase or otherwise change the Class B Share Requirement at its discretion.

In September 1999, the Company completed a merger (the “Merger”) with United Grocers, Inc. (“United”), a grocery cooperative headquartered in Milwaukie, Oregon. In October 2007, the Company purchased certain assets and assumed certain liabilities of AG and its subsidiaries. Certain Members, including former shareholders of United and AG, also may elect to satisfy their Class B Share Requirement with respect to stores owned at the time of admission as a Member solely from their patronage dividend distributions by electing to receive Class B Shares in lieu of 80% of the Cooperative Division qualified cash patronage dividends the Member otherwise would receive in the future until the Class B Share Requirement is satisfied. In order to make the election to satisfy their Class B Share Requirement solely from patronage dividend distributions, former shareholders of AG were required to enter into supply agreements with us. During the build-up of its Class B Share Requirement, such a Member is not required to provide a Required Deposit with respect to stores owned at the time of admission as a Member. Satisfaction of the Class B Share Requirement of such Members relating to new stores or growth in the sales of existing stores may not be satisfied solely from their patronage dividend distributions, but is subject to the same payment requirements that apply to other Members.

New Members typically must satisfy their Class B Share Requirement in one of two ways: (1) the purchase of Class B Shares at the time of their admission as a Member such that the required amount is held at that time; or (2) the acquisition of Class B Shares over a five-year period commencing at the start of the Company’s first fiscal year after the Member’s admission, at the rate of 20% of the required amount per fiscal year, such that by the start of the Company’s sixth full fiscal year after the Member’s admission, the required amount is held. If a new Member elects to satisfy the Class B Share Requirement through the acquisition of shares over a five-year period, it is typically required to make a Required Deposit with the Company for the full required amount during the five-year build-up of the Class B Share Requirement. The Required Deposit may generally be paid either in full upon acceptance as a Member or 75% upon acceptance and the balance paid over a 26-week period.

Required Deposits for new stores, replacement stores or growth in the sales of existing stores can be paid either in full or with a 50% down payment and the balance paid over a 26-week period.

The Company may make modifications to the requirements as to the timing of the purchase of Class B Shares and the timing and amount of the Required Deposit on a case-by-case basis, based on the particular circumstances of a Member.

A reduced investment option in lieu of the standard Class B Share Requirement (“SBI”) described above is available if certain qualifications are met. A Member may apply for a reduced Class B Share requirement (“RBI”), which requires the Member to pay for its purchases electronically on the statement due date and demonstrate credit worthiness. The purpose of the RBI is to encourage Member growth by offering a reduced requirement if the qualifications are met and to provide a cap on the investment requirement at certain volume levels. The RBI is based on a sliding scale such that additional purchase volume marginally reduces the requirement as a percentage of purchase volume. Members who do not apply for the RBI remain on the SBI. However, once a Member has elected the RBI option, it must notify the Company in writing if it wishes to change its election. Generally, changes can only be made at the time of the second quarter recalculation of the Class B Share Requirement in March.

Class C Shares

Certain of the Company’s directors hold Class C Shares. Each of such directors purchased one Class C Share for its stated value. Class C Shares are non-voting director qualifying shares, with no rights as to dividends or other distributions, and share in liquidation at their stated value of $10 per share. There are 24 authorized Class C Shares, of which 15 were outstanding as of September 28, 2013 and September 29, 2012.

Class E Shares

Class E Shares were issued as a portion of the Cooperative Division patronage dividends in fiscal years 2003 through 2009, and may be issued as a portion of the Cooperative Division patronage dividends in future periods, as determined annually at the discretion of the Board. The Class E Shares have a stated value of $100 per share and, unless required by law, are non-voting equity securities. Ordinary dividends on Class E Shares may be declared and may be payable in unique circumstances solely at the discretion of the Board. Class E Shares are transferable only with the consent of the Company, which will normally be withheld except in connection with the transfer of a Member’s business to an existing or new Member for continuation of such business. Class E Shares become eligible for redemption ten years after their date of issuance. Pursuant to the Company’s redemption policy, Class E Shares will not be repurchased for ten years from their date of issuance unless approved by the Board or upon sale or liquidation of the Company, with the outstanding Class E Shares becoming eligible for redemption between the end of fiscal 2013 and the end of fiscal 2018. Thereafter, shares may be repurchased by the Company subject to the limitations of California General Corporation Law, credit agreements, the Articles of Incorporation and Bylaws, redemption policy and approval by the Board.

Redemption of Class A, Class B and Class E Shares

Unified’s Articles of Incorporation and Bylaws provide that the Board has the absolute discretion to repurchase, or not repurchase, any Class A, Class B or Class E Shares of any outgoing Member regardless of when the membership terminated, and any Class B Shares in excess of the Class B Share Requirement (“Excess Class B Shares”) held by a current Member, whether or not the shares have been tendered for repurchase and regardless of when the shares were tendered. The Board considers the redemption of eligible Class A Shares at each board meeting. All other shares eligible for redemption are considered by the Board on an annual basis, usually in December. Class E Shares will only be redeemed upon approval of the Board or upon sale or liquidation of the Company. The Class E Shares, when redeemed, will be redeemed at stated value.

Excess Class B Shares may be redeemed at the sole discretion of the Board. If the Member tendering the shares for repurchase is current on all obligations owing to the Company, and no grounds exist for termination of membership, such redemption may be affected by paying cash to the Member or crediting the redemption price to the Member’s account. The redemption price for such shares shall be the same as provided on the termination of membership. If the Member tendering the shares for repurchase is not current on all obligations owing to the Company, and no grounds exist for termination of membership, the Company may redeem such Excess Class B Shares and apply the proceeds against all amounts owing to the Company.

The right to deduct any amounts owing to the Company against the total redemption price for shares is solely at the Company’s option. Shareholders may not offset or recoup any obligations to the Company or otherwise refuse to pay any amounts owed to the Company.

The Company’s redemption policy currently provides that the number of Class B Shares that Unified may redeem in any fiscal year is limited to no more than 5% of the sum of:

·

The number of Class B Shares outstanding at the close of the preceding fiscal year end; and

·

The number of Class B Shares issuable as a part of the patronage dividend distribution for the preceding fiscal year.

Unified’s Board has the absolute discretion to redeem Excess Class B Shares or to redeem Class A, Class B or Class E Shares of any outgoing Member regardless of when the membership terminated or the Class B Shares were tendered. The Board also has the right to elect to redeem Excess Class B or Class E Shares even though such redemption has not been requested and without regard to each year’s five percent limit or any other provision of the redemption policy.

Subject to the Board’s determination and approval to redeem shares, any repurchase of shares will be on the terms and, subject to the limitations and restrictions, if any, set forth in the California General Corporation Law, the Company’s Articles of Incorporation and Bylaws, credit agreements to which the Company is a party, and the Company’s redemption policy, which is subject to change at the sole discretion of the Board.

The following tables summarize the Class A and Class B Shares tendered for redemption, shares converted, shares redeemed, and the remaining number of shares and their aggregated redemption value pending redemption at the fiscal year end of each of the following periods:

(dollars in thousands)

Class A Shares

Tendered

Converted(a)

Redeemed

Remaining

Redemption

Value at

Fiscal year end

Fiscal 2010

2,800

$

813

Fiscal 2011

11,200

—

11,200

2,800

$

853

Fiscal 2012

10,150

—

10,500

2,450

$

765

Fiscal 2013

10,500

(350

)

11,900

700

$

221

(dollars in thousands)

Class B Shares

Tendered

Redeemed

Remaining

Redemption

Value at

Fiscal year end

Fiscal 2010

53,860

$

15,639

Fiscal 2011

33,391

22,305

64,946

$

19,463

Fiscal 2012

24,921

11,558

78,309

$

23,837

Fiscal 2013

10,034

9,567

78,776

$

24,207

(a)

Typically, a conversion of Class A Shares to Class B Shares occurs when Members combine or a Member purchases another Member, and in order to avoid duplicative holding of Class A Shares, the additional Class A Shares acquired as a result of such activities are converted into Class B Shares.

During fiscal 2013, the Company repurchased 405 Class E Shares at a price of $37 thousand. The Class E Share repurchases were made in advance of redemption eligibility on terms negotiated with former Members who were in bankruptcy or liquidation.

At the end of fiscal 2013, Class E Shares issued as a portion of fiscal 2003 patronage dividends become eligible for redemption in fiscal 2014. The Company anticipates redeeming all such eligible Class E Shares, with an approximate redemption value of $3.6 million.

Benefit_Plans

Benefit Plans	12 Months Ended
	Sep. 28, 2013
Benefit Plans	'
	11.    Benefit Plans
	The Company sponsors a cash balance plan (“Unified Cash Balance Plan”). The Unified Cash Balance Plan is a noncontributory defined benefit pension plan covering substantially all employees of the Company who are not subject to a collective bargaining agreement. Under the Unified Cash Balance Plan, participants are credited with an annual accrual based on years of service with the Company. The Unified Cash Balance Plan balance receives an annual interest credit, currently tied to the 30-year Treasury rate that is in effect the previous November, but in no event shall the rate be less than 5%. On retirement, participants will receive a lifetime annuity based on the total cash balance in their account. Benefits under the Unified Cash Balance Plan are provided through a trust.
	The Company also sponsors an Executive Salary Protection Plan III (“ESPPIII”) that provides supplemental post-termination retirement income based on each participant’s salary and years of service as an officer of the Company. Depending on when the officer became a participant in the ESPPIII, final salary is defined as the highest compensation of the last three years preceding employment separation or the average of the highest five years of compensation out of the last ten years preceding employment separation. Funds are held in a rabbi trust for the ESPPIII consisting primarily of life insurance policies reported at cash surrender value and mutual fund assets consisting of various publicly-traded mutual funds reported at estimated fair value based on quoted market prices. In accordance with ASC Topic 710, “Compensation – General”, the assets and liabilities of a rabbi trust must be accounted for as if they are assets and liabilities of the Company. The assets held in the rabbi trust are not available for general corporate purposes. In addition, all earnings and expenses of the rabbi trust are reported in the Company’s consolidated statement of earnings. The cash surrender value of such life insurance policies aggregated $19.4 million and $16.8 million at September 28, 2013 and September 29, 2012, respectively, and are included in other assets in the Company’s consolidated balance sheets. Mutual funds reported at their estimated fair value of $15.5 million and $13.9 million at September 28, 2013 and September 29, 2012, respectively, are included in other assets in the Company’s consolidated balance sheets. The related accrued benefit cost (representing the Company’s benefit obligation to participants) of $43.3 million and $46.0 million at September 28, 2013 and September 29, 2012, respectively, is recorded in long-term liabilities, other in the Company’s consolidated balance sheets. The rabbi trust is subject to creditor claims in the event of insolvency. The ESPPIII accrued benefit cost is included in the pension tables below. However, the trust assets are excluded from ESPPIII plan assets as they do not qualify as plan assets under ASC Topic 715, “Compensation—Retirement Benefits”.
	Pension expense for the Unified Cash Balance Plan and ESPPIII totaled $12.5 million, $13.0 million and $11.4 million for the fiscal years ended September 28, 2013, September 29, 2012 and October 1, 2011, respectively.
	The components of net periodic cost for the Unified Cash Balance Plan and ESPPIII consist of the following (measured at September 30, 2013, 2012 and 2011 for fiscal 2013, 2012 and 2011, respectively):
	(dollars in thousands)
			Fiscal Years Ended
	Unified Cash Balance Plan		September 28,				September 29,			October 1,
			2013				2012			2011
	Service cost		$	6,417			$	5,527		$	5,405
	Interest cost			10,387				10,927			10,425
	Expected return on plan assets			(14,645	)			(12,671	)		(12,402	)
	Amortization of prior service cost			10				11			11
	Actuarial loss			6,196				4,281			2,913
	Net periodic cost		$	8,365			$	8,075		$	6,352
	(dollars in thousands)
			Fiscal Years Ended
	ESPPIII		September 28,				September 29,			October 1,
			2013				2012			2011
	Service cost		$	1,878			$	2,240		$	2,295
	Interest cost			1,318				1,718			1,464
	Amortization of prior service cost (credit)			(20	)			—			212
	Recognized actuarial loss			930				930			1,069
	Net periodic cost		$	4,106			$	4,888		$	5,040
	The Company’s fiscal 2013 pension expense includes an approximate $7.1 million charge for the Unified Cash Balance Plan and ESPPIII plan combined as a result of amortizing net prior service credits of $9 thousand and an actuarial loss of $7.1 million from accumulated other comprehensive income into pension expense over the 2013 fiscal year.
	The Company’s projected fiscal 2014 pension expense includes an approximate $2.7 million charge for the Unified Cash Balance Plan and ESPPIII plan combined which are expected to be recognized as a result of amortizing projected net prior service credits of $16 thousand and a projected actuarial loss of $2.7 million from accumulated other comprehensive income into pension expense over the 2014 fiscal year.
	The combined projected plan benefit obligation for the Unified Cash Balance Plan and ESPPIII is $282.3 million and $310.5 million at the end of the year for fiscal 2013 and 2012, respectively.
	The following table sets forth the change in benefit obligation for the Unified Cash Balance Plan and ESPPIII (measured at September 30, 2013 and 2012 for fiscal 2013 and 2012, respectively):
	(dollars in thousands)
			Unified Cash Balance Plan							ESPPIII
			September 28,				September 29,			September 28,			September 29,
			2013				2012			2013			2012
	Benefit obligation at beginning of year		$	264,473			$	212,576		$	45,996		$	38,530
	Service cost			6,417				5,527			1,878			2,240
	Interest cost			10,387				10,927			1,318			1,718
	Plan amendments			—				—			(80	)		—
	Actuarial (gain) loss(a)			(34,322	)			42,537			(2,689	)		4,220
	Benefits paid			(8,020	)			(7,094	)		(3,089	)		(712	)
	Benefit obligation at end of year		$	238,935			$	264,473		$	43,334		$	45,996
	(a)		The actuarial gain in fiscal 2013 for the Unified Cash Balance Plan includes approximately $33.6 million due to the change in the discount rate (from 4.00% to 5.00%). The actuarial gain in fiscal 2013 for the ESPPIII includes gains of approximately $4.2 million resulting from a change to future benefits due to the plan amendment and $0.7 million due to the change in the discount rate (from 3.25% to 3.50%), partially offset by approximately $2.6 million in retirement losses (i.e., earlier than expected retirements).
	The following table sets forth the change in plan assets for the Unified Cash Balance Plan and ESPPIII (measured at September 30, 2013 and 2012 for fiscal 2013 and 2012, respectively):
	(dollars in thousands)
			Unified Cash Balance Plan							ESPPIII
			September 28,				September 29,			September 28,			September 29,
			2013				2012			2013			2012
	Fair value of plan assets at beginning of year		$	178,915			$	147,168		$	—		$	—
	Actual return on plan assets			24,458				27,900			—			—
	Employer contribution			7,355				10,941			3,089			712
	Benefits paid			(8,020	)			(7,094	)		(3,089	)		(712	)
	Fair value of plan assets at end of year		$	202,708			$	178,915		$	—		$	—
	The accrued pension and other benefit costs recognized for the Unified Cash Balance Plan and ESPPIII in the consolidated balance sheets are computed as follows:
	(dollars in thousands)
			Unified Cash Balance Plan							ESPPIII
			September 28,				September 29,			September 28,			September 29,
			2013				2012			2013			2012
	Funded status at September 30, 2013 and 2012, respectively (under-funded)		$	(36,227	)		$	(85,558	)	$	(43,334	)	$	(45,996	)
	Net amount recognized		$	(36,227	)		$	(85,558	)	$	(43,334	)	$	(45,996	)
	The following table sets forth the amounts recognized in the consolidated balance sheets for the Unified Cash Balance Plan and ESPPIII (measured at September 30, 2013 and 2012 for fiscal 2013 and 2012, respectively):
	(dollars in thousands)
			Unified Cash Balance Plan							ESPPIII
			September 28,				September 29,			September 28,			September 29,
			2013				2012			2013			2012
	Prepaid (accrued) benefit cost		$	1,250			$	2,260		$	(35,853	)	$	(34,836	)
Accumulated other comprehensive loss			(37,477	)			(87,818	)		(7,481	)		(11,160	)
Net amount recognized		$	(36,227	)		$	(85,558	)	$	(43,334	)	$	(45,996	)
Total net accrued benefit costs of $79.5 million and $131.6 million at September 28, 2013 and September 29, 2012, respectively, are included in the consolidated balance sheets as follows: $76.1 million and $130.9 million are included in long-term liabilities, other and $3.4 million and $0.7 million are included in accrued liabilities at September 28, 2013 and September 29, 2012, respectively.
The following table reconciles the change in net periodic benefit cost, plan assets, benefit obligation and accumulated other comprehensive (income) loss (and components thereof) for the Unified Cash Balance Plan:
(dollars in thousands)
Unified Cash Balance Plan																				Accumulated Other
																				Comprehensive Income
																				Components
September 28, 2013		Annual				Fiscal 2009			Plan			Benefit				Accumulated				Deferred Plan				Deferred
		Cost				ASC 715-20			Assets			Obligation				Other				Amendment				Actuarial
						Measurement										Comprehensive				(Unrecognized				(Gains)/
						Date										(Income)/Loss				Prior Service				Losses
						Adjustments														Cost)
						to Retained
						Earnings
Beginning balance						$	673		$	178,915		$	(264,473	)		$	87,818			$	54			$	87,764
Service cost		$	6,417				—			—			(6,417	)			—				—				—
Interest cost			10,387				—			—			(10,387	)			—				—				—
Actual return loss/(gain)			(24,458	)			—			24,458			—				—				—				—
Basic annual cost			(7,654	)			—			—			—				—				—				—
Contributions			—				—			7,355			—				—				—				—
Benefits paid			—				—			(8,020	)		8,020				—				—				—
Deferrals
Unexpected return adjustment			9,813				—			—			—				(9,813	)			—				(9,813	)
Unrecognized actuarial loss/(gain)			—				—			—			34,322				(34,322	)			—				(34,322	)
Amortization
Prior service cost			10				—			—			—				(10	)			(10	)			—
Unrecognized actuarial loss/(gain)			6,196				—			—			—				(6,196	)			—				(6,196	)
Ending balance		$	8,365			$	673		$	202,708		$	(238,935	)		$	37,477			$	44			$	37,433
The following table reconciles the change in net periodic benefit cost, plan assets, benefit obligation and accumulated other comprehensive (income) loss (and components thereof) for the ESPPIII:
(dollars in thousands)
ESPPIII Plan																				Accumulated Other
																				Comprehensive Income
																				Components
September 28, 2013		Annual				Fiscal 2009			Plan			Benefit				Accumulated				Deferred				Deferred
		Cost				ASC 715-20			Assets			Obligation				Other				Prior				Actuarial
						Measurement										Comprehensive				Service				(Gains)/
						Date										(Income)/Loss				(Credit)/				Losses
						Adjustments														Cost
						to Retained
						Earnings
Beginning balance						$	958		$	—		$	(45,996	)		$	11,160			$	—			$	11,160
Service cost		$	1,878				—			—			(1,878	)			—				—				—
Interest cost			1,318				—			—			(1,318	)			—				—				—
Basic annual cost			3,196				—			—			—				—				—				—
Contributions			—				—			3,089			—				—				—				—
Benefits paid			—				—			(3,089	)		3,089				—				—				—
Deferrals
Plan amendments			—				—			—			80				(80	)			(80	)			—
Unrecognized actuarial loss/(gain)			—				—			—			2,689				(2,689	)			—				(2,689	)
Amortization
Prior service (credit)/cost			(20	)			—			—			—				20				20				—
Unrecognized actuarial loss/(gain)			930				—			—			—				(930	)			—				(930	)
Ending balance		$	4,106			$	958		$	—		$	(43,334	)		$	7,481			$	(60	)		$	7,541
The weighted-average assumptions used in computing the preceding information for the Unified Cash Balance Plan and the ESPPIII as of September 30, 2013, 2012 and 2011 (the annual plan measurement dates) were as follows:
Unified Cash Balance Plan		2013				2012			2011
Benefit obligations:
Discount rate for benefit obligation			5	%			4	%		5.25	%
Rate of compensation increase			3	%			3	%		3	%
Net periodic cost:
Discount rate for net periodic benefit cost			4	%			5.25	%		5.25	%
Expected long-term return on plan assets			8.25	%			8.5	%		8.5	%
Rate of compensation increase			3	%			3	%		3	%
ESPPIII		2013				2012			2011
Benefit obligations:
Discount rate for benefit obligation			3.5	%			3.25	%		4.5	%
Rate of compensation increase			N/A				2.25	%		2.25	%
Net periodic cost:
Discount rate for net periodic benefit cost			3.25	%			4.5	%		4.25	%
Expected long-term return on plan assets			N/A				N/A			N/A
Rate of compensation increase(a)			2.25	%			2.25	%		2	%
(a)		The rate of compensation increase for the ESPPIII was 2.25% at the beginning of fiscal year 2013. A remeasurement of this plan occurred as of December 31, 2012 using a discount rate of 3.00% and a 0% salary increase rate.
The Company’s fiscal 2013 and fiscal 2012 pension expense was calculated based upon a number of actuarial assumptions, including an expected long-term rate of return on plan assets of 8.25% and 8.50%, respectively. In developing the long-term rate of return assumption, the Company evaluated historical asset class returns based on broad equity and bond indices. The expected long-term rate of return on plan assets for fiscal 2013 assumes an asset allocation of approximately 60% equity, 25% fixed income financial instruments, 12.5% alternative investments, and 2.5% real asset investments (see description under “Plan Assets” below). The Company regularly reviews with its third party advisors the asset allocation and periodically rebalances the investment mix to achieve certain investment goals when considered appropriate (see further discussion and related table under “Plan Assets” below). Actuarial assumptions, including the expected rate of return, are reviewed at least annually, and are adjusted as necessary. Lowering the expected long-term rate of return on the Company’s plan assets (for the Unified Cash Balance Plan in fiscal 2013 and fiscal 2012) by 0.50% (from 8.25% to 7.75% for fiscal 2013 and from 8.50% to 8.00% for fiscal 2012) would have increased its pension expense for fiscal 2013 and fiscal 2012 by approximately $0.9 million and $0.7 million, respectively.
The discount rate that was utilized for determining the Company’s fiscal 2013 pension obligation and projected fiscal 2014 net periodic benefit cost for the Unified Cash Balance Plan and the ESPPIII was selected to reflect the rates of return currently available on high quality fixed income securities whose cash flows (via coupons and maturities) match the timing and amount of future benefit payments of the plan. Bond information was provided by a recognized rating agency for all high quality bonds receiving one of the two highest ratings. As a result of this modeling process, the discount rate was 5.00% and 4.00% for the Unified Cash Balance Plan and 3.50% and 3.25% for the ESPPIII at September 30, 2013 and September 30, 2012, respectively.
Plan Assets
The Company’s Unified Cash Balance Plan weighted-average asset allocation at September 28, 2013 and September 29, 2012, by asset category is as follows:
(dollars in thousands)
		September 28,				September 29,
		2013				2012
Asset Category:
Equity securities		$	118,424			$	99,433
Debt securities (mutual funds comprised of investment grade bonds)			43,742				43,521
Alternative investments			37,893				33,771
Other			2,649				2,190
Total		$	202,708			$	178,915
The assets of the Unified Cash Balance Plan are invested to provide safety through diversification in a portfolio of common stocks, bonds, cash equivalents and other investments that may reflect varying rates of return. The overall return objective for the portfolio is a reasonable rate consistent with the risk levels established by the Company’s Benefits Committee. The investments are to be diversified within asset classes (e.g., equities should be diversified by economic sector, industry, quality and size).
The long-term target asset allocation for the investment portfolio at September 28, 2013 is divided into five asset classes as follows:
Asset Classes		Maximum %				Minimum %			Target %
Equities			80	%			40	%		60	%
Fixed Income			40	%			20	%		25	%
Alternative Investments			20	%			0	%		12.5	%
Real Assets			10	%			0	%		2.5	%
Cash Equivalents			30	%			0	%		0	%
The equity segment is further diversified by exposure to domestic and international, small and large capitalization, and growth and value stocks. The fixed income segment is subject to quality and duration targets, and is invested in core fixed income and high yield sectors. The purpose of using alternative investments is to reduce the volatility of the overall portfolio and to provide an alternative source of return from that of the domestic capital markets. Alternative investment strategies are defined as investment programs that offer the portfolios access to strategies that have low relative correlation to the domestic equity and fixed income markets. They may include alternative asset classes such as real estate, venture or private capital as well as a variety of investment strategies using marketable securities that seek to generate absolute positive returns regardless of the direction of the capital markets. The purpose of the real asset segment is to provide a level of protection against inflation as well as capitalize on rising commodity prices. Real assets represent investments in items that have intrinsic value because they are consumable or used in production, such as commodities, real estate, infrastructure, precious metals and global natural resources. The percentage of total assets allocated to cash equivalents should be sufficient to assure liquidity to meet disbursements and general operational expenses. Cash equivalents may also be used as an alternative to other investments when the investment manager believes that other asset classes carry higher than normal risk.
The credit and liquidity crisis in the United States and throughout the global financial system triggered substantial volatility in the world financial markets and banking system. As a result, the investment portfolio of the Unified Cash Balance Plan incurred a significant decline in fair value during fiscal 2008. The value of the plan’s investment portfolio increased during fiscal 2009 and 2010, declined in fiscal 2011, and increased in fiscal 2012 and 2013. The values of the Unified Cash Balance Plan’s individual investments have and will fluctuate in response to changing market conditions, and the amount of gains or losses that will be recognized in subsequent periods, if any, cannot be determined.
The value of each plan’s investments has a direct impact on its funded status. The actual impact, if any, and future required contributions cannot be determined at this time.
The Unified Cash Balance Plan’s investments are recorded at fair value in accordance with ASC Topic 820. See Note 1, “Basis of Presentation and Summary of Significant Accounting Policies” and Note 16, “Fair Value of Financial Instruments” for further discussion of ASC Topic 820.
The Company, as the Unified Cash Balance Plan sponsor, determines the classification of financial asset groups within the fair value hierarchy based on the lowest level of input that is significant into each group’s asset valuation.
Equities (comprised of common and preferred stocks and mutual funds) are valued at their fair value and are determined by the quoted market price on the last business day of the fiscal year.
Cash equivalents are valued at cost, which approximates fair value. Cash equivalents include cash in bank and short-term investment funds. Interest income on short-term investment funds is recorded on an accrual basis as earned.
The Unified Cash Balance Plan’s alternative investments, which include limited partnership funds and closely held investments, are valued at their estimated fair value. Estimated fair value is based on the Unified Cash Balance Plan’s pro-rata share of the investment’s net asset value as reported by the investee. The investee’s strategies include maximization of returns for investors through investment in public and non-public securities with a goal of identifying mis-priced and value-priced securities.
The Unified Cash Balance Plan currently holds five limited partnership fund investments with funding commitments extending through 2016. One fund was started in 2008, and the remainder commenced in 2011. The Unified Cash Balance Plan’s remaining unfunded commitments to limited partnership fund investments as of September 28, 2013 was $5.4 million out of total original commitments of $10.5 million. While shares in the limited partnership fund investments are not redeemable, the Company expects to recover the Unified Cash Balance Plan’s investments in the limited partnership funds through investee distributions as the investee liquidates the underlying assets. The limited partnership fund investments have maturity dates through 2023.
The Unified Cash Balance Plan may redeem shares in its other closely held investments by submitting a request, generally 30 to 90 days prior to a period-end. There are no unfunded commitments for the other closely held investments.
The following table represents the Unified Cash Balance Plan’s financial instruments recorded at fair value and the hierarchy of those assets as of September 28, 2013:
(dollars in thousands)
		Level 1				Level 2			Level 3			Total
Equities (including mutual funds):
Investment grade bonds		$	43,742			$	—		$	—		$	43,742
Growth—foreign			19,911				—			—			19,911
Growth—large cap			13,199				—			—			13,199
Communication & technology			16,612				—			—			16,612
Retail & industrial goods			21,682				—			—			21,682
Financial & insurance			12,437				—			—			12,437
Emerging markets			9,219				—			—			9,219
Utilities, energy & extractive industries			8,062				—			—			8,062
Medical & pharmaceutical			10,712				—			—			10,712
Other			6,590				—			—			6,590
Total equities			162,166				—			—			162,166
Cash equivalents			2,649				—			—			2,649
Alternative investments			—				—			37,893			37,893
Total		$	164,815			$	—		$	37,893		$	202,708
The table below sets forth a summary of changes in the fair value of the Unified Cash Balance Plan’s level 3 assets for the year ended September 28, 2013:
(dollars in thousands)
		Total
		Alternative
		Investments
Estimated fair value, beginning of year		$	33,771
Purchases			6,273
Net investment gain			3,647
Distributions			(5,798	)
Estimated fair value, end of year		$	37,893
The following table represents the Unified Cash Balance Plan’s financial instruments recorded at fair value and the hierarchy of those assets as of September 29, 2012:
(dollars in thousands)
		Level 1				Level 2			Level 3			Total
Equities (including mutual funds):
Investment grade bonds		$	43,521			$	—		$	—		$	43,521
Growth – foreign			18,544				—			—			18,544
Growth – large cap			10,993				—			—			10,993
Communication & technology			14,725				—			—			14,725
Retail & industrial goods			13,612				—			—			13,612
Financial & insurance			9,905				—			—			9,905
Emerging markets			9,151				—			—			9,151
Utilities, energy & extractive industries			7,699				—			—			7,699
Medical & pharmaceutical			8,810				—			—			8,810
Other			5,994				—			—			5,994
Total equities			142,954				—			—			142,954
Cash equivalents			2,190				—			—			2,190
Alternative investments			—				—			33,771			33,771
Total		$	145,144			$	—		$	33,771		$	178,915
The table below sets forth a summary of changes in the fair value of the Unified Cash Balance Plan’s level 3 assets for the year ended September 29, 2012:
(dollars in thousands)
		Total
		Alternative
		Investments
Estimated fair value, beginning of year		$	20,471
Purchases			14,482
Net investment gain			745
Distributions			(1,927	)
Estimated fair value, end of year		$	33,771
Contributions
Unified Cash Balance Plan and ESPPIII
Contributions to the Unified Cash Balance Plan are made in amounts that are at least sufficient to meet the minimum funding requirements of applicable laws and regulations, but no more than amounts deductible for federal income tax purposes. During fiscal 2013, the Company made contributions to the Unified Cash Balance Plan totaling $7.3 million, comprised of $3.6 million and $3.7 million for the 2013 plan year and 2012 plan year, respectively. In addition, the Company also contributed $3.1 million in fiscal 2013 to the ESPPIII to fund benefit payments to participants. At this time, the Company expects to make estimated minimum contributions to the Unified Cash Balance Plan totaling $11.3 million in fiscal 2014, comprised of $4.8 million for the 2014 plan year and $6.5 million for the 2013 plan year. Additional contributions, if any, for the 2013 plan year will be due by September 15, 2014, while contributions for the 2014 plan year will be due by September 15, 2015. In addition, the Company expects to contribute $3.4 million to the ESPPIII to fund projected benefit payments to participants in fiscal 2014.
During July 2012, legislation to provide pension funding relief was enacted as part of the 2012 student loan and transportation legislation titled “Moving Ahead for Progress in the 21st Century” (“MAP-21”). Funding relief is to be achieved through changes in the methodology employed to determine interest rates used to calculate required funding contributions. The funding relief applies to Employee Retirement Income Security Act (“ERISA”) single-employer plans that base pension liability calculations on interest rates determined pursuant to the Pension Protection Act of 2006. As a result of MAP-21, we were able to reduce our fiscal year 2013 contributions to the Unified Cash Balance Plan by $7.9 million from our originally estimated amounts, and we reduced our contributions for fiscal year 2012 by $2.0 million.
Multiemployer Pension Plans
The Company also contributes to a number of multiemployer defined benefit pension plans that provide defined benefit payments for retired employees under terms of the Company’s collective bargaining agreements (“Union Participants”). These multiemployer plans generally provide retirement benefits to Union Participants based on their service to contributing employers. The plans’ benefits are paid from assets held in trusts for this purpose and are administered by trustees that are appointed by participating employers and union parties.
The risks of participating in these multiemployer plans are different from the risks associated with single-employer plans in the following respects:
	·		Assets contributed to the multiemployer 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 may be borne by the remaining participating companies.
	·		If the Company stops participating in some or all of its multiemployer plans, and continues in business, the Company could be required to pay an amount, referred to as a withdrawal liability, based on the funded status of the plan. The Company has no intention of stopping its participation in any multiemployer plans.
The Company made contributions of $13.5 million, $13.8 million and $14.9 million for the fiscal years ended September 28, 2013, September 29, 2012 and October 1, 2011, respectively, to its participating multiemployer plans. The following table provides information regarding the Company’s participation in these multiemployer plans. The table provides the following information:
	·		The EIN/Pension Plan Number column provides the Employee Identification Number (“EIN”) and the three-digit plan number, if applicable.
	·		Unless otherwise noted, the most recent Pension Protection Act (“PPA”) zone status available in 2013 and 2012 relates to the plans’ two most recent fiscal year-ends. The zone status is based on information that the Company received from the plan and is certified by each plan’s actuary. Among other factors, red zone status plans are generally less than 65 percent funded and are considered in critical status, plans in yellow zone or orange zone status are less than 80 percent funded and are considered endangered or seriously endangered status, and green zone plans are at least 80 percent funded.
	·		For plans that are in the red zone, it is indicated whether a Rehabilitation Plan (“RP”) is either pending or has been implemented by the trustees of each plan. Since none of the Company’s plans are considered to be in endangered (yellow zone) or seriously endangered (orange zone) status, disclosure of whether a Financial Improvement Plan (“FIP”) is either pending or has been implemented is not applicable and therefore is omitted from the table.
	·		The table also includes the current expiration date(s) for the collective bargaining agreement(s) under which the plans are associated and contributions to the plans for the last three years.
(dollars in thousands)
		EIN		Plan				PPA Zone Status			RP Status	Range of		Contributions(d)
				Month/Day							Pending/	Agreement
				End Date							Implemented	Expiration
Pension Fund								2013	2012			Dates		2013(e)				2012				2011
Western Conference of Teamsters Pension Trust		916145047			30-Nov			Green	Green		No	7/12/14 –		$	12,520			$	12,848			$	13,908
		-1										4/23/16(c)
Bakery & Confectionery Union and Industry International Pension Fund(b)		526118572			31-Jul			Red	Red		Implemented	7/6/13			743				629				656
		-1
Washington Meat Industry Pension Trust(b)		916134141			31-May			Red	Red		Implemented	9/27/14			74				78				78
		-1
Other plans(a)															219				249				265
Total														$	13,556			$	13,804			$	14,907
(a)		Other plans consist of two plans (each with a PPA zone status of green) that have been aggregated in the foregoing table, as the contributions to each of these plans are not individually material.
(b)		The Company is subject to critical status surcharge contributions that are imposed for plans that are in the red zone.
(c)		The Company has 15 collective bargaining agreements participating in the Western Conference of Teamsters Pension Trust. Approximately 69% of the participants covered by this plan are subject to collective bargaining agreements that expire on September 19, 2015.
(d)		None of the Company’s collective bargaining agreements require that a minimum contribution be made to these plans. None of the Company’s contributions exceed 5% of the total contributions to any of the plans.
(e)		The decrease in contributions from fiscal 2012 to fiscal 2013 is due to reduction in headcount at various locations.
Defined Contribution Retirement Plans
Supplemental Executive Retirement Plan
Effective June 1, 2013, the Company implemented a supplemental retirement plan for a “select group of management or highly compensated employees that are at the Vice President level and above” of the Company under the Unified Grocers, Inc. Supplemental Executive Retirement Plan (the “SERP”). This plan was established to replace the ESPPIII, which has been frozen. The SERP provides participating officers with supplemental retirement income in addition to the benefits provided under the Company’s Cash Balance and 401(k) plans.
The SERP is a non-qualified defined contribution type plan under which benefits are derived based on a notional account balance to be funded by the Company for each participating officer. The account balance will be credited each year with a Company contribution based on the officer’s compensation, calculated as base salary plus bonus, earned during a fiscal year and the officer’s executive level at the end of the fiscal year. Plan participants may select from a variety of investment options (referred to as “Measurement Funds” in the plan document) concerning how the contributions are hypothetically invested, similar to the Company’s non-qualified deferred compensation plan. Assets of the SERP (i.e., the participants’ account balances) will not be physically invested in the investments selected by the participants; rather, the Measurement Funds are utilized “for the purpose of debiting or crediting additional amounts” to each participant’s account.
Upon termination of employment or death, the participant’s vested account balance will be payable over a period of from 5 to 15 years, or immediately following a change in control, as elected by the participant upon entry into the SERP. Vesting is based on years of service as an officer at the rate of 20% per year. After 5 years of service as an officer or following a change in control, the account will be 100% vested. An account may be forfeited in the event a participant is terminated for cause or engages in activity in competition with the Company. For those participants active in the ESPPIII at September 29, 2012 who were selected to participate in the SERP, they will receive one year of vesting credit for each year of service credited in the ESPPIII plus an additional eight months for the period from September 30, 2012 to June 1, 2013.
The SERP is accounted for pursuant to FASB ASC section 715-70, Compensation – Retirement Benefits – Defined Contribution Plans (“ASC 715-70”). The SERP qualifies as a defined contribution plan, whereby participants are credited with a contribution to an account and will receive, upon separation, a benefit based upon the vested amount accrued in their account, which includes the Company’s contributions plus or minus the increase or decrease in the fair market value of the hypothetical investments (Measurement Funds) selected by the participant. ASC 715-70 requires companies to record, on a periodic basis, that portion of a company’s contribution earned during the period by the participants (the “Expense”). The Company will accrue the Expense under the assumption that all participants in the SERP will achieve full vesting (five years of service). As of September 28, 2013, the Company accrued $0.8 million in related benefit cost recorded in long-term liabilities, other in the Company’s consolidated balance sheets.
Sheltered Savings Plan
The Company has a Sheltered Savings Plan (“SSP”), which is a defined contribution plan, adopted pursuant to Section 401(k) of the Internal Revenue Code for substantially all of its nonunion employees. The Company matches, after an employee’s one year of service, each dollar deferred up to 4% of compensation and, at its discretion, matches 40% of amounts deferred between 4% and 8%. At the end of each plan year, the Company may also contribute an amount equal to 2% of the compensation of those participants employed at that date. Participants are immediately 100% vested in the Company’s contribution.
The Company contributed approximately $5.1 million, $5.3 million and $5.2 million related to its SSP in the fiscal years ended September 28, 2013, September 29, 2012 and October 1, 2011, respectively.
Deferred Compensation Plan II
The Company has a nonqualified Deferred Compensation Plan (“DCPII”), which allows eligible employees to defer and contribute to an account a percentage of compensation on a pre-tax basis, as defined in the plan, in excess of amounts contributed to the SSP pursuant to IRS limitations, the value of which is measured by the fair value of the underlying investments. The Company informally funds its deferred compensation liability with assets held in a rabbi trust consisting of life insurance policies reported at cash surrender value and mutual fund assets consisting of various publicly-traded mutual funds reported at estimated fair value based on quoted market prices. The assets held in the rabbi trust are not available for general corporate purposes. Participants can direct the investment of their deferred compensation plan accounts in several investment funds as permitted by the DCPII. Gains or losses on investments are fully allocable to the plan participants. The cash surrender value of life insurance policies and mutual funds reported at their estimated fair value are included in other assets in the Company’s consolidated balance sheets because they remain assets of the Company until paid out to the participants. The cash surrender value of the life insurance policies was $12.3 million and $14.5 million at September 28, 2013 and September 29, 2012, respectively. The estimated fair value of the mutual funds was $0.6 million and $0.3 at September 28, 2013 and September 29, 2012, respectively. The liability to participants ($12.2 million and $14.9 million at September 28, 2013 and September 29, 2012, respectively) is included in long-term liabilities, other in the Company’s consolidated balance sheets. The rabbi trust is subject to creditor claims in the event of insolvency.
Employee Savings Plan
The Company has an Employee Savings Plan, which is a defined contribution plan, adopted pursuant to Section 401(k) of the Internal Revenue Code for substantially all of its union employees. The Company does not match any employee deferrals into the plan, and therefore, there is no related vesting schedule. No expense was incurred in the periods presented.
Other Benefit Plans
Long-Term Incentive Plan
Effective June 1, 2013, the Company implemented the Unified Grocers, Inc. Long-Term Incentive Plan (“LTIP”) to align, motivate and reward executives for their contributions to the long-term financial success and growth of the Company. This long-term plan, in conjunction with the short-term focus of the Company’s annual bonus plan, is designed to link long-term value creation for the Company’s member shareholders with the short-term annual performance by the Company. The LTIP also serves as an additional component to a competitive total compensation package designed to attract and retain talented executives.
The LTIP is offered to a select group of officers of the Company, Vice-President and higher (the “Participants”), and participation may be further constrained or increased at the discretion of the Company’s Compensation Committee. Participants are awarded with a certain number of Appreciation Units (defined below) on an annual basis (the “Award”); however, an Award in one year does not ensure that a Participant will receive an Award in subsequent years. Each Award participates in a four-year cycle (“Performance Cycle”), which is based on consecutive fiscal years of the Company, and the amount paid to a Participant, if any, is determined at the end of the Award’s Performance Cycle and is payable prior to December 31st of the year in which the Performance Cycle ends. In fiscal 2013, LTIP Awards were offered to certain officers of the position of Vice-President or higher. The Participant’s Award is vested based on the Participant’s continuous employment with the Company during the Award’s Performance Cycle.
An “Appreciation Unit” refers to a notional unit that grants Participants the contractual right to receive the positive difference, if any, between the Maturity Value of the unit on its Maturity Date and the Base Value (capitalized terms defined below) assigned to the unit at the beginning of the Performance Cycle. The Maturity Date is the date on which a Participant’s vested Appreciation Unit is deemed to mature, which is the earlier of (a) the last day of the Performance Cycle or (b) a change in control of the Company. The Base Value is equal to the Exchange Value Per Share, as calculated from the Company’s financial statements (see Part I, Item 1. “Business – Capital Shares” for additional information), for the fiscal year ending immediately prior to the Performance Cycle. The Maturity Value is equal to the Exchange Value Per Share plus Cumulative Co-op Patronage Dividends (defined below), plus Cumulative Cash Dividends (the total of cash dividends paid, excluding patronage dividends, as reported in the Company’s fiscal year-end financial statements), plus Cumulative Non-allocated Retained Earnings (defined below), as calculated from the Company’s financial statements for the Performance Cycle assigned to the Appreciation Unit. The difference is then multiplied by the number of vested Appreciation Units awarded for the Performance Cycle that remain outstanding on the Maturity Date. Cumulative Co-op Patronage Dividends are the sum of the Cooperative Division’s patronage earnings divided by the number of Class A and B Shares used in the calculation of the Exchange Value Per Share for each year in the Performance Cycle. Cumulative Co-op Patronage Dividends do not include Dairy Division patronage dividend amounts. The Cumulative Non-allocated Retained Earnings amount is the sum of the total increase or decrease in non-allocated retained earnings for a fiscal year divided by the number of Class A and B Shares used in the calculation of the Exchange Value Per Share for each year in the Performance Cycle.
Based on the Company’s calculations relative to the 2013 Performance Cycle, the Company determined there was no LTIP compensation expense for the 2013 Performance Cycle to be recorded in fiscal 2013.
Estimated Future Benefit Payments
The following benefit payments, which reflect expected future service, as appropriate, are expected to be paid in fiscal years:
(dollars in thousands)
		Unified Cash				ESPPIII
		Balance Plan
2014		$	10,301			$	3,427
2015			11,047				4,508
2016			11,845				4,283
2017			12,668				4,860
2018			13,378				4,268
2019 – 2023			77,803				23,890
Total		$	137,042			$	45,236

Postretirement_Benefit_Plans_O

Postretirement Benefit Plans Other Than Pensions	12 Months Ended
	Sep. 28, 2013
Postretirement Benefit Plans Other Than Pensions	'
	12.    Postretirement Benefit Plans Other Than Pensions
	The Company sponsors the following postretirement benefit plans:
	Retiree Medical Plan
	We sponsor a postretirement benefit plan that provides certain medical coverage to retired non-union employees who are eligible to participate in the Unified Grocers, Inc. Retiree Medical Plan (the “RMP”). The RMP is contributory for non-union employees retiring after January 1, 1990, with the retiree contributions adjusted annually. This plan is not funded.
	In December 2012, we amended the RMP to modify the eligibility requirements for the RMP. Effective as of the end of the first quarter of fiscal 2013, only employees of Unified who have reached 49 years of age with at least 15 years of continuous service with us as of the end of the first quarter of fiscal 2013 will remain eligible to participate in the RMP. To receive benefits under the RMP, those employees who remain eligible must remain in continuous service with us through their retirement following the attainment of at least 55 years of age.
	Officer Retirement Medical Plan
	Officers who are at least 55 years of age and have seven years of service with us as an officer are eligible to participate in the Officer Retirement Medical Plan (the “ORMP”), which includes our Executive Medical Reimbursement Plan (the “EMRP”), following termination of employment. Pursuant to the EMRP, officers will be eligible for payment by the insurance plan of the portion of eligible expenses not covered under the Company’s health insurance plan.
	Benefits under the ORMP are the same as under the RMP offered to non-union employees but with no annual premium caps, plus dental and vision benefits, continuation of the EMRP during retirement and extension of benefits for eligible dependents following the officer’s death. Active officers will continue to be obligated to pay the regular premium for the Company health insurance plan they have selected. During retirement, officers are required to pay 25% of the ORMP premium to maintain coverage. Effective December 31, 2012, the eligibility provisions of the ORMP were frozen effective September 30, 2012; accordingly, no employee that is either hired or becomes an officer on or after such date can become a participant or recommence participation in the ORMP.
	Executive Insurance Plan
	We provide for the cost of life insurance on behalf of current and qualifying former officers of Unified through a split-dollar Executive Insurance Plan (the “EIP”) arrangement. As discussed below, this plan was amended in December 2012 to close the plan to new entrants as of September 30, 2012. Accordingly, no employee that is either hired or becomes an officer on or after such date can become a participant or recommence participation in the EIP. This plan is not funded.
	In May 2013, the EIP was amended and restated effective as of June 1, 2013. The EIP previously provided a life insurance benefit under the current whole life insurance policy for covered, active officers of three times their annual salary. For officers who were active on or after June 1, 2013, the EIP, as amended, provides a life insurance benefit of one and one-half times their annual salary up to $1.2 million (reducing to 50% of the original amount at age 70) through group term life insurance. The group term life insurance coverage terminates upon retirement. For active officers who were covered by the EIP as of the beginning of fiscal 2013, the EIP, as amended, also provides an additional fixed life insurance benefit amount, payable upon the participant’s death to their designated beneficiaries, based on such participant’s position with the Company as of June 1, 2013 as follows: $1,000,000 for the chief executive officer, $500,000 for executive vice president, $400,000 for senior vice presidents and $300,000 for vice presidents. Such fixed life insurance benefit amounts will not be adjusted for future promotions or increases in salary. Eligible participants who were covered by the whole life insurance policy and retired prior to June 1, 2013 are unaffected by the amendment and are covered under the prior formula of one and one-half times their annual salary in their final year of employment.
	The Company concluded that the modifications to the EIP did not warrant remeasurement of the EIP during the third quarter of fiscal year 2013. The EIP was remeasured as part of the Company’s year-end actuarial valuation, and the resulting adjustments to the accumulated postretirement benefit obligation reduced our long-term liability associated with the EIP by $1.7 million, which was offset by an increase in other comprehensive earnings of $1.1 million (net of income tax of $0.6 million) as of the fiscal year ended September 28, 2013.
	Life Plan
	A certain group of retired non-union employees currently participate in a plan providing life insurance benefits for which active non-union employees are no longer eligible. This life insurance plan is noncontributory and is not funded.
	Sick Leave Non-Union and Union Plans
	Certain eligible union and non-union employees have separate plans providing a lump-sum payout for unused days in the sick leave bank. The sick leave payout plans are noncontributory and are not funded.
	Plan Amendments
	In December 2012, the Company amended several of its employee benefit plans. The Company amended the EIP and the ORMP to close the plans to new entrants as of September 30, 2012. Accordingly, no employee that is either hired or becomes an officer on or after such date can become a participant or recommence participation in either plan. The Company also amended the ESPPIII for executive officers to close the eligibility provisions of the ESPPIII to new entrants as of September 30, 2012 (the “Freeze Date”); accordingly, no employee that is either hired or becomes an officer on or after the Freeze Date can become a participant or recommence participation in the ESPPIII. Additionally, benefit accruals under the ESPPIII were frozen for officers who have already attained a 65% gross benefit accrual (generally attained after fifteen (15) or more years of service under the ESPPIII) as of September 30, 2012; accordingly, no such officers will accrue further gross benefits under the ESPPIII after the Freeze Date. For officers participating in the ESPPIII as of the Freeze Date who had less than a 65% gross benefit accrual, such officers will continue to accrue gross benefits under the ESPPIII until they reach a 65% gross benefit accrual. Lastly, in connection with freezing the benefit accrual under the ESPPIII, a participant’s gross accrued benefit will not consider any compensation earned by the participant after the Freeze Date, which effectively freezes the final pay and final average pay formulas under the plan at the September 30, 2012 levels.
	In December 2012, the Company also amended the RMP to modify the eligibility requirements for the RMP. Effective as of the end of the first quarter of fiscal 2013, only employees of the Company who have reached 49 years of age with at least 15 years of continuous service with Unified as of the end of the first quarter of fiscal 2013 will remain eligible to participate in the RMP. To receive benefits under the RMP, those employees who remain eligible must remain in continuous service with Unified through their retirement following the attainment of at least 55 years of age.
	As a result of the foregoing benefit plan amendments, the Company remeasured the projected pension and accumulated postretirement benefit obligations associated with the respective plans as of the end of the first quarter of fiscal 2013. Such remeasurement resulted in a $29.7 million reduction in the Company’s long-term liabilities associated with the foregoing plans. These reductions were offset by an increase in other comprehensive earnings of $17.5 million (net of income tax of $9.5 million) and the recognition of a one-time curtailment gain of $2.7 million, related to the RMP, which is recorded in addition to the net periodic postretirement benefit cost in the Company’s accompanying consolidated statements of (loss) earnings.
	The components of net periodic benefit cost consist of the following (for all postretirement benefit plans described above, not including the ESPPIII, which is disclosed in Note 11, “Benefit Plans”):
	(dollars in thousands)	Fiscal Years Ended
		September 28,			September 29,			October 1,
		2013			2012			2011
	Service cost	$	546		$	1,522		$	2,073
	Interest cost		1,631			2,520			2,943
	Amortization of prior service credit		(6,642	)		(986	)		(472	)
	Recognized actuarial loss/(gain)		1,037			(307	)		141
	Benefit cost recognition in excess of APBO/AOCI previously recorded		—			—			4,553
	One-time curtailment gain		(2,685	)		—			—
	Net periodic benefit cost	$	(6,113	)	$	2,749		$	9,238
	The change in the benefit obligations consists of the following:
	(dollars in thousands)
		September 28,			September 29,
		2013			2012
	Benefit obligation at beginning of year	$	63,361		$	51,914
	Service cost		546			1,522
	Interest cost		1,631			2,520
	Plan amendments		(25,701	)		—
	Actuarial (gain) loss(a)		(3,443	)		9,222
	Benefits paid		(1,950	)		(1,817	)
	Benefit obligation at end of year	$	34,444		$	63,361
	(a)	The actuarial gain in fiscal 2013 for the postretirement benefit plans includes gains of approximately $1.6 million resulting from updated demographics and other miscellaneous changes, $1.0 million due to updated claims and trend for the Retiree Medical Plan and $0.8 million due to the change in the discount rate (from 4.00% to 4.25%).
	The change in the plan assets during the year is:
	(dollars in thousands)
		September 28,			September 29,
		2013			2012
	Fair value of plan assets at beginning of year	$	—		$	—
	Employer contribution		1,950			1,817
	Benefits paid		(1,950	)		(1,817	)
	Fair value of plan assets at end of year	$	—		$	—
	The funded status of the plans is:
	(dollars in thousands)
		September 28,			September 29,
		2013			2012
	Funded status at September 30, 2013 and 2012 (under-funded)	$	(34,444	)	$	(63,361	)
	Net amount recognized	$	(34,444	)	$	(63,361	)
	Total accrued benefit costs of $34.4 million and $63.4 million at September 28, 2013 and September 29, 2012, respectively, are included in the consolidated balance sheets as follows: $30.6 million and $59.4 million are included in long-term liabilities, other and $3.8 million and $4.0 million are included in accrued liabilities at September 28, 2013 and September 29, 2012, respectively.
	The following table reconciles the change in net periodic benefit cost, plan assets, benefit obligation and accumulated other comprehensive (income) loss (and components thereof) for the Company’s postretirement benefit plans:
	(dollars in thousands)
	Postretirement Benefit Plans																Accumulated Other
																	Comprehensive
																	Income
Components
September 28, 2013	Annual			Retained			Plan			Benefit			Accumulated			Deferred			Deferred
	Cost			Earnings			Assets			Obligation			Other			Prior			Actuarial
													Comprehensive			Service			(Gains)/
													(Income)/Loss			(Credit)/			Losses
																Cost
Beginning balance		—		$	3,260		$	—		$	(63,361	)	$	(4,583	)	$	(4,180	)	$	(403	)
Service cost	$	546			—			—			(546	)		—			—			—
Interest cost		1,631			—			—			(1,631	)		—			—			—
Basic annual cost		2,177						—			—			—			—			—
Contributions		—			—			1,950			—			—			—			—
Benefits paid		—			—			(1,950	)		1,950			—			—			—
Deferrals
Plan amendments		—			—			—			25,701			(25,701	)		(25,701	)		—
Unrecognized actuarial (gain)/loss		—			—			—			3,443			(3,443	)		—			(3,443	)
Amortization
Prior service credit		(6,642	)		—			—			—			6,642			6,642			—
Recognized actuarial loss/(gain)		1,037			—			—			—			(1,037	)		—			(1,037	)
One-time curtailment gain		(2,685	)		—			—			—			2,685			2,685			—
Ending balance	$	(6,113	)	$	3,260		$	—		$	(34,444	)	$	(25,437	)	$	(20,554	)	$	(4,883	)
The Company’s fiscal 2013 postretirement expense includes an approximate $5.6 million credit for its postretirement benefit plans as a result of amortizing prior service credits of $6.6 million and actuarial losses of $1.0 million from accumulated other comprehensive income into postretirement expense over the 2013 fiscal year. In addition, fiscal 2013 postretirement expense includes the recognition of a one-time curtailment gain of $2.7 million from accumulated other comprehensive income into postretirement expense as a result of the RMP plan amendment.
The Company’s projected fiscal 2014 postretirement expense includes an approximate $8.0 million credit for its postretirement benefit plans which is expected to be recognized as a result of amortizing projected prior service credits of $8.6 million and a projected actuarial loss of $0.6 million from accumulated other comprehensive income into postretirement expense over the 2014 fiscal year.
Benefit payments, including those amounts to be paid out of corporate assets and reflecting future expected service as appropriate, are expected to be paid in fiscal years:
(dollars in thousands)
	Postretirement Benefit
	Plans
2014	$	3,807
2015		2,376
2016		2,370
2017		2,401
2018		2,253
2019 – 2023		10,341
Total	$	23,548
The weighted-average assumptions as of September 30, 2013, 2012 and 2011 are as follows:
	Postretirement Benefit
	Plans
	2013			2012			2011
Benefit obligations:
Discount rate for benefit obligation(a)		4.25	%		4	%		5	%
Rate of compensation increase(b)		3	%		3	%		2.75	%
Net periodic benefit cost:
Discount rate for net periodic benefit cost(c)		4	%		5	%		5.25	%
Rate of compensation increase(d)		3	%		2.75	%		3	%
(a)	The discount rate for the Officer Retirement Medical Plan is 4.25%, 4.00% and 5.25% for fiscal 2013, 2012 and 2011, respectively.
(b)	The rate of compensation increase for the fiscal 2013 and fiscal 2012 split-dollar Executive Insurance Plan is 0% and 2.25%, respectively.
(c)	The discount rate for the Officer Retirement Medical Plan is 4.00%, 5.25% and 5.50% for fiscal 2013, 2012 and 2011, respectively. The discount rate of 4.00% was the rate at the beginning of the fiscal year. A remeasurement occurred as of December 31, 2012 for the RMP and ORMP using a discount rate of 3.50% and 3.75% respectively.
(d)	The rate of compensation increase for the fiscal 2013 split-dollar Executive Insurance Plan is 2.25%.
For measurement purposes, the following table sets forth the assumed health care trend rates:
	September 28,			September 29,
	2013			2012
Pre-age 65 health care cost trend rate assumed for 2013 and 2012(a)		7.5	%		8	%
Pre-age 65 rate to which the cost trend rate is assumed to decline (the ultimate trend rate)(b)		5	%		5	%
Pre-age 65 year that the rate reaches the ultimate trend rate		2021			2018
Post-age 65 health care cost trend rate assumed for 2013 and 2012(a)		5	%		8	%
Post-age 65 rate to which the cost trend rate is assumed to decline (the ultimate trend rate)(c)		4.75	%		5	%
Post-age 65 year that the rate reaches the ultimate trend rate		2020			2018
(a)	The annual rate of increase in the per capita cost of covered health care benefits.
(b)	The valuation trend assumption was projected as follows: A rate of 7.50% in 2013, 8.00% in 2014 and 2015, 7.50% in 2016, 7.00% in 2017, 6.50% in 2018, 6.00% in 2019, 5.50% in 2020 and 5.00% in 2021 and beyond. The initial trend rate reflects the Company’s recent cost experience, healthcare cost survey data, Patient Protection and Affordable Care Act fee estimates, and the Company’s expected insurance market cost increases over the next year. The ultimate rate was set to reflect general inflation plus added medical inflation. The grading period is an estimate of the length of time it will take for health care costs to become more stable as a percentage of the Gross Domestic Product.
(c)	The valuation trend assumption was projected as follows: 5.00% in 2013, 5.50% in 2014 and 2015, 5.25% in 2016 and 2017, 5.00% in 2018 and 2019, and 4.75% in 2020 and beyond. The initial trend rate reflects recent experience in the individual Medicare supplement market. The ultimate rate was set to reflect general inflation plus added medical inflation for Medicare supplemental coverage.
Assumed health care cost trend rates have a significant effect on the amounts reported for the health care plans. A one-percentage-point change in assumed health care cost trend rates for the RMP and ORMP would have the following effects as of September 28, 2013:
(dollars in thousands)
	1-Percentage-Point Increase			1-Percentage-Point Decrease
Effect on total of service and interest cost	$	98		$	(98	)
Effect on accumulated postretirement benefit obligation	$	1,131		$	(1,008	)
The Company’s union employees participate in a multi-employer plan that provides health care benefits for retired union employees. Amounts contributed to the multi-employer plan for these union employees totaled $5.4 million in fiscal 2013, $5.3 million in fiscal 2012 and $5.2 million in fiscal 2011. Information from the plans’ administrators is not available to permit the Company to determine its proportionate share of termination liability, if any.
Patient Protection and Affordable Care Act
During fiscal year 2010, comprehensive health care reform legislation under the Patient Protection and Affordable Care Act (HR 3590) and the Health Care Education and Affordability Reconciliation Act (HR 4872) (collectively, the “Acts”) was passed and signed into law. The Acts contain provisions that could impact the Company’s accounting for retiree medical benefits in future periods. However, the extent of that impact, if any, cannot be determined until regulations are promulgated under the Acts and additional interpretations of the Acts become available. Elements of the Acts, the impact of which are currently not determinable, include the elimination of lifetime limits on retiree medical coverage and reduction of the existing insurance coverage gap for prescription drug benefits that are actuarially equivalent to benefits available to retirees under the Medicare Prescription Drug Improvement and Modernization Act of 2003. On June 28, 2012, the U.S. Supreme Court upheld the constitutionality of the Acts; however, provisions in the Acts requiring each state to expand its Medicaid program or lose all federal Medicaid funds were struck down. The U.S. Supreme Court did not invalidate the Acts’ expansion of Medicaid for states that voluntarily participate; it only held that a state’s entire Medicaid funding cannot be withheld due to its failure to participate in the expansion. The Company will continue to assess the accounting implications of the Acts as related regulations and interpretations of the Acts become available. In addition, the Company may consider plan amendments in future periods that may have accounting implications.

Contingencies

Contingencies	12 Months Ended
	Sep. 28, 2013
Contingencies	'
	13.    Contingencies
	The Company is party to various litigation, claims and disputes, some of which are for substantial amounts, arising in the ordinary course of business. While the ultimate effect of such actions cannot be predicted with certainty, the Company believes the outcome of these matters will not result in a material effect on its financial condition or results of operations.

Segment_Reporting

Segment Reporting	12 Months Ended
	Sep. 28, 2013
Segment Reporting	'
	14.    Segment Reporting
	Management identifies segments based on the information monitored by the Company’s chief operating decision maker to manage the business and, accordingly, has the following two reportable segments:
		·		The Wholesale Distribution segment includes the results of operations from the sale of groceries and general merchandise products to both Members and Non-Members, including a broad range of branded and corporate brand products in nearly all the categories found in a typical supermarket, including dry grocery, frozen food, deli, meat, dairy, eggs, produce, bakery, ethnic, gourmet, specialty foods, natural and organic, general merchandise and health and beauty care products. Support services (other than insurance and financing), including merchandising, retail pricing, advertising, promotional planning, retail technology, equipment purchasing and real estate services, are reported in the Wholesale Distribution segment. As of September 28, 2013, the Wholesale Distribution segment represents approximately 99% of the Company’s total net sales and 84% of total assets.
	Non-perishable products consist primarily of dry grocery, frozen food, deli, ethnic, gourmet, specialty foods, natural and organic, general merchandise and health and beauty care products. They also include (1) retail support services and (2) products and shipping services provided to Non-Member customers through Unified International, Inc. Perishable products consist primarily of service deli, service bakery, meat, eggs, produce, bakery, and dairy products. Net sales within the Wholesale Distribution segment include $2.4 billion, $2.6 billion and $2.7 billion, or 66%, 68% and 70% of total Wholesale Distribution segment net sales for fiscal years ended September 28, 2013, September 29, 2012 and October 1, 2011, respectively, attributable to sales of non-perishable products, and $1.2 billion, $1.2 billion and $1.1 billion, or 34%, 32% and 30% of total Wholesale Distribution segment net sales for the fiscal years ended September 28, 2013, September 29, 2012 and October 1, 2011, respectively, attributable to sales of perishable products. Wholesale Distribution segment net sales also include revenues attributable to the Company’s retail support services, which comprise less than 1% of total Wholesale Distribution segment net sales, for each of the foregoing respective periods.
	Transactions involving vendor direct arrangements are comprised principally of sales of produce in the Pacific Northwest and Northern California and sales of branded ice cream in Southern California. “Gross billings,” a financial metric that adds back gross billings through vendor direct arrangements to net sales and is used by management to assess our operating performance, was $3.722 billion, $3.776 billion and $3.832 billion for the fiscal years ended September 28, 2013, September 29, 2012 and October 1, 2011, respectively.
		·		The Insurance segment includes the results of operations for the Company’s three insurance subsidiaries (Unified Grocers Insurance Services, Springfield Insurance Company and Springfield Insurance Company, Limited). These subsidiaries provide insurance and insurance-related products, including workers’ compensation and liability insurance policies, to both the Company and its customers. Unified Grocers Insurance Services is an insurance agency that places business with insurance carriers, both non-affiliated and Springfield Insurance Company. Springfield Insurance Company, Limited is a captive re-insurer for Springfield Insurance Company. Unified Grocers Insurance Services is a licensed insurance agency in Alaska, Arizona, California, Idaho, New Mexico, Nevada, Oregon, Texas, Washington and Utah. Springfield Insurance Company is a licensed insurance carrier in Arizona, California, Colorado, Idaho, Montana, New Mexico, Nevada, Oregon, Texas, Washington, Wyoming and Utah. Springfield Insurance Company, Limited is a licensed insurance carrier in the Commonwealth of Bermuda. As of September 28, 2013, the Company’s Insurance segment collectively accounts for approximately 1% of the Company’s total net sales and 13% of total assets.
	The All Other category includes the results of operations for the Company’s other support businesses, including its wholly-owned finance subsidiary, whose services are provided to a common customer base, none of which individually meets the quantitative thresholds of a reportable segment. As of September 28, 2013, the All Other category collectively accounts for less than 1% of the Company’s total net sales and 3% of total assets.
	Information about the Company’s operating segments is as follows:
	(dollars in thousands)
			Fiscal Years Ended
			September 28,			September 29,			October 1,
			2013			2012			2011
	Net sales
	Wholesale distribution:
	Gross billings		$	3,722,387		$	3,776,173		$	3,832,477
	Less: Gross billings through vendor direct arrangements			(51,142	)		(35,075	)		(48,546	)
	Net sales			3,671,245			3,741,098			3,783,931
	Insurance			30,665			30,404			27,280
	All other			1,356			1,280			1,034
	Intersegment elimination			(11,702	)		(11,585	)		(13,016	)
	Total net sales		$	3,691,564		$	3,761,197		$	3,799,229
	Operating income (loss)
	Wholesale distribution		$	11,761		$	21,318		$	32,587
	Insurance			(7,732	)		3,465			4,791
	All other			445			336			55
	Total operating income			4,474			25,119			37,433
	Interest expense			(12,803	)		(12,572	)		(12,342	)
	Loss on early extinguishment of debt			(9,788	)		—			—
	Patronage dividends			(9,609	)		(10,787	)		(12,431	)
	Income taxes			10,082			193			(5,273	)
	Net earnings		$	(17,644	)	$	1,953		$	7,387
	Depreciation and amortization
	Wholesale distribution		$	25,130		$	25,648		$	22,847
	Insurance			386			375			332
	All other			56			56			60
	Total depreciation and amortization		$	25,572		$	26,079		$	23,239
	Capital expenditures
	Wholesale distribution		$	10,194		$	8,182		$	8,865
	Insurance			224			4,617			75
	All other			—			—			—
	Total capital expenditures		$	10,418		$	12,799		$	8,940
	Identifiable assets at respective year end date
	Wholesale distribution		$	766,322		$	780,446		$	791,554
	Insurance			117,087			115,933			106,272
	All other			29,973			24,596			25,852
	Total identifiable assets at respective fiscal year end date		$	913,382		$	920,975		$	923,678
	The net sales presented within the Company’s Wholesale Distribution segment in the above table for fiscal 2012 and 2011 have been adjusted to conform to ASC 605-45-45 as described in Note 1, “Basis of Presentation and Summary of Significant Accounting Policies”. As a result of such adjustment, Wholesale Distribution segment net sales and total net sales were each reduced by $35.1 million and $48.6 million for fiscal 2012 and 2011, respectively. This adjustment did not have an impact on any other items presented in the preceding table.

Concentration_of_Credit_Risk

Concentration of Credit Risk	12 Months Ended
	Sep. 28, 2013
Concentration of Credit Risk	'
	15.    Concentration of Credit Risk
	Financial instruments which potentially expose the Company to concentrations of credit risk consist primarily of trade receivables, notes receivable, and lease guarantees for certain Members. These concentrations of credit risk may be affected by changes in economic or other conditions affecting the western United States, particularly Arizona, California, Nevada, Oregon and Washington. However, management believes that receivables are well diversified, and the allowances for doubtful accounts are sufficient to absorb estimated losses. However, if the actual uncollected amounts of accounts and notes receivable significantly exceed the estimated allowances, the Company’s operating results would be significantly adversely affected. Obligations of Members to the Company, including lease guarantees, are generally supported by the Company’s right of offset, upon default, against the Members’ cash deposits and shareholdings, as well as personal guarantees and reimbursement and indemnification agreements.
	The Company’s largest customer, Smart & Final, Inc., accounted for 14%, 13% and 13% of total net sales for the fiscal years ended September 28, 2013, September 29, 2012 and October 1, 2011, respectively. The Company’s ten largest customers (including Smart & Final, Inc.) combined accounted for 47%, 46% and 45% of total net sales for the fiscal years ended September 28, 2013, September 29, 2012 and October 1, 2011, respectively.
	The Company’s ten customers with the largest accounts receivable balances accounted for approximately 39% of total accounts receivable at both September 28, 2013 and September 29, 2012.

Fair_Value_of_Financial_Instru

Fair Value of Financial Instruments	12 Months Ended
	Sep. 28, 2013
Fair Value of Financial Instruments	'
	16.    Fair Value of Financial Instruments
	The following methods and assumptions were used to estimate the fair value of each class of financial instruments for which it is practicable to estimate that value:
	Cash and cash equivalents.    The carrying amount approximates fair value due to the short maturity of these instruments.
	Accounts receivable and notes receivable.    The carrying amount of accounts receivable approximates its fair value due to its short-term maturity. The carrying amount of notes receivable approximates its fair value based principally on the underlying interest rates and terms, maturities, collateral and credit status of the receivables and after consideration of recorded allowances.
	As of September 28, 2013, there were indicators of impairment related to certain receivables. The receivables were measured at fair value of assets available to repay the receivables, which approximates carrying value, on a non-recurring basis. The fair value was derived with fair value models utilizing unobservable inputs that fall within Level 3 of the fair value hierarchy. The Company believes that it is more likely than not that it will be able to recover the full amount of the receivables.
	Investments.    Generally, the fair values for investments are readily determinable based on actively traded securities in the marketplace. Investments that are not actively traded are valued based upon inputs including quoted prices for identical or similar assets. Equity securities that do not have readily determinable fair values are accounted for using the cost or equity methods of accounting. The Company regularly evaluates securities carried at cost to determine whether there has been any diminution in value that is deemed to be other than temporary and adjusts the value accordingly.
	The following table represents the Company’s financial instruments recorded at fair value and the hierarchy of those assets as of September 28, 2013:
	(dollars in thousands)
		Level 1		Level 2		Level 3		Total
	Money market funds	$	1,646	$	—	$	—	$	1,646
	Common equity securities		10,524		—		—		10,524
	Mutual funds		15,471		—		—		15,471
	Corporate securities		—		32,558		—		32,558
	Government securities		—		35,553		—		35,553
	Municipal securities		—		254		—		254
	Total	$	27,641	$	68,365	$	—	$	96,006
	The following table represents the Company’s financial instruments recorded at fair value and the hierarchy of those assets as of September 29, 2012:
	(dollars in thousands)
		Level 1		Level 2		Level 3		Total
	Money market funds	$	2,162	$	—	$	—	$	2,162
	Common equity securities		9,148		—		—		9,148
	Mutual funds		13,908		—		—		13,908
	Corporate securities		—		26,371		—		26,371
	Government securities		9,617		30,347		—		39,964
	Municipal securities		—		258		—		258
	Total	$	34,835	$	56,976	$	—	$	91,811
	Money market funds are valued based on quoted prices in active markets (Level 1 inputs) and are included in cash and cash equivalents in the Company’s consolidated balance sheets. Common equity securities and mutual funds are valued by the Company based on information received from a third party. These assets are valued based on quoted prices in active markets (Level 1 inputs). At September 28, 2013 and September 29, 2012, respectively, $10.5 million and $9.1 million of common equity securities are included in investments and $15.5 million and $13.9 million of mutual funds are included in other assets in the Company’s consolidated balance sheets. Corporate securities, consisting of high quality investment grade corporate bonds and exchange traded funds, and government and municipal securities, consisting of obligations of U.S. government corporations and agencies, U.S. government treasury securities and U.S. state and municipal bonds, are held by two of the Company’s insurance subsidiaries to fund loss reserves. These assets are valued by the Company based on information received from a third party pricing service. For assets traded in active markets, the assets are valued at quoted bond market prices (Level 1 inputs). For assets traded in inactive markets, the service’s pricing methodology uses observable inputs (such as bid/ask quotes) for identical or similar assets. Assets considered to be similar will have similar characteristics, such as: duration, volatility, prepayment speed, interest rates, yield curves, and/or risk profile and other market corroborated inputs (Level 2 inputs). The Company determines the classification of financial asset groups within the fair value hierarchy based on the lowest level of input into each group’s asset valuation. The financial instruments included in the preceding tables, other than money market funds, common equity securities and mutual funds discussed above, are included in investments in the Company’s consolidated balance sheets at September 28, 2013 and September 29, 2012.
	The Company did not have any significant transfers into and out of Levels 1 and 2 during fiscal 2013 and 2012.
	Notes payable.    The fair values of borrowings under the Company’s revolving credit facilities are estimated to approximate their carrying amounts due to the short maturities of those obligations. The fair values for other notes payable are based primarily on rates currently available to the Company for debt with similar terms and remaining maturities.
	The fair value of notes payable, excluding capital leases, was $236.2 million and $203.2 million compared to their carrying value of $242.8 million and $200.3 million at September 28, 2013 and September 29, 2012, respectively.
	The methods and assumptions used to estimate the fair values of the Company’s financial instruments at September 28, 2013 and September 29, 2012 were based on estimates of market conditions, estimates using present value and risks existing at that time (Level 3 inputs). These values represent an approximation of possible value and may never actually be realized.

Related_Party_Transactions

Related Party Transactions	12 Months Ended
	Sep. 28, 2013
Related Party Transactions	'
	17.    Related Party Transactions
	Members affiliated with directors of the Company make purchases of merchandise from the Company and also may receive benefits and services that are of the type generally offered by the Company to similarly situated eligible Members.
	Since the programs listed below are only available to Members of the Company, it is not possible to assess whether transactions with Members of the Company, including entities affiliated with directors of the Company, are less favorable to the Company than similar transactions with unrelated third parties. However, management believes such transactions are on terms that are generally consistent with terms available to other Members similarly situated.
	A brief description of related party transactions with Members affiliated with directors of the Company and transactions with executive officers follows.
	Loans to Members
	Unified provides loan financing to its Members. The Company had the following loans outstanding at September 28, 2013 to a Member affiliated with a director of the Company:
	(dollars in thousands)
	Director	Interest			Aggregate		Maturity
		Rate			Loan Balance		Date
	Michael S. Trask		4.25	%	$	265		2018
	Lease Guarantees and Subleases
	The Company provides lease guarantees and subleases to its Members. The Company has executed lease guarantees or subleases to Members affiliated with directors of the Company at September 28, 2013 as follows:
	(dollars in thousands)
	Director	No. of			Total		Total		Expiration
		Stores			Current		Guaranteed		Date(s)
					Annual		Rent
					Rent
	John Berberian		2		$	310	$	1,172		2017-2018
	Mimi Song		2			670		5,605		2020-2023
	Louis Amen		1			159		584		2017
	Supply Agreements
	During the course of its business, the Company enters into individually negotiated supply agreements with its Members. These agreements typically require the Member to purchase certain agreed amounts of its merchandise requirements from the Company and obligate the Company to supply such merchandise under agreed terms and conditions relating to such matters as pricing and delivery. The Company has executed supply agreements with Members affiliated with directors of the Company at September 28, 2013 as follows:
	Director	Expiration
		Date
	Oscar Gonzalez		2015
	Jay T. McCormack		2015
	Mimi Song		2016
	Michael S. Trask		*2018
	*	The supply agreement with Michael S. Trask will expire in the later of April 2018 or one year following payment in full of all loan obligations.
	Loan to Executive Officer
	In December 2000, to facilitate a senior executive’s relocation to Southern California, the Company loaned to this executive, pursuant to a note, $0.1 million with interest of 7.0% per annum payable quarterly and principal due at the option of the holder. During fiscal year 2011, the interest rate was modified prospectively to 3.0%.

Subsequent_Events

Subsequent Events	12 Months Ended
	Sep. 28, 2013
Subsequent Events	'
	18.    Subsequent Events
	On December 11, 2013, the Board authorized the repurchase on or before January 3, 2014 of 1,400 Class A Shares with an approximate redemption value of $0.4 million, 6,509 Class B Shares with an approximate redemption value of $2.0 million and 36,478 Class E Shares with an approximate redemption value of $3.6 million.
	Subsequent events have been evaluated by the Company through the date financial statements were issued.

Schedule_II_Valuation_and_Qual

Schedule II Valuation and Qualifying Accounts	12 Months Ended
	Sep. 28, 2013
Schedule II Valuation and Qualifying Accounts	'
	Schedule II
	Valuation and Qualifying Accounts
	For the Fiscal Years Ended September 28, 2013, September 29, 2012 and October 1, 2011
	(dollars in thousands)
		Balance at		Additions		Write-Offs(a)			Balance
		Beginning		(Reductions)					at end
		of Period		Charged					of
				(Credited) to					Period
				Costs and
				Expense
	Year ended October 1, 2011:
	Reserves and allowances deducted from asset accounts:
	Allowance for uncollectible accounts and notes receivable	$	3,222	$	389	$	(728	)	$	2,883
	Year ended September 29, 2012:
	Reserves and allowances deducted from asset accounts:
	Allowance for uncollectible accounts and notes receivable	$	2,883	$	1,778	$	(854	)	$	3,807
	Year ended September 28, 2013:
	Reserves and allowances deducted from asset accounts:
	Allowance for uncollectible accounts and notes receivable	$	3,807	$	1,268	$	(1,474	)	$	3,601
	(a)	Accounts written off, net of recoveries.

Basis_of_Presentation_and_Summ1

Basis of Presentation and Summary of Significant Accounting Policies (Policies)	12 Months Ended
	Sep. 28, 2013
Principles of Consolidation	'
	Principles of Consolidation.    The consolidated financial statements include the accounts of the Company and all of its subsidiaries required to be consolidated in accordance with accounting principles generally accepted in the United States of America (“U.S. GAAP”) as established by the Financial Accounting Standards Board (“FASB”). The FASB Accounting Standards Codification (“ASC”) is the definitive U.S. GAAP for non-governmental entities in the United States. Intercompany accounts and transactions between the consolidated companies have been eliminated in consolidation.
	Investments in companies in which Unified has significant influence, or ownership between 20% and 50% of the investee, are accounted for using the equity method. Under the equity method, the investment is originally recorded at cost and adjusted to recognize the Company’s share of net earnings or losses of the investee. The adjustment is limited to the extent of the Company’s investment in and advances to the investee and financial guarantees made on behalf of the investee.
Fiscal Year End	'
	Fiscal Year End.    The Company’s fiscal year ends on the Saturday nearest September 30. Fiscal 2013, 2012 and 2011 each comprised 52 weeks.
Use of Estimates	'
	Use of Estimates.    The preparation of the financial statements in accordance with U.S. GAAP requires management to make estimates and assumptions that affect the amounts reported in the consolidated financial statements and accompanying notes. On an ongoing basis, management evaluates its estimates. These estimates are based on historical experience and on various other factors that management believes to be reasonable under the circumstances, the results of which form the basis for making judgments about the carrying value of assets and liabilities that are not readily apparent from other sources. Actual results could differ from those estimates. These estimates and assumptions include, but are not limited to, assessing the following: the recoverability of accounts and notes receivable, investments, goodwill and other intangible assets, and deferred tax assets; the benefits related to uncertain tax positions; assumptions related to pension and other postretirement benefit expenses; and estimated losses related to insurance claims.
Cash Equivalents	'
	Cash Equivalents.    The Company considers all highly liquid debt investments with maturities of three months or less when purchased to be cash equivalents.
	The Company’s banking arrangements allow the Company to fund outstanding checks when presented for payment to the financial institutions utilized by the Company for disbursements. This cash management practice frequently results in total issued checks exceeding available cash balances at a single financial institution. The Company’s policy is to record its cash disbursement accounts with a cash book overdraft in accounts payable. At September 28, 2013 and September 29, 2012, the Company had book overdrafts of $58.7 million and $69.4 million, respectively, classified in accounts payable and included in cash provided by operating activities.
Inventories	'
	Inventories.    Inventories are valued at the lower of cost or market. Cost is determined on the first-in, first-out method. Inventory is primarily comprised of products available for sale.
Depreciation	'
	Depreciation.    Depreciation is computed using the straight-line method over the estimated useful lives of the assets, which range from 2 to 40 years as follows: buildings (10 – 40 years), computer equipment and software (3 – 4 years), machinery and equipment (2 – 10 years) and furniture and fixtures (5 – 10 years). Leasehold improvements and equipment under capital leases are amortized on a straight-line basis over the shorter of the remaining lease term or their estimated useful lives. Expenditures for replacements or major improvements are capitalized; expenditures for normal maintenance and repairs are charged to operations as incurred. Upon the sale or retirement of properties, the cost and accumulated depreciation are removed from the accounts, and any gain or loss is included in the results of operations.
Investments	'
	Investments.    Investments in equity securities and other fixed maturity securities are classified as investments available for sale. Unrealized gains and losses, net of taxes, on available for sale investments are recorded as a separate component of accumulated other comprehensive earnings (loss) unless impairment is determined to be other-than-temporary.
	Equity securities that do not have readily determinable fair values are accounted for using the cost or equity methods of accounting. The Company reviews the carrying value of its cost and equity method investments for impairment each reporting period unless (i) the investment’s fair value has not been estimated for any purpose, including estimates of fair value used to satisfy other financial reporting requirements, and (ii) there are no impairment indicators present for the investment during the period under review which would indicate there has been an event or change in circumstances that could have a negative effect on the investment’s fair value.
	When an impairment test demonstrates that the fair value of an investment is less than its carrying value, the Company’s management will determine whether the impairment is either temporary or other-than-temporary. Examples of factors which may be indicative of an other-than-temporary impairment include (i) the length of time and extent to which market value has been less than cost, (ii) the financial condition and near-term prospects of the issuer, and (iii) the intent and ability of the Company to retain its investment in the issuer for a period of time sufficient to allow for any anticipated recovery in market value.
	If the decline in fair value is determined by management to be other-than-temporary, the carrying value of the investment is written down to its estimated fair value as of the balance sheet date of the reporting period in which the assessment is made. This fair value becomes the investment’s new carrying value, which is not changed for subsequent recoveries in fair value. Any recorded impairment write-down will be included in earnings as a realized loss in the period such write-down occurs.
Fair Value Measurements	'
	Fair Value Measurements.    The Company evaluates the fair value of its assets and liabilities in accordance with ASC Topic 820, “Fair Value Measurements and Disclosures” (“ASC Topic 820”) and ASC Topic 825, “Financial Instruments” (“ASC Topic 825”).
	ASC Topic 820 establishes a hierarchy for evaluating assets and liabilities valued at fair value as follows:
		·		Level 1—Quoted prices (unadjusted) in active markets for identical assets or liabilities.
		·		Level 2—Inputs other than quoted prices included in Level 1 that are either directly or indirectly observable. These inputs include quoted prices for similar assets or liabilities other than quoted prices in Level 1, quoted prices in markets that are not active, or other inputs that are observable or can be derived principally from or corroborated by observable market data for substantially the full term of the assets or liabilities.
		·		Level 3—Unobservable inputs in which little or no market activity exists, therefore requiring an entity to develop its own assumptions about the assumptions that market participants would use in pricing.
	The Company records marketable securities at fair value in accordance with ASC Topic 320, “Investments—Debt and Equity Securities.” These assets are held by the Company’s Insurance segment. The Company’s Wholesale Distribution segment holds insurance contracts and mutual funds valued at fair value in support of certain employee benefits.
	See Note 16 “Fair Value of Financial Instruments” for further information.
Goodwill and Intangible Assets	'
	Goodwill and Intangible Assets.    Goodwill, arising from business combinations, represents the excess of the purchase price over the estimated fair value of net assets acquired. In accordance with the provisions of ASC Topic 350-20 “Intangibles – Goodwill and other – Goodwill” (“ASC Topic 350-20”), goodwill and intangible assets deemed to have indefinite lives are not amortized but are subject to annual impairment tests. Other intangible assets are amortized over their estimated useful lives. ASC Topic 350-20 requires that goodwill and certain intangible assets be assessed for impairment on an annual basis and between annual tests, when circumstances or events have occurred that may indicate a potential impairment, using fair value measurement techniques. For purposes of financial reporting and impairment testing in accordance with ASC Topic 350-20, the Company operates in two principal reporting segments, Wholesale Distribution and Insurance.
	For the annual impairment test, entities have the option of first performing a qualitative assessment to test goodwill for impairment on a reporting-unit-by reporting-unit basis. If after performing the qualitative assessment, an entity concludes that it is more likely than not that the fair value of a reporting unit is less than its carrying amount, the entity would perform the two-step goodwill impairment test described in ASC Topic 350. An entity that does not elect to use the qualitative analysis and proceeds directly to step one would not need to evaluate the qualitative factors as part of the annual impairment analysis.
	The two-step impairment test process consists of the following: In the first step, the estimated fair value of each reporting unit is compared to the carrying value of the respective reporting unit. If the estimated fair value exceeds the carrying value, the goodwill is considered not to be impaired and no additional steps are necessary. If the carrying value exceeds the estimated fair value, the second step of the impairment test is performed to determine the amount of impairment loss. The second step involves comparing the carrying amount of the reporting unit’s goodwill with its implied fair value. If the carrying amount of goodwill exceeds the respective reporting unit’s implied fair value, an impairment loss would be recognized in an amount equal to the excess.
	The Company evaluates goodwill (reported entirely within the Wholesale Distribution segment) for impairment at the end of the third quarter of each fiscal year. In addition to the annual impairment test required under ASC Topic 350-20, during fiscal 2013 and 2012, the Company assessed whether events or circumstances occurred that potentially indicate that the carrying amount of these assets may not be recoverable. The Company concluded that there were no such events or changes in circumstances during fiscal 2013 and 2012 and determined that the fair value of the Company’s reporting units was in excess of its carrying value as of September 28, 2013 and September 29, 2012. Consequently, no impairment charges were recorded in fiscal 2013 and 2012.
	On September 30, 2007, the Company completed the purchase of certain assets and assumed certain liabilities and obligations related to the operation of Associated Grocers, Incorporated and its subsidiaries of Seattle, Washington (the “Acquisition”). The Company estimated costs incurred to exit facilities acquired as part of the Acquisition, and such costs were accrued as purchase accounting exit cost liabilities and included in goodwill as part of the Acquisition, which was accounted for under FASB Statement No. 141, “Business Combinations” (“FAS 141”). The guidance under FAS 141 remains applicable to the Company given that the Acquisition date occurred prior to the effective date of the adoption of FASB Statement No. 141(R), “Business Combinations (Revised 2007)”—(now codified in ASC 805), which was adopted by the Company in the first quarter of fiscal 2010. During fiscal 2013, the actual cost of the exit plan for one of the Seattle facilities was determined to be $1.2 million less than the amount originally accrued, and the reduction in the exit cost liability was recognized with a corresponding reduction in goodwill.
	Intangible assets, excluding goodwill, are included in other assets in the consolidated balance sheets. Intangible assets, other than goodwill and trademarks, are recorded at cost, less accumulated amortization. Amortization of intangible assets with finite lives is provided over their estimated useful lives ranging from 3 to 168 months on a straight-line or accelerated basis. As of September 28, 2013 and September 29, 2012, balances of intangible assets with finite lives, net of accumulated amortization, goodwill and trademarks were as follows:
	(dollars in thousands)
	September 28, 2013		Remaining			Historical			Accumulated			Net
			Amortization			Cost			Amortization
			Period
	Intangible assets subject to amortization:
	Customer contracts			3-82 months		$	13,666		$	7,961		$	5,705
	Customer relationships			168 months			7,180			3,600			3,580
	Goodwill and Intangible assets not subject to amortization:
	Goodwill											$	37,846
	Trademarks												3,010
	(dollars in thousands)
	September 29, 2012		Remaining			Historical			Accumulated			Net
			Amortization			Cost			Amortization
			Period
	Intangible assets subject to amortization:
	Customer contracts			3-36 months		$	6,885		$	3,846		$	3,039
	Customer relationships			180 months			7,180			3,086			4,094
	Goodwill and Intangible assets not subject to amortization:
	Goodwill											$	38,997
	Trademarks												3,010
	Amortization expense for other intangible assets was $5.4 million, $4.7 million and $3.2 million for the fiscal years ended September 28, 2013, September 29, 2012 and October 1, 2011, respectively. Amortization expense for other intangible assets is estimated to be $2.9 million in fiscal 2014, $1.5 million in fiscal 2015, $1.0 million in fiscal 2016, $1.0 million in fiscal 2017, $0.8 million in fiscal 2018 and $2.1 million thereafter.
Capitalized Software Costs	'
	Capitalized Software Costs.    The Company capitalizes costs associated with the development of software for internal use pursuant to ASC Topic 350-40 “Intangibles—Goodwill and Other—Internal use software” and amortizes the costs over a 3 to 5-year period. These costs were $10.9 million and $11.7 million (net of accumulated amortization of $46.6 million and $42.3 million) at September 28, 2013 and September 29, 2012, respectively, and are included in other assets in the consolidated balance sheets. Costs incurred in planning, training and post-implementation activities are expensed as incurred.
Long-Lived Asset Groups	'
	Long-Lived Asset Groups.    The Company reviews long-lived asset groups for impairment whenever events or changes in circumstances indicate that the carrying amount of an asset may not be recoverable. An asset group is the unit of accounting for a long-lived asset or assets to be held and used, which represents the lowest level for which identifiable cash flows are largely independent of the cash flows of other groups of assets and liabilities. Recoverability of asset groups to be held and used is measured by a comparison of the carrying amount of an asset group to expected future cash flows generated by the asset group. If the carrying amount of an asset group exceeds its estimated undiscounted future cash flows, the carrying amount is compared to fair value and an impairment charge is recognized to the extent of the difference. On a quarterly basis, the Company assesses whether events or changes in circumstances have occurred that potentially indicate the carrying amount of long-lived asset groups may not be recoverable. The Company concluded that there were no material events or significant changes in circumstances that led to impairment during fiscal 2013 and 2012.
Lease and Loan Guarantees	'
	Lease and Loan Guarantees.    The Company evaluates lease and loan guarantees pursuant to ASC Topic 460 “Guarantees” (“ASC Topic 460”). Guarantees meeting the characteristics described in the interpretation are initially recorded at fair value. The Company is contingently liable for certain leases guaranteed for certain Members (See Notes 7 and 17).
Income Taxes	'
	Income Taxes.    Unified operates primarily as a grocery wholesaler serving independent supermarket operators. In addition, the Company has several wholly-owned subsidiaries providing support services to its customers. These services are provided on a non-patronage basis and any earnings from these activities are taxable. In addition, the Company conducts wholesale business with Non-Member customers on a non-patronage basis and such earnings are retained by the Company and are taxable. The earnings of the Company’s subsidiaries and the business conducted with Non-Member customers are collectively referred to as “Non-Patronage Business.” Otherwise, the Company principally operates as a non-exempt cooperative owned by the Members for income tax purposes. Earnings from business (other than Non-Patronage Business) conducted with its Members are distributed to its Members in the form of patronage dividends. This allows the Company to deduct, for federal and certain state income tax purposes, the patronage dividends paid to Members made in the form of qualified written notices of allocation based on their proportionate share of business done with the cooperative.
	Income taxes are accounted for under the asset and liability method. 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 and operating loss and tax credit carry-forwards. 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 Company’s ability to realize the deferred tax asset is assessed throughout the year and a valuation allowance is established accordingly.
Revenue Recognition	'
	Revenue Recognition.    The Company recognizes revenue in accordance with U.S. GAAP and with Securities and Exchange Commission (“SEC”) issued Staff Accounting Bulletin Topic 13, “Revenue Recognition,” which clarifies certain existing accounting principles for the timing of revenue recognition and classification of revenues in the financial statements. Revenue is recognized when persuasive evidence of an arrangement exists, delivery has occurred, the price is fixed or determinable, and collectability is reasonably assured. Revenue generated from the Company’s Wholesale Distribution segment is not recognized until title and risk of loss is transferred to the customer, which occur upon delivery of the products. Provisions for discounts, rebates to customers, and returns are provided for at the time the related sales are recorded, and are reflected as a reduction of sales. Service revenues are recognized when such services have been rendered. Taxes collected from customers and remitted to governmental authorities are reported on a net basis.
	We make available to our customers additional products through vendor direct arrangements with certain preferred providers. Revenues and costs from these vendors are recorded gross when the Company is the primary obligor in a transaction, is subject to inventory or credit risk, has latitude in establishing price and selecting suppliers, or has several, but not all of these indicators. If the Company is not the primary obligor and amounts earned have little or no inventory or credit risk, revenue is recorded net when earned.
	The Company’s gross billings through vendor direct arrangements (recorded net) totaled $51.1 million, $35.1 million and $48.6 million for the years ended September 28, 2013, September 29, 2012 and October 1, 2011, respectively.
Adjustment of Amounts Previously Stated	'
	Adjustment of Amounts Previously Stated.    Subsequent to the issuance of the Company’s unaudited June 29, 2013 consolidated condensed financial statements, management concluded that its gross presentation of sales and cost of sales related to certain transactions involving vendor direct arrangements should be corrected to present such sales and cost of sales on a net basis to conform to ASC 605-45-45. These transactions are all reported within the Company’s Wholesale Distribution segment. As a result of such adjustment, net sales was reduced by $35.1 million (from $3.796 billion to $3.761 billion) and $48.6 million (from $3.848 billion to $3.799 billion) for fiscal 2012 and 2011, respectively. Cost of sales was also reduced by $35.1 million (from $3.477 billion to $3.442 billion) and $48.6 million (from $3.506 billion to $3.457 billion) for fiscal 2012 and 2011, respectively. This adjustment did not have any impact on the Company’s consolidated (loss) earnings before patronage dividends and income taxes, consolidated balance sheet or consolidated statement of cash flows and was determined to be immaterial for all periods presented.
Vendor Funds	'
	Vendor Funds.    The Company receives funds from many of the vendors whose products the Company buys for resale to its Members. These vendor funds are provided to increase the sell-through of the related products. The Company receives funds for a variety of merchandising activities: placement of vendors’ products in the Members’ advertising; placement of vendors’ products in prominent locations in the Members’ stores; introduction of new products into the Company’s distribution system and Members’ stores; exclusivity rights in certain categories that have slower-turning products; and to compensate for temporary price reductions offered to customers on products held for sale at Members’ stores.
	Consideration received from the Company’s vendors is reflected as a reduction of inventory costs or as an offset to service costs incurred on behalf of the vendor for which the Company is being reimbursed. Amounts recorded as a reduction of inventory costs at the time of purchase are recognized in cost of sales upon the sale of the product and amounts received as reimbursement of specific incremental costs to sell the vendor’s products by the Company on behalf of the vendor are recognized as a reduction in distribution, selling and administrative expenses. Amounts due from vendors upon achievement of certain milestones, such as minimum purchase volumes, are accrued prior to the achievement of the milestone if the Company believes it is probable the milestone will be achieved, and the amounts to be received are reasonably estimable.
	As the Company provides sales incentives to its customers, the Company adheres to ASC Topic 605, “Revenue Recognition,” which requires vendors’ (and resellers’) sales incentives, paid in the form of cash consideration to customers, to be reflected as a reduction of revenue in the financial statements of a reseller.
Shipping and Handling Costs	'
	Shipping and Handling Costs.    Costs for shipping and handling are included as a component of distribution, selling and administrative expenses. Shipping and handling costs were $231.5 million, $232.5 million and $235.7 million for the fiscal years ended September 28, 2013, September 29, 2012 and October 1, 2011, respectively.
Environmental Costs	'
	Environmental Costs.    The Company expenses, on a current basis, certain recurring costs incurred in complying with environmental regulations and remediating environmental pollution. The Company also reserves for certain non-recurring future costs required to remediate environmental pollution for which the Company is liable whenever, by diligent legal and technical investigation, the scope or extent of pollution has been determined, the Company’s contribution to the pollution has been ascertained, remedial measures have been specifically identified as practical and viable, and the cost of remediation and the Company’s proportionate share can be reasonably estimated.
Comprehensive Earnings (Loss)	'
	Comprehensive Earnings (Loss).    Comprehensive earnings (loss) are net earnings, plus certain other items that are recorded by the Company directly to accumulated other comprehensive earnings (loss), bypassing net earnings. The balance and current period change for each component of comprehensive earnings (loss), net of taxes, are summarized as follows:
	(dollars in thousands)
			Net Unrealized Gain (Loss)			Defined Benefit
			on Appreciation			Pension Plans and
			(Depreciation) of Investments			Other  Postretirement
						Benefit Plans:
						Unrecognized Prior
						Service Cost and (Loss)
						Gain Arising During the
						Period
	Balance, October 2, 2010		$	3,183		$	(30,870	)
	Current period change			(2,747	)		(5,906	)
	Balance, October 1, 2011			436			(36,776	)
	Current period change			1,220			(25,033	)
	Balance, September 29, 2012			1,656			(61,809	)
	Current period change			(1,155	)		49,028
	Balance, September 28, 2013		$	501		$	(12,781	)
	The following table indicates the benefit plans that comprise the adjustment to accumulated other comprehensive earnings (loss) as of September 28, 2013 for the impact of ASC Topic 715-20 “Compensation—Retirement Benefits—Defined Benefits Plans—General” (“ASC Topic 715-20”):
	(dollars in thousands)
	Description of Benefit Plan		Pre-tax Adjustment for Impact			Deferred Tax Benefit			Adjustment for Impact
			of ASC Topic 715-20			(Liability)			of ASC  Topic 715-20, Net of
			(charge)/credit						Taxes (charge)/credit
	Cash Balance Plan		$	(37,477	)	$	13,330		$	(24,147	)
	Executive Salary Protection Plan			(7,481	)		2,642			(4,839	)
	Postretirement benefit plans			25,437			(9,531	)		15,906
	Postemployment benefit plans			461			(162	)		299
	Total, September 28, 2013		$	(19,060	)	$	6,279		$	(12,781	)
	The following table indicates the benefit plans that comprise the adjustment to accumulated other comprehensive earnings (loss) as of September 29, 2012 for the impact of ASC Topic 715-20 “Compensation—Retirement Benefits—Defined Benefits Plans—General” (“ASC Topic 715-20”):
	(dollars in thousands)
	Description of Benefit Plan		Pre-tax Adjustment for Impact			Deferred Tax Benefit			Adjustment for Impact
			of ASC Topic 715-20			(Liability)			of ASC Topic 715-20, Net of
			(charge)/credit						Taxes (charge)/credit
	Cash Balance Plan		$	(87,818	)	$	31,110		$	(56,708	)
	Executive Salary Protection Plan			(11,160	)		3,942			(7,218	)
	Postretirement benefit plans			4,583			(2,787	)		1,796
	Postemployment benefit plans			496			(175	)		321
	Total, September 29, 2012		$	(93,899	)	$	32,090		$	(61,809	)
	The following table indicates the benefit plans that comprise the adjustment to accumulated other comprehensive earnings (loss) as of October 1, 2011 for the impact of ASC Topic 715-20 “Compensation—Retirement Benefits—Defined Benefits Plans—General” (“ASC Topic 715-20”):
	(dollars in thousands)
	Description of Benefit Plan		Pre-tax Adjustment for Impact			Deferred Tax Benefit			Adjustment for Impact
			of ASC Topic 715-20			(Liability)			of ASC  Topic 715-20, Net
			(charge)/credit						of Taxes (charge)/credit
	Cash Balance Plan		$	(64,802	)	$	23,547		$	(41,255	)
	Executive Salary Protection Plan			(7,870	)		2,871			(4,999	)
	Postretirement benefit plans			15,098			(5,950	)		9,148
	Postemployment benefit plans			520			(190	)		330
	Total, October 1, 2011		$	(57,054	)	$	20,278		$	(36,776	)
	The components of the change in net unrealized (losses) gains on investments, net of taxes, are as follows:
	(dollars in thousands)
			September 28,			September 29,			October 1,
			2013			2012			2011
	Unrealized holding losses arising during the period		$	(3,171	)	$	(12	)	$	(3,540	)
	Reclassification adjustment for gains included in net earnings			2,016			1,232			793
	Net unrealized holding (losses) gains		$	(1,155	)	$	1,220		$	(2,747	)
Recently Adopted and Recently Issued Authoritative Accounting Guidance	'
	Recently Adopted and Recently Issued Authoritative Accounting Guidance
	In July 2013, the FASB issued Accounting Standards Update (“ASU”) No. 2013-11, “Income Taxes (Topic 740): Presentation of an Unrecognized Tax Benefit When a Net Operating Loss Carryforward, a Similar Tax Loss, or a Tax Credit Carryforward Exists” (“ASU No. 2013-11”). ASU No. 2013-11 requires that an unrecognized tax benefit, or a portion of an unrecognized tax benefit, be presented in the financial statements as a reduction to a deferred tax asset for a net operating loss carryforward, a similar tax loss, or a tax credit carryforward if such asset is available. The assessment of whether a deferred tax asset is available is based on the unrecognized tax benefit and deferred tax asset that exist at the reporting date and should be made presuming disallowance of the tax position at the reporting date. ASU No. 2013-11 is effective for fiscal years, and interim periods within those years, beginning after December 15, 2014. The Company will adopt ASU No. 2013-11 commencing in the first quarter of fiscal 2016. The Company is currently assessing the impact this standard may have on its consolidated financial statements.
	In February 2013, the FASB issued ASU No. 2013-02, “Comprehensive Income (Topic 220): Reporting of Amounts Reclassified Out of Other Comprehensive Income” (“ASU No. 2013-02”). ASU No. 2013-02 requires an entity to present information about significant items reclassified out of accumulated other comprehensive income by component either (1) on the face of the statement where net income is presented or (2) as a separate disclosure in the notes to the financial statements. ASU No. 2013-02 is effective for fiscal years, and interim periods within those years, beginning after December 15, 2012. Early adoption is permitted. The Company will adopt ASU No. 2013-02 commencing in the first quarter of fiscal 2014. Other than enhanced footnote disclosure, the adoption of ASU No. 2013-02 is not expected to have an impact on the consolidated financial statements.

Basis_of_Presentation_and_Summ2

Basis of Presentation and Summary of Significant Accounting Policies (Tables)	12 Months Ended
	Sep. 28, 2013
Balances of Intangible Assets with Finite Lives Net of Accumulated Amortization and Goodwill and Trademarks	'
	As of September 28, 2013 and September 29, 2012, balances of intangible assets with finite lives, net of accumulated amortization, goodwill and trademarks were as follows:
	(dollars in thousands)
	September 28, 2013	Remaining			Historical			Accumulated			Net
		Amortization			Cost			Amortization
		Period
	Intangible assets subject to amortization:
	Customer contracts		3-82 months		$	13,666		$	7,961		$	5,705
	Customer relationships		168 months			7,180			3,600			3,580
	Goodwill and Intangible assets not subject to amortization:
	Goodwill										$	37,846
	Trademarks											3,010
	(dollars in thousands)
	September 29, 2012	Remaining			Historical			Accumulated			Net
		Amortization			Cost			Amortization
		Period
	Intangible assets subject to amortization:
	Customer contracts		3-36 months		$	6,885		$	3,846		$	3,039
	Customer relationships		180 months			7,180			3,086			4,094
	Goodwill and Intangible assets not subject to amortization:
	Goodwill										$	38,997
	Trademarks											3,010
Summary of Balance and Current Period Change for Each Component of Comprehensive Earnings Loss Net of Taxes	'
	The balance and current period change for each component of comprehensive earnings (loss), net of taxes, are summarized as follows:
	(dollars in thousands)
		Net Unrealized Gain (Loss)			Defined Benefit
		on Appreciation			Pension Plans and
		(Depreciation) of Investments			Other  Postretirement
					Benefit Plans:
					Unrecognized Prior
					Service Cost and (Loss)
					Gain Arising During the
					Period
	Balance, October 2, 2010	$	3,183		$	(30,870	)
	Current period change		(2,747	)		(5,906	)
	Balance, October 1, 2011		436			(36,776	)
	Current period change		1,220			(25,033	)
	Balance, September 29, 2012		1,656			(61,809	)
	Current period change		(1,155	)		49,028
	Balance, September 28, 2013	$	501		$	(12,781	)
Net Periodic Benefit Cost Plan Assets Benefit Obligation and Accumulated Other Comprehensive Income Loss	'
	The following table indicates the benefit plans that comprise the adjustment to accumulated other comprehensive earnings (loss) as of September 28, 2013 for the impact of ASC Topic 715-20 “Compensation—Retirement Benefits—Defined Benefits Plans—General” (“ASC Topic 715-20”):
	(dollars in thousands)
	Description of Benefit Plan	Pre-tax Adjustment for Impact			Deferred Tax Benefit			Adjustment for Impact
		of ASC Topic 715-20			(Liability)			of ASC  Topic 715-20, Net of
		(charge)/credit						Taxes (charge)/credit
	Cash Balance Plan	$	(37,477	)	$	13,330		$	(24,147	)
	Executive Salary Protection Plan		(7,481	)		2,642			(4,839	)
	Postretirement benefit plans		25,437			(9,531	)		15,906
	Postemployment benefit plans		461			(162	)		299
	Total, September 28, 2013	$	(19,060	)	$	6,279		$	(12,781	)
	The following table indicates the benefit plans that comprise the adjustment to accumulated other comprehensive earnings (loss) as of September 29, 2012 for the impact of ASC Topic 715-20 “Compensation—Retirement Benefits—Defined Benefits Plans—General” (“ASC Topic 715-20”):
	(dollars in thousands)
	Description of Benefit Plan	Pre-tax Adjustment for Impact			Deferred Tax Benefit			Adjustment for Impact
		of ASC Topic 715-20			(Liability)			of ASC Topic 715-20, Net of
		(charge)/credit						Taxes (charge)/credit
	Cash Balance Plan	$	(87,818	)	$	31,110		$	(56,708	)
	Executive Salary Protection Plan		(11,160	)		3,942			(7,218	)
	Postretirement benefit plans		4,583			(2,787	)		1,796
	Postemployment benefit plans		496			(175	)		321
	Total, September 29, 2012	$	(93,899	)	$	32,090		$	(61,809	)
	The following table indicates the benefit plans that comprise the adjustment to accumulated other comprehensive earnings (loss) as of October 1, 2011 for the impact of ASC Topic 715-20 “Compensation—Retirement Benefits—Defined Benefits Plans—General” (“ASC Topic 715-20”):
	(dollars in thousands)
	Description of Benefit Plan	Pre-tax Adjustment for Impact			Deferred Tax Benefit			Adjustment for Impact
		of ASC Topic 715-20			(Liability)			of ASC  Topic 715-20, Net
		(charge)/credit						of Taxes (charge)/credit
	Cash Balance Plan	$	(64,802	)	$	23,547		$	(41,255	)
	Executive Salary Protection Plan		(7,870	)		2,871			(4,999	)
	Postretirement benefit plans		15,098			(5,950	)		9,148
	Postemployment benefit plans		520			(190	)		330
	Total, October 1, 2011	$	(57,054	)	$	20,278		$	(36,776	)
Components of Change in Net Unrealized Losses Gains on Investments Net of Taxes	'
	The components of the change in net unrealized (losses) gains on investments, net of taxes, are as follows:
	(dollars in thousands)
		September 28,			September 29,			October 1,
		2013			2012			2011
	Unrealized holding losses arising during the period	$	(3,171	)	$	(12	)	$	(3,540	)
	Reclassification adjustment for gains included in net earnings		2,016			1,232			793
	Net unrealized holding (losses) gains	$	(1,155	)	$	1,220		$	(2,747	)

Properties_and_Equipment_Table

Properties and Equipment (Tables)	12 Months Ended
	Sep. 28, 2013
Properties and Equipment at Cost	'
	Properties and equipment, stated at cost, consisted of the following:
	(dollars in thousands)
		September 28,		September 29,
		2013		2012
	Land	$	60,538	$	61,182
	Buildings and leasehold improvements		142,503		142,646
	Equipment		115,390		116,370
	Equipment under capital leases		—		524
			318,431		320,722
	Less accumulated depreciation and amortization		146,701		144,384
		$	171,730	$	176,338

Investments_Tables

Investments (Tables)	12 Months Ended
	Sep. 28, 2013
Amortized Cost and Fair Value of Investments	'
	The amortized cost and fair value of investments are as follows:
	(dollars in thousands)
	September 28, 2013	Amortized			Gross		Gross			Fair Value
		Cost			Unrealized		Unrealized
					Gains		Losses
	Available for sale securities:
	Fixed maturity securities:
	U.S. Treasury securities and obligations of U.S. government corporations and agencies	$	35,193		$	507	$	(147	)	$	35,553
	Municipal securities		245			9		—			254
	Corporate securities		32,695			350		(487	)		32,558
	Total fixed maturity securities		68,133			866		(634	)		68,365
	Equity securities		10,224			405		(105	)		10,524
	Total available for sale securities	$	78,357		$	1,271	$	(739	)		78,889
	Common stock, at cost										13,250
	Total investments									$	92,139
	(dollars in thousands)
	September 29, 2012	Amortized			Gross		Gross			Fair Value
		Cost			Unrealized		Unrealized
					Gains		Losses
	Available for sale securities:
	Fixed maturity securities:
	U.S. Treasury securities and obligations of U.S. government corporations and agencies	$	39,014		$	958	$	(8	)	$	39,964
	Municipal securities		245			13		—			258
	Corporate securities		25,617			761		(7	)		26,371
	Total fixed maturity securities		64,876			1,732		(15	)		66,593
	Equity securities		9,251			273		(376	)		9,148
	Total available for sale securities	$	74,127		$	2,005	$	(391	)		75,741
	Common stock, at cost										13,250
	Total investments									$	88,991
Length of Time Available for Sale of Fixed Maturity Securities and Equity Securities	'
	The table below illustrates the length of time available for sale fixed maturity securities and equity securities, not deemed to be other-than-temporarily impaired, have been in a continuous unrealized loss position at September 28, 2013:
	(dollars in thousands)
		Less than 12 Months					12 Months or Greater					Total
	Description of Securities	Fair Value			Unrealized		Fair			Unrealized		Fair Value		Unrealized
					Losses		Value			Losses				Losses
	U.S. Treasury securities and obligations of U.S. government corporations and agencies	$	14,454		$	139	$	735		$	8	$	15,189	$	147
	Corporate debt securities		17,004			484		206			3		17,210		487
	Equity securities		1,542			41		1,865			64		3,407		105
	Total investments	$	33,000		$	664	$	2,806		$	75	$	35,806	$	739
	The table below illustrates the length of time available for sale fixed maturity securities and equity securities, not deemed to be other-than-temporarily impaired, have been in a continuous unrealized loss position at September 29, 2012:
	(dollars in thousands)
		Less than 12 Months					12 Months or Greater					Total
	Description of Securities	Fair			Unrealized		Fair			Unrealized		Fair		Unrealized
		Value			Losses		Value			Losses		Value		Losses
	U.S. Treasury securities and obligations of U.S. government corporations and agencies	$	2,643		$	8	$	—		$	—	$	2,643	$	8
	Corporate debt securities		677			7		—			—		677		7
	Equity securities		3,164			54		1,607			322		4,771		376
	Total investments	$	6,484		$	69	$	1,607		$	322	$	8,091	$	391
Available for Sale Fixed Maturity Securities with Due Dates	'
	Available for sale fixed maturity securities are due as follows:
	(dollars in thousands)
	September 28, 2013	Amortized			Fair Value
		Cost
	Due in one year or less	$	5,124		$	5,201
	Due after one year through five years		29,376			29,575
	Due after five years through ten years		13,477			13,272
	Due after ten years		20,156			20,317
		$	68,133		$	68,365
Net Investment Income	'
	Net investment income, which is included in net sales, is summarized as follows:
	(dollars in thousands)
		Fiscal Years Ended
		September 28,			September 29,		October 1,
		2013			2012		2011
	Fixed maturity securities	$	1,147		$	3,926	$	4,515
	Equity securities		1,423			529		1,562
	Cash and cash equivalents		1			2		2
			2,571			4,457		6,079
	Less investment expenses		(290	)		294		297
		$	2,281		$	4,163	$	5,782

Accrued_Liabilities_Tables

Accrued Liabilities (Tables)	12 Months Ended
	Sep. 28, 2013
Accrued Liabilities	'
	Accrued liabilities are summarized as follows:
	(dollars in thousands)
		September 28,		September 29,
		2013		2012
	Insurance loss reserves and other insurance liabilities	$	27,564	$	23,626
	Accrued wages, current portion of retirement benefits and related taxes		25,362		23,810
	Accrued income and other taxes payable		4,809		5,402
	Accrued promotional liabilities		2,390		3,882
	Other accrued liabilities		8,439		7,565
		$	68,564	$	64,285

Notes_Payable_Tables

Notes Payable (Tables)	12 Months Ended
	Sep. 28, 2013
Notes Payable	'
	The Company’s notes payable and scheduled maturities are summarized as follows:
	(dollars in thousands)
		September 28,		September 29,
		2013		2012
	Secured revolver borrowings under credit agreements	$	148,500	$	95,500
	Secured term loan borrowings under credit agreement		40,209		—
	Senior secured notes		51,365		104,843
	Obligations under capital leases		—		19
	Other debt agreements		2,744		—
	Total notes payable		242,818		200,362
	Less portion due within one year		11,287		3,878
		$	231,531	$	196,484
Maturities of Notes Payable	'
	Maturities of notes payable as of September 28, 2013 are:
	(dollars in thousands)
	Fiscal year
	2014	$	11,287
	2015		7,502
	2016		223,273
	2017		692
	2018		64
	Thereafter		—
		$	242,818

Longterm_Liabilities_Other_Tab

Long-term Liabilities, Other (Tables)	12 Months Ended
	Sep. 28, 2013
Long-Term Liabilities Other	'
	Long-term liabilities, other are summarized as follows:
	(dollars in thousands)
		September 28,		September 29,
		2013		2012
	Pension and postretirement benefit liabilities	$	120,183	$	205,821
	Insurance loss reserves and other insurance liabilities		41,316		36,124
	Other long-term liabilities		22,343		21,466
		$	183,842	$	263,411

Leases_Tables

Leases (Tables)	12 Months Ended
	Sep. 28, 2013
Minimum Rentals on Equipment Under Capital Leases and Properties Leased Including Properties Subleased to Third Parties	'
	Minimum rentals on equipment and properties leased by the Company, including properties subleased to third parties, as of September 28, 2013, are summarized as follows:
	(dollars in thousands)
	Fiscal year	Operating
		Leases
	2014	$	21,343
	2015		19,011
	2016		14,088
	2017		8,122
	2018		6,602
	Thereafter		12,074
	Total minimum lease payments	$	81,240
Future Minimum Sublease Rental Income on Operating Leases	'
	Future minimum sublease rental income on operating leases as of September 28, 2013 is summarized as follows:
	(dollars in thousands)
	Fiscal year	Operating
		Leases
	2014	$	8,066
	2015		7,071
	2016		5,650
	2017		4,225
	2018		2,645
	Thereafter		7,747
	Total future minimum sublease income	$	35,404
Guarantees of Leases	'
	The Company’s guarantees of these leases as of September 28, 2013 are summarized in the table below.
	(dollars in thousands)
	Remaining Lease Term	Guaranteed
		Leases
	Less than 1 year	$	1,189
	1-3 years		1,013
	4-5 years		338
	More than 5 years		—
	Total lease guarantees	$	2,540

Income_Taxes_Tables

Income Taxes (Tables)	12 Months Ended
	Sep. 28, 2013
Summary of Significant Components of Income Tax Expense	'
	The significant components of income tax (benefit) expense are summarized as follows:
	(dollars in thousands)	Fiscal Years Ended
		September 28,			September 29,			October 1,
		2013			2012			2011
	Federal:
	Current	$	(1,187	)	$	501		$	4,875
	Deferred		(9,484	)		(170	)		167
	Total federal		(10,671	)		331			5,042
	State:
	Current		56			(22	)		653
	Deferred		533			(502	)		(422	)
	Total state		589			(524	)		231
	Income taxes	$	(10,082	)	$	(193	)	$	5,273
Deferred Tax Assets and Liabilities	'
	The effects of temporary differences and other items that give rise to deferred tax assets and liabilities are presented below:
	(dollars in thousands)
		September 28,			September 29,
		2013			2012
	Deferred tax assets:
	Accounts receivable	$	1,508		$	1,635
	Accrued benefits		49,243			80,376
	Lease reserves		3,174			3,442
	Insurance reserves		3,913			3,822
	Net operating loss carry forwards		6,504			490
	Deferred patronage loss		8,475			1,740
	Non-qualified written notice of allocation		12,855			12,883
	Inventory reserve		585			862
	Credits		1,020			2,441
	Interest capitalization		344			387
	Deferred revenue		220			82
	Other		340			—
	Total gross deferred tax assets	$	88,181		$	108,160
	Deferred tax liabilities:
	Depreciation of properties and equipment	$	39,641		$	40,633
	Market value adjustment		1,868			2,667
	Capitalized software		4,300			4,668
	Deferred state taxes		1,179			1,860
	Other		165			478
	Total gross deferred tax liabilities	$	47,153		$	50,306
	Net deferred tax assets	$	41,028		$	57,854
Provision for Income Taxes at Effective Tax Rate Differed from Provision for Income Taxes at Federal Statutory Rate	'
	The (benefit) provision for income taxes at the Company’s effective tax rate differed from the provision for income taxes at the federal statutory rate (34%, 34% and 35% in 2013, 2012 and 2011, respectively) as follows:
	(dollars in thousands)
		Fiscal Years Ended
		September 28,			September 29,			October 1,
		2013			2012			2011
	Federal income tax (benefit) expense at the statutory rate	$	(9,426	)	$	598		$	4,431
	State income taxes, net of federal income tax benefit		389			(346	)		150
	Life insurance		(901	)		(1,308	)		544
	Adjustment to prior year tax liabilities		(21	)		(39	)		26
	Meals and entertainment		172			183			227
	Change in statutory tax rate from prior year		—			529			—
	Other, net		(295	)		190			(105	)
	(Benefit) provision for income taxes	$	(10,082	)	$	(193	)	$	5,273

Patronage_Dividends_Tables

Patronage Dividends (Tables)	12 Months Ended
	Sep. 28, 2013
Patronage Dividend Earnings	'
	The following table summarizes the patronage dividend earnings of Unified during the past three fiscal years.
	(dollars in thousands)
	Division	2013		2012		2011
	Cooperative	$	—	$	—	$	301
	Southern California Dairy		8,609		9,676		10,710
	Pacific Northwest Dairy		1,000		1,111		1,420
	Total	$	9,609	$	10,787	$	12,431

Capital_Shares_Tables

Capital Shares (Tables)	12 Months Ended
	Sep. 28, 2013
Class A and Class B Shares Tendered for Redemption Shares Converted, Redeemed and Remaining Number of Shares and Aggregated Redemption Value Pending Redemption	'
	redemption, shares converted, shares redeemed, and the remaining number of shares and their aggregated redemption value pending redemption at the fiscal year end of each of the following periods:
	(dollars in thousands)
	Class A Shares	Tendered		Converted(a)			Redeemed		Remaining		Redemption
											Value at
											Fiscal year end
	Fiscal 2010									2,800	$	813
	Fiscal 2011		11,200		—			11,200		2,800	$	853
	Fiscal 2012		10,150		—			10,500		2,450	$	765
	Fiscal 2013		10,500		(350	)		11,900		700	$	221
	(dollars in thousands)
	Class B Shares	Tendered		Redeemed			Remaining		Redemption
									Value at
									Fiscal year end
	Fiscal 2010							53,860	$	15,639
	Fiscal 2011		33,391		22,305			64,946	$	19,463
	Fiscal 2012		24,921		11,558			78,309	$	23,837
	Fiscal 2013		10,034		9,567			78,776	$	24,207
	(a)	Typically, a conversion of Class A Shares to Class B Shares occurs when Members combine or a Member purchases another Member, and in order to avoid duplicative holding of Class A Shares, the additional Class A Shares acquired as a result of such activities are converted into Class B Shares.

Postretirement_Benefit_Plans_O1

Postretirement Benefit Plans Other Than Pensions (Tables)	12 Months Ended
	Sep. 28, 2013
Postretirement Benefits Other Than Pensions	'
Net Periodic Benefit Cost	'
	The components of net periodic benefit cost consist of the following (for all postretirement benefit plans described above, not including the ESPPIII, which is disclosed in Note 11, “Benefit Plans”):
	(dollars in thousands)	Fiscal Years Ended
		September 28,			September 29,			October 1,
		2013			2012			2011
	Service cost	$	546		$	1,522		$	2,073
	Interest cost		1,631			2,520			2,943
	Amortization of prior service credit		(6,642	)		(986	)		(472	)
	Recognized actuarial loss/(gain)		1,037			(307	)		141
	Benefit cost recognition in excess of APBO/AOCI previously recorded		—			—			4,553
	One-time curtailment gain		(2,685	)		—			—
	Net periodic benefit cost	$	(6,113	)	$	2,749		$	9,238
Change in Benefit Obligation	'
	The change in the benefit obligations consists of the following:
	(dollars in thousands)
		September 28,			September 29,
		2013			2012
	Benefit obligation at beginning of year	$	63,361		$	51,914
	Service cost		546			1,522
	Interest cost		1,631			2,520
	Plan amendments		(25,701	)		—
	Actuarial (gain) loss(a)		(3,443	)		9,222
	Benefits paid		(1,950	)		(1,817	)
	Benefit obligation at end of year	$	34,444		$	63,361
	(a)	The actuarial gain in fiscal 2013 for the postretirement benefit plans includes gains of approximately $1.6 million resulting from updated demographics and other miscellaneous changes, $1.0 million due to updated claims and trend for the Retiree Medical Plan and $0.8 million due to the change in the discount rate (from 4.00% to 4.25%).
Change in Plan Assets	'
	The change in the plan assets during the year is:
	(dollars in thousands)
		September 28,			September 29,
		2013			2012
	Fair value of plan assets at beginning of year	$	—		$	—
	Employer contribution		1,950			1,817
	Benefits paid		(1,950	)		(1,817	)
	Fair value of plan assets at end of year	$	—		$	—
Funded Status of Plans	'
	The funded status of the plans is:
	(dollars in thousands)
		September 28,			September 29,
		2013			2012
	Funded status at September 30, 2013 and 2012 (under-funded)	$	(34,444	)	$	(63,361	)
	Net amount recognized	$	(34,444	)	$	(63,361	)
Net Periodic Benefit Cost Plan Assets Benefit Obligation and Accumulated Other Comprehensive Income Loss	'
	The following table reconciles the change in net periodic benefit cost, plan assets, benefit obligation and accumulated other comprehensive (income) loss (and components thereof) for the Company’s postretirement benefit plans:
	(dollars in thousands)
	Postretirement Benefit Plans																		Accumulated Other
																			Comprehensive
																			Income
																			Components
	September 28, 2013	Annual			Retained			Plan			Benefit			Accumulated					Deferred				Deferred
		Cost			Earnings			Assets			Obligation			Other					Prior				Actuarial
														Comprehensive					Service				(Gains)/
														(Income)/Loss					(Credit)/				Losses
																			Cost
	Beginning balance		—		$	3,260		$	—		$	(63,361	)	$	(4,583	)			$	(4,180	)		$	(403	)
	Service cost	$	546			—			—			(546	)		—					—				—
	Interest cost		1,631			—			—			(1,631	)		—					—				—
	Basic annual cost		2,177						—			—			—					—				—
	Contributions		—			—			1,950			—			—					—				—
	Benefits paid		—			—			(1,950	)		1,950			—					—				—
	Deferrals
	Plan amendments		—			—			—			25,701			(25,701	)				(25,701	)			—
	Unrecognized actuarial (gain)/loss		—			—			—			3,443			(3,443	)				—				(3,443	)
	Amortization
	Prior service credit		(6,642	)		—			—			—			6,642					6,642				—
	Recognized actuarial loss/(gain)		1,037			—			—			—			(1,037	)				—				(1,037	)
	One-time curtailment gain		(2,685	)		—			—			—			2,685					2,685				—
	Ending balance	$	(6,113	)	$	3,260		$	—		$	(34,444	)	$	(25,437	)			$	(20,554	)		$	(4,883	)
Weighted Average Assumptions	'
	The weighted-average assumptions as of September 30, 2013, 2012 and 2011 are as follows:
		Postretirement Benefit
		Plans
		2013			2012			2011
	Benefit obligations:
	Discount rate for benefit obligation(a)		4.25	%		4	%		5	%
	Rate of compensation increase(b)		3	%		3	%		2.75	%
	Net periodic benefit cost:
	Discount rate for net periodic benefit cost(c)		4	%		5	%		5.25	%
	Rate of compensation increase(d)		3	%		2.75	%		3	%
	(a)	The discount rate for the Officer Retirement Medical Plan is 4.25%, 4.00% and 5.25% for fiscal 2013, 2012 and 2011, respectively.
	(b)	The rate of compensation increase for the fiscal 2013 and fiscal 2012 split-dollar Executive Insurance Plan is 0% and 2.25%, respectively.
	(c)	The discount rate for the Officer Retirement Medical Plan is 4.00%, 5.25% and 5.50% for fiscal 2013, 2012 and 2011, respectively. The discount rate of 4.00% was the rate at the beginning of the fiscal year. A remeasurement occurred as of December 31, 2012 for the RMP and ORMP using a discount rate of 3.50% and 3.75% respectively.
	(d)	The rate of compensation increase for the fiscal 2013 split-dollar Executive Insurance Plan is 2.25%.
Expected Benefit Payments	'
	Benefit payments, including those amounts to be paid out of corporate assets and reflecting future expected service as appropriate, are expected to be paid in fiscal years:
	(dollars in thousands)
		Postretirement Benefit
		Plans
	2014	$	3,807
	2015		2,376
	2016		2,370
	2017		2,401
	2018		2,253
	2019 – 2023		10,341
	Total	$	23,548
Assumed Health Care Trend Rates	'
	For measurement purposes, the following table sets forth the assumed health care trend rates:
		September 28,			September 29,
		2013			2012
	Pre-age 65 health care cost trend rate assumed for 2013 and 2012(a)		7.5	%		8	%
	Pre-age 65 rate to which the cost trend rate is assumed to decline (the ultimate trend rate)(b)		5	%		5	%
	Pre-age 65 year that the rate reaches the ultimate trend rate		2021			2018
	Post-age 65 health care cost trend rate assumed for 2013 and 2012(a)		5	%		8	%
	Post-age 65 rate to which the cost trend rate is assumed to decline (the ultimate trend rate)(c)		4.75	%		5	%
	Post-age 65 year that the rate reaches the ultimate trend rate		2020			2018
	(a)	The annual rate of increase in the per capita cost of covered health care benefits.
	(b)	The valuation trend assumption was projected as follows: A rate of 7.50% in 2013, 8.00% in 2014 and 2015, 7.50% in 2016, 7.00% in 2017, 6.50% in 2018, 6.00% in 2019, 5.50% in 2020 and 5.00% in 2021 and beyond. The initial trend rate reflects the Company’s recent cost experience, healthcare cost survey data, Patient Protection and Affordable Care Act fee estimates, and the Company’s expected insurance market cost increases over the next year. The ultimate rate was set to reflect general inflation plus added medical inflation. The grading period is an estimate of the length of time it will take for health care costs to become more stable as a percentage of the Gross Domestic Product.
	(c)	The valuation trend assumption was projected as follows: 5.00% in 2013, 5.50% in 2014 and 2015, 5.25% in 2016 and 2017, 5.00% in 2018 and 2019, and 4.75% in 2020 and beyond. The initial trend rate reflects recent experience in the individual Medicare supplement market. The ultimate rate was set to reflect general inflation plus added medical inflation for Medicare supplemental coverage.
Effects of One Percentage Point change in Assumed Health Care Cost Trend Rates	'
	Assumed health care cost trend rates have a significant effect on the amounts reported for the health care plans. A one-percentage-point change in assumed health care cost trend rates for the RMP and ORMP would have the following effects as of September 28, 2013:
	(dollars in thousands)
		1-Percentage-Point Increase			1-Percentage-Point Decrease
	Effect on total of service and interest cost	$	98		$	(98	)
	Effect on accumulated postretirement benefit obligation	$	1,131		$	(1,008	)
Unified Cash Balance Plan and ESPP	'
Net Periodic Benefit Cost	'
	The components of net periodic cost for the Unified Cash Balance Plan and ESPPIII consist of the following (measured at September 30, 2013, 2012 and 2011 for fiscal 2013, 2012 and 2011, respectively):
	(dollars in thousands)
		Fiscal Years Ended
	Unified Cash Balance Plan	September 28,			September 29,			October 1,
		2013			2012			2011
	Service cost	$	6,417		$	5,527		$	5,405
	Interest cost		10,387			10,927			10,425
	Expected return on plan assets		(14,645	)		(12,671	)		(12,402	)
	Amortization of prior service cost		10			11			11
	Actuarial loss		6,196			4,281			2,913
	Net periodic cost	$	8,365		$	8,075		$	6,352
	(dollars in thousands)
		Fiscal Years Ended
	ESPPIII	September 28,			September 29,			October 1,
		2013			2012			2011
	Service cost	$	1,878		$	2,240		$	2,295
	Interest cost		1,318			1,718			1,464
	Amortization of prior service cost (credit)		(20	)		—			212
	Recognized actuarial loss		930			930			1,069
	Net periodic cost	$	4,106		$	4,888		$	5,040
Change in Benefit Obligation	'
	The following table sets forth the change in benefit obligation for the Unified Cash Balance Plan and ESPPIII (measured at September 30, 2013 and 2012 for fiscal 2013 and 2012, respectively):
	(dollars in thousands)
		Unified Cash Balance Plan						ESPPIII
		September 28,			September 29,			September 28,			September 29,
		2013			2012			2013			2012
	Benefit obligation at beginning of year	$	264,473		$	212,576		$	45,996		$	38,530
	Service cost		6,417			5,527			1,878			2,240
	Interest cost		10,387			10,927			1,318			1,718
	Plan amendments		—			—			(80	)		—
	Actuarial (gain) loss(a)		(34,322	)		42,537			(2,689	)		4,220
	Benefits paid		(8,020	)		(7,094	)		(3,089	)		(712	)
	Benefit obligation at end of year	$	238,935		$	264,473		$	43,334		$	45,996
	(a)	The actuarial gain in fiscal 2013 for the Unified Cash Balance Plan includes approximately $33.6 million due to the change in the discount rate (from 4.00% to 5.00%). The actuarial gain in fiscal 2013 for the ESPPIII includes gains of approximately $4.2 million resulting from a change to future benefits due to the plan amendment and $0.7 million due to the change in the discount rate (from 3.25% to 3.50%), partially offset by approximately $2.6 million in retirement losses (i.e., earlier than expected retirements).
Change in Plan Assets	'
	The following table sets forth the change in plan assets for the Unified Cash Balance Plan and ESPPIII (measured at September 30, 2013 and 2012 for fiscal 2013 and 2012, respectively):
	(dollars in thousands)
		Unified Cash Balance Plan						ESPPIII
		September 28,			September 29,			September 28,			September 29,
		2013			2012			2013			2012
	Fair value of plan assets at beginning of year	$	178,915		$	147,168		$	—		$	—
	Actual return on plan assets		24,458			27,900			—			—
	Employer contribution		7,355			10,941			3,089			712
	Benefits paid		(8,020	)		(7,094	)		(3,089	)		(712	)
	Fair value of plan assets at end of year	$	202,708		$	178,915		$	—		$	—
Funded Status of Plans	'
	The accrued pension and other benefit costs recognized for the Unified Cash Balance Plan and ESPPIII in the consolidated balance sheets are computed as follows:
	(dollars in thousands)
		Unified Cash Balance Plan						ESPPIII
		September 28,			September 29,			September 28,			September 29,
		2013			2012			2013			2012
	Funded status at September 30, 2013 and 2012, respectively (under-funded)	$	(36,227	)	$	(85,558	)	$	(43,334	)	$	(45,996	)
	Net amount recognized	$	(36,227	)	$	(85,558	)	$	(43,334	)	$	(45,996	)
Weighted Average Assumptions	'
	The weighted-average assumptions used in computing the preceding information for the Unified Cash Balance Plan and the ESPPIII as of September 30, 2013, 2012 and 2011 (the annual plan measurement dates) were as follows:
	Unified Cash Balance Plan	2013			2012			2011
	Benefit obligations:
	Discount rate for benefit obligation		5	%		4	%		5.25	%
	Rate of compensation increase		3	%		3	%		3	%
	Net periodic cost:
	Discount rate for net periodic benefit cost		4	%		5.25	%		5.25	%
	Expected long-term return on plan assets		8.25	%		8.5	%		8.5	%
	Rate of compensation increase		3	%		3	%		3	%
	ESPPIII	2013			2012			2011
	Benefit obligations:
	Discount rate for benefit obligation		3.5	%		3.25	%		4.5	%
	Rate of compensation increase		N/A			2.25	%		2.25	%
	Net periodic cost:
	Discount rate for net periodic benefit cost		3.25	%		4.5	%		4.25	%
	Expected long-term return on plan assets		N/A			N/A			N/A
	Rate of compensation increase(a)		2.25	%		2.25	%		2	%
	(a)	The rate of compensation increase for the ESPPIII was 2.25% at the beginning of fiscal year 2013. A remeasurement of this plan occurred as of December 31, 2012 using a discount rate of 3.00% and a 0% salary increase rate.
Expected Benefit Payments	'
	The following benefit payments, which reflect expected future service, as appropriate, are expected to be paid in fiscal years:
	(dollars in thousands)
		Unified Cash			ESPPIII
		Balance Plan
	2014	$	10,301		$	3,427
	2015		11,047			4,508
	2016		11,845			4,283
	2017		12,668			4,860
	2018		13,378			4,268
	2019 – 2023		77,803			23,890
	Total	$	137,042		$	45,236
Unified Cash Balance Plan	'
Net Periodic Benefit Cost Plan Assets Benefit Obligation and Accumulated Other Comprehensive Income Loss	'
	The following table reconciles the change in net periodic benefit cost, plan assets, benefit obligation and accumulated other comprehensive (income) loss (and components thereof) for the Unified Cash Balance Plan:
	(dollars in thousands)
	Unified Cash Balance Plan																Accumulated Other
																	Comprehensive Income
																	Components
	September 28, 2013	Annual			Fiscal 2009			Plan			Benefit			Accumulated			Deferred Plan				Deferred
		Cost			ASC 715-20			Assets			Obligation			Other			Amendment				Actuarial
					Measurement									Comprehensive			(Unrecognized				(Gains)/
					Date									(Income)/Loss			Prior Service				Losses
					Adjustments												Cost)
					to Retained
					Earnings
	Beginning balance				$	673		$	178,915		$	(264,473	)	$	87,818		$	54			$	87,764
	Service cost	$	6,417			—			—			(6,417	)		—			—				—
	Interest cost		10,387			—			—			(10,387	)		—			—				—
	Actual return loss/(gain)		(24,458	)		—			24,458			—			—			—				—
	Basic annual cost		(7,654	)		—			—			—			—			—				—
	Contributions		—			—			7,355			—			—			—				—
	Benefits paid		—			—			(8,020	)		8,020			—			—				—
	Deferrals
	Unexpected return adjustment		9,813			—			—			—			(9,813	)		—				(9,813	)
	Unrecognized actuarial loss/(gain)		—			—			—			34,322			(34,322	)		—				(34,322	)
	Amortization
	Prior service cost		10			—			—			—			(10	)		(10	)			—
	Unrecognized actuarial loss/(gain)		6,196			—			—			—			(6,196	)		—				(6,196	)
	Ending balance	$	8,365		$	673		$	202,708		$	(238,935	)	$	37,477		$	44			$	37,433
Unified Cash Balance Plan | Level 3	'
Change in Plan Assets	'
	The table below sets forth a summary of changes in the fair value of the Unified Cash Balance Plan’s level 3 assets for the year ended September 28, 2013:
	(dollars in thousands)
		Total
		Alternative
		Investments
	Estimated fair value, beginning of year	$	33,771
	Purchases		6,273
	Net investment gain		3,647
	Distributions		(5,798	)
	Estimated fair value, end of year	$	37,893
	The table below sets forth a summary of changes in the fair value of the Unified Cash Balance Plan’s level 3 assets for the year ended September 29, 2012:
	(dollars in thousands)
		Total
		Alternative
		Investments
	Estimated fair value, beginning of year	$	20,471
	Purchases		14,482
	Net investment gain		745
	Distributions		(1,927	)
	Estimated fair value, end of year	$	33,771
ESPPIII	'
Net Periodic Benefit Cost Plan Assets Benefit Obligation and Accumulated Other Comprehensive Income Loss	'
	The following table reconciles the change in net periodic benefit cost, plan assets, benefit obligation and accumulated other comprehensive (income) loss (and components thereof) for the ESPPIII:
	(dollars in thousands)
	ESPPIII Plan																Accumulated Other
																	Comprehensive Income
																	Components
	September 28, 2013	Annual			Fiscal 2009			Plan			Benefit			Accumulated			Deferred				Deferred
		Cost			ASC 715-20			Assets			Obligation			Other			Prior				Actuarial
					Measurement									Comprehensive			Service				(Gains)/
					Date									(Income)/Loss			(Credit)/				Losses
					Adjustments												Cost
					to Retained
					Earnings
	Beginning balance				$	958		$	—		$	(45,996	)	$	11,160		$	—			$	11,160
	Service cost	$	1,878			—			—			(1,878	)		—			—				—
	Interest cost		1,318			—			—			(1,318	)		—			—				—
	Basic annual cost		3,196			—			—			—			—			—				—
	Contributions		—			—			3,089			—			—			—				—
	Benefits paid		—			—			(3,089	)		3,089			—			—				—
	Deferrals
	Plan amendments		—			—			—			80			(80	)		(80	)			—
	Unrecognized actuarial loss/(gain)		—			—			—			2,689			(2,689	)		—				(2,689	)
	Amortization
	Prior service (credit)/cost		(20	)		—			—			—			20			20				—
	Unrecognized actuarial loss/(gain)		930			—			—			—			(930	)		—				(930	)
	Ending balance	$	4,106		$	958		$	—		$	(43,334	)	$	7,481		$	(60	)		$	7,541

Benefit_Plans_Tables

Benefit Plans (Tables)	12 Months Ended
	Sep. 28, 2013
Unified Cash Balance Plan and ESPP	'
Amounts Recognized in Consolidated Balance Sheets	'
	The following table sets forth the amounts recognized in the consolidated balance sheets for the Unified Cash Balance Plan and ESPPIII (measured at September 30, 2013 and 2012 for fiscal 2013 and 2012, respectively):
	(dollars in thousands)
			Unified Cash Balance Plan							ESPPIII
			September 28,				September 29,			September 28,			September 29,
			2013				2012			2013			2012
	Prepaid (accrued) benefit cost		$	1,250			$	2,260		$	(35,853	)	$	(34,836	)
	Accumulated other comprehensive loss			(37,477	)			(87,818	)		(7,481	)		(11,160	)
	Net amount recognized		$	(36,227	)		$	(85,558	)	$	(43,334	)	$	(45,996	)
Unified Cash Balance Plan	'
Unified Cash Balance Plan Weighted Average Asset Allocation	'
	The Company’s Unified Cash Balance Plan weighted-average asset allocation at September 28, 2013 and September 29, 2012, by asset category is as follows:
	(dollars in thousands)
			September 28,				September 29,
			2013				2012
	Asset Category:
	Equity securities		$	118,424			$	99,433
	Debt securities (mutual funds comprised of investment grade bonds)			43,742				43,521
	Alternative investments			37,893				33,771
	Other			2,649				2,190
	Total		$	202,708			$	178,915
Long term Target Asset Allocation for Investment Portfolio	'
	The long-term target asset allocation for the investment portfolio at September 28, 2013 is divided into five asset classes as follows:
	Asset Classes		Maximum %				Minimum %			Target %
	Equities			80	%			40	%		60	%
	Fixed Income			40	%			20	%		25	%
	Alternative Investments			20	%			0	%		12.5	%
	Real Assets			10	%			0	%		2.5	%
	Cash Equivalents			30	%			0	%		0	%
Financial Instruments Recorded at Fair Value and Hierarchy of Assets	'
	The following table represents the Unified Cash Balance Plan’s financial instruments recorded at fair value and the hierarchy of those assets as of September 28, 2013:
	(dollars in thousands)
			Level 1				Level 2			Level 3			Total
	Equities (including mutual funds):
	Investment grade bonds		$	43,742			$	—		$	—		$	43,742
	Growth—foreign			19,911				—			—			19,911
	Growth—large cap			13,199				—			—			13,199
	Communication & technology			16,612				—			—			16,612
	Retail & industrial goods			21,682				—			—			21,682
	Financial & insurance			12,437				—			—			12,437
	Emerging markets			9,219				—			—			9,219
	Utilities, energy & extractive industries			8,062				—			—			8,062
	Medical & pharmaceutical			10,712				—			—			10,712
	Other			6,590				—			—			6,590
	Total equities			162,166				—			—			162,166
	Cash equivalents			2,649				—			—			2,649
	Alternative investments			—				—			37,893			37,893
	Total		$	164,815			$	—		$	37,893		$	202,708
	The following table represents the Unified Cash Balance Plan’s financial instruments recorded at fair value and the hierarchy of those assets as of September 29, 2012:
	(dollars in thousands)
			Level 1				Level 2			Level 3			Total
	Equities (including mutual funds):
	Investment grade bonds		$	43,521			$	—		$	—		$	43,521
	Growth – foreign			18,544				—			—			18,544
	Growth – large cap			10,993				—			—			10,993
	Communication & technology			14,725				—			—			14,725
	Retail & industrial goods			13,612				—			—			13,612
	Financial & insurance			9,905				—			—			9,905
	Emerging markets			9,151				—			—			9,151
	Utilities, energy & extractive industries			7,699				—			—			7,699
	Medical & pharmaceutical			8,810				—			—			8,810
	Other			5,994				—			—			5,994
	Total equities			142,954				—			—			142,954
	Cash equivalents			2,190				—			—			2,190
	Alternative investments			—				—			33,771			33,771
	Total		$	145,144			$	—		$	33,771		$	178,915
Other Postretirement Benefits	'
Participation in Multiemployer Plans	'
	The following table provides information regarding the Company’s participation in these multiemployer plans. The table provides the following information:
		·		The EIN/Pension Plan Number column provides the Employee Identification Number (“EIN”) and the three-digit plan number, if applicable.
		·		Unless otherwise noted, the most recent Pension Protection Act (“PPA”) zone status available in 2013 and 2012 relates to the plans’ two most recent fiscal year-ends. The zone status is based on information that the Company received from the plan and is certified by each plan’s actuary. Among other factors, red zone status plans are generally less than 65 percent funded and are considered in critical status, plans in yellow zone or orange zone status are less than 80 percent funded and are considered endangered or seriously endangered status, and green zone plans are at least 80 percent funded.
		·		For plans that are in the red zone, it is indicated whether a Rehabilitation Plan (“RP”) is either pending or has been implemented by the trustees of each plan. Since none of the Company’s plans are considered to be in endangered (yellow zone) or seriously endangered (orange zone) status, disclosure of whether a Financial Improvement Plan (“FIP”) is either pending or has been implemented is not applicable and therefore is omitted from the table.
		·		The table also includes the current expiration date(s) for the collective bargaining agreement(s) under which the plans are associated and contributions to the plans for the last three years.
	(dollars in thousands)
			EIN		Plan				PPA Zone Status			RP Status	Range of		Contributions(d)
					Month/Day							Pending/	Agreement
					End Date							Implemented	Expiration
	Pension Fund								2013	2012			Dates		2013(e)		2012		2011
	Western Conference of Teamsters Pension Trust		916145047			30-Nov			Green	Green		No	7/12/14 –		$	12,520	$	12,848	$	13,908
			-1										4/23/16(c)
	Bakery & Confectionery Union and Industry International Pension Fund(b)		526118572			31-Jul			Red	Red		Implemented	7/6/13			743		629		656
			-1
	Washington Meat Industry Pension Trust(b)		916134141			31-May			Red	Red		Implemented	9/27/14			74		78		78
			-1
	Other plans(a)															219		249		265
	Total														$	13,556	$	13,804	$	14,907
	(a)		Other plans consist of two plans (each with a PPA zone status of green) that have been aggregated in the foregoing table, as the contributions to each of these plans are not individually material.
	(b)		The Company is subject to critical status surcharge contributions that are imposed for plans that are in the red zone.
	(c)		The Company has 15 collective bargaining agreements participating in the Western Conference of Teamsters Pension Trust. Approximately 69% of the participants covered by this plan are subject to collective bargaining agreements that expire on September 19, 2015.
	(d)		None of the Company’s collective bargaining agreements require that a minimum contribution be made to these plans. None of the Company’s contributions exceed 5% of the total contributions to any of the plans.
	(e)		The decrease in contributions from fiscal 2012 to fiscal 2013 is due to reduction in headcount at various locations.

Segment_Reporting_Tables

Segment Reporting (Tables)	12 Months Ended
	Sep. 28, 2013
Summarized Information about Operating Segments	'
	Information about the Company’s operating segments is as follows:
	(dollars in thousands)
		Fiscal Years Ended
		September 28,			September 29,			October 1,
		2013			2012			2011
	Net sales
	Wholesale distribution:
	Gross billings	$	3,722,387		$	3,776,173		$	3,832,477
	Less: Gross billings through vendor direct arrangements		(51,142	)		(35,075	)		(48,546	)
	Net sales		3,671,245			3,741,098			3,783,931
	Insurance		30,665			30,404			27,280
	All other		1,356			1,280			1,034
	Intersegment elimination		(11,702	)		(11,585	)		(13,016	)
	Total net sales	$	3,691,564		$	3,761,197		$	3,799,229
	Operating income (loss)
	Wholesale distribution	$	11,761		$	21,318		$	32,587
	Insurance		(7,732	)		3,465			4,791
	All other		445			336			55
	Total operating income		4,474			25,119			37,433
	Interest expense		(12,803	)		(12,572	)		(12,342	)
	Loss on early extinguishment of debt		(9,788	)		—			—
	Patronage dividends		(9,609	)		(10,787	)		(12,431	)
	Income taxes		10,082			193			(5,273	)
	Net earnings	$	(17,644	)	$	1,953		$	7,387
	Depreciation and amortization
	Wholesale distribution	$	25,130		$	25,648		$	22,847
	Insurance		386			375			332
	All other		56			56			60
	Total depreciation and amortization	$	25,572		$	26,079		$	23,239
	Capital expenditures
	Wholesale distribution	$	10,194		$	8,182		$	8,865
	Insurance		224			4,617			75
	All other		—			—			—
	Total capital expenditures	$	10,418		$	12,799		$	8,940
	Identifiable assets at respective year end date
	Wholesale distribution	$	766,322		$	780,446		$	791,554
	Insurance		117,087			115,933			106,272
	All other		29,973			24,596			25,852
	Total identifiable assets at respective fiscal year end date	$	913,382		$	920,975		$	923,678

Fair_Value_of_Financial_Instru1

Fair Value of Financial Instruments (Tables)	12 Months Ended
	Sep. 28, 2013
Financial Instruments Recorded at Fair Value and Hierarchy of Assets	'
	The following table represents the Company’s financial instruments recorded at fair value and the hierarchy of those assets as of September 28, 2013:
	(dollars in thousands)
		Level 1		Level 2		Level 3		Total
	Money market funds	$	1,646	$	—	$	—	$	1,646
	Common equity securities		10,524		—		—		10,524
	Mutual funds		15,471		—		—		15,471
	Corporate securities		—		32,558		—		32,558
	Government securities		—		35,553		—		35,553
	Municipal securities		—		254		—		254
	Total	$	27,641	$	68,365	$	—	$	96,006
	The following table represents the Company’s financial instruments recorded at fair value and the hierarchy of those assets as of September 29, 2012:
	(dollars in thousands)
		Level 1		Level 2		Level 3		Total
	Money market funds	$	2,162	$	—	$	—	$	2,162
	Common equity securities		9,148		—		—		9,148
	Mutual funds		13,908		—		—		13,908
	Corporate securities		—		26,371		—		26,371
	Government securities		9,617		30,347		—		39,964
	Municipal securities		—		258		—		258
	Total	$	34,835	$	56,976	$	—	$	91,811

Related_Party_Transactions_Tab

Related Party Transactions (Tables) (Related Party Transactions)	12 Months Ended
	Sep. 28, 2013
Related Party Transactions	'
Loans Outstanding to Member Affiliated with Director	'
	The Company had the following loans outstanding at September 28, 2013 to a Member affiliated with a director of the Company:
	(dollars in thousands)
	Director	Interest			Aggregate		Maturity
		Rate			Loan Balance		Date
	Michael S. Trask		4.25	%	$	265		2018
Lease Guarantees or Subleases to Members Affiliated with Directors	'
	The Company has executed lease guarantees or subleases to Members affiliated with directors of the Company at September 28, 2013 as follows:
	(dollars in thousands)
	Director	No. of			Total		Total		Expiration
		Stores			Current		Guaranteed		Date(s)
					Annual		Rent
					Rent
	John Berberian		2		$	310	$	1,172		2017-2018
	Mimi Song		2			670		5,605		2020-2023
	Louis Amen		1			159		584		2017
Supply Agreements with Members Affiliated with Directors	'
	The Company has executed supply agreements with Members affiliated with directors of the Company at September 28, 2013 as follows:
	Director	Expiration
		Date
	Oscar Gonzalez		2015
	Jay T. McCormack		2015
	Mimi Song		2016
	Michael S. Trask		*2018
	*	The supply agreement with Michael S. Trask will expire in the later of April 2018 or one year following payment in full of all loan obligations.

Basis_of_Presentation_and_Summ3

Basis of Presentation and Summary of Significant Accounting Policies - Additional Information (Detail) (USD $)	12 Months Ended
	Sep. 28, 2013	Sep. 29, 2012	Oct. 01, 2011
	Segment
Basis Of Presentation And Significant Accounting Policies [Line Items]	'	'	'
Cash equivalents, maximum maturity period	'3 months	'	'
Number of reporting segments	2	'	'
Changes to cost of exit plan for one of Seattle facilities	$1,200,000	'	'
Amortization expense for other intangible assets	5,400,000	4,700,000	3,200,000
Amortization expense for other intangible assets in 2014	2,900,000	'	'
Amortization expense for other intangible assets in 2015	1,500,000	'	'
Amortization expense for other intangible assets in 2016	1,000,000	'	'
Amortization expense for other intangible assets in 2017	1,000,000	'	'
Amortization expense for other intangible assets in 2018	800,000	'	'
Amortization expense for other intangible assets thereafter	2,100,000	'	'
Capitalized software development costs	10,900,000	11,700,000	'
Software development costs accumulated amortization	46,600,000	42,300,000	'
Sales adjustment for Gross billings through vendor direct arrangements	'	-35,100,000	-48,600,000
Net sales	3,691,564,000	3,761,197,000	3,799,229,000
Cost of sales	3,403,040,000	3,441,540,000	3,457,242,000
Shipping and handling costs	231,500,000	232,500,000	235,700,000
Wholesale distribution	'	'	'
Basis Of Presentation And Significant Accounting Policies [Line Items]	'	'	'
Gross billings vendor direct arrangements	51,142,000	35,075,000	48,546,000
Sales adjustment for Gross billings through vendor direct arrangements	'	-35,100,000	-48,600,000
Net sales	3,671,245,000	3,741,098,000	3,783,931,000
Cost of Sales adjustment for Gross billings through vendor direct arrangements	'	-35,100,000	-48,600,000
Wholesale distribution | As Filed	'	'	'
Basis Of Presentation And Significant Accounting Policies [Line Items]	'	'	'
Net sales	'	3,796,000,000	3,848,000,000
Cost of sales	'	3,477,000,000	3,506,000,000
Wholesale distribution | Scenario Restated	'	'	'
Basis Of Presentation And Significant Accounting Policies [Line Items]	'	'	'
Net sales	'	3,761,000,000	3,799,000,000
Cost of sales	'	3,442,000,000	3,457,000,000
Accounts payable	'	'	'
Basis Of Presentation And Significant Accounting Policies [Line Items]	'	'	'
Book overdrafts	$58,700,000	$69,400,000	'
Minimum	'	'	'
Basis Of Presentation And Significant Accounting Policies [Line Items]	'	'	'
Equity method investments ownership percentage	20.00%	'	'
Estimated useful live of assets	'2 years	'	'
Estimated useful live of intangible assets	'3 months	'	'
Minimum | Building	'	'	'
Basis Of Presentation And Significant Accounting Policies [Line Items]	'	'	'
Estimated useful live of assets	'10 years	'	'
Minimum | Computer Equipment And Software	'	'	'
Basis Of Presentation And Significant Accounting Policies [Line Items]	'	'	'
Estimated useful live of assets	'3 years	'	'
Minimum | Machinery and Equipment	'	'	'
Basis Of Presentation And Significant Accounting Policies [Line Items]	'	'	'
Estimated useful live of assets	'2 years	'	'
Minimum | Furniture and Fixtures	'	'	'
Basis Of Presentation And Significant Accounting Policies [Line Items]	'	'	'
Estimated useful live of assets	'5 years	'	'
Minimum | Software Development Costs	'	'	'
Basis Of Presentation And Significant Accounting Policies [Line Items]	'	'	'
Estimated useful live of intangible assets	'3 years	'	'
Maximum	'	'	'
Basis Of Presentation And Significant Accounting Policies [Line Items]	'	'	'
Equity method investments ownership percentage	50.00%	'	'
Estimated useful live of assets	'40 years	'	'
Estimated useful live of intangible assets	'168 months	'	'
Maximum | Building	'	'	'
Basis Of Presentation And Significant Accounting Policies [Line Items]	'	'	'
Estimated useful live of assets	'40 years	'	'
Maximum | Computer Equipment And Software	'	'	'
Basis Of Presentation And Significant Accounting Policies [Line Items]	'	'	'
Estimated useful live of assets	'4 years	'	'
Maximum | Machinery and Equipment	'	'	'
Basis Of Presentation And Significant Accounting Policies [Line Items]	'	'	'
Estimated useful live of assets	'10 years	'	'
Maximum | Furniture and Fixtures	'	'	'
Basis Of Presentation And Significant Accounting Policies [Line Items]	'	'	'
Estimated useful live of assets	'10 years	'	'
Maximum | Software Development Costs	'	'	'
Basis Of Presentation And Significant Accounting Policies [Line Items]	'	'	'
Estimated useful live of intangible assets	'5 years	'	'

Balances_of_Intangible_Assets_

Balances of Intangible Assets with Finite Lives Net of Accumulated Amortization and Goodwill and Trademarks (Detail) (USD $)	Sep. 28, 2013	Sep. 29, 2012
In Thousands, unless otherwise specified
Schedule of Intangible Assets Disclosure [Line Items]	'	'
Goodwill	$37,846	$38,997
Trademarks	3,010	3,010
Customer Contracts	'	'
Schedule of Intangible Assets Disclosure [Line Items]	'	'
Historical Cost	13,666	6,885
Accumulated Amortization	7,961	3,846
Net	5,705	3,039
Customer Relationships	'	'
Schedule of Intangible Assets Disclosure [Line Items]	'	'
Remaining Amortization Period	'168 months	'180 months
Historical Cost	7,180	7,180
Accumulated Amortization	3,600	3,086
Net	$3,580	$4,094
Minimum | Customer Contracts	'	'
Schedule of Intangible Assets Disclosure [Line Items]	'	'
Remaining Amortization Period	'3 months	'3 months
Maximum | Customer Contracts	'	'
Schedule of Intangible Assets Disclosure [Line Items]	'	'
Remaining Amortization Period	'82 months	'36 months

Summary_of_Balance_and_Current

Summary of Balance and Current Period Change for Each Component of Comprehensive Earnings Loss Net of Taxes (Detail) (USD $)	12 Months Ended
In Thousands, unless otherwise specified	Sep. 28, 2013	Sep. 29, 2012	Oct. 01, 2011
Comprehensive Income (Loss) [Line Items]	'	'	'
Ending Balance	($12,280)	($60,153)	'
Net Unrealized Gain (Loss) on Appreciation (Depreciation) of Investments	'	'	'
Comprehensive Income (Loss) [Line Items]	'	'	'
Beginning Balance	1,656	436	3,183
Current period change	-1,155	1,220	-2,747
Ending Balance	501	1,656	436
Defined Benefit Pension Plans and Other Postretirement Benefit Plans: Unrecognized Prior Service Cost and (Loss) Gain Arising During the Period	'	'	'
Comprehensive Income (Loss) [Line Items]	'	'	'
Beginning Balance	-61,809	-36,776	-30,870
Current period change	49,028	-25,033	-5,906
Ending Balance	($12,781)	($61,809)	($36,776)

Benefit_Plans_That_Comprise_Ad

Benefit Plans That Comprise Adjustment to Accumulated Other Comprehensive Earnings Loss (Detail) (USD $)	Sep. 28, 2013	Sep. 29, 2012	Oct. 01, 2011
In Thousands, unless otherwise specified
Defined Benefit Plan Disclosure [Line Items]	'	'	'
Pre-tax Adjustment for Impact of ASC Topic 715-20 (charge)/credit	($19,060)	($93,899)	($57,054)
Deferred Tax Benefit (Liability)	6,279	32,090	20,278
Adjustment for Impact of ASC Topic 715-20, Net of Taxes (charge)/credit	-12,781	-61,809	-36,776
Unified Cash Balance Plan	'	'	'
Defined Benefit Plan Disclosure [Line Items]	'	'	'
Pre-tax Adjustment for Impact of ASC Topic 715-20 (charge)/credit	-37,477	-87,818	-64,802
Deferred Tax Benefit (Liability)	13,330	31,110	23,547
Adjustment for Impact of ASC Topic 715-20, Net of Taxes (charge)/credit	-24,147	-56,708	-41,255
ESPPIII	'	'	'
Defined Benefit Plan Disclosure [Line Items]	'	'	'
Pre-tax Adjustment for Impact of ASC Topic 715-20 (charge)/credit	-7,481	-11,160	-7,870
Deferred Tax Benefit (Liability)	2,642	3,942	2,871
Adjustment for Impact of ASC Topic 715-20, Net of Taxes (charge)/credit	-4,839	-7,218	-4,999
Postretirement Benefit Plans	'	'	'
Defined Benefit Plan Disclosure [Line Items]	'	'	'
Pre-tax Adjustment for Impact of ASC Topic 715-20 (charge)/credit	25,437	4,583	15,098
Deferred Tax Benefit (Liability)	-9,531	-2,787	-5,950
Adjustment for Impact of ASC Topic 715-20, Net of Taxes (charge)/credit	15,906	1,796	9,148
Postemployment Benefit Plans	'	'	'
Defined Benefit Plan Disclosure [Line Items]	'	'	'
Pre-tax Adjustment for Impact of ASC Topic 715-20 (charge)/credit	461	496	520
Deferred Tax Benefit (Liability)	-162	-175	-190
Adjustment for Impact of ASC Topic 715-20, Net of Taxes (charge)/credit	$299	$321	$330

Components_of_Change_in_Net_Un

Components of Change in Net Unrealized Losses Gains on Investments, Net of Taxes (Detail) (USD $)	12 Months Ended
In Thousands, unless otherwise specified	Sep. 28, 2013	Sep. 29, 2012	Oct. 01, 2011
Components of Net Unrealized Investment Gains Losses Included in Accumulated Other Comprehensive Income Loss [Line Items]	'	'	'
Unrealized holding losses arising during the period	($3,171)	($12)	($3,540)
Reclassification adjustment for gains included in net earnings	2,016	1,232	793
Net unrealized holding (losses) gains	($1,155)	$1,220	($2,747)

Properties_and_Equipment_at_Co

Properties and Equipment at Cost (Detail) (USD $)	Sep. 28, 2013	Sep. 29, 2012
In Thousands, unless otherwise specified
Property, Plant and Equipment [Line Items]	'	'
Land	$60,538	$61,182
Buildings and leasehold improvements	142,503	142,646
Equipment	115,390	116,370
Equipment under capital leases	'	524
Property, Plant and Equipment, Gross, Total	318,431	320,722
Less accumulated depreciation and amortization	146,701	144,384
Properties and equipment, net	$171,730	$176,338

Properties_and_Equipment_Addit

Properties and Equipment - Additional Information (Detail) (USD $)	12 Months Ended
	Sep. 28, 2013	Sep. 29, 2012	Oct. 01, 2011
Property, Plant and Equipment [Line Items]	'	'	'
Depreciation and amortization expense	$14,800,000	$16,300,000	$15,900,000
Accumulated amortization	146,701,000	144,384,000	'
Capital Leases	'	'	'
Property, Plant and Equipment [Line Items]	'	'	'
Depreciation and amortization expense	0	100,000	100,000
Accumulated amortization	$0	$400,000	'

Amortized_Cost_and_Fair_Value_

Amortized Cost and Fair Value of Investments (Detail) (USD $)	Sep. 28, 2013	Sep. 29, 2012
In Thousands, unless otherwise specified
Schedule of Investments [Line Items]	'	'
Fair Value	$92,139	$88,991
Available for sale securities	'	'
Schedule of Investments [Line Items]	'	'
Amortized Cost	78,357	74,127
Gross Unrealized Gains	1,271	2,005
Gross Unrealized Losses	-739	-391
Fair Value	78,889	75,741
Available for sale securities | Fixed maturity securities	'	'
Schedule of Investments [Line Items]	'	'
Amortized Cost	68,133	64,876
Gross Unrealized Gains	866	1,732
Gross Unrealized Losses	-634	-15
Fair Value	68,365	66,593
Available for sale securities | Fixed maturity securities | U.S. Treasury securities and obligations of U.S. government corporations and agencies	'	'
Schedule of Investments [Line Items]	'	'
Amortized Cost	35,193	39,014
Gross Unrealized Gains	507	958
Gross Unrealized Losses	-147	-8
Fair Value	35,553	39,964
Available for sale securities | Fixed maturity securities | Municipal securities	'	'
Schedule of Investments [Line Items]	'	'
Amortized Cost	245	245
Gross Unrealized Gains	9	13
Fair Value	254	258
Available for sale securities | Fixed maturity securities | Corporate debt securities	'	'
Schedule of Investments [Line Items]	'	'
Amortized Cost	32,695	25,617
Gross Unrealized Gains	350	761
Gross Unrealized Losses	-487	-7
Fair Value	32,558	26,371
Available for sale securities | Equity securities	'	'
Schedule of Investments [Line Items]	'	'
Amortized Cost	10,224	9,251
Gross Unrealized Gains	405	273
Gross Unrealized Losses	-105	-376
Fair Value	10,524	9,148
Common stock, at cost	'	'
Schedule of Investments [Line Items]	'	'
Fair Value	$13,250	$13,250

Length_of_Time_Available_for_S

Length of Time Available for Sale of Fixed Maturity Securities and Equity Securities (Detail) (USD $)	12 Months Ended
In Thousands, unless otherwise specified	Sep. 28, 2013	Sep. 29, 2012
Schedule of Available-for-sale Securities [Line Items]	'	'
Less than 12 Months Fair Value	$33,000	$6,484
Less than 12 Months Unrealized Losses	664	69
12 Months or Greater Fair Value	2,806	1,607
12 Months or Greater Unrealized Losses	75	322
Total Fair Value	35,806	8,091
Total Unrealized Losses	739	391
U.S. Treasury securities and obligations of U.S. government corporations and agencies	'	'
Schedule of Available-for-sale Securities [Line Items]	'	'
Less than 12 Months Fair Value	14,454	2,643
Less than 12 Months Unrealized Losses	139	8
12 Months or Greater Fair Value	735	'
12 Months or Greater Unrealized Losses	8	'
Total Fair Value	15,189	2,643
Total Unrealized Losses	147	8
Corporate debt securities	'	'
Schedule of Available-for-sale Securities [Line Items]	'	'
Less than 12 Months Fair Value	17,004	677
Less than 12 Months Unrealized Losses	484	7
12 Months or Greater Fair Value	206	'
12 Months or Greater Unrealized Losses	3	'
Total Fair Value	17,210	677
Total Unrealized Losses	487	7
Equity securities	'	'
Schedule of Available-for-sale Securities [Line Items]	'	'
Less than 12 Months Fair Value	1,542	3,164
Less than 12 Months Unrealized Losses	41	54
12 Months or Greater Fair Value	1,865	1,607
12 Months or Greater Unrealized Losses	64	322
Total Fair Value	3,407	4,771
Total Unrealized Losses	$105	$376

Available_for_Sale_Fixed_Matur

Available for Sale Fixed Maturity Securities with Due Dates (Detail) (Fixed maturity securities, USD $)	Sep. 28, 2013
In Thousands, unless otherwise specified
Fixed maturity securities	'
Amortized cost	'
Due in one year or less	$5,124
Due after one year through five years	29,376
Due after five years through ten years	13,477
Due after ten years	20,156
Available-for-sale Securities, Debt Maturities, Amortized Cost Basis, Total	68,133
Fair value	'
Due in one year or less	5,201
Due after one year through five years	29,575
Due after five years through ten years	13,272
Due after ten years	20,317
Available-for-sale Securities, Debt Securities, Total	$68,365

Investments_Additional_Informa

Investments - Additional Information (Detail) (USD $)	12 Months Ended
In Millions, unless otherwise specified	Sep. 29, 2012	Sep. 28, 2013
Investment [Line Items]	'	'
Investments carried at fair values which are on deposit with regulatory authorities in compliance with statutory regulations	$7.30	$7.80
Investments carried at fair values which are on deposit in compliance with collateral requirements on reinsurance arrangements	0.9	2.1
National Consumer Cooperative Bank	'	'
Investment [Line Items]	'	'
Investment accounted for using the cost method of accounting	4.1	4.1
Western Family Holding Company	'	'
Investment [Line Items]	'	'
Investment accounted for using the equity method of accounting	9.2	9.2
Percentage of investment accounted for using the equity method of accounting	18.00%	18.00%
Return of invested capital	0.2	'
Direct deposit of securities	'	'
Investment [Line Items]	'	'
Investments carried at fair values which are maintained in support of regulatory deposit requirements	40.9	48.3
Other Long Term Liabilities	'	'
Investment [Line Items]	'	'
Long-term portion of insurance reserves	36.1	41.3
Long term Investments	'	'
Investment [Line Items]	'	'
Investments carried at fair values which are maintained in support of regulatory deposit requirements	45.6	51.3
Cash and cash equivalents	'	'
Investment [Line Items]	'	'
Investments carried at fair values which are maintained in support of regulatory deposit requirements	0.3	0
Investments carried at fair values which are on deposit with regulatory authorities in compliance with statutory regulations	0.1	0.1
Investments carried at fair values which are on deposit in compliance with collateral requirements on reinsurance arrangements	$0	$0.10

Net_Investment_Income_Detail

Net Investment Income (Detail) (USD $)	12 Months Ended
In Thousands, unless otherwise specified	Sep. 28, 2013	Sep. 29, 2012	Oct. 01, 2011
Net Investment Income [Line Items]	'	'	'
Investment income	$2,571	$4,457	$6,079
Less investment expenses	-290	294	297
Investment Income, Net, Total	2,281	4,163	5,782
Fixed maturity securities	'	'	'
Net Investment Income [Line Items]	'	'	'
Investment income	1,147	3,926	4,515
Equity securities	'	'	'
Net Investment Income [Line Items]	'	'	'
Investment income	1,423	529	1,562
Cash and cash equivalents	'	'	'
Net Investment Income [Line Items]	'	'	'
Investment income	$1	$2	$2

Accrued_liabilities_Detail

Accrued liabilities (Detail) (USD $)	Sep. 28, 2013	Sep. 29, 2012
In Thousands, unless otherwise specified
Schedule of Accrued Liabilities [Line Items]	'	'
Insurance loss reserves and other insurance liabilities	$27,564	$23,626
Accrued wages, current portion of retirement benefits and related taxes	25,362	23,810
Accrued income and other taxes payable	4,809	5,402
Accrued promotional liabilities	2,390	3,882
Other accrued liabilities	8,439	7,565
Accrued liabilities	$68,564	$64,285

Notes_Payable_Detail

Notes Payable (Detail) (USD $)	Sep. 28, 2013	Sep. 29, 2012
In Thousands, unless otherwise specified
Debt Instrument [Line Items]	'	'
Notes Payable	$242,818	$200,362
Less portion due within one year	11,287	3,878
Notes payable, less current portion	231,531	196,484
Secured revolver borrowings under credit agreements	'	'
Debt Instrument [Line Items]	'	'
Notes Payable	148,500	95,500
Secured term loan borrowings under credit agreement	'	'
Debt Instrument [Line Items]	'	'
Notes Payable	40,209	'
Senior secured notes	'	'
Debt Instrument [Line Items]	'	'
Notes Payable	51,365	104,843
Obligations under capital leases	'	'
Debt Instrument [Line Items]	'	'
Notes Payable	'	19
Other debt agreements	'	'
Debt Instrument [Line Items]	'	'
Notes Payable	$2,744	'

Maturities_of_Notes_Payable_De

Maturities of Notes Payable (Detail) (USD $)	Sep. 28, 2013	Sep. 29, 2012
In Thousands, unless otherwise specified
Debt Instrument [Line Items]	'	'
2014	$11,287	'
2015	7,502	'
2016	223,273	'
2017	692	'
2018	64	'
Thereafter	'	'
Notes Payable	$242,818	$200,362

Notes_Payable_Additional_Infor

Notes Payable - Additional Information (Detail) (USD $)

12 Months Ended

1 Months Ended

12 Months Ended

1 Months Ended

12 Months Ended

12 Months Ended

12 Months Ended

12 Months Ended

12 Months Ended

12 Months Ended

12 Months Ended

12 Months Ended

12 Months Ended

Sep. 28, 2013

Sep. 29, 2012

Jun. 28, 2013

Sep. 28, 2013

Jun. 28, 2013

Jun. 28, 2013

Sep. 28, 2013

Sep. 29, 2012

Sep. 28, 2013

Sep. 28, 2013

Sep. 28, 2013

Sep. 28, 2013

Sep. 28, 2013

Jun. 28, 2013

Sep. 29, 2012

Sep. 28, 2013

Sep. 28, 2013

Sep. 28, 2013

Sep. 28, 2013

Sep. 28, 2013

Jun. 28, 2013

Sep. 29, 2012

Sep. 28, 2013

Sep. 28, 2013

Sep. 28, 2013

Sep. 24, 2010

Sep. 24, 2010

Sep. 28, 2013

Sep. 28, 2013

Sep. 28, 2013

Sep. 28, 2013

Sep. 29, 2012

Sep. 28, 2013

Sep. 28, 2013

Sep. 28, 2013

Sep. 29, 2012

Sep. 28, 2013

Sep. 28, 2013

Sep. 28, 2013

Sep. 28, 2013

Sep. 28, 2013

Sep. 29, 2012

Sep. 28, 2013

Sep. 28, 2013

Sep. 28, 2013

Sep. 28, 2013

Sep. 29, 2012

Seventh Amendment

Seventh Amendment

Tranche A Notes

Tranche B Notes

Credit Agreement

Credit Agreement

Credit Agreement

Credit Agreement

Credit Agreement

Credit Agreement

Credit Agreement

Credit Agreement

Credit Agreement

Credit Agreement

Credit Agreement

Credit Agreement

Credit Agreement

Credit Agreement

Credit Agreement

Credit Agreement

Credit Agreement

Credit Agreement

GCC Loan Agreement

GCC Loan Agreement

GCC Loan Agreement

GCC Loan Agreement

GCC Loan Agreement

GCC Loan Agreement

GCC Loan Agreement

GCC Loan Agreement

GCC Loan Agreement

GCC Loan Agreement

GCC Loan Agreement

GCC Loan Agreement

GCC Loan Agreement

Senior Secured Notes

Senior Secured Notes

Senior Secured Notes

Senior secured notes

Senior secured notes

Senior secured notes

Senior secured notes

Other debt agreements

Standby Letters of Credit

Standby Letters of Credit

Seventh Amendment

Seventh Amendment

Period of five consecutive Business Days

Period of Thirty Consecutive Days

Minimum

Maximum

Revolver

Revolver

Revolver

Revolver

Revolver

Revolver

Revolver

Term Loan

Term Loan

Term Loan

Term Loan

Term Loan

Certain Notes Receivable

Minimum

Libor Rate Loans

Base Rate Loans

Revolving Loan

Revolving Loan

Libor/Swap Rate loans

Libor/Swap Rate loans

Prime Rate

Prime Rate

Term Loan

Tranche One

Tranche Two

Tranche Three

Make-Whole Fee

Seventh Amendment

Base Rate Loans

Base Rate Loans

Eurodollar

Eurodollar

Base Rate Loans

Eurodollar

Minimum

Revolving Loan

Revolving Loan

Minimum

Minimum

Maximum

Minimum

Maximum

Debt Instrument [Line Items]

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Revolving credit facility, potential total commitments in the principal amount

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

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'

$275,000,000

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'

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'

$40,900,000

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$15,000,000

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'

'

'

'

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'

'

Credit agreement, terms

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'

'

'

'

'The Credit Agreement matures the earlier of June 28, 2018 (bOriginal Maturity Dateb), or 90 days prior to the scheduled January 1, 2016 maturity (as such scheduled maturity date may be extended) under a note purchase agreement dated September 29, 1999 (as amended, the bSenior Note Agreementb) as amended and restated effective January 6, 2006, further amended on November 3, 2009 and most recently amended on June 28, 2013, among the Company and the current noteholders (the bNoteholdersb) and John Hancock Life Insurance Company (U.S.A.) (bJohn Hancockb), acting in its capacity as collateral agent for the Noteholders (collectively, the bHancock Debtb), unless the Hancock Debt has been repaid, refinanced (including by exchange) or defeased.

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Credit agreement, maturity date

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28-Jun-18

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'

'

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'

'

Revolving credit facility, potential total commitments in the principal amount

'

'

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'

'

400,000,000

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'

'

'

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'

'

'

'

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Term loan outstanding balance percentage subject to prepayment

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60.00%

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'

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'

'

Line of credit facility borrowing base percentage of eligible accounts

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'

85.00%

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'

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'

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Line of credit facility borrowing base percentage of eligible inventory

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70.00%

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Line of credit facility borrowing base percentage of net recovery percentage of eligible inventory

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90.00%

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Interest margin

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'

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'

'

0.50%

1.00%

1.50%

2.00%

'

'

'

1.00%

2.00%

'

'

'

'

3.00%

0.75%

'

'

3.25%

'

0.75%

0.75%

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'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

Commitment fee percentage in addition to Eurodollar rate

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0.13%

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Commitment fees for undrawn portions of the commitments

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'

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'

0.25%

0.38%

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0.25%

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Financial covenants compliances description

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'A Financial Covenant Period (a) commences when (i) an Event of Default occurs, (ii) Excess Availability is less than the greater of (A) $35 million and (B) 12.7272% of the Maximum Revolver amount for a period of five consecutive Business Days or (iii) Excess Availability is less than the greater of (A) $30 million and (B) 10.9090% of the Maximum Revolver Amount at any time and (b) continues until a period of 30 consecutive Business Days has elapsed during which at all times (i) no Event of Default exists and (ii) Excess Availability is equal to or greater than the greater of (A) $35 million and (B) 12.7272% of the Maximum Revolver Amount.

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Line of credit facility, available borrowing amount

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35,000,000

30,000,000

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Line of credit facility, maximum percentage of revolver

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12.73%

10.91%

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Fixed charge coverage ratio

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115.00%

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Unamortized deferred financing fees pertaining to Prior Credit Agreement

1,400,000

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Amount outstanding under agreement

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144,500,000

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90,000,000

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40,200,000

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0

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4,000,000

5,500,000

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Interest rate at the period end

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2.25%

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1.97%

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2.20%

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Maximum borrowing amount as percentage of eligible notes receivable

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80.00%

50.00%

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Interest rate

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7.91%

7.17%

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4.00%

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'

4.00%

4.00%

'

5.75%

3.25%

3.25%

4.00%

6.42%

7.16%

6.82%

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'

'

'

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Notes Payable

242,818,000

200,362,000

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'

46,000,000

40,000,000

25,000,000

51,365,000

104,843,000

'

'

2,744,000

'

'

Early debt extinguishment amount

'

'

50,000,000

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'

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'

50,000,000

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'

'

'

'

'

Accrued and unpaid interest on prepayment

'

'

9,400,000

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Amendment fee percentage

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0.50%

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Notes payable maturity date

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1-Jan-16

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'

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'

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'

'

Notes payable, balloon payment due at maturity date

'

'

45,600,000

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Loss on early debt extinguishment

-9,788,000

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'

-9,800,000

'

-9,400,000

'

'

'

'

Unamortized deferred finance fee

'

'

'

'

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'

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'

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'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

400,000

'

'

'

'

'

'

Additional fees related to amendment

'

'

'

300,000

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

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'

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'

'

'

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'

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'

'

'

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'

'

200,000

'

'

'

Unamortized debt extinguishment fee

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'

'

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'

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'

'

'

'

'

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'

'

'

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'

'

'

'

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'

200,000

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'

'

Interest on borrowings

'

'

'

'

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'

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'

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'

'

'

'

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'

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'

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'

'

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'

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2.20%

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'

Maturity year

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'

'

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'

'

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'

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'

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'

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'

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'

'

'

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'

'

'2018

'

'

Standby letters of credit outstanding

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'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

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'

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'

'

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'

'

'

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'

'

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'

'

'

'

'

'

$1,500,000

$1,500,000

LongTerm_Liabilities_Other_Det

Long-Term Liabilities Other (Detail) (USD $)	Sep. 28, 2013	Sep. 29, 2012
In Thousands, unless otherwise specified
Schedule of Other Liabilities [Line Items]	'	'
Pension and postretirement benefit liabilities	$120,183	$205,821
Insurance loss reserves and other insurance liabilities	41,316	36,124
Other long-term liabilities	22,343	21,466
Long-term liabilities, other	$183,842	$263,411

Leases_Additional_Information_

Leases - Additional Information (Detail) (USD $)	12 Months Ended
In Millions, unless otherwise specified	Sep. 28, 2013	Sep. 29, 2012	Oct. 01, 2011
	Contract
	Store
Leases Disclosure [Line Items]	'	'	'
Number of retail supermarkets under operating leases	31	'	'
Rent expense for operating leases	$21.80	$21.70	$22.70
Sublease rental income	$5.20	$3.50	$3.80
Number of lease guarantees that the company contingently liable with	3	'	'
Lease guarantees, expiration year	'2017	'	'
Monthly fee as percentage of monthly rent under lease guarantees and subleases	5.00%	'	'

Minimum_Rentals_on_Equipment_U

Minimum Rentals on Equipment Under Capital Leases and Properties Leased Including Properties Subleased to Third Parties (Detail) (USD $)	Sep. 28, 2013
In Thousands, unless otherwise specified
Operating Leases	'
2014	$21,343
2015	19,011
2016	14,088
2017	8,122
2018	6,602
Thereafter	12,074
Total minimum lease payments	$81,240

Future_Minimum_Sublease_Rental

Future Minimum Sublease Rental Income on Operating Leases (Detail) (USD $)	Sep. 28, 2013
In Thousands, unless otherwise specified
Leases Disclosure [Line Items]	'
2014	$8,066
2015	7,071
2016	5,650
2017	4,225
2018	2,645
Thereafter	7,747
Total future minimum sublease income	$35,404

Guarantees_of_Leases_Detail

Guarantees of Leases (Detail) (USD $)	Sep. 28, 2013
In Thousands, unless otherwise specified
Leases Disclosure [Line Items]	'
Less than 1 year	$1,189
1-3 years	1,013
4-5 years	338
More than 5 years	'
Total lease guarantees	$2,540

Summary_of_Significant_Compone

Summary of Significant Components of Income Tax Expense (Detail) (USD $)	12 Months Ended
In Thousands, unless otherwise specified	Sep. 28, 2013	Sep. 29, 2012	Oct. 01, 2011
Components of Income Tax Expense Benefit [Line Items]	'	'	'
Current	($1,187)	$501	$4,875
Deferred	-9,484	-170	167
Total federal	-10,671	331	5,042
Current	56	-22	653
Deferred	533	-502	-422
Total state	589	-524	231
(Benefit) provision for income taxes	($10,082)	($193)	$5,273

Deferred_Tax_Assets_and_Liabil

Deferred Tax Assets and Liabilities (Detail) (USD $)	Sep. 28, 2013	Sep. 29, 2012
In Thousands, unless otherwise specified
Deferred tax assets:	'	'
Accounts receivable	$1,508	$1,635
Accrued benefits	49,243	80,376
Lease reserves	3,174	3,442
Insurance reserves	3,913	3,822
Net operating loss carry forwards	6,504	490
Deferred patronage loss	8,475	1,740
Non-qualified written notice of allocation	12,855	12,883
Inventory reserve	585	862
Credits	1,020	2,441
Interest capitalization	344	387
Deferred revenue	220	82
Other	340	'
Total gross deferred tax assets	88,181	108,160
Deferred tax liabilities:	'	'
Depreciation of properties and equipment	39,641	40,633
Market value adjustment	1,868	2,667
Capitalized software	4,300	4,668
Deferred state taxes	1,179	1,860
Other	165	478
Total gross deferred tax liabilities	47,153	50,306
Net deferred tax assets	$41,028	$57,854

Income_Taxes_Additional_Inform

Income Taxes - Additional Information (Detail) (USD $)	12 Months Ended
	Sep. 28, 2013	Sep. 29, 2012	Oct. 01, 2011
Income Tax [Line Items]	'	'	'
Net deferred tax assets	$41,028,000	$57,854,000	'
Federal statutory rate	34.00%	34.00%	35.00%
Federal	'	'	'
Income Tax [Line Items]	'	'	'
Net operating loss carryforward	5,600,000	1,400,000	'
Portion under internal revenue code section 382 operating loss carry forward expiration year	'2018	'	'
Net operating loss carryforward expiration date	'2033	'	'
State and Local Jurisdiction	'	'	'
Income Tax [Line Items]	'	'	'
Net operating loss carryforward	0.9	0	'
Net operating loss carryforward expiration date	'2033	'	'
Current Assets	'	'	'
Income Tax [Line Items]	'	'	'
Net deferred tax assets	5,600,000	5,200,000	'
Other Asset	'	'	'
Income Tax [Line Items]	'	'	'
Net deferred tax assets	$35,400,000	$52,700,000	'

Provision_for_Income_Taxes_at_

Provision for Income Taxes at Effective Tax Rate Differed from Provision for Income Taxes at Federal Statutory Rate (Detail) (USD $)	12 Months Ended
In Thousands, unless otherwise specified	Sep. 28, 2013	Sep. 29, 2012	Oct. 01, 2011
Income Tax [Line Items]	'	'	'
Federal income tax (benefit) expense at the statutory rate	($9,426)	$598	$4,431
State income taxes, net of federal income tax benefit	389	-346	150
Life insurance	-901	-1,308	544
Adjustment to prior year tax liabilities	-21	-39	26
Meals and entertainment	172	183	227
Change in statutory tax rate from prior year	'	529	'
Other, net	-295	190	-105
(Benefit) provision for income taxes	($10,082)	($193)	$5,273

Patronage_Dividends_Earnings_D

Patronage Dividends Earnings (Detail) (USD $)	12 Months Ended
In Thousands, unless otherwise specified	Sep. 28, 2013	Sep. 29, 2012	Oct. 01, 2011
Dividends [Line Items]	'	'	'
Patronage dividends	$9,609	$10,787	$12,431
Cooperative Division	'	'	'
Dividends [Line Items]	'	'	'
Patronage dividends	'	'	301
Southern California Dairy Division	'	'	'
Dividends [Line Items]	'	'	'
Patronage dividends	8,609	9,676	10,710
Pacific Northwest Dairy Division	'	'	'
Dividends [Line Items]	'	'	'
Patronage dividends	$1,000	$1,111	$1,420

Capital_Shares_Additional_Info

Capital Shares - Additional Information (Detail) (USD $)	12 Months Ended
	Sep. 28, 2013	Sep. 29, 2012
Capital Stock [Line Items]	'	'
Purchase of product amount, that required a customer to be a member	$3,000,000	'
Non-patronage earnings under the Non-Allocated Earnings Program	0	0
Percentage of cooperative division qualified cash patronage dividends required to satisfy Class B share requirement	80.00%	'
Annual	'	'
Capital Stock [Line Items]	'	'
Minimum purchase requirement for a member	1,000,000	'
Associated Grocers Incorporation | Weekly	'	'
Capital Stock [Line Items]	'	'
Minimum purchase requirement for a member	5,000	'
Class A	'	'
Capital Stock [Line Items]	'	'
Number of shares a member must own	350	'
Class A Shareholders entitled votes per share	1	'
Percentage of authorized number of directors that can be elected by shareholders	80.00%	'
Exchange Value Per Share	$279.50	$316.11
Common stock, shares authorized	500,000	500,000
Common stock, shares outstanding	137,550	149,450
Class B	'	'
Capital Stock [Line Items]	'	'
Percentage of authorized number of directors that can be elected by shareholders	20.00%	'
Subordinated deposit payment period	'182 days	'
New member shares acquisition period	'5 years	'
New member shares acquisition rate of the required amount per fiscal year	20.00%	'
Required Deposit optional payment percentage upon acceptance as a Member	75.00%	'
Required Deposit optional down payment percentage for new stores, replacement stores or growth in the sales of existing stores	50.00%	'
Common stock, shares authorized	2,000,000	2,000,000
Common stock, shares outstanding	431,037	434,598
Redemption limit as percentage of sum of shares outstanding at the close of the preceding fiscal year end and shares issuable as a part of the patronage dividend distribution for the preceding fiscal year	5.00%	'
Common Class C	'	'
Capital Stock [Line Items]	'	'
Common stock, number of shares purchased by directors	1	1
Common stock, stated value per share	$10	$10
Common stock, shares authorized	24	24
Common stock, shares outstanding	15	15
Class E	'	'
Capital Stock [Line Items]	'	'
Common stock, stated value per share	$100	'
Common stock, shares authorized	2,000,000	2,000,000
Common stock, shares outstanding	251,403	251,808
Common stock, redemption period	'10 years	'
Shares repurchased	405	'
Value of shares repurchased	37,000	'
Redemption value	$3,600,000	'

Class_A_and_Class_B_Shares_Ten

Class A and Class B Shares Tendered for Redemption Redeemed and Remaining Number of shares and Aggregated Redemption Value Pending Redemption (Detail) (USD $)	12 Months Ended
In Thousands, except Share data, unless otherwise specified	Sep. 28, 2013		Sep. 29, 2012	Oct. 01, 2011	Oct. 02, 2010
Class A	'		'	'	'
Class of Stock [Line Items]	'		'	'	'
Tendered	10,500		10,150	11,200	'
Converted	-350	[1]	'	'	'
Redeemed	11,900		10,500	11,200	'
Remaining	700		2,450	2,800	2,800
Redemption Value at Fiscal year end	$221		$765	$853	$813
Class B	'		'	'	'
Class of Stock [Line Items]	'		'	'	'
Tendered	10,034		24,921	33,391	'
Redeemed	9,567		11,558	22,305	'
Remaining	78,776		78,309	64,946	53,860
Redemption Value at Fiscal year end	$24,207		$23,837	$19,463	$15,639
[1]	Typically, a conversion of Class A Shares to Class B Shares occurs when Members combine or a Member purchases another Member, and in order to avoid duplicative holding of Class A Shares, the additional Class A Shares acquired as a result of such activities are converted into Class B Shares.

Benefit_Plans_Additional_Infor

Benefit Plans - Additional Information (Detail) (USD $)	12 Months Ended
	Sep. 28, 2013		Sep. 29, 2012		Oct. 01, 2011		Dec. 31, 2012
Employee Benefit Plans [Line Items]	'		'		'		'
Net accrued benefit costs	$79,500,000		$131,600,000		'		'
Pension expense	12,500,000		13,000,000		11,400,000		'
Amortization of prior service cost and actuarial loss	7,100,000		'		'		'
Amortization of prior service cost	9,000		'		'		'
Actuarial loss	7,100,000		'		'		'
Projected amortization of prior service cost and actuarial loss for fiscal 2014	2,700,000		'		'		'
Projected amortization of prior service cost for fiscal 2014	16,000		'		'		'
Projected actuarial loss for fiscal 2014	2,700,000		'		'		'
Accumulated plan benefit obligation	282,300,000		310,500,000		'		'
The amount of pension expense that would have increased if the expected long-term rate of return on plan assets lowers by 0.50%	900,000		700,000		'		'
Reduction in contribution pursuant to the Patient Protection and Affordable Care Act	7,900,000		2,000,000		'		'
Contributions made to collectively bargained multi-employer defined benefit pension plans	13,556,000	[1],[2]	13,804,000	[1]	14,907,000	[1]	'
Equity securities	'		'		'		'
Employee Benefit Plans [Line Items]	'		'		'		'
Plan assets target asset allocation	60.00%		'		'		'
Fixed Income	'		'		'		'
Employee Benefit Plans [Line Items]	'		'		'		'
Plan assets target asset allocation	25.00%		'		'		'
Alternative investments	'		'		'		'
Employee Benefit Plans [Line Items]	'		'		'		'
Plan assets target asset allocation	12.50%		'		'		'
Real Assets	'		'		'		'
Employee Benefit Plans [Line Items]	'		'		'		'
Plan assets target asset allocation	2.50%		'		'		'
Accrued Liabilities	'		'		'		'
Employee Benefit Plans [Line Items]	'		'		'		'
Net accrued benefit costs	3,400,000		700,000		'		'
Unified Cash Balance Plan	'		'		'		'
Employee Benefit Plans [Line Items]	'		'		'		'
Net accrued benefit costs	-36,227,000		-85,558,000		'		'
Amortization of prior service cost	10,000		11,000		11,000		'
Projected amortization of prior service cost for fiscal 2014	10,000		'		'		'
Accumulated plan benefit obligation	238,935,000		264,473,000		212,576,000		'
Expected long-term return on plan assets	8.25%		8.50%		8.50%		'
Discount rate for benefit obligation	5.00%		4.00%		5.25%		'
Share redemption required notice period, minimum	'30 days		'		'		'
Share redemption required notice period, maximum	'90 days		'		'		'
Contributions	7,355,000		10,941,000		'		'
Estimated minimum contributions	11,300,000		'		'		'
Unified Cash Balance Plan | Investment One	'		'		'		'
Employee Benefit Plans [Line Items]	'		'		'		'
Unfunded commitments	5,400,000		'		'		'
Unified Cash Balance Plan | Investment One | Total Commitment through 2016	'		'		'		'
Employee Benefit Plans [Line Items]	'		'		'		'
Unfunded commitments	10,500,000		'		'		'
Unified Cash Balance Plan | Defined benefit plan 2013	'		'		'		'
Employee Benefit Plans [Line Items]	'		'		'		'
Contributions	3,600,000		'		'		'
Estimated minimum contributions	6,500,000		'		'		'
Additional contributions due date	15-Sep-14		'		'		'
Unified Cash Balance Plan | Defined benefit plan 2012	'		'		'		'
Employee Benefit Plans [Line Items]	'		'		'		'
Contributions	3,700,000		'		'		'
Unified Cash Balance Plan | Defined Benefit Plan 2014	'		'		'		'
Employee Benefit Plans [Line Items]	'		'		'		'
Estimated minimum contributions	4,800,000		'		'		'
Additional contributions due date	15-Sep-15		'		'		'
Unified Cash Balance Plan | Minimum	'		'		'		'
Employee Benefit Plans [Line Items]	'		'		'		'
Plan balance annual interest credit rate	5.00%		'		'		'
Sheltered Savings Plan	'		'		'		'
Employee Benefit Plans [Line Items]	'		'		'		'
Defined contribution plan, vesting percentage	100.00%		'		'		'
Defined contribution plan, required service period	'One year		'		'		'
Percentage of employer matching contribution	40.00%		'		'		'
Employer contribution as a percentage of compensation	2.00%		'		'		'
Defined contribution plan, employer contribution	5,100,000		5,300,000		5,200,000		'
Sheltered Savings Plan | Minimum	'		'		'		'
Employee Benefit Plans [Line Items]	'		'		'		'
Percentage of deferred Compensation	4.00%		'		'		'
Sheltered Savings Plan | Maximum	'		'		'		'
Employee Benefit Plans [Line Items]	'		'		'		'
Percentage of deferred Compensation	8.00%		'		'		'
Supplemental Executive Retirement Plan	'		'		'		'
Employee Benefit Plans [Line Items]	'		'		'		'
Defined contribution plan, vesting percentage	20.00%		'		'		'
SERP fully vested percentage	100.00%		'		'		'
Accrued benefit cost	800,000		'		'		'
Officers required service years	'5 years		'		'		'
Supplemental Executive Retirement Plan | Noncurrent Liabilities	'		'		'		'
Employee Benefit Plans [Line Items]	'		'		'		'
Net accrued benefit costs	76,100,000		130,900,000		'		'
Supplemental Executive Retirement Plan | Minimum	'		'		'		'
Employee Benefit Plans [Line Items]	'		'		'		'
Vested account balance payable period	'5 years		'		'		'
Supplemental Executive Retirement Plan | Maximum	'		'		'		'
Employee Benefit Plans [Line Items]	'		'		'		'
Vested account balance payable period	'15 years		'		'		'
ESPPIII	'		'		'		'
Employee Benefit Plans [Line Items]	'		'		'		'
Cash surrender value of life insurance policies	19,400,000		16,800,000		'		'
Mutual fund investments, at fair value	15,500,000		13,900,000		'		'
Net accrued benefit costs	-43,334,000		-45,996,000		'		'
Amortization of prior service cost	-20,000		'		212,000		'
Projected amortization of prior service cost for fiscal 2014	-20,000		'		'		'
Accumulated plan benefit obligation	43,334,000		45,996,000		38,530,000		'
Discount rate for benefit obligation	3.50%		3.25%		4.50%		3.00%
Contributions	3,089,000		712,000		'		'
Estimated minimum contributions	3,400,000		'		'		'
ESPPIII | Method One	'		'		'		'
Employee Benefit Plans [Line Items]	'		'		'		'
Period preceding employment separation used to determine officer's final salary	'3 years		'		'		'
ESPPIII | Method Two	'		'		'		'
Employee Benefit Plans [Line Items]	'		'		'		'
Period preceding employment separation used to determine officer's final salary	'10 years		'		'		'
Number of years of highest compensation out of the last ten years preceding employment separation used to determine officer's final salary	'5 years		'		'		'
Nonqualified Deferred Compensation Plan	'		'		'		'
Employee Benefit Plans [Line Items]	'		'		'		'
Cash surrender value of life insurance policies	12,300,000		14,500,000		'		'
Mutual fund investments, at fair value	600,000		300,000		'		'
Liability to participants, non current	$12,200,000		$14,900,000		'		'
[1]	None of the Company's collective bargaining agreements require that a minimum contribution be made to these plans. None of the Company's contributions exceed 5% of the total contributions to any of the plans.
[2]	The decrease in contributions from fiscal 2012 to fiscal 2013 is due to reduction in headcount at various locations.

Components_Net_Periodic_Cost_f

Components Net Periodic Cost for Unified Cash Balance Plan and Executive Salary Protection Plan (Detail) (USD $)	12 Months Ended
In Thousands, unless otherwise specified	Sep. 28, 2013	Sep. 29, 2012	Oct. 01, 2011
Defined Benefit Plan Disclosure [Line Items]	'	'	'
Amortization of prior service cost	$9	'	'
Unified Cash Balance Plan	'	'	'
Defined Benefit Plan Disclosure [Line Items]	'	'	'
Service cost	6,417	5,527	5,405
Interest cost	10,387	10,927	10,425
Expected return on plan assets	-14,645	-12,671	-12,402
Amortization of prior service cost	10	11	11
Actuarial loss	6,196	4,281	2,913
Net periodic benefit cost	8,365	8,075	6,352
ESPPIII	'	'	'
Defined Benefit Plan Disclosure [Line Items]	'	'	'
Service cost	1,878	2,240	2,295
Interest cost	1,318	1,718	1,464
Amortization of prior service cost	-20	'	212
Actuarial loss	930	930	1,069
Net periodic benefit cost	$4,106	$4,888	$5,040

Change_in_Benefit_Obligation_f

Change in Benefit Obligation for Unified Cash Balance Plan and Executive Salary Protection Plan (Detail) (USD $)	12 Months Ended
In Thousands, unless otherwise specified	Sep. 28, 2013		Sep. 29, 2012		Oct. 01, 2011
Defined Benefit Plan Disclosure [Line Items]	'		'		'
Beginning balance	$310,500		'		'
Actuarial (gain) loss	7,100		'		'
Benefit obligation at end of year	282,300		'		'
Unified Cash Balance Plan	'		'		'
Defined Benefit Plan Disclosure [Line Items]	'		'		'
Beginning balance	264,473		212,576		'
Service cost	6,417		5,527		5,405
Interest cost	10,387		10,927		10,425
Benefits paid	-8,020		-7,094		'
Benefit obligation at end of year	238,935		264,473		212,576
Unified Cash Balance Plan | Change in Assumptions for Pension Plans	'		'		'
Defined Benefit Plan Disclosure [Line Items]	'		'		'
Actuarial (gain) loss	-34,322	[1]	42,537	[1]	'
ESPPIII	'		'		'
Defined Benefit Plan Disclosure [Line Items]	'		'		'
Beginning balance	45,996		38,530		'
Service cost	1,878		2,240		2,295
Interest cost	1,318		1,718		1,464
Plan amendments	-80		'		'
Benefits paid	-3,089		-712		'
Benefit obligation at end of year	43,334		45,996		38,530
ESPPIII | Change in Assumptions for Pension Plans	'		'		'
Defined Benefit Plan Disclosure [Line Items]	'		'		'
Actuarial (gain) loss	($2,689)	[1]	$4,220	[1]	'
[1]	The actuarial gain in fiscal 2013 for the Unified Cash Balance Plan includes approximately $33.6 million due to the change in the discount rate (from 4.00% to 5.00%). The actuarial gain in fiscal 2013 for the ESPPIII includes gains of approximately $4.2 million resulting from a change to future benefits due to the plan amendment and $0.7 million due to the change in the discount rate (from 3.25% to 3.50%), partially offset by approximately $2.6 million in retirement losses (i.e., earlier than expected retirements).

Change_in_Benefit_Obligation_f1

Change in Benefit Obligation for Unified Cash Balance Plan and Executive Salary Protection Plan (Parenthetical) (Detail) (USD $)	12 Months Ended
In Millions, unless otherwise specified	Sep. 28, 2013	Dec. 31, 2012	Sep. 29, 2012	Oct. 01, 2011
Unified Cash Balance Plan	'	'	'	'
Defined Benefit Plan Disclosure [Line Items]	'	'	'	'
Change in actuarial loss due to change in discount rate	$33.60	'	'	'
Discount rate	5.00%	'	4.00%	5.25%
ESPPIII	'	'	'	'
Defined Benefit Plan Disclosure [Line Items]	'	'	'	'
Change in actuarial loss due to change in discount rate	0.7	'	'	'
Discount rate	3.50%	3.00%	3.25%	4.50%
Change in actuarial loss due to change in plan amendment	4.2	'	'	'
Change in actuarial loss due to change in retirement losses	$2.60	'	'	'

Change_in_Plan_Assets_for_Unif

Change in Plan Assets for Unified Cash Balance Plan and Executive Salary Protection Plan (Detail) (USD $)	12 Months Ended
In Thousands, unless otherwise specified	Sep. 28, 2013	Sep. 29, 2012
Unified Cash Balance Plan	'	'
Defined Benefit Plan Disclosure [Line Items]	'	'
Beginning balance	$178,915	$147,168
Actual return on plan assets	24,458	27,900
Employer contribution	7,355	10,941
Benefits paid	-8,020	-7,094
Ending balance	202,708	178,915
ESPPIII	'	'
Defined Benefit Plan Disclosure [Line Items]	'	'
Employer contribution	3,089	712
Benefits paid	($3,089)	($712)

Accrued_Pension_and_Other_Bene

Accrued Pension and Other Benefit Costs Recognized for Unified Cash Balance Plan and Executive Salary Protection Plan (Detail) (USD $)	Sep. 28, 2013	Sep. 29, 2012
In Thousands, unless otherwise specified
Defined Benefit Plan Disclosure [Line Items]	'	'
Net amount recognized	$79,500	$131,600
Unified Cash Balance Plan	'	'
Defined Benefit Plan Disclosure [Line Items]	'	'
Funded status (under-funded)	-36,227	-85,558
Net amount recognized	-36,227	-85,558
ESPPIII	'	'
Defined Benefit Plan Disclosure [Line Items]	'	'
Funded status (under-funded)	-43,334	-45,996
Net amount recognized	($43,334)	($45,996)

Amounts_Recognized_in_Consolid

Amounts Recognized in Consolidated Balance Sheets for Unified Cash Balance Plan and Executive Salary Protection Plan (Detail) (USD $)	Sep. 28, 2013	Sep. 29, 2012	Oct. 01, 2011
In Thousands, unless otherwise specified
Defined Benefit Plan Disclosure [Line Items]	'	'	'
Accumulated other comprehensive loss	($19,060)	($93,899)	($57,054)
Net amount recognized	79,500	131,600	'
Unified Cash Balance Plan	'	'	'
Defined Benefit Plan Disclosure [Line Items]	'	'	'
Prepaid (accrued) benefit cost	1,250	2,260	'
Accumulated other comprehensive loss	-37,477	-87,818	-64,802
Net amount recognized	-36,227	-85,558	'
ESPPIII	'	'	'
Defined Benefit Plan Disclosure [Line Items]	'	'	'
Prepaid (accrued) benefit cost	-35,853	-34,836	'
Accumulated other comprehensive loss	-7,481	-11,160	-7,870
Net amount recognized	($43,334)	($45,996)	'

Reconciliation_of_Change_in_Ne

Reconciliation of Change in Net Periodic Benefit Cost Plan Assets Benefit Obligation and Accumulated Other Comprehensive Income Loss and Components Thereof for Unified Cash Balance Plan (Detail) (USD $)	12 Months Ended
In Thousands, unless otherwise specified	Sep. 28, 2013	Sep. 29, 2012	Oct. 01, 2011
Defined Benefit Plan Disclosure [Line Items]	'	'	'
Prior service cost	$9	'	'
Benefit obligation at beginning of year	-310,500	'	'
Benefit obligation at end of year	-282,300	'	'
Beginning balance	93,899	'	'
Prior service cost	-16	'	'
Ending balance	19,060	'	57,054
Unified Cash Balance Plan	'	'	'
Defined Benefit Plan Disclosure [Line Items]	'	'	'
Service cost	6,417	5,527	5,405
Interest cost	10,387	10,927	10,425
Actual return loss/(gain)	-24,458	-27,900	'
Basic annual cost	-7,654	'	'
Unexpected return adjustment	9,813	'	'
Prior service cost	10	11	11
Unrecognized actuarial loss/(gain)	6,196	4,281	2,913
Net periodic benefit cost	8,365	8,075	6,352
Fiscal 2009 ASC 715-20 Measurement Date Adjustments to Retained Earnings	673	'	'
Fiscal 2009 ASC 715-20 Measurement Date Adjustments to Retained Earnings	673	'	'
Beginning balance	178,915	147,168	'
Actual return loss/(gain)	24,458	27,900	'
Contributions	7,355	10,941	'
Benefits paid	-8,020	-7,094	'
Ending balance	202,708	178,915	147,168
Benefit obligation at beginning of year	-264,473	-212,576	'
Service cost	-6,417	-5,527	-5,405
Interest cost	-10,387	-10,927	-10,425
Benefits paid	8,020	7,094	'
Unrecognized actuarial loss	34,322	'	'
Benefit obligation at end of year	-238,935	-264,473	-212,576
Beginning balance	87,818	64,802	'
Unexpected return adjustment	-9,813	'	'
Unrecognized actuarial loss/(gain)	-34,322	'	'
Prior service cost	-10	'	'
Unrecognized actuarial loss/(gain)	-6,196	-4,281	-2,913
Ending balance	37,477	87,818	64,802
Unified Cash Balance Plan | Unrecognized Prior Service Cost	'	'	'
Defined Benefit Plan Disclosure [Line Items]	'	'	'
Beginning balance	54	'	'
Prior service cost	-10	'	'
Ending balance	44	'	'
Unified Cash Balance Plan | Actuarial Gains And Losses	'	'	'
Defined Benefit Plan Disclosure [Line Items]	'	'	'
Unexpected return adjustment	9,813	'	'
Unrecognized actuarial loss/(gain)	6,196	'	'
Unrecognized actuarial loss	34,322	'	'
Beginning balance	87,764	'	'
Unexpected return adjustment	-9,813	'	'
Unrecognized actuarial loss/(gain)	-34,322	'	'
Unrecognized actuarial loss/(gain)	-6,196	'	'
Ending balance	$37,433	'	'

Reconciliation_of_Change_in_Ne1

Reconciliation of Change in Net Periodic Benefit Cost Plan Assets Benefit Obligation and Accumulated Other Comprehensive Income Loss and Components Thereof for Executive Salary Protection Plan (Detail) (USD $)	12 Months Ended
In Thousands, unless otherwise specified	Sep. 28, 2013	Sep. 29, 2012	Oct. 01, 2011
Defined Benefit Plan Disclosure [Line Items]	'	'	'
Prior service (credit)/cost	$9	'	'
Benefit obligation at beginning of year	-310,500	'	'
Benefit obligation at end of year	-282,300	'	'
Beginning balance	93,899	'	'
Prior service (credit)/cost	-16	'	'
Ending balance	19,060	'	57,054
ESPPIII	'	'	'
Defined Benefit Plan Disclosure [Line Items]	'	'	'
Service cost	1,878	2,240	2,295
Interest cost	1,318	1,718	1,464
Basic annual cost	3,196	'	'
Prior service (credit)/cost	-20	'	212
Unrecognized actuarial loss/(gain)	930	930	1,069
Net periodic benefit cost	4,106	4,888	5,040
Fiscal 2009 ASC 715-20 Measurement Date Adjustments to Retained Earnings	958	'	'
Fiscal 2009 ASC 715-20 Measurement Date Adjustments to Retained Earnings	958	'	'
Contributions	3,089	712	'
Benefits paid	-3,089	-712	'
Benefit obligation at beginning of year	-45,996	-38,530	'
Service cost	-1,878	-2,240	-2,295
Interest cost	-1,318	-1,718	-1,464
Benefits paid	3,089	712	'
Plan amendments	80	'	'
Unrecognized actuarial loss/(gain)	2,689	'	'
Benefit obligation at end of year	-43,334	-45,996	-38,530
Beginning balance	11,160	7,870	'
Plan amendments	-80	'	'
Unrecognized actuarial loss/(gain)	-2,689	'	'
Prior service (credit)/cost	20	'	'
Unrecognized actuarial loss/(gain)	-930	-930	-1,069
Ending balance	7,481	11,160	7,870
ESPPIII | Unrecognized Prior Service Cost	'	'	'
Defined Benefit Plan Disclosure [Line Items]	'	'	'
Plan amendments	80	'	'
Plan amendments	-80	'	'
Prior service (credit)/cost	20	'	'
Ending balance	-60	'	'
ESPPIII | Actuarial Gains And Losses	'	'	'
Defined Benefit Plan Disclosure [Line Items]	'	'	'
Unrecognized actuarial loss/(gain)	930	'	'
Unrecognized actuarial loss/(gain)	2,689	'	'
Beginning balance	11,160	'	'
Unrecognized actuarial loss/(gain)	-2,689	'	'
Unrecognized actuarial loss/(gain)	-930	'	'
Ending balance	$7,541	'	'

Weighted_Average_Assumptions_U

Weighted Average Assumptions Used in Computing Preceding Information for Unified Cash Balance Plan and Executive Salary Protection Plan (Detail)	12 Months Ended
	Sep. 28, 2013		Sep. 29, 2012		Oct. 01, 2011		Dec. 31, 2012
Unified Cash Balance Plan	'		'		'		'
Defined Benefit Plan Disclosure [Line Items]	'		'		'		'
Discount rate for benefit obligation	5.00%		4.00%		5.25%		'
Rate of compensation increase	3.00%		3.00%		3.00%		'
Discount rate for net periodic benefit cost	4.00%		5.25%		5.25%		'
Expected long-term return on plan assets	8.25%		8.50%		8.50%		'
Rate of compensation increase	3.00%		3.00%		3.00%		'
ESPPIII	'		'		'		'
Defined Benefit Plan Disclosure [Line Items]	'		'		'		'
Discount rate for benefit obligation	3.50%		3.25%		4.50%		3.00%
Rate of compensation increase	'		2.25%		2.25%		0.00%
Discount rate for net periodic benefit cost	3.25%		4.50%		4.25%		'
Rate of compensation increase	2.25%	[1]	2.25%	[1]	2.00%	[1]	'
[1]	The rate of compensation increase for the ESPPIII was 2.25% at the beginning of fiscal year 2013. A remeasurement of this plan occurred as of December 31, 2012 using a discount rate of 3.00% and a 0% salary increase rate.

Weighted_Average_Assumptions_U1

Weighted Average Assumptions Used in Computing Preceding Information for Unified Cash Balance Plan and Executive Salary Protection Plan (Parenthetical) (Detail) (ESPPIII)	12 Months Ended
	Sep. 28, 2013		Sep. 29, 2012		Oct. 01, 2011		Dec. 31, 2012
ESPPIII	'		'		'		'
Defined Benefit Plan Disclosure [Line Items]	'		'		'		'
Rate of compensation increase	2.25%	[1]	2.25%	[1]	2.00%	[1]	'
Discount rate	3.50%		3.25%		4.50%		3.00%
Salary increase rate	'		2.25%		2.25%		0.00%
[1]	The rate of compensation increase for the ESPPIII was 2.25% at the beginning of fiscal year 2013. A remeasurement of this plan occurred as of December 31, 2012 using a discount rate of 3.00% and a 0% salary increase rate.

Unified_Cash_Balance_Plan_Weig

Unified Cash Balance Plan Weighted Average Asset Allocation (Detail) (Unified Cash Balance Plan, USD $)	Sep. 28, 2013	Sep. 29, 2012	Oct. 01, 2011
In Thousands, unless otherwise specified
Defined Benefit Plan Disclosure [Line Items]	'	'	'
Fair value of plan assets	$202,708	$178,915	$147,168
Equity securities	'	'	'
Defined Benefit Plan Disclosure [Line Items]	'	'	'
Fair value of plan assets	118,424	99,433	'
Debt securities (mutual funds comprised of investment grade bonds)	'	'	'
Defined Benefit Plan Disclosure [Line Items]	'	'	'
Fair value of plan assets	43,742	43,521	'
Alternative investments	'	'	'
Defined Benefit Plan Disclosure [Line Items]	'	'	'
Fair value of plan assets	37,893	33,771	'
Other	'	'	'
Defined Benefit Plan Disclosure [Line Items]	'	'	'
Fair value of plan assets	$2,649	$2,190	'

Long_Term_Target_Asset_Allocat

Long Term Target Asset Allocation for Investment Portfolio (Detail)	12 Months Ended
	Sep. 28, 2013
Equity securities	'
Defined Benefit Plan Disclosure [Line Items]	'
Maximum %	80.00%
Minimum %	40.00%
Target %	60.00%
Fixed Income	'
Defined Benefit Plan Disclosure [Line Items]	'
Maximum %	40.00%
Minimum %	20.00%
Target %	25.00%
Alternative investments	'
Defined Benefit Plan Disclosure [Line Items]	'
Maximum %	20.00%
Minimum %	0.00%
Target %	12.50%
Real Assets	'
Defined Benefit Plan Disclosure [Line Items]	'
Maximum %	10.00%
Minimum %	0.00%
Target %	2.50%
Cash Equivalents	'
Defined Benefit Plan Disclosure [Line Items]	'
Maximum %	30.00%
Minimum %	0.00%
Target %	0.00%

Financial_Instruments_Recorded

Financial Instruments Recorded at Fair Value and Hierarchy of Assets (Detail) (USD $)	Sep. 28, 2013	Sep. 29, 2012	Oct. 01, 2011
In Thousands, unless otherwise specified
Level 3	'	'	'
Defined Benefit Plan Disclosure [Line Items]	'	'	'
Pension plan assets	$37,893	$33,771	$20,471
Unified Cash Balance Plan	'	'	'
Defined Benefit Plan Disclosure [Line Items]	'	'	'
Pension plan assets	202,708	178,915	147,168
Unified Cash Balance Plan | Cash Equivalents	'	'	'
Defined Benefit Plan Disclosure [Line Items]	'	'	'
Pension plan assets	2,649	2,190	'
Unified Cash Balance Plan | Alternative investments	'	'	'
Defined Benefit Plan Disclosure [Line Items]	'	'	'
Pension plan assets	37,893	33,771	'
Unified Cash Balance Plan | Equities Mutual Funds	'	'	'
Defined Benefit Plan Disclosure [Line Items]	'	'	'
Pension plan assets	162,166	142,954	'
Unified Cash Balance Plan | Equities Mutual Funds | Investment grade	'	'	'
Defined Benefit Plan Disclosure [Line Items]	'	'	'
Pension plan assets	43,742	43,521	'
Unified Cash Balance Plan | Equities Mutual Funds | Foreign Large Growth	'	'	'
Defined Benefit Plan Disclosure [Line Items]	'	'	'
Pension plan assets	19,911	18,544	'
Unified Cash Balance Plan | Equities Mutual Funds | Large-Cap Growth	'	'	'
Defined Benefit Plan Disclosure [Line Items]	'	'	'
Pension plan assets	13,199	10,993	'
Unified Cash Balance Plan | Equities Mutual Funds | Technology and Communications	'	'	'
Defined Benefit Plan Disclosure [Line Items]	'	'	'
Pension plan assets	16,612	14,725	'
Unified Cash Balance Plan | Equities Mutual Funds | Retail And Industrial Goods	'	'	'
Defined Benefit Plan Disclosure [Line Items]	'	'	'
Pension plan assets	21,682	13,612	'
Unified Cash Balance Plan | Equities Mutual Funds | Financial Insurance Services	'	'	'
Defined Benefit Plan Disclosure [Line Items]	'	'	'
Pension plan assets	12,437	9,905	'
Unified Cash Balance Plan | Equities Mutual Funds | Emerging Markets	'	'	'
Defined Benefit Plan Disclosure [Line Items]	'	'	'
Pension plan assets	9,219	9,151	'
Unified Cash Balance Plan | Equities Mutual Funds | Utilities and Energy Sector	'	'	'
Defined Benefit Plan Disclosure [Line Items]	'	'	'
Pension plan assets	8,062	7,699	'
Unified Cash Balance Plan | Equities Mutual Funds | Medical And Pharmaceutical	'	'	'
Defined Benefit Plan Disclosure [Line Items]	'	'	'
Pension plan assets	10,712	8,810	'
Unified Cash Balance Plan | Equities Mutual Funds | Other Member	'	'	'
Defined Benefit Plan Disclosure [Line Items]	'	'	'
Pension plan assets	6,590	5,994	'
Unified Cash Balance Plan | Level 1	'	'	'
Defined Benefit Plan Disclosure [Line Items]	'	'	'
Pension plan assets	164,815	145,144	'
Unified Cash Balance Plan | Level 1 | Cash Equivalents	'	'	'
Defined Benefit Plan Disclosure [Line Items]	'	'	'
Pension plan assets	2,649	2,190	'
Unified Cash Balance Plan | Level 1 | Equities Mutual Funds	'	'	'
Defined Benefit Plan Disclosure [Line Items]	'	'	'
Pension plan assets	162,166	142,954	'
Unified Cash Balance Plan | Level 1 | Equities Mutual Funds | Investment grade	'	'	'
Defined Benefit Plan Disclosure [Line Items]	'	'	'
Pension plan assets	43,742	43,521	'
Unified Cash Balance Plan | Level 1 | Equities Mutual Funds | Foreign Large Growth	'	'	'
Defined Benefit Plan Disclosure [Line Items]	'	'	'
Pension plan assets	19,911	18,544	'
Unified Cash Balance Plan | Level 1 | Equities Mutual Funds | Large-Cap Growth	'	'	'
Defined Benefit Plan Disclosure [Line Items]	'	'	'
Pension plan assets	13,199	10,993	'
Unified Cash Balance Plan | Level 1 | Equities Mutual Funds | Technology and Communications	'	'	'
Defined Benefit Plan Disclosure [Line Items]	'	'	'
Pension plan assets	16,612	14,725	'
Unified Cash Balance Plan | Level 1 | Equities Mutual Funds | Retail And Industrial Goods	'	'	'
Defined Benefit Plan Disclosure [Line Items]	'	'	'
Pension plan assets	21,682	13,612	'
Unified Cash Balance Plan | Level 1 | Equities Mutual Funds | Financial Insurance Services	'	'	'
Defined Benefit Plan Disclosure [Line Items]	'	'	'
Pension plan assets	12,437	9,905	'
Unified Cash Balance Plan | Level 1 | Equities Mutual Funds | Emerging Markets	'	'	'
Defined Benefit Plan Disclosure [Line Items]	'	'	'
Pension plan assets	9,219	9,151	'
Unified Cash Balance Plan | Level 1 | Equities Mutual Funds | Utilities and Energy Sector	'	'	'
Defined Benefit Plan Disclosure [Line Items]	'	'	'
Pension plan assets	8,062	7,699	'
Unified Cash Balance Plan | Level 1 | Equities Mutual Funds | Medical And Pharmaceutical	'	'	'
Defined Benefit Plan Disclosure [Line Items]	'	'	'
Pension plan assets	10,712	8,810	'
Unified Cash Balance Plan | Level 1 | Equities Mutual Funds | Other Member	'	'	'
Defined Benefit Plan Disclosure [Line Items]	'	'	'
Pension plan assets	6,590	5,994	'
Unified Cash Balance Plan | Level 3	'	'	'
Defined Benefit Plan Disclosure [Line Items]	'	'	'
Pension plan assets	37,893	33,771	'
Unified Cash Balance Plan | Level 3 | Alternative investments	'	'	'
Defined Benefit Plan Disclosure [Line Items]	'	'	'
Pension plan assets	$37,893	$33,771	'

Change_in_Plan_Assets_Detail

Change in Plan Assets (Detail) (Level 3, USD $)	12 Months Ended
In Thousands, unless otherwise specified	Sep. 28, 2013	Sep. 29, 2012
Level 3	'	'
Defined Benefit Plan Disclosure [Line Items]	'	'
Beginning balance	$33,771	$20,471
Purchases	6,273	14,482
Net investment gain	3,647	745
Distributions	-5,798	-1,927
Ending balance	$37,893	$33,771

Participation_in_Multiemployer

Participation in Multiemployer Plans (Detail) (USD $)	12 Months Ended
In Thousands, unless otherwise specified	Sep. 28, 2013		Sep. 29, 2012		Oct. 01, 2011
Multiemployer Plans [Line Items]	'		'		'
Contributions	$13,556	[1],[2]	$13,804	[1]	$14,907	[1]
Western Conference Of Teamsters Pension Fund	'		'		'
Multiemployer Plans [Line Items]	'		'		'
Contributions	'916145047		'		'
Plan Number	'100		'		'
End Date	'2013-11		'		'
Status	'		'Green		'Green
Implemented	'No		'		'
Date	12-Jul-14	[3]	'		'
Date	23-Apr-16	[3]	'		'
Contributions	12,520	[1],[2]	12,848	[1]	13,908	[1]
Bakery And Confectionery Union And Industry International Pension Fund	'		'		'
Multiemployer Plans [Line Items]	'		'		'
Contributions	'526118572	[4]	'		'
Plan Number	'100	[4]	'		'
End Date	'2013-07	[4]	'		'
Status	'		'Red	[4]	'Red	[4]
Implemented	'Implemented	[4]	'		'
Date	6-Jul-13	[4]	'		'
Contributions	743	[1],[2],[4]	629	[1],[4]	656	[1],[4]
Washington Meat Industry Pension Trust	'		'		'
Multiemployer Plans [Line Items]	'		'		'
Contributions	'916134141	[4]	'		'
Plan Number	'100	[4]	'		'
End Date	'2013-05	[4]	'		'
Status	'		'Red	[4]	'Red	[4]
Implemented	'Implemented	[4]	'		'
Date	27-Sep-14	[4]	'		'
Contributions	74	[1],[2],[4]	78	[1],[4]	78	[1],[4]
All Other Plans	'		'		'
Multiemployer Plans [Line Items]	'		'		'
Contributions	$219	[1],[2],[5]	$249	[1],[5]	$265	[1],[5]
[1]	None of the Company's collective bargaining agreements require that a minimum contribution be made to these plans. None of the Company's contributions exceed 5% of the total contributions to any of the plans.
[2]	The decrease in contributions from fiscal 2012 to fiscal 2013 is due to reduction in headcount at various locations.
[3]	The Company has 15 collective bargaining agreements participating in the Western Conference of Teamsters Pension Trust. Approximately 69% of the participants covered by this plan are subject to collective bargaining agreements that expire on September 19, 2015.
[4]	The Company is subject to critical status surcharge contributions that are imposed for plans that are in the red zone.
[5]	Other plans consist of two plans (each with a PPA zone status of green) that have been aggregated in the foregoing table, as the contributions to each of these plans are not individually material.

Participation_in_Multiemployer1

Participation in Multiemployer Plans (Parenthetical) (Detail)	12 Months Ended
	Sep. 28, 2013
Maximum	'
Multiemployer Plans [Line Items]	'
Company's contribution of the total contribution of each plan	5.00%
All Other Plans	'
Multiemployer Plans [Line Items]	'
Number of plans	2
Western Conference Of Teamsters Pension Fund	'
Multiemployer Plans [Line Items]	'
Number of collective bargaining agreements	15
Agreement expiration date	19-Sep-15
Percentage of participants covered by the collective bargaining agreements	69.00%

Expected_Benefit_Payments_Deta

Expected Benefit Payments (Detail) (USD $)	Sep. 28, 2013
In Thousands, unless otherwise specified
Unified Cash Balance Plan	'
Defined Benefit Plan Disclosure [Line Items]	'
2014	$10,301
2015	11,047
2016	11,845
2017	12,668
2018	13,378
2019 - 2023	77,803
Total	137,042
ESPPIII	'
Defined Benefit Plan Disclosure [Line Items]	'
2014	3,427
2015	4,508
2016	4,283
2017	4,860
2018	4,268
2019 - 2023	23,890
Total	$45,236

Postretirement_Benefit_Plans_O2

Postretirement Benefit Plans Other Than Pensions - Additional Information (Detail) (USD $)

1 Months Ended

12 Months Ended

12 Months Ended

3 Months Ended

1 Months Ended

12 Months Ended

1 Months Ended

12 Months Ended

Jun. 01, 2013

Sep. 28, 2013

Sep. 29, 2012

Oct. 01, 2011

Jun. 01, 2013

Sep. 28, 2013

Jun. 01, 2013

Jun. 01, 2013

Jun. 01, 2013

Jun. 01, 2013

Dec. 29, 2012

Dec. 29, 2012

Sep. 28, 2013

Sep. 28, 2013

Sep. 29, 2012

Oct. 01, 2011

Sep. 28, 2013

Sep. 28, 2013

Sep. 29, 2012

Oct. 01, 2011

Maximum

Executive Insurance Plan

Chief Executive Officer

Executive Vice President

Sr Vice Presidents

Vice President

Retiree Medical Plan amendment

Retiree Medical Plan amendment

ESPPIII

ESPPIII

ESPPIII

ESPPIII

ESPPIII

Other Postretirement Benefits

Other Postretirement Benefits

Other Postretirement Benefits

Minimum

Minimum

Y

Y

Officers whose benefit accruals under the ESPP were frozen

Defined Benefit Plans and Other Postretirement Benefit Plans Table Text Block [Line Items]

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

Employees who will remain eligible to participate in RMP, minimum age

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

49

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

Employees who will remain eligible to participate in RMP, minimum continuous service period

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'15 years

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

Employees who will receive benefits under the RMP, minimum age

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

55

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

Officers age eligibility for medical benefit

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

55

'

'

Officers required service years for medical benefit

'

'7 years

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

Required ORMP premium to maintain coverage

'

25.00%

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

Life insurance policy benefit amount

'

'

'

'

$1,200,000

'

$1,000,000

$500,000

$400,000

$300,000

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

Percentage decrease in cash surrender value of life insurance at age 70

50.00%

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

Defined benefit plan, reduction in long term liability

'

'

'

'

'

1,700,000

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

Increase in other comprehensive earning, net of tax

'

49,028,000

-25,033,000

-5,906,000

'

1,100,000

'

'

'

'

17,500,000

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

Increase in other comprehensive earning, tax

'

25,812,000

-11,812,000

-2,697,000

'

600,000

'

'

'

'

9,500,000

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

Gross benefit accrual in ESPP

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

65.00%

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

Minimum service year of officers whose benefit accruals under the ESPP were frozen

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'15 years

'

'

'

Remeasurement of accumulated pension and postretirement benefit obligations, addition (reduction) in long-term liabilities

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

-29,700,000

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

Remeasurement of accumulated pension and postretirement benefit obligations, curtailment gain recognized

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

2,700,000

'

'

'

'

'

'

2,685,000

'

'

Accrued benefit obligation

'

282,300,000

310,500,000

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

43,334,000

43,334,000

45,996,000

38,530,000

'

34,444,000

63,361,000

51,914,000

Accrued benefit obligation, non current

'

30,600,000

59,400,000

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

Accrued benefit obligation, current

'

3,800,000

4,000,000

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

Postretirement expense

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

5,600,000

'

'

Amortizing prior service cost

'

9,000

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

-20,000

'

212,000

'

6,642,000

986,000

472,000

Actuarial (gain) loss

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

930,000

930,000

1,069,000

'

1,037,000

-307,000

141,000

Projected postretirement expense

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

8,000,000

'

'

Amortization of projected prior service cost

'

16,000

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

-20,000

'

'

'

8,600,000

'

'

Projected actuarial gain

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

600,000

'

'

Contributed to multi-employer plan

'

$13,556,000

[1],[2]

$13,804,000

[1]

$14,907,000

[1]

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

$5,400,000

$5,300,000

$5,200,000

[1]

None of the Company's collective bargaining agreements require that a minimum contribution be made to these plans. None of the Company's contributions exceed 5% of the total contributions to any of the plans.

[2]

The decrease in contributions from fiscal 2012 to fiscal 2013 is due to reduction in headcount at various locations.

Components_of_Net_Periodic_Cos

Components of Net Periodic Costs (Detail) (USD $)	12 Months Ended
In Thousands, unless otherwise specified	Sep. 28, 2013	Sep. 29, 2012	Oct. 01, 2011
Defined Benefit Plans and Other Postretirement Benefit Plans Table Text Block [Line Items]	'	'	'
Amortization of prior service credit	($9)	'	'
Other Postretirement Benefits	'	'	'
Defined Benefit Plans and Other Postretirement Benefit Plans Table Text Block [Line Items]	'	'	'
Service cost	546	1,522	2,073
Interest cost	1,631	2,520	2,943
Amortization of prior service credit	-6,642	-986	-472
Recognized actuarial loss/(gain)	1,037	-307	141
Benefit cost recognition in excess of APBO/AOCI previously recorded	'	'	4,553
One-time curtailment gain	-2,685	'	'
Net periodic benefit cost	($6,113)	$2,749	$9,238

Change_in_Benefit_Obligations_

Change in Benefit Obligations (Detail) (USD $)	12 Months Ended
In Thousands, unless otherwise specified	Sep. 28, 2013		Sep. 29, 2012		Oct. 01, 2011
Defined Benefit Plans and Other Postretirement Benefit Plans Table Text Block [Line Items]	'		'		'
Beginning balance	$310,500		'		'
Actuarial (gain) loss	7,100		'		'
Benefit obligation at end of year	282,300		'		'
Other Postretirement Benefits	'		'		'
Defined Benefit Plans and Other Postretirement Benefit Plans Table Text Block [Line Items]	'		'		'
Beginning balance	63,361		51,914		'
Service cost	546		1,522		2,073
Interest cost	1,631		2,520		2,943
Plan amendments	-25,701		'		'
Actuarial (gain) loss	-3,443	[1]	9,222	[1]	'
Benefits paid	-1,950		-1,817		'
Benefit obligation at end of year	$34,444		$63,361		$51,914
[1]	The actuarial gain in fiscal 2013 for the postretirement benefit plans includes gains of approximately $1.6 million resulting from updated demographics and other miscellaneous changes, $1.0 million due to updated claims and trend for the Retiree Medical Plan and $0.8 million due to the change in the discount rate (from 4.00% to 4.25%).

Change_in_Benefit_Obligations_1

Change in Benefit Obligations (Parenthetical) (Detail) (USD $)	12 Months Ended
	Sep. 28, 2013		Sep. 29, 2012		Oct. 01, 2011
Defined Benefit Plans and Other Postretirement Benefit Plans Table Text Block [Line Items]	'		'		'
Actuarial (gain) loss	$7,100,000		'		'
Other Postretirement Benefits	'		'		'
Defined Benefit Plans and Other Postretirement Benefit Plans Table Text Block [Line Items]	'		'		'
Actuarial (gain) loss	-3,443,000	[1]	9,222,000	[1]	'
Change in actuarial loss due to change in discount rate	800,000		'		'
Discount rate	4.25%	[2]	4.00%	[2]	5.00%	[2]
Other Postretirement Benefits | Updated demographics and other miscellaneous changes	'		'		'
Defined Benefit Plans and Other Postretirement Benefit Plans Table Text Block [Line Items]	'		'		'
Actuarial (gain) loss	1,600,000		'		'
Other Postretirement Benefits | Retiree Medical Plan	'		'		'
Defined Benefit Plans and Other Postretirement Benefit Plans Table Text Block [Line Items]	'		'		'
Actuarial (gain) loss	$1,000,000		'		'
[1]	The actuarial gain in fiscal 2013 for the postretirement benefit plans includes gains of approximately $1.6 million resulting from updated demographics and other miscellaneous changes, $1.0 million due to updated claims and trend for the Retiree Medical Plan and $0.8 million due to the change in the discount rate (from 4.00% to 4.25%).
[2]	The discount rate for the Officer Retirement Medical Plan is 4.25%, 4.00% and 5.25% for fiscal 2013, 2012 and 2011, respectively.

Postretirement_Benefit_Plans_O3

Postretirement Benefit Plans Other Than Pensions, Change in Plan Assets (Detail) (Other Postretirement Benefits, USD $)	12 Months Ended
In Thousands, unless otherwise specified	Sep. 28, 2013	Sep. 29, 2012
Other Postretirement Benefits	'	'
Defined Benefit Plan Disclosure [Line Items]	'	'
Beginning balance	'	'
Employer contribution	1,950	1,817
Benefits paid	-1,950	-1,817
Ending balance	'	'

Funded_Status_of_Plans_Detail

Funded Status of Plans (Detail) (Other Postretirement Benefits, USD $)	Sep. 28, 2013	Sep. 29, 2012
In Thousands, unless otherwise specified
Other Postretirement Benefits	'	'
Defined Benefit Plans and Other Postretirement Benefit Plans Table Text Block [Line Items]	'	'
Funded status at September 30, 2012 and 2011 (under-funded)	($34,444)	($63,361)
Net amount recognized	($34,444)	($63,361)

Reconciliation_of_Change_in_Ne2

Reconciliation of Change in Net Periodic Benefit Cost Plan Assets Benefit Obligation and Accumulated Other Comprehensive Income Loss (Detail) (USD $)	12 Months Ended
In Thousands, unless otherwise specified	Sep. 28, 2013		Sep. 29, 2012		Oct. 01, 2011
Defined Benefit Plans and Other Postretirement Benefit Plans Table Text Block [Line Items]	'		'		'
Beginning balance	$310,500		'		'
Prior service cost	-9		'		'
Beginning balance	84,229		'		'
Ending balance	63,773		'		'
Beginning balance	-61,809		'		'
Unrecognized actuarial (gain)/loss	7,100		'		'
Prior service credit	9		'		'
Benefit obligation at end of year	282,300		'		'
Ending balance	-12,781		'		-36,776
Other Postretirement Benefits	'		'		'
Defined Benefit Plans and Other Postretirement Benefit Plans Table Text Block [Line Items]	'		'		'
Beginning balance	63,361		51,914		'
Service cost	546		1,522		2,073
Interest cost	1,631		2,520		2,943
Basic annual cost	2,177		'		'
Prior service cost	-6,642		-986		-472
Recognized actuarial (gain)/loss	1,037		-307		141
One-time curtailment gain	-2,685		'		'
Net periodic benefit cost	-6,113		2,749		9,238
Beginning balance	3,260		'		'
Ending balance	3,260		3,260		'
Contributions	1,950		1,817		'
Benefits paid	-1,950		-1,817		'
Beginning balance	-4,583		'		'
Plan amendments	-25,701		'		'
Unrecognized actuarial (gain)/loss	-3,443	[1]	9,222	[1]	'
Prior service credit	6,642		986		472
Benefit obligation at end of year	34,444		63,361		51,914
Recognized actuarial loss/(gain)	-1,037		307		-141
One-time curtailment gain	2,685		'		'
Ending balance	-25,437		-4,583		'
Other Postretirement Benefits | Benefit Obligations	'		'		'
Defined Benefit Plans and Other Postretirement Benefit Plans Table Text Block [Line Items]	'		'		'
Beginning balance	-63,361		'		'
Service cost	-546		'		'
Interest cost	-1,631		'		'
Benefits paid	1,950		'		'
Plan amendments	25,701		'		'
Unrecognized actuarial (gain)/loss	3,443		'		'
Benefit obligation at end of year	-34,444		'		'
Other Postretirement Benefits | Prior Service Credit And Cost	'		'		'
Defined Benefit Plans and Other Postretirement Benefit Plans Table Text Block [Line Items]	'		'		'
Prior service cost	-6,642		'		'
One-time curtailment gain	-2,685		'		'
Beginning balance	-4,180		'		'
Plan amendments	-25,701		'		'
Prior service credit	6,642		'		'
One-time curtailment gain	2,685		'		'
Ending balance	-20,554		'		'
Other Postretirement Benefits | Actuarial Gains And Losses	'		'		'
Defined Benefit Plans and Other Postretirement Benefit Plans Table Text Block [Line Items]	'		'		'
Recognized actuarial (gain)/loss	1,037		'		'
Beginning balance	-403		'		'
Unrecognized actuarial (gain)/loss	-3,443		'		'
Recognized actuarial loss/(gain)	-1,037		'		'
Ending balance	($4,883)		'		'
[1]	The actuarial gain in fiscal 2013 for the postretirement benefit plans includes gains of approximately $1.6 million resulting from updated demographics and other miscellaneous changes, $1.0 million due to updated claims and trend for the Retiree Medical Plan and $0.8 million due to the change in the discount rate (from 4.00% to 4.25%).

Postretirement_Benefit_Plans_O4

Postretirement Benefit Plans Other Than Pensions, Expected Benefit Payments (Detail) (Other Postretirement Benefits, USD $)	Sep. 28, 2013
In Thousands, unless otherwise specified
Other Postretirement Benefits	'
Defined Benefit Plan Disclosure [Line Items]	'
2014	$3,807
2015	2,376
2016	2,370
2017	2,401
2018	2,253
2019 - 2023	10,341
Total	$23,548

Weighted_Average_Assumptions_D

Weighted Average Assumptions (Detail) (Other Postretirement Benefits)	12 Months Ended
	Sep. 28, 2013		Sep. 29, 2012		Oct. 01, 2011
Other Postretirement Benefits	'		'		'
Benefit obligations:	'		'		'
Discount rate for benefit obligation	4.25%	[1]	4.00%	[1]	5.00%	[1]
Rate of compensation increase	3.00%	[2]	3.00%	[2]	2.75%	[2]
Net periodic benefit cost:	'		'		'
Discount rate for net periodic benefit cost	4.00%	[3]	5.00%	[3]	5.25%	[3]
Rate of compensation increase	3.00%	[4]	2.75%	[4]	3.00%	[4]
[1]	The discount rate for the Officer Retirement Medical Plan is 4.25%, 4.00% and 5.25% for fiscal 2013, 2012 and 2011, respectively.
[2]	The rate of compensation increase for the fiscal 2013 and fiscal 2012 split-dollar Executive Insurance Plan is 0% and 2.25%, respectively.
[3]	The discount rate for the Officer Retirement Medical Plan is 4.00%, 5.25% and 5.50% for fiscal 2013, 2012 and 2011, respectively. The discount rate of 4.00% was the rate at the beginning of the fiscal year. A remeasurement occurred as of December 31, 2012 for the RMP and ORMP using a discount rate of 3.50% and 3.75% respectively.
[4]	The rate of compensation increase for the fiscal 2013 split-dollar Executive Insurance Plan is 2.25%.

Weighted_Average_Assumptions_P

Weighted Average Assumptions (Parenthetical) (Detail) (Other Postretirement Benefits)	1 Months Ended	12 Months Ended
	Dec. 31, 2012	Sep. 28, 2013		Sep. 29, 2012		Oct. 01, 2011
Defined Benefit Plans and Other Postretirement Benefit Plans Table Text Block [Line Items]	'	'		'		'
Discount rate for benefit obligation	'	4.25%	[1]	4.00%	[1]	5.00%	[1]
Rate of compensation increase	'	3.00%	[2]	3.00%	[2]	2.75%	[2]
Discount rate for net periodic benefit cost	'	4.00%	[3]	5.00%	[3]	5.25%	[3]
Rate of compensation increase	'	3.00%	[4]	2.75%	[4]	3.00%	[4]
Retiree Medical Plan	'	'		'		'
Defined Benefit Plans and Other Postretirement Benefit Plans Table Text Block [Line Items]	'	'		'		'
Discount rate for net periodic benefit cost	3.50%	'		'		'
Retiree Medical Plan | Officer	'	'		'		'
Defined Benefit Plans and Other Postretirement Benefit Plans Table Text Block [Line Items]	'	'		'		'
Discount rate for benefit obligation	'	4.25%		4.00%		5.25%
Executive Insurance Plan	'	'		'		'
Defined Benefit Plans and Other Postretirement Benefit Plans Table Text Block [Line Items]	'	'		'		'
Rate of compensation increase	'	0.00%		2.25%		'
Rate of compensation increase	'	2.25%		'		'
Officer Retirement Medical Plan	'	'		'		'
Defined Benefit Plans and Other Postretirement Benefit Plans Table Text Block [Line Items]	'	'		'		'
Discount rate for net periodic benefit cost	3.75%	4.00%		5.25%		5.50%
[1]	The discount rate for the Officer Retirement Medical Plan is 4.25%, 4.00% and 5.25% for fiscal 2013, 2012 and 2011, respectively.
[2]	The rate of compensation increase for the fiscal 2013 and fiscal 2012 split-dollar Executive Insurance Plan is 0% and 2.25%, respectively.
[3]	The discount rate for the Officer Retirement Medical Plan is 4.00%, 5.25% and 5.50% for fiscal 2013, 2012 and 2011, respectively. The discount rate of 4.00% was the rate at the beginning of the fiscal year. A remeasurement occurred as of December 31, 2012 for the RMP and ORMP using a discount rate of 3.50% and 3.75% respectively.
[4]	The rate of compensation increase for the fiscal 2013 split-dollar Executive Insurance Plan is 2.25%.

Assumed_Health_Care_Trend_Rate

Assumed Health Care Trend Rates (Detail) (Other Postretirement Benefits)	12 Months Ended
	Sep. 28, 2013		Sep. 29, 2012
Pre-age 65	'		'
Defined Benefit Plans and Other Postretirement Benefit Plans Table Text Block [Line Items]	'		'
Health care cost trend rate assumed for 2013 and 2012	7.50%	[1]	8.00%	[1]
Rate to which the cost trend rate is assumed to decline (the ultimate trend rate)	5.00%	[2]	5.00%	[2]
Year that the rate reaches the ultimate trend rate	'2021		'2018
Post-age 65	'		'
Defined Benefit Plans and Other Postretirement Benefit Plans Table Text Block [Line Items]	'		'
Health care cost trend rate assumed for 2013 and 2012	5.00%	[1]	8.00%	[1]
Rate to which the cost trend rate is assumed to decline (the ultimate trend rate)	4.75%	[3]	5.00%	[3]
Year that the rate reaches the ultimate trend rate	'2020		'2018
[1]	The annual rate of increase in the per capita cost of covered health care benefits.
[2]	The valuation trend assumption was projected as follows: A rate of 7.50% in 2013, 8.00% in 2014 and 2015, 7.50% in 2016, 7.00% in 2017, 6.50% in 2018, 6.00% in 2019, 5.50% in 2020 and 5.00% in 2021 and beyond. The initial trend rate reflects the Company's recent cost experience, healthcare cost survey data, Patient Protection and Affordable Care Act fee estimates, and the Company's expected insurance market cost increases over the next year. The ultimate rate was set to reflect general inflation plus added medical inflation. The grading period is an estimate of the length of time it will take for health care costs to become more stable as a percentage of the Gross Domestic Product.
[3]	The valuation trend assumption was projected as follows: 5.00% in 2013, 5.50% in 2014 and 2015, 5.25% in 2016 and 2017, 5.00% in 2018 and 2019, and 4.75% in 2020 and beyond. The initial trend rate reflects recent experience in the individual Medicare supplement market. The ultimate rate was set to reflect general inflation plus added medical inflation for Medicare supplemental coverage.

Assumed_Health_Care_Trend_Rate1

Assumed Health Care Trend Rates (Parenthetical) (Detail)	12 Months Ended
	Sep. 28, 2013
Pre-age 65 | 2013	'
Defined Benefit Plans and Other Postretirement Benefit Plans Table Text Block [Line Items]	'
Valuation trend rate	7.50%
Pre-age 65 | 2014	'
Defined Benefit Plans and Other Postretirement Benefit Plans Table Text Block [Line Items]	'
Valuation trend rate	8.00%
Pre-age 65 | 2015	'
Defined Benefit Plans and Other Postretirement Benefit Plans Table Text Block [Line Items]	'
Valuation trend rate	8.00%
Pre-age 65 | 2016	'
Defined Benefit Plans and Other Postretirement Benefit Plans Table Text Block [Line Items]	'
Valuation trend rate	7.50%
Pre-age 65 | 2017	'
Defined Benefit Plans and Other Postretirement Benefit Plans Table Text Block [Line Items]	'
Valuation trend rate	7.00%
Pre-age 65 | 2018	'
Defined Benefit Plans and Other Postretirement Benefit Plans Table Text Block [Line Items]	'
Valuation trend rate	6.50%
Pre-age 65 | 2019	'
Defined Benefit Plans and Other Postretirement Benefit Plans Table Text Block [Line Items]	'
Valuation trend rate	6.00%
Pre-age 65 | 2020	'
Defined Benefit Plans and Other Postretirement Benefit Plans Table Text Block [Line Items]	'
Valuation trend rate	5.50%
Pre-age 65 | 2021 and beyond	'
Defined Benefit Plans and Other Postretirement Benefit Plans Table Text Block [Line Items]	'
Valuation trend rate	5.00%
Post-age 65 | 2013	'
Defined Benefit Plans and Other Postretirement Benefit Plans Table Text Block [Line Items]	'
Valuation trend rate	5.00%
Post-age 65 | 2014	'
Defined Benefit Plans and Other Postretirement Benefit Plans Table Text Block [Line Items]	'
Valuation trend rate	5.50%
Post-age 65 | 2015	'
Defined Benefit Plans and Other Postretirement Benefit Plans Table Text Block [Line Items]	'
Valuation trend rate	5.50%
Post-age 65 | 2016	'
Defined Benefit Plans and Other Postretirement Benefit Plans Table Text Block [Line Items]	'
Valuation trend rate	5.25%
Post-age 65 | 2017	'
Defined Benefit Plans and Other Postretirement Benefit Plans Table Text Block [Line Items]	'
Valuation trend rate	5.25%
Post-age 65 | 2018	'
Defined Benefit Plans and Other Postretirement Benefit Plans Table Text Block [Line Items]	'
Valuation trend rate	5.00%
Post-age 65 | 2019	'
Defined Benefit Plans and Other Postretirement Benefit Plans Table Text Block [Line Items]	'
Valuation trend rate	5.00%
Post-age 65 | 2020 and beyond	'
Defined Benefit Plans and Other Postretirement Benefit Plans Table Text Block [Line Items]	'
Valuation trend rate	4.75%

Effect_of_One_Percentage_Point

Effect of One Percentage Point Change in Assumed Health Care Cost Trend Rates (Detail) (Other Postretirement Benefits, USD $)	12 Months Ended
In Thousands, unless otherwise specified	Sep. 28, 2013
Other Postretirement Benefits	'
Defined Benefit Plans and Other Postretirement Benefit Plans Table Text Block [Line Items]	'
Effect on total of service and interest cost	$98
Effect on accumulated postretirement benefit obligation	1,131
Effect on total of service and interest cost	-98
Effect on accumulated postretirement benefit obligation	($1,008)

Segment_Reporting_Additional_I

Segment Reporting - Additional Information (Detail) (USD $)	12 Months Ended
	Sep. 28, 2013	Sep. 29, 2012	Oct. 01, 2011
	Segment
Segment Reporting Disclosure [Line Items]	'	'	'
Number of reportable segments	2	'	'
Gross billings through vendor direct arrangements	'	($35,100,000)	($48,600,000)
Wholesale distribution	'	'	'
Segment Reporting Disclosure [Line Items]	'	'	'
Gross billings	3,722,387,000	3,776,173,000	3,832,477,000
Gross billings through vendor direct arrangements	'	-35,100,000	-48,600,000
Insurance	'	'	'
Segment Reporting Disclosure [Line Items]	'	'	'
Subsidiaries in the insurance segment	3	'	'
Total net sales	'	'	'
Segment Reporting Disclosure [Line Items]	'	'	'
Concentration of risk percentage	47.00%	46.00%	45.00%
Sales revenue, segment | Wholesale distribution | Non Perishable Products	'	'	'
Segment Reporting Disclosure [Line Items]	'	'	'
Concentration of risk percentage	66.00%	68.00%	70.00%
Sales revenue, segment | Wholesale distribution | Perishable products	'	'	'
Segment Reporting Disclosure [Line Items]	'	'	'
Concentration of risk percentage	34.00%	32.00%	30.00%
Sales revenue, segment | Wholesale distribution | Retail support services	'	'	'
Segment Reporting Disclosure [Line Items]	'	'	'
Concentration of risk percentage	1.00%	1.00%	1.00%
Segment concentration risk | Total net sales | Wholesale distribution	'	'	'
Segment Reporting Disclosure [Line Items]	'	'	'
Concentration of risk percentage	99.00%	'	'
Segment concentration risk | Total net sales | Insurance	'	'	'
Segment Reporting Disclosure [Line Items]	'	'	'
Concentration of risk percentage	1.00%	'	'
Segment concentration risk | Total net sales | All other | Maximum	'	'	'
Segment Reporting Disclosure [Line Items]	'	'	'
Concentration of risk percentage	1.00%	'	'
Segment concentration risk | Total assets | Wholesale distribution	'	'	'
Segment Reporting Disclosure [Line Items]	'	'	'
Concentration of risk percentage	84.00%	'	'
Segment concentration risk | Total assets | Insurance	'	'	'
Segment Reporting Disclosure [Line Items]	'	'	'
Concentration of risk percentage	13.00%	'	'
Segment concentration risk | Total assets | All other	'	'	'
Segment Reporting Disclosure [Line Items]	'	'	'
Concentration of risk percentage	3.00%	'	'
Product concentration risk | Sales revenue, segment | Wholesale distribution | Non Perishable Products	'	'	'
Segment Reporting Disclosure [Line Items]	'	'	'
Segment net sales attributable to sales of products	2,400,000,000	2,600,000,000	2,700,000,000
Product concentration risk | Sales revenue, segment | Wholesale distribution | Perishable products	'	'	'
Segment Reporting Disclosure [Line Items]	'	'	'
Segment net sales attributable to sales of products	1,200,000,000	$1,200,000,000	$1,100,000,000

Summarized_Information_about_O

Summarized Information about Operating Segments (Detail) (USD $)	12 Months Ended
In Thousands, unless otherwise specified	Sep. 28, 2013	Sep. 29, 2012	Oct. 01, 2011
Segment Reporting Information [Line Items]	'	'	'
Net sales	$3,691,564	$3,761,197	$3,799,229
Operating income	4,474	25,119	37,433
Interest expense	-12,803	-12,572	-12,342
Depreciation and amortization	25,572	26,079	23,239
Loss on early extinguishment of debt	-9,788	'	'
Capital expenditures	10,418	12,799	8,940
Patronage dividends	-9,609	-10,787	-12,431
Identifiable assets	913,382	920,975	923,678
Income taxes	10,082	193	-5,273
Net (loss) earnings	-17,644	1,953	7,387
Wholesale distribution	'	'	'
Segment Reporting Information [Line Items]	'	'	'
Gross billings	3,722,387	3,776,173	3,832,477
Less: Gross billings through vendor direct arrangements	-51,142	-35,075	-48,546
Net sales	3,671,245	3,741,098	3,783,931
Operating income	11,761	21,318	32,587
Depreciation and amortization	25,130	25,648	22,847
Capital expenditures	10,194	8,182	8,865
Identifiable assets	766,322	780,446	791,554
Insurance	'	'	'
Segment Reporting Information [Line Items]	'	'	'
Net sales	30,665	30,404	27,280
Operating income	-7,732	3,465	4,791
Depreciation and amortization	386	375	332
Capital expenditures	224	4,617	75
Identifiable assets	117,087	115,933	106,272
All other	'	'	'
Segment Reporting Information [Line Items]	'	'	'
Net sales	1,356	1,280	1,034
Operating income	445	336	55
Depreciation and amortization	56	56	60
Identifiable assets	29,973	24,596	25,852
Inter-segment eliminations	'	'	'
Segment Reporting Information [Line Items]	'	'	'
Net sales	($11,702)	($11,585)	($13,016)

Concentration_of_Credit_Risk_A

Concentration of Credit Risk - Additional Information (Detail)	12 Months Ended
	Sep. 28, 2013	Sep. 29, 2012	Oct. 01, 2011
	Customer	Customer	Customer
Total net sales	'	'	'
Concentration Risk [Line Items]	'	'	'
Concentration of risk percentage	47.00%	46.00%	45.00%
Number of major customers	10	10	10
Total net sales | Smart & Final, Inc.	'	'	'
Concentration Risk [Line Items]	'	'	'
Concentration of risk percentage	14.00%	13.00%	13.00%
Accounts receivable	'	'	'
Concentration Risk [Line Items]	'	'	'
Concentration of risk percentage	39.00%	39.00%	'
Number of major customers	10	10	'

Financial_Instruments_Recorded1

Financial Instruments Recorded at Fair Value and Hierarchy of Those Assets (Detail) (USD $)	Sep. 28, 2013	Sep. 29, 2012
In Thousands, unless otherwise specified
Fair Value, Assets and Liabilities Measured on Recurring and Nonrecurring Basis [Line Items]	'	'
Financial instruments at fair value	$96,006	$91,811
Money market funds	'	'
Fair Value, Assets and Liabilities Measured on Recurring and Nonrecurring Basis [Line Items]	'	'
Financial instruments at fair value	1,646	2,162
Mutual funds	'	'
Fair Value, Assets and Liabilities Measured on Recurring and Nonrecurring Basis [Line Items]	'	'
Financial instruments at fair value	15,471	13,908
Corporate debt securities	'	'
Fair Value, Assets and Liabilities Measured on Recurring and Nonrecurring Basis [Line Items]	'	'
Financial instruments at fair value	32,558	26,371
U.S. Treasury securities and obligations of U.S. government corporations and agencies	'	'
Fair Value, Assets and Liabilities Measured on Recurring and Nonrecurring Basis [Line Items]	'	'
Financial instruments at fair value	35,553	39,964
Municipal securities	'	'
Fair Value, Assets and Liabilities Measured on Recurring and Nonrecurring Basis [Line Items]	'	'
Financial instruments at fair value	254	258
Equity securities	'	'
Fair Value, Assets and Liabilities Measured on Recurring and Nonrecurring Basis [Line Items]	'	'
Financial instruments at fair value	10,524	9,148
Level 1	'	'
Fair Value, Assets and Liabilities Measured on Recurring and Nonrecurring Basis [Line Items]	'	'
Financial instruments at fair value	27,641	34,835
Level 1 | Money market funds	'	'
Fair Value, Assets and Liabilities Measured on Recurring and Nonrecurring Basis [Line Items]	'	'
Financial instruments at fair value	1,646	2,162
Level 1 | Mutual funds	'	'
Fair Value, Assets and Liabilities Measured on Recurring and Nonrecurring Basis [Line Items]	'	'
Financial instruments at fair value	15,471	13,908
Level 1 | U.S. Treasury securities and obligations of U.S. government corporations and agencies	'	'
Fair Value, Assets and Liabilities Measured on Recurring and Nonrecurring Basis [Line Items]	'	'
Financial instruments at fair value	'	9,617
Level 1 | Equity securities	'	'
Fair Value, Assets and Liabilities Measured on Recurring and Nonrecurring Basis [Line Items]	'	'
Financial instruments at fair value	10,524	9,148
Level 2	'	'
Fair Value, Assets and Liabilities Measured on Recurring and Nonrecurring Basis [Line Items]	'	'
Financial instruments at fair value	68,365	56,976
Level 2 | Corporate debt securities	'	'
Fair Value, Assets and Liabilities Measured on Recurring and Nonrecurring Basis [Line Items]	'	'
Financial instruments at fair value	32,558	26,371
Level 2 | U.S. Treasury securities and obligations of U.S. government corporations and agencies	'	'
Fair Value, Assets and Liabilities Measured on Recurring and Nonrecurring Basis [Line Items]	'	'
Financial instruments at fair value	35,553	30,347
Level 2 | Municipal securities	'	'
Fair Value, Assets and Liabilities Measured on Recurring and Nonrecurring Basis [Line Items]	'	'
Financial instruments at fair value	$254	$258

Fair_Value_of_Financial_Instru2

Fair Value of Financial Instruments - Additional Information (Detail) (USD $)	12 Months Ended
In Millions, unless otherwise specified	Sep. 28, 2013	Sep. 29, 2012
	Entity
Fair Value of Financial Instruments [Line Items]	'	'
Investments, common equity securities	$10.50	$9.10
Other assets, mutual funds	15.5	13.9
Number of insurance subsidiaries that held corporate securities	2	'
Notes payable excluding capital leases	'	'
Fair Value of Financial Instruments [Line Items]	'	'
Notes payable, excluding capital leases, fair value	236.2	203.2
Notes payable, excluding capital leases, carrying value	$242.80	$200.30

Loans_Outstanding_to_Member_Af

Loans Outstanding to Member Affiliated with Director (Detail) (Michael S Trask, USD $)	12 Months Ended
In Thousands, unless otherwise specified	Sep. 28, 2013
Michael S Trask	'
Related Party Transaction [Line Items]	'
Interest Rate	4.25%
Aggregate Loan Balance	$265
Maturity Date	'2018

Lease_Guarantees_or_Subleases_

Lease Guarantees or Subleases to Members Affiliated with Directors (Detail) (USD $)	12 Months Ended
In Thousands, unless otherwise specified	Sep. 28, 2013
	Store
John Berberian	'
Related Party Transaction [Line Items]	'
No. of Stores	2
Total Current Annual Rent	$310
Total Guaranteed Rent	1,172
Mimi Song	'
Related Party Transaction [Line Items]	'
No. of Stores	2
Total Current Annual Rent	670
Total Guaranteed Rent	5,605
Louis Amen	'
Related Party Transaction [Line Items]	'
No. of Stores	1
Total Current Annual Rent	159
Total Guaranteed Rent	$584
Expiration Date(s)	'2017
Minimum | John Berberian	'
Related Party Transaction [Line Items]	'
Expiration Date(s)	'2017
Minimum | Mimi Song	'
Related Party Transaction [Line Items]	'
Expiration Date(s)	'2020
Maximum | John Berberian	'
Related Party Transaction [Line Items]	'
Expiration Date(s)	'2018
Maximum | Mimi Song	'
Related Party Transaction [Line Items]	'
Expiration Date(s)	'2023

Supply_Agreements_with_Members

Supply Agreements with Members Affiliated with Directors (Detail)	12 Months Ended
	Sep. 28, 2013
Oscar Gonzalez	'
Related Party Transaction [Line Items]	'
Expiration Date	'2015
Jay T. McCormack	'
Related Party Transaction [Line Items]	'
Expiration Date	'2015
Mimi Song	'
Related Party Transaction [Line Items]	'
Expiration Date	'2016
Michael S Trask	'
Related Party Transaction [Line Items]	'
Expiration Date	'2018	[1]
[1]	The supply agreement with Michael S. Trask will expire in the later of April 2018 or one year following payment in full of all loan obligations.

Supply_Agreements_with_Members1

Supply Agreements with Members Affiliated with Directors (Parenthetical) (Detail) (Michael S Trask)	12 Months Ended
	Sep. 28, 2013
Michael S Trask	'
Related Party Transaction [Line Items]	'
Supply agreement expiration year	'2018	[1]
[1]	The supply agreement with Michael S. Trask will expire in the later of April 2018 or one year following payment in full of all loan obligations.

Related_Party_Transactions_Add

Related Party Transactions - Additional Information (Detail) (Senior executive, USD $)	1 Months Ended	12 Months Ended
In Millions, unless otherwise specified	Dec. 31, 2000	Oct. 01, 2011
Senior executive	'	'
Related Party Transaction [Line Items]	'	'
Loans to related party	$0.10	'
Loans to related party, interest rate	7.00%	3.00%

Subsequent_Events_Additional_I

Subsequent Events - Additional Information (Detail) (Repurchase Of Equity Units, USD $)	1 Months Ended
In Millions, except Share data, unless otherwise specified	Dec. 31, 2013
Class A	'
Subsequent Event [Line Items]	'
Shares repurchase, Shares authorized for repurchase	1,400
Shares repurchase, redemption value	$0.40
Class B	'
Subsequent Event [Line Items]	'
Shares repurchase, Shares authorized for repurchase	6,509
Shares repurchase, redemption value	2
Class E	'
Subsequent Event [Line Items]	'
Shares repurchase, Shares authorized for repurchase	36,478
Shares repurchase, redemption value	$3.60

Valuation_and_Qualifying_Accou

Valuation and Qualifying Accounts (Detail) (Allowance for Doubtful Accounts, USD $)	12 Months Ended
In Thousands, unless otherwise specified	Sep. 28, 2013		Sep. 29, 2012		Oct. 01, 2011
Allowance for Doubtful Accounts	'		'		'
Valuation and Qualifying Accounts Disclosure [Line Items]	'		'		'
Balance at Beginning of Period	$3,807		$2,883		$3,222
Additions (Reductions) Charged (Credited) to Costs and Expense	1,268		1,778		389
Write-Offs	-1,474	[1]	-854	[1]	-728	[1]
Balance at end of Period	$3,601		$3,807		$2,883
[1]	Accounts written off, net of recoveries.