Stater Bros 10-K 18 Dec 13 2013 FY Annual report Financial data

Document_and_Entity_Informatio

Document and Entity Information (USD $)	12 Months Ended
	Sep. 29, 2013	Dec. 17, 2013	Jan. 01, 2013
Entity Information [Line Items]	'	'	'
Document Type	'10-K	'	'
Amendment Flag	'false	'	'
Document Period End Date	29-Sep-13	'	'
Document Fiscal Year Focus	'2013	'	'
Document Fiscal Period Focus	'FY	'	'
Entity Registrant Name	'STATER BROS HOLDINGS INC	'	'
Entity Central Index Key	'0000882829	'	'
Current Fiscal Year End Date	'--09-29	'	'
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	'	0	'
Entity Public Float	'	'	$0

CONSOLIDATED_BALANCE_SHEETS

CONSOLIDATED BALANCE SHEETS (USD $)	Sep. 29, 2013	Sep. 30, 2012
In Thousands, unless otherwise specified
Current assets	'	'
Cash and cash equivalents	$242,818	$219,800
Receivables, net of allowance of $1,323 and $975	36,080	37,427
Income tax receivable	1,413	10,475
Inventories	228,116	229,117
Prepaid expenses	14,570	17,221
Deferred income taxes, current portion	24,706	28,519
Note receivable, current portion	600	600
Total current assets	548,303	543,159
Property and equipment	'	'
Land	114,460	109,729
Buildings and improvements	606,112	582,282
Store fixtures and equipment	472,463	465,576
Property subject to capital leases	11,615	11,410
Total property and equipment (gross)	1,204,650	1,168,997
Less accumulated depreciation and amortization	-604,631	-561,493
Total property and equipment (net)	600,019	607,504
Deferred income taxes, less current portion	36,310	41,945
Deferred debt issuance costs, net	6,173	8,397
Note receivable, less current portion	616	1,423
Other assets	5,925	5,894
Total of deferred income taxes, deferred debt issuance cost and other assets	49,024	57,659
Total assets	1,197,346	1,208,322
Current liabilities	'	'
Accounts payable	144,214	147,544
Accrued payroll and related expenses	89,227	103,918
Accrued interest	17,940	18,164
Other accrued liabilities	46,820	43,869
Current portion of capital lease obligations	772	1,242
Current portion of long-term debt	24,810	11,419
Total current liabilities	323,783	326,156
Long-term debt, less current portion	608,711	633,521
Capital lease obligations, less current portion	414	1,186
Long-term portion of self-insurance and other reserves	54,162	43,796
Long-term deferred benefits	71,224	70,118
Accrued pension and other	25,602	50,923
Total liabilities	1,083,896	1,125,700
Commitments and contingencies	'	'
Stockholder’s equity	'	'
Additional paid-in capital	8,270	8,437
Accumulated other comprehensive loss	-15,903	-30,126
Retained earnings	121,083	104,311
Total stockholder’s equity	113,450	82,622
Total liabilities and stockholder’s equity	1,197,346	1,208,322
Common Stock, $.01 par value: Authorized shares - 100,000; Issued and outstanding shares - 0 in 2012 and 2013 [Member]	'	'
Stockholder’s equity	'	'
Common Stock	0	0
Class A Common Stock, $.01 par value: Authorized shares - 100,000; Issued and outstanding shares: 33,179 in 2012 and 32,521 in 2013 [Member]	'	'
Stockholder’s equity	'	'
Common Stock	$0	$0

CONSOLIDATED_BALANCE_SHEETS_Pa

CONSOLIDATED BALANCE SHEETS (Parenthetical) (USD $)	Sep. 29, 2013	Sep. 30, 2012
In Thousands, except Share data, unless otherwise specified
Allowance for receivables	$975	$1,323
Common stock, par value	$0.01	$0.01
Common stock, shares authorized	100,000	100,000
Common stock, shares issued	0	0
Common stock, shares outstanding	0	0
Class A Common Stock [Member]	'	'
Common stock, par value	$0.01	$0.01
Common stock, shares authorized	100,000	100,000
Common stock, shares issued	32,521	33,179
Common stock, shares outstanding	32,521	33,179

CONSOLIDATED_STATEMENTS_OF_INC

CONSOLIDATED STATEMENTS OF INCOME AND COMPREHENSIVE INCOME (USD $)	12 Months Ended
In Thousands, except Share data, unless otherwise specified	Sep. 29, 2013	Sep. 30, 2012	Sep. 25, 2011
Sales	$3,859,800	$3,873,203	$3,693,306
Cost of goods sold	2,840,034	2,833,595	2,702,414
Gross profit	1,019,766	1,039,608	990,892
Operating expenses:	'	'	'
Selling, general and administrative expenses	879,231	882,738	841,526
Gain on sale of property and equipment	-2,546	-976	-81
Depreciation and amortization	45,943	46,503	48,413
Total operating expenses	922,628	928,265	889,858
Operating profit	97,138	111,343	101,034
Interest income	80	116	708
Interest expense	-46,301	-47,882	-55,521
Interest expense related to purchase of debt	0	0	-1,775
Income before income taxes	50,917	63,577	44,446
Income taxes	20,542	25,868	18,156
Net income	30,375	37,709	26,290
Actuarial gain (loss) on post retirement benefits (net of tax (benefit) of ($2,833), ($4,869) and $9,781) in 2011, 2012 and 2013 respectively)	14,223	-7,081	-4,119
Comprehensive income	$44,598	$30,628	$22,171
Earnings per average common shares outstanding (in usd per share)	$921.26	$1,126.18	$770.79
Average common shares outstanding (in shares)	32,971	33,484	34,108

CONSOLIDATED_STATEMENTS_OF_INC1

CONSOLIDATED STATEMENTS OF INCOME AND COMPREHENSIVE INCOME (Parenthetical) (USD $)	12 Months Ended
In Thousands, unless otherwise specified	Sep. 29, 2013	Sep. 30, 2012	Sep. 25, 2011
Actuarial loss on post retirement benefits, tax	$9,781	($4,869)	($2,833)

CONSOLIDATED_STATEMENTS_OF_CAS

CONSOLIDATED STATEMENTS OF CASH FLOWS (USD $)	12 Months Ended
In Thousands, unless otherwise specified	Sep. 29, 2013	Sep. 30, 2012	Sep. 25, 2011
Operating activities:	'	'	'
Net income	$30,375	$37,709	$26,290
Adjustments to reconcile net income to net cash provided by operating activities:	'	'	'
Depreciation and amortization	57,388	57,601	59,648
Amortization of debt issuance costs	2,224	2,293	6,009
Premium paid on debt purchase	0	0	1,775
(Increase) decrease in deferred income taxes	9,448	771	-5,535
Gain on sale of property and equipment	-2,546	-976	-81
Changes in operating assets and liabilities:	'	'	'
Decrease in restricted cash	0	3,121	0
(Increase) decrease in receivables	1,347	-5,261	3,448
(Increase) decrease in income tax receivables	9,062	-10,475	0
(Increase) decrease in inventories	1,001	2,004	-27,419
(Increase) decrease in prepaid expenses	2,651	-5,516	973
(Increase) decrease in other assets	-31	2,863	71
Increase (decrease) in accounts payable	-3,330	11,633	5,821
Increase (decrease) in accrued income taxes	0	-6,732	6,205
Increase (decrease) in other accrued liabilities	-11,964	3,037	8,142
Increase (decrease) in long-term reserves	374	-5,109	6,474
Net cash provided by operating activities	95,999	86,963	91,821
Investing activities:	'	'	'
Collections on note receivable	807	742	253
Collections on long-term receivable	0	0	16,001
Purchase of property and equipment	-51,311	-40,330	-44,304
Proceeds from sale of property and equipment	3,954	1,624	360
Net cash used in investing activities	-46,550	-37,964	-27,690
Financing activities:	'	'	'
Proceeds from issuance of long-term debt	0	0	400,000
Proceeds from equipment financing	0	1,632	0
Debt issuance costs	0	0	-8,625
Principal payment on long-term debt	-11,419	-36,435	-528,625
Principal payment on capital lease obligations	-1,242	-1,410	-1,562
Dividends paid	-5,000	-20,000	-5,000
Stock redemption	-8,770	-8,770	-9,540
Net cash used in financing activities	-26,431	-64,983	-153,352
Net increase (decrease) in cash and cash equivalents	23,018	-15,984	-89,221
Cash and cash equivalents at beginning of period	219,800	235,784	325,005
Cash and cash equivalents at end of period	$242,818	$219,800	$235,784

CONSOLIDATED_STATEMENTS_OF_STO

CONSOLIDATED STATEMENTS OF STOCKHOLDER'S EQUITY (USD $)	Total	Class A Common Stock [Member]	Additional Paid-in Capital [Member]	Accumulated Other Comprehensive Loss [Member]	Retained Earnings [Member]
In Thousands, except Share data	USD ($)		USD ($)	USD ($)	USD ($)
Balance at Sep. 26, 2010	$73,133	'	$8,786	($18,926)	$83,273
Balance (in shares) at Sep. 26, 2010	'	34,552	'	'	'
Net income	26,290	'	'	'	26,290
Actuarial loss on post retirement benefits	-4,119	'	'	-4,119	'
Dividend paid	-5,000	'	'	'	-5,000
Stock redemption (in shares)	'	-715	'	'	'
Stock redemption	-9,540	'	-182	'	-9,358
Balance at Sep. 25, 2011	80,764	'	8,604	-23,045	95,205
Balance (in shares) at Sep. 25, 2011	'	33,837	'	'	'
Net income	37,709	'	'	'	37,709
Actuarial loss on post retirement benefits	-7,081	'	'	-7,081	'
Dividend paid	-20,000	'	'	'	-20,000
Stock redemption (in shares)	'	-658	'	'	'
Stock redemption	-8,770	'	-167	'	-8,603
Balance at Sep. 30, 2012	82,622	'	8,437	-30,126	104,311
Balance (in shares) at Sep. 30, 2012	'	33,179	'	'	'
Net income	30,375	'	'	'	30,375
Actuarial loss on post retirement benefits	14,223	'	'	14,223	'
Dividend paid	-5,000	'	'	'	-5,000
Stock redemption (in shares)	'	-658	'	'	'
Stock redemption	-8,770	'	-167	'	-8,603
Balance at Sep. 29, 2013	$113,450	'	$8,270	($15,903)	$121,083
Balance (in shares) at Sep. 29, 2013	'	32,521	'	'	'

CONSOLIDATED_STATEMENTS_OF_STO1

CONSOLIDATED STATEMENTS OF STOCKHOLDER'S EQUITY (Parenthetical) (USD $)	12 Months Ended
In Thousands, unless otherwise specified	Sep. 29, 2013	Sep. 30, 2012	Sep. 25, 2011
Statement of Stockholders' Equity [Abstract]	'	'	'
Actuarial (loss) gain on post retirement benefits, (benefit) tax	$9,781	($4,869)	($2,833)

The_Company_and_Summary_of_Sig

The Company and Summary of Significant Accounting Policies	12 Months Ended
	Sep. 29, 2013
Organization, Consolidation and Presentation of Financial Statements [Abstract]	'
The Company and Summary of Significant Accounting Policies	'
	The Company and Summary of Significant Accounting Policies
	Description of Business
	Stater Bros. Holdings Inc. (the “Company”) is engaged primarily in the operation of retail supermarkets. As of September 29, 2013, the Company operated 166 retail grocery supermarkets under the name “Stater Bros. Markets.” The Company’s supermarkets are located in the Southern California counties of San Bernardino, Riverside, Los Angeles, Orange, San Diego and Kern. The Company through its predecessor companies has operated retail grocery stores under the “Stater Bros. Markets” name in Southern California since 1936.
	Ownership of the Company
	La Cadena Investments (“La Cadena”), a California general partnership whose sole voting partner is the Jack H. Brown Revocable Trust (the “Trust”), holds all of the Company’s issued and outstanding capital stock. Mr. Jack H. Brown, the Chairman of the Board, President and Chief Executive Officer of the Company, as Trustee of the Trust, is the Managing General Partner of La Cadena.
	Principles of Consolidation
	The consolidated financial statements include the accounts of the Company and its wholly-owned subsidiaries, Stater Bros. Markets (“Markets”) and Stater Bros. Development, Inc. (“Development”) and Markets’ wholly-owned subsidiaries, Super Rx, Inc. (“Super Rx”) and SBM Dairies, Inc. (“Dairies”). All significant inter-company transactions have been eliminated in consolidation.
	Reclassifications
	Certain amounts for fiscal 2011 and fiscal 2012 have been reclassified to conform to the fiscal 2013 financial statement presentation. The Company reclassified approximately $0.1 million and $1.0 million, in fiscal 2011 and fiscal 2012, respectively, from "Other income, net" to "Gain on sale of property and equipment" in the Consolidated Statement of Income and Comprehensive Income. As a result, the Company's operating profit increased by $0.1 million and $1.0 million for fiscal 2011 and fiscal 2012, respectively.
	Use of Estimates
	The preparation of financial statements in conformity with generally accepted accounting principles in the United States of America (“GAAP”) requires management to make estimates and assumptions that affect the amounts reported in the financial statements and accompanying notes. Actual results could differ from these estimates.
	Fiscal Year
	The Company’s fiscal year ends on the last Sunday in September. The fiscal years ended September 25, 2011 and September 29, 2013 were 52-week fiscal years while the fiscal year ended September 30, 2012 was a 53-week fiscal year.
	Cash and Cash Equivalents
	Cash and cash equivalents are reflected at cost, which approximates their fair value, and consist primarily of overnight repurchase agreements and money market funds with maturities of less than three months when purchased.
	Inventories
	Inventories are stated at the lower of cost (first-in, first-out) or market.
	Receivables
	Receivables are stated, net of allowance for doubtful accounts. The Company provides specific reserves for accounts deemed to be uncollectable and provides additional reserves based on historical experiences. The carrying amount reported in the balance sheets for receivables approximates their fair value.
	Note 1 - The Company and Summary of Significant Accounting Policies (contd.)
	Property and Equipment
	Property and equipment are stated at cost and are depreciated or amortized, principally on the straight-line basis, over the estimated useful lives of the assets. Leasehold improvements placed in service at the commencement of the lease are amortized over the lesser of their economic useful lives or the initial term of the lease. Other leasehold improvements are amortized over the lesser of their economic useful lives or the remaining lease term including any option period that is reasonably assured of being exercised. Assets under capital leases are amortized over the lesser of their estimated economic useful life or the initial lease term.
	The estimated economic lives are as follows:
		Range	Most Prevalent
	Buildings and improvements	5 - 40 Years	20 Years
	Store furniture and equipment	3 - 10 Years	8 Years
	Property subject to capital leases	Life of Lease	20 Years
	Long-Lived Assets
	The Company reviews the recoverability of its long-lived assets for impairment whenever events or changes in circumstances indicate that the carrying value of such assets may not be recoverable. If the estimated future, undiscounted cash flows from the use of an asset are less than its carrying value, a write-down is recorded to reduce the related asset to estimated fair value.
	Deferred Debt Issuance Costs
	Direct costs incurred as a result of financing transactions are capitalized and amortized to interest expense over the terms of the applicable debt agreements using the effective interest method.
	Deferred Compensation Plan
	The Company maintains the Stater Bros Holdings Inc. Phantom Stock Plan (the “deferred compensation plan”). It is the Company’s policy to expense awarded units under the deferred compensation plan to the extent that they vest and appreciate during the accounting period.
	Self-Insurance Reserves
	The Company is primarily self-insured, subject to certain retention levels for workers’ compensation, automobile and general liability costs. The Company is covered by umbrella insurance policies for catastrophic events. The Company records its self-insurance liabilities based on the claims filed and an estimate of claims incurred but not yet reported. The estimates used by management are based on the Company’s historical experiences as well as current facts and circumstances. The Company uses third party actuarial analysis in making its estimates. Actuarial projections and the Company’s estimate of ultimate losses are subject to a high degree of variability. The variability in the projections and estimates are subject to, but not limited to, such factors as judicial and administrative rulings, legislative actions, and changes in compensation benefits structure. The Company discounted its workers’ compensation, automobile and general liability insurance reserves at a discount rate of 2.50% in fiscal 2012 and 2.00% in fiscal 2013. The Company is self-insured, subject to certain retention levels, for health care costs of eligible non-bargaining unit employees. Such health care reserves are not discounted.
	The Company had accrued $71.5 million and $74.4 million as of September 30, 2012 and September 29, 2013, respectively, for its workers’ compensation, automobile and general liability self-insurance reserves and these amounts are included in Accrued payroll and related expenses or Long-term portion of self-insurance and other reserves. The Company incurred approximately $24.4 million, $22.8 million and $24.8 million for fiscal years 2011, 2012 and 2013, respectively, in self-insurance expense which has been included in Selling, general and administrative expenses in the Consolidated Statement of Income and Comprehensive Income.
	Note 1 - The Company and Summary of Significant Accounting Policies (contd.)
	Income Taxes
	The Company provides for deferred income taxes as timing differences arise between income and expenses recorded for financial and income tax reporting purposes. The Company records a valuation allowance to reflect the estimated amount of deferred tax assets that more-likely-than-not will not be realized. The Company did not record any valuation allowances in fiscal 2012 or fiscal 2013.
	Revenue Recognition
	The Company recognizes revenue from the sale of its products at the point of sale to the customer. Sales are recognized net of any promotional discounts given to the customer. Sales taxes are recorded in Other current liabilities and are not recorded as sales. Prescription sales are recognized when prescriptions are adjudicated by the third party insurer and when co-payment is received. The Company recognizes a liability when Stater Bros.’ gift cards (“gift cards”) are sold and recognizes sales revenue when the gift cards are used to purchase its products. Gift cards do not have an expiration date and gift card balances do not reduce because of inactivity or time. The Company does not charge service fees on the gift cards. Gift cards whose likelihood of redemption is deemed to be remote, due primarily to periods of inactivity, are recognized into income.
	Cost of Goods Sold
	Included in cost of goods sold are direct product purchase costs, in-bound freight costs, direct receiving and inspection costs, quality assurance costs, warehousing and transportation costs including depreciation and amortization, net of earned vendor rebates and allowances. The Company recognizes, as a reduction to cost of goods sold, certain rebates and allowances (“allowances”) from its vendors as the allowances are earned. Allowances are earned by promoting certain products or by purchasing specified amounts of product. The Company records a liability for allowance funds that have been received but not yet earned. Included as a reduction in cost of goods sold for fiscal 2011, fiscal 2012 and fiscal 2013 is $2.1 million, $1.4 million and $0.4 million, respectively, of advertising reimbursement in excess of the fair value of the co-operative advertising.
	Selling, General and Administrative Expenses
	Included in selling, general and administrative expenses are store operation costs which include store labor costs associated with receiving, displaying and selling the Company’s products at the store level; advertising costs, net of the portion of co-operative advertising allowances directly related to the fair value of the advertising; certain salary, wages and administrative costs associated with the purchasing of the Company’s products and security, management information services, accounting and corporate management costs.
	Vendor Rebates and Allowances
	The Company receives certain allowances from its vendors that relate to the purchase and promotion of certain products. Allowances, except for advertising allowances described under “Advertising Allowances”, are recognized as a reduction in cost of goods sold as the performance is completed and inventory sold. Allowances, such as slotting fees, which are tied to the promotion of certain products are recognized as reductions in cost of goods sold as the Company meets the required performance criteria. Allowances that are based upon purchase or sales volumes are recognized as reductions in cost of goods sold as the products are sold. The Company receives lump-sum payments from vendors for the promotion or purchase of products over multi-year periods. The Company records a liability for unearned allowances and recognizes, as a reduction in cost of goods sold, these allowances over time as the criteria of these contracts are met.
	Advertising
	The Company’s advertising costs, net of vendor allowances for co-operative advertising, are recognized in the period the advertising is incurred and are included in selling, general and administrative expenses. Advertising costs, net of vendor allowances, were $18.3 million, $18.9 million and $17.8 million in fiscal 2011, fiscal 2012 and fiscal 2013, respectively.
	Note 1 - The Company and Summary of Significant Accounting Policies (contd.)
	Advertising Allowances
	A significant portion of the Company’s advertising expenditures is in the form of print advertisements. The Company distributes its print ads through inserts in local newspapers, in direct mailers and as handouts distributed in its stores. The Company receives co-operative advertising allowances from vendors for advertising specific vendor products over specific periods of time. The Company recognized the portion of co-operative advertising allowances directly related to the fair value of advertising as a reduction in advertising costs. The Company analyzes, on a monthly basis, the direct out-of-pocket costs for printing and distributing its print ads. Using the number of ads in a typical twice weekly advertisement, the actual direct costs of an individual advertisement is determined. The cost determined is deemed to be the fair value of advertising. The amount of co-operative advertising allowance recognized as a reduction in advertising expense was $1.3 million in fiscal 2011, $0.7 million in fiscal 2012 and $0.3 million in fiscal 2013. The amount of advertising reimbursement in excess of the fair value of advertising is recorded as a reduction in cost of goods sold.
	Leases
	Certain of the Company’s operating leases provide for minimum annual payments that change over the life of the lease. The aggregate minimum annual payments are expensed on the straight-line basis over the minimum lease term. The Company recognizes a deferred rent liability for minimum step rents when the amount of rent expense exceeds the actual lease payments and it reduces the deferred rent liability when the actual lease payments exceeds the amount of straight-line rent expense. Rent holidays and tenant improvement allowances for store remodels are amortized on the straight-line basis over the initial term of the lease and any option period that is reasonably assured of being exercised.

Debt_Issuance_and_Early_Exting

Debt Issuance and Early Extinguishment of Debt	12 Months Ended
	Sep. 29, 2013
Debt Issuance And Early Extinguishment Of Debt Disclosure [Abstract]	'
Debt Issuance and Early Extinguishment of Debt	'
	Debt Issuance and Early Extinguishment of Debt
	Issuance of Notes
	On November 29, 2010, the Company completed the sale of $255.0 million in aggregate principal amount of 7.375% Senior Notes due November 15, 2018 (the “New Notes”) in a private offering. At the time of issuance, these were unregistered and are unsecured obligations of the Company. On September 20, 2011, the Company completed the exchange of the unregistered New Notes for virtually identical registered $255.0 million 7.375% Senior Notes due November 15, 2018 collectively (the “7.375% Senior Notes”). The Company incurred approximately $6.6 million of debt issuance costs related to the issuance of the New Notes and registration of the 7.375% Senior Notes, which is being amortized to interest expense over the term of the 7.375% Senior Notes.
	Issuance of Credit Facility
	On November 29, 2010, the Company and Markets entered into a $245.0 million senior secured credit facility (the “Credit Facility”) with Bank of America, N.A., as administrative agent and a lender. Lenders under the Credit Facility consist of a consortium of banks. The Credit Facility consists of a four-year $145.0 million term loan (the “Term Loan” or "Secured Term Loan") and a $100.0 million revolving credit facility (the “Revolving Credit Facility”). The Credit Facility replaced the Company’s existing $100.0 million credit facility. The Credit Facility is secured by substantially all of the Company’s personal property excluding certain intangible assets consisting of trademarks and shares of capital stock. The Credit Facility is guaranteed by the Company, its direct subsidiary Development and by its indirect subsidiaries Super Rx and Dairies.
	The Term Loan bears interest at the Eurodollar Rate plus 2.50% or the Base Rate plus 1.50% (as defined in the Credit Facility) and the interest under the Term Loan is payable quarterly in arrears and includes mandatory quarterly principal payments of 5.0%, of the original outstanding balance, in each of the first two years of the agreement and 10.0%, of the original outstanding balance, in each of the years three and four of the agreement. The Term Loan also includes additional mandatory principal payments on the Term Loan based on a percentage of “excess cash flow” as defined in the Credit Facility. The Term Loan is due November 29, 2014 with any remaining outstanding principal amounts under the Term Loan due as of that date. The security held under the Credit Facility is held until the Term Loan is paid in full. The Company incurred approximately $2.0 million of debt issuance costs related to the Term Loan, which is being amortized to interest expense over the term of the Term Loan.
	Note 2 - Debt Issuance and Early Extinguishment of Debt (contd.)
	Issuance of Credit Facility (contd.)
	As of September 29, 2013, the interest rates on the Term Loan were based on the Eurodollar Rate and consisted of a 90 day rate of approximately 2.776% on approximately $3.6 million of outstanding principal amount and a twelve month rate of approximately 3.344% on approximately $89.9 million of outstanding principal amount.
	Subject to certain restrictions, the entire amount of the Revolving Credit Facility may be used for loans, letters of credit or a combination thereof. Borrowing under the Revolving Credit Facility are secured and will be used for working capital, certain capital expenditures and other general corporate purposes. Letters of credit issued under the Revolving Credit Facility are expected to be used for workers’ compensation insurance obligations and may be used for new store construction and certain other corporate purposes. The availability of the loans and letters of credit are subject to certain borrowing restrictions.
	Loans under the Revolving Credit Facility bear interest at a rate based upon either (i) the “Base Rate” (defined as the higher of (a) the federal funds rate plus 0.50% and (b) the Bank of America “prime rate”), plus 1.50%, or (ii) the “Eurodollar Rate” (defined as the British Bankers Association LIBOR Rate adjusted for the maximum reserve requirement for Eurocurrency funding), plus 2.50%. For Eurodollar Rate loans, the Company is entitled to select interest periods of one, two, three, six, nine or twelve months, subject to availability.
	Loans under the Revolving Credit Facility may be prepaid at any time without penalty, subject to payment of any breakage and re-deployment costs in the case of loans based on the Eurodollar Rate. The Company may reduce the commitments under the Revolving Credit Facility. The Company is required to pay a commitment fee equal to 0.25% per annum on the actual daily unused portion of the revolving loan facility and the letter of credit facility, payable quarterly in arrears. Outstanding letters of credit under the Revolving Credit Facility are subject to a fee of 1.25% per annum on the face amount of such letters of credit, payable quarterly in arrears. The Company is required to pay standard fees charged by Bank of America with respect to the issuance, negotiation, and amendment of commercial letters of credit issued under the letter of credit facility.
	The Credit Facility requires the Company and Markets to meet certain financial tests, including minimum net worth and the maintenance of minimum earnings levels. The Credit Facility contains covenants which, among other things, limit the ability of the Company and its subsidiaries to (i) incur indebtedness, grant liens and guarantee obligations, (ii) enter into mergers, consolidations, liquidations and dissolutions, asset sales, investments, leases and transactions with affiliates, (iii) make restricted payments and (iv) make certain amendments to the Indentures governing the 7.375% Senior Notes and 7.75% Senior Notes due, April 2015 (“7.75% Senior Notes”) (“Notes Indentures”). Markets and the Company’s other direct and indirect subsidiaries are not limited in their ability to transfer assets in the form of loans, advances or cash dividends to the Company. As of September 29, 2013, the Company and Markets were in compliance with all restrictive financial covenants under the Credit Facility.
	As of September 29, 2013, the Company had $93.5 million outstanding under its Term Loan.
	As of September 29, 2013, the Company had $59.9 million of outstanding letters of credit and had $40.1 million available under the Credit Facility.
	The Company had no borrowings outstanding under the Revolving Credit Facility as of September 29, 2013 and the Company did not incur any borrowings under the Revolving Credit Facility during the fiscal year ended September 29, 2013.
	Early Extinguishment of Debt
	The Company used the proceeds from the 7.375% Senior Notes and the Term Loan and cash on hand to purchase and retire early all of its $525.0 million 8.125% Senior Notes due 2012 (“Retired Notes”). On November 29, 2010, the Company paid approximately $479.2 million to purchase and make a tender payment on approximately $477.5 million outstanding balance of Retired Notes that had been validly tendered as of that date. The payment included a tender premium of approximately $1.8 million that has been recorded under Interest expense related to purchase of debt. On December 13, 2010, the Company paid approximately $2.4 million to purchase approximately $2.4 million of outstanding Retired Notes that had been tendered as of that date. On January 14, 2011, the Company called all remaining outstanding Retired Notes and paid approximately $45.1 million to retire the remaining notes. During the first two quarters of fiscal 2011, the Company recorded to “Interest expense” approximately $3.5 million in unamortized deferred offering costs related to the Retired Notes.

LongTerm_Debt

Long-Term Debt	12 Months Ended
	Sep. 29, 2013
Debt Disclosure [Abstract]	'
Long-Term Debt	'
	Long-Term Debt
	Long-term debt consisted of the following:
		Fiscal Year Ended
		Sept. 30,		Sept. 29,
		2012		2013
		(In thousands)
	Secured Term Loan due 2014	$	104,940	$	93,521
	Unsecured 7.75% Senior Notes due 2015	285,000		285,000
	Unsecured 7.375% Senior Notes due 2018	255,000		255,000
		644,940		633,521
	Less current portion of long-term debt	11,419		24,810
	Long-term debt, less current portion	$	633,521	$	608,711
	Scheduled maturities under the Company’s long-term debt as of September 29, 2013 are as follows:
		(In thousands)
	2014	$	24,810
	2015	353,711
	2016	—
	2017	—
	2018	—
	Thereafter	255,000
	Total long-term debt	$	633,521
	Interest on the Term Loan is payable quarterly in arrears on the last day of March, June, September and December. Mandatory quarterly principal payments which total to annual payments of $14.5 million and $3.6 million are due in fiscal 2014 and fiscal 2015, respectively. In addition, the Term Loan requires an additional payment of $10.3 million in fiscal 2014 as an excess cash payment as calculated under the Term Loan. Remaining principal amounts due under the Term Loan at its maturity at November 2014.
	Interest on the 7.75% Senior Notes is payable semi-annually in arrears on April 15 and October 15. Principal on the 7.75% Senior Notes is due in April 2015.
	Interest on the 7.375% Senior Notes is payable semi-annually in arrears on May 15 and November 15. Principal on the 7.375% Senior Notes is due in November 2018.
	Interest capitalized in fiscal 2011 was $0.3 million and interest capitalized in both fiscal 2012 and fiscal 2013 was $0.4 million. Interest expense incurred, before the effect of capitalized interest, amounted to $57.6 million in fiscal year 2011, $48.3 million in fiscal year 2012 and $46.7 million in fiscal year 2013.
	The Company is subject to certain financial covenants associated with its 7.375% Senior Notes and its 7.75% Senior Notes. As of September 29, 2013, the Company was in compliance with all such covenants.
	The 7.375% Senior Notes and the 7.75% Senior Notes are guaranteed by the Company’s subsidiaries Markets and Development, and the Company’s indirect subsidiaries Super Rx and Dairies (each a “subsidiary guarantor”, and collectively, the “subsidiary guarantors”). Condensed consolidating financial information with respect to the subsidiary guarantors is not provided because the Company has no independent assets or operations, the subsidiary guarantees are full and unconditional and joint and several and there are no subsidiaries of the Company other than the subsidiary guarantors.

Leases

Leases	12 Months Ended
	Sep. 29, 2013
Leases [Abstract]	'
Leases	'
	Leases
	The Company leases the majority of its retail stores. Certain of the operating leases provide for minimum annual payments that change over the life of the lease. The Company expenses rental costs that are incurred during new store construction in the period incurred.
	The aggregate minimum annual lease payments are expensed on the straight-line basis over the minimum lease term. The Company recognizes a deferred rent liability for minimum step rents when the amount of rent expense exceeds the actual lease payment and it reduces the deferred rent liability when the actual lease payment exceeds the amount of straight line rent expense. Rent holidays and tenant improvement allowances for store remodels are amortized on the straight-line basis over the initial term of the lease and any option period that is reasonably assured of being exercised. Certain of the Company’s operating leases are subject to contingent rent based upon the sales volume of the store subject to the lease. Primary lease terms range from 3 to 55 years and substantially all leases provide for renewal options.
	Following is a summary of future minimum lease payments and sublease income as of September 29, 2013:
		Capital		Operating		Sublease
		Leases		Leases		Income
				Minimum
				Payments
		(In thousands)
	2014	$	833	$	40,752	$	4,267
	2015	393		39,374		3,865
	2016	35		35,451		3,703
	2017	—		30,726		3,503
	2018	—		28,117		3,294
	Thereafter	—		155,640		14,212
	Total minimum lease payments	1,261		$	330,060	$	32,844
	Less amounts representing interest	75
	Present value of minimum lease payments	1,186
	Less current portion	772
	Long-term portion	$	414
	Rental expense and sublease income were as follows:
		Fiscal Year Ended
		Sept. 25, 2011		Sept. 30, 2012		Sept. 29, 2013
		(In thousands)
	Minimum rentals	$	28,850	$	30,603	$	31,765
	Rentals based on sales	$	16,558	$	15,792	$	15,742
	Sublease income	$	5,528	$	4,608	$	4,790
	The Company has a sublease with a third party (the “Sublessee”) ending in July 2023, which contains three, five year lease options, for the lease of the Company’s former headquarters building and certain former distribution facilities located in Colton, California (the “Former Facilities”). The current lease on the Former Facilities contains multiple lease options that gives the Company the right to control the property through 2038. The Sublessee assumed all lease payments and other liabilities under the lease. The Company’s lease payments on the Former Facilities are included in the “Operating leases minimum payments” and the Sublessee’s lease payments are included in “Sublease income” in the table above.

Income_Taxes

Income Taxes	12 Months Ended
	Sep. 29, 2013
Income Tax Disclosure [Abstract]	'
Income Taxes	'
	Income Taxes
	The provision for income taxes consisted of the following:
		Sept. 25, 2011				Sept. 30, 2012				Sept. 29, 2013
		(In thousands)
	Current
	Federal	$	15,589			$	15,540			$	16,161
	State	5,270				4,703				4,698
		20,859				20,243				20,859
	Deferred
	Federal	(1,573		)		4,851				(35		)
	State	(1,130		)		774				(282		)
		(2,703		)		5,625				(317		)
	Income tax expense	$	18,156			$	25,868			$	20,542
	A reconciliation of the provision for income taxes to amounts computed at the federal statutory rate is as follows:
		Sept. 25, 2011			Sept. 30, 2012			Sept. 29, 2013
	Federal statutory income tax rate	35	%		35	%		35	%
	State franchise tax rate, net of federal income tax benefit	5.8			5.8			5.8
	Tax credits	(0.7	)		(0.2	)		(0.5	)
	Other	0.7			0.1			—
	Effective tax rate	40.8	%		40.7	%		40.3	%
	Components of deferred income taxes are as follows:
		Sept. 30, 2012				Sept. 29, 2013
		(In thousands)
	Deferred income tax assets:
	Self-insurance reserves	$	28,684			$	29,883
	Deferred compensation	32,531				20,902
	Payroll liabilities	32,614				32,068
	State franchise tax	1,665				1,608
	Inventories	2,371				2,306
	Income deferred for book purposes	1,512				1,442
	Other, net	3,540				4,179
	Total deferred income tax assets	102,917				92,388
	Deferred income tax liabilities:
	Property and equipment	(30,113		)		(28,991		)
	Other assets	(2,340		)		(2,381		)
	Total deferred income tax liabilities	(32,453		)		(31,372		)
	Net deferred income tax assets	$	70,464			$	61,016
	The Company does not have any material tax positions that did not meet a “more-likely-than-not” recognition threshold. As such, the Company has not recorded any liabilities for uncertain tax positions. During fiscal 2013, there have been no material changes to the amount of uncertain tax positions.
	The Company recognizes interest and penalties related to income tax deficiencies or assessments by taxing authorities for any underpayment of income taxes separately from income tax expenses as interest expense and other operating expenses, respectively.
	For federal and state tax purposes, the Company is subject to review of its fiscal 2010 through fiscal 2013 tax returns.

Retirement_Plans

Retirement Plans	12 Months Ended
	Sep. 29, 2013
Compensation and Retirement Disclosure [Abstract]	'
Retirement Plans	'
	Retirement Plans
	Pension and Medical Plans
	The Company has a Noncontributory Defined Benefit Pension Plan (the “Pension Plan”) covering substantially all non-union employees. The plan provides for benefits based on an employee’s compensation during the eligibility period while employed with the Company. The Company’s funding policy for this plan is to contribute annually at a rate that is intended to provide sufficient assets to meet future benefit payment requirements.
	The Company also maintains an Early Retiree Medical Premium Reimbursement Plan (the “Medical Plan”) to provide reimbursement for medical insurance premiums for employees who retire before their Social Security retirement age. The maximum benefit under the plan is $500 per month per retired employee for a maximum of 120 months.
	Amounts recognized in other comprehensive (income) loss for the qualified defined pension plans:
		Pension Plan											Medical Plan
		Sept. 25,				Sept. 30,				Sept. 29,			Sept. 25,				Sept. 30,			Sept. 29,
		2011				2012				2013			2011				2012			2013
		(In thousands)
	Prior service credit	$	(2	)		$	(3	)		$	(3	)	$	(78	)		$	(78	)	$	(78	)
	Net actuarial (gain) loss	6,965				11,944				(23,707		)	$	67			$	87		$	(216	)
	Total recognized in other comprehensive (income) loss, before tax	$	6,963			$	11,941			$	(23,710	)	$	(11	)		$	9		$	(294	)
	The following tables provide a reconciliation of the changes in the Pension Plan’s and Medical Plan’s benefit obligation and fair value of assets and a statement of the funded status as of the fiscal years ended September 30, 2012 and September 29, 2013:
		Pension Plan								Medical Plan
		Sept. 30,				Sept. 29,				Sept. 30,			Sept. 29,
		2012				2013				2012			2013
		(In thousands)
	Change in benefit obligation:
	Beginning balance	$	100,182			$	122,413			$	2,077		$	2,235
	Service cost	3,901				4,889				55			69
	Interest cost	4,366				4,478				81			71
	Actuarial (gain) loss	17,106				(19,113		)		109			(179		)
	Benefit payments	(3,142		)		(3,863		)		(87		)	(131		)
	Ending balance	$	122,413			$	108,804			$	2,235		$	2,065
	Change in fair value of plan assets:
	Beginning balance	$	61,887			$	78,306			$	—		$	—
	Actual return on plan assets	7,144				6,305				—			—
	Employer contributions	12,417				8,587				87			131
	Benefit payments	(3,142		)		(3,863		)		(87		)	(131		)
	Ending balance	$	78,306			$	89,335			$	—		$	—
	Funded status:
	Fair value of plan assets	$	78,306			$	89,335			$	—		$	—
	Projected benefit obligation	122,413				108,804				2,235			2,065
	Under funded	$	(44,107	)		$	(19,469	)		$	(2,235	)	$	(2,065	)
	The Company’s unfunded Pension Plan and Medical Plan obligations are included in Accrued pension and other.
	The plans’ investments are recorded at fair value and include cash, which earns interest, governmental securities and corporate bonds and securities.
	Note 6 - Retirement Plans (contd.)
	Pension Plan
	The following table provides the components of fiscal 2011, fiscal 2012 and fiscal 2013 net pension expense:
		Sept. 25,				Sept. 30,				Sept. 29,
		2011				2012				2013
		(In thousands)
	Expected return on assets	$	(3,819	)		$	(4,094	)		$	(4,699	)
	Service cost	3,532				3,901				4,889
	Interest cost	4,187				4,366				4,478
	Amortization of prior service cost	2				3				3
	Amortization of recognized losses	1,536				2,113				2,987
	Net pension expense	$	5,438			$	6,289			$	7,658
	Actuarial assumptions used to determine net pension expense were:
	Discount rate	5	%		4.5	%		3.7	%
	Rate of increase in compensation levels	3	%		3	%		3.08	%
	Expected long-term rate of return on assets	6.5	%		6.5	%		6	%
	Actuarial assumptions used to determine year-end projected benefit obligation were:
	Weighted-average discount rate	4.5	%		3.7	%		4.7	%
	Weighted-average rate of compensation increase	3	%		3.08	%		3.08	%
	Expenses recognized for the Pension Plan were $6.0 million, $6.9 million and $8.4 million in fiscal years 2011, 2012 and 2013, respectively. Pension expenses included trustee and administrative expenses for the Pension Plan of $0.5 million, $0.6 million and $0.7 million in fiscal years 2011, 2012 and 2013, respectively.
	The Company has adopted and implemented an investment policy for the Pension Plan that incorporates a strategic long-term asset allocation mix designed to meet the Company’s long-term pension requirements. This asset allocation policy is reviewed annually and, on a regular basis, actual allocations are rebalanced to the prevailing targets. As of September 29, 2013, the strategic target asset allocation is 65% fixed income and 35% equity. The expected long-term rate of return on assets is based on the historical performance of governmental and corporate bonds and securities taking into consideration the allocation mix of the Pension Plan’s investments.
	GAAP establishes a fair value hierarchy that prioritizes the inputs used to measure fair value. The three levels of the fair value hierarchy defined in the standards are as follows:
	Level 1 - Quoted prices are available in active markets for identical assets or liabilities;
	Level 2 - Pricing inputs are other than quoted prices in active markets included in Level 1, which are either directly or indirectly observable;
	Level 3 - Unobservable pricing 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 an asset or liability.
	Note 6 - Retirement Plans (contd.)
	Pension Plan
The following table sets forth by level, within the fair value hierarchy, the Pension Plan’s assets at fair value.
As of September 30, 2012
	Level 1				Level 2				Level 3			Total
					(In thousands)
Asset category:
Fixed income	$	9,354			$	36,040			$	—		$	45,394
Equity	—				25,802				—			25,802
Cash	7,110				—				—			7,110
	$	16,464			$	61,842			$	—		$	78,306
As of September 29, 2013
	Level 1				Level 2				Level 3			Total
					(In thousands)
Asset category:
Fixed Income	$	9,809			$	39,170			$	—		$	48,979
Equity (1)	35,313				—				—			35,313
Cash	5,043				—				—			5,043
	$	50,165			$	39,170			$	—		$	89,335
(1) Includes $22.8 million of cash in transit for the purchase of equity securities.
For measurements using significant unobservable inputs, Level 3, during fiscal 2012, a reconciliation of the beginning and ending balances is as follows:
	Sept. 30,
	2012
	(In thousands)
Beginning balance	$	15,167
Contributions	12,417
Transfer to level 2	(25,944		)
Realizied gain	186
Unrealized gain	4,677
Transfers out	(3,361		)
Benefit payments	(3,142		)
Ending balance	$	—
The investment policy is for the fund to earn long-term investment returns in excess of inflation, which is at least equal to the actuarial discount rate used to calculate the plan’s liability. The protection of principal is the focus of the investment policy.
The Company expects to contribute approximately $3.9 million to its defined benefit pension plan during fiscal 2014.
Note 6 - Retirement Plans (contd.)
Estimated Future Benefit Payments
The following benefit payments, which reflect expected future service as appropriate, are expected to be paid:
	Pension
	Benefits
	(In thousands)
2014	$	3,662
2015	$	4,050
2016	$	3,952
2017	$	4,353
2018	$	5,726
2019 - 2023	$	35,459
Medical Plan
The following table provides the components of fiscal 2011, fiscal 2012 and fiscal 2013 net periodic benefit costs of the Medical Plan:
	Sept. 25,				Sept. 30,				Sept. 29,
	2011				2012				2013
	(In thousands)
Service cost	$	54			$	55			$	69
Interest cost	86				81				71
Amortization of prior service cost	78				78				78
Amortization of recognized losses	27				22				37
Net periodic benefit costs	$	245			$	236			$	255
Actuarial assumptions used to determine net periodic benefit costs were:
Discount rate	4.5	%		4.2	%		4.2	%
Actuarial assumptions used to determine year-end projected benefit obligation were:
Weighted-average discount rate	4.2	%		3.2	%		4.2	%
Expenses recognized for the medical plan were $0.2 million in both fiscal 2011 and fiscal 2012 and $0.3 million in fiscal 2013.
The Company expects to contribute approximately $0.1 million to the medical plan during fiscal 2014.
Note 6 - Retirement Plans (contd.)
Estimated Future Benefit Payments
The following benefit payments, which reflect expected future service as appropriate, are expected to be paid:
	Medical
	Benefits
	(In thousands)
2014	$	121
2015	$	128
2016	$	117
2017	$	124
2018	$	138
2019 - 2023	$	815
Profit Sharing Plan
The Company has a noncontributory defined contribution profit sharing plan covering substantially all non-union employees. Union employees may participate if their collective bargaining agreement specifically provides for their inclusion. The Company may contribute up to 7.5% of total compensation paid or accrued during the year to each plan participant subject to limitations imposed by the Internal Revenue Code. The Company recognized expenses for this plan in the amount of $0.6 million, $1.1 million and $1.1 million in fiscal 2011, fiscal 2012 and fiscal 2013, respectively
Note 6 - Retirement Plans (contd.)
Multi-Employer Plans
The Company also contributes to multi-employer defined benefit retirement plans in accordance with the provisions of the various labor agreements that govern the plans. Contributions to these plans are generally based on the number of hours worked. Information for these plans as to vested and non-vested accumulated benefits and net assets available for benefits is not available.
The risks of participating in multi-employer pension plans are different from the risks of participating in single-employer pension plans in the following respects:
a.	Assets contributed to the multi-employer plan by one employer may be used to provide benefits to employees of other participating employers.
b.	If a participating employer stops contributing to the plan, the unfunded obligations of the plan allocable to such withdrawing employer may be borne by the remaining participating employers.
c.	If the Company stops participating in some of the multi-employer pension plans, the Company may be required to pay those plans an amount based on its allocable share of the underfunded status of the plan, referred to as a withdrawal liability.
The Company’s participation in these plans is outlined in the following tables. The Employer Identification Number / Pension Plan Number (“EIN-PN”) column provides the identification number and the three digit pension plan number. The most recent Pension Protection Act Zone Status available in 2012 and 2013 is for the most recent plan’s year-end unless otherwise stated. Among other factors, generally, plans in the red zone (“critical status") are less than 65% funded, plans in the yellow zone or orange zone (“endangered” or “seriously endangered”, respectively, status) are less than 80% funded, and plans in the green zone are at least 80% funded. The FIP/RP Status Pending/Implemented column indicates plans for which a funding improvement plan (“FIP”) or a rehabilitation plan (“RP”) is either pending or has been implemented. Unless otherwise noted, the information for these tables was obtained from the Forms 5500 filed for each plan’s most recent year-end.
				Pension				FIP/RP
				Protection				Status
				Act Zone				Pending
				Status				Implemented
Pension Fund		EIN - PN		2012		2013
Western Conference of Teamsters Pension Plan		91-6145047-001		Green		Green		No
Southern California United Food & Commercial Workers Unions and Food Employers Joint Pension Plan (1)		95-1939092-001		Red		Red		Implemented
Bakery and Confectionery Union and Industry International Pension Fund		52-6118572-011		Green		Green		No
(1) The Company was listed in the plans form 5500 as providing more than 5% of the total contributions.
Note 6 - Retirement Plans (contd.)
Multi-Employer Plans (contd.)
The multi-employer contributions listed in the table below are the Company’s multi-employer contributions made in fiscal years 2011, 2012 and 2013. There have been no significant changes that affect the comparability of the fiscal 2011, fiscal 2012 or fiscal 2013 contributions.
		Contributions by the Company
Pension Fund		Sept. 25,				Sept. 30,				Sept. 29,			Surcharge		Total			Expiration
		2011				2012				2013			Imposed		Collective			Date of
															Bargaining			Collective
															Agreements			Bargaining
																		Agreements
		(In thousands)
Western Conference of Teamsters Pension Plan		$	9,530			$	9,575			$	9,197		No		4			9/20/15
Southern California United Food & Commercial Workers Unions and Food Employers Joint Pension Plan (1)		26,711				28,924				30,119			No		1			3/2/14
Bakery and Confectionery Union and Industry International Pension Fund		234				302				266			No		1			1/11/15
		$	36,475			$	38,801			$	39,582
-1	The Company was listed in the plans form 5500 as providing more than 5% of the total contributions.
In addition to the pension funds shown above, the Company also makes contributions to other multi-employer pension plans, for which information for the above table is not available. These include multi-employer pension plans for the Company’s janitors, construction and maintenance trades. Collectively, the Company’s pension contributions to these other multi-employer plans, were $0.8 million, $0.8 million and $0.9 million in fiscal 2011, fiscal 2012 and fiscal 2013, respectively.
The Company also contributes to a number of multi-employer health and welfare benefit plans other than pensions under the terms of its collective bargaining agreements that cover union-represented employees. These plans may provide medical, pharmacy, dental, vision, mental health and other ancillary benefits to active employees and retirees as determined by the trustees of each plan.
The Company’s expense for these retirement plans and health and welfare plans consisted of the following:
	Sept. 25,				Sept. 30,				Sept. 29,
	2011				2012				2013
	(In thousands)
Multi-Employer Pension Plans	$	37,262			$	39,588			$	40,507
Multi-Employer Health and Welfare	100,061				117,840				120,526
Total Multi-Employer Benefits	$	137,323			$	157,428			$	161,033
The Company’s employer contributions fluctuate as a result of changes to employer contributions outlined in collective bargaining agreements.

Labor_Relations

Labor Relations	12 Months Ended
	Sep. 29, 2013
Labor Relations Disclosure [Abstract]	'
Labor Relations	'
	Labor Relations
	The Company’s collective bargaining agreement with the United Food and Commercial Workers was renewed in October 2011 and expires in March 2014. The Company’s collective bargaining agreements with the International Brotherhood of Teamsters were renewed in October 2010 and expire in September 2015. Substantially all of the Company’s employees are covered by collective bargaining agreements.

Fair_Value_of_Financial_Instru

Fair Value of Financial Instruments	12 Months Ended
	Sep. 29, 2013
Fair Value Disclosures [Abstract]	'
Fair Value of Financial Instruments	'
	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 because of the short-term maturity of these instruments.
	Receivables
	The carrying amount approximates fair value because of the short-term maturity of these instruments.
	Note Receivable
	Although market quotes for the fair value of the Company’s long-term note receivable are not readily available, the Company believes the stated value approximates fair value.
	Long-Term Debt
	The fair value of the 7.75% Senior Notes and the 7.375% Senior Notes are determined based on observable inputs that are corroborated by market data (Level 2 as defined by ASC Topic 820, "Fair Value Measurements and Disclosures"). Although market quotes for the fair value of the Company's Term Loan are not readily available, the Company believes its stated value approximates fair value. As of September 29, 2013, the estimated fair value of the Company’s Long-Term Debt was $649.6 million.

Litigation_Matters

Litigation Matters	12 Months Ended
	Sep. 29, 2013
Commitments and Contingencies Disclosure [Abstract]	'
Litigation Matters	'
	Litigation Matters
	In the ordinary course of business, the Company is party to various legal actions which it believes are incidental to the operation of its business and the business of its subsidiaries. The Company records an appropriate provision when the occurrence of loss is probable and can be reasonably estimated. The Company believes that the outcome of such legal proceedings to which it is currently a party will not have a material adverse effect upon its consolidated financial statements.

Deferred_Compensation_Plan

Deferred Compensation Plan	12 Months Ended
	Sep. 29, 2013
Compensation Related Costs [Abstract]	'
Deferred Compensation Plan	'
	Deferred Compensation Plan
	The Company maintains a deferred compensation plan for certain executives of Markets. Mr. Jack H. Brown is not eligible to receive awards. Awards under the plan are for units that have an assigned value. Awards under the plan vest after five years , except that upon a participant’s early retirement, permanent total disability or death, awards are considered partially vested at the rate of 20% for each year of employment following the grant. If a participant voluntarily terminates his or her employment, or is terminated for cause, any awards not fully vested under the plan will terminate and no payment will be made. As of September 30, 2012 and September 29, 2013, there were 948,600 and 946,100 units outstanding, respectively. The Company recognized an expense for the plan of $7.9 million, $5.3 million and $4.2 million in fiscal 2011, fiscal 2012 and fiscal 2013, respectively.

Related_Party_Transactions

Related Party Transactions	12 Months Ended
	Sep. 29, 2013
Related Party Transactions [Abstract]	'
Related Party Transactions	'
	Related Party Transactions
	In fiscal 2012, the Company paid a dividend of $20.0 million to La Cadena. The Company paid dividends to La Cadena of $5.0 million in in both fiscal 2011 and fiscal 2013.
	The Company paid legal fees of $2.5 million, $1.7 million and $1.5 million in fiscal 2011, fiscal 2012 and fiscal 2013, respectively, to the law firm of Varner & Brandt LLP. Mr. Bruce D. Varner is the Senior Partner of Varner & Brandt LLP and is also the Company's Secretary and a Director of the Company. Mr. Varner received Director fees of $53,000, $74,000 and $99,000 in fiscal 2011, fiscal 2012 and fiscal 2013, respectively.
	Mr. Phillip J. Smith, the Vice Chairman of the Company, has a consulting agreement with the Company to provide certain financial consulting services to the Company and perform other services as requested from time to time by Mr. Jack H. Brown. Mr. Smith was paid $36,000 and $135,000 for such services in fiscal 2012 and fiscal 2013, respectively. Mr. Smith was paid Director fees of $3,900 and $99,000 in fiscal 2012 and fiscal 2013, respectively.

Stock_Redemption

Stock Redemption	12 Months Ended
	Sep. 29, 2013
Equity [Abstract]	'
Stock Redemption	'
	Stock Redemption
	In fiscal 2011, the Company redeemed 715 shares of its Class A Common Stock for $9.5 million. The redemption was for shares held by two trusts created under the Moseley Family Revocable Trust (the "Moseley Trusts") which La Cadena had distributed to the Trusts prior to the redemption.
	In fiscal 2012, the Company redeemed 658 shares of its Class A Common Stock for $8.8 million. The redemption was for shares held by the Moseley Trust which La Cadena had distributed to the Trusts prior to redemption.
	In fiscal 2013, the Company redeemed 658 shares of its class A Common Stock for approximately $8.8 million. The redemption was for shares held by the Moseley Trusts which La Cadena had distributed to the Moseley Trusts prior to the redemption of the shares.
	As of September 29, 2013, the Company had the ability under the Credit Facility to make restricted payments, including dividends of up to $31.2 million.

Accrued_Liabilities

Accrued Liabilities	12 Months Ended
	Sep. 29, 2013
Payables and Accruals [Abstract]	'
Accrued Liabilities	'
	Accrued Liabilities
	Accrued liabilities consist of the following:
		Sept. 30,		Sept. 29,
		2012		2013
		(In thousands)
	Accrued property and sales taxes	$	13,994	$	13,074
	Accrued and deferred rents	10,886		12,847
	Gift card liability	5,225		5,074
	Other accrued liabilities	13,764		15,825
	Total accrued liabilities	$	43,869	$	46,820

Supplemental_Cash_Flow_Informa

Supplemental Cash Flow Information	12 Months Ended
	Sep. 29, 2013
Supplemental Cash Flow Elements [Abstract]	'
Supplemental Cash Flow Information	'
	Supplemental Cash Flow Information
		Fiscal Year Ended
		Sept. 25, 2011			Sept. 30, 2012			Sept. 29, 2013
		(In thousands)
	Supplemental disclosure of cash flow information:
	Cash paid during the year for:
	Interest	$	44,294		$	45,587		$	44,662
	Income taxes	$	14,655		$	37,450		$	11,813
	Supplemental disclosure of non-cash items:
	Actuarial gain (loss) on post retirement benefits	$	(6,952	)	$	(11,950	)	$	24,004

Quarterly_Results_unaudited

Quarterly Results (unaudited)	12 Months Ended
	Sep. 29, 2013
Quarterly Financial Information Disclosure [Abstract]	'
Quarterly Results (unaudited)	'
	Quarterly Results (unaudited)
	Quarterly results for fiscal 2012 and fiscal 2013 are as follows (in thousands except share and per share amounts):
		Sales		Gross		Operating		Net		Average	Earnings
				Profit		Profit		Income		Shares	Per Share
										Outstanding
	Fiscal 2012 Quarters
	13 weeks ended 12/25/11	$	960,724	$	259,681	$	27,037	$	9,010	33,837	$	266.28
	13 weeks ended 03/25/12	937,663		260,686		39,459		16,433		33,764	486.7
	13 weeks ended 06/24/12	949,772		251,222		23,868		7,278		33,179	219.36
	14 weeks ended 09/30/12	1,025,044		268,019		20,979		4,988		33,179	150.34
		$	3,873,203	$	1,039,608	$	111,343	$	37,709	33,484	$	1,126.18
	Fiscal 2013 Quarters
	13 weeks ended 12/30/12	$	968,744	$	250,729	$	20,900	$	5,449	33,179	$	164.23
	13 weeks ended 03/31/13	961,896		258,772		31,235		11,598		33,179	349.56
	13 weeks ended 06/30/13	968,761		257,674		28,177		9,957		33,004	301.69
	13 weeks ended 09/29/13	960,399		252,591		16,826		3,371		32,521	103.66
		$	3,859,800	$	1,019,766	$	97,138	$	30,375	32,971	$	921.26

The_Company_and_Summary_of_Sig1

The Company and Summary of Significant Accounting Policies (Policies)	12 Months Ended
	Sep. 29, 2013
Organization, Consolidation and Presentation of Financial Statements [Abstract]	'
Description of Business	'
	Description of Business
	Stater Bros. Holdings Inc. (the “Company”) is engaged primarily in the operation of retail supermarkets. As of September 29, 2013, the Company operated 166 retail grocery supermarkets under the name “Stater Bros. Markets.” The Company’s supermarkets are located in the Southern California counties of San Bernardino, Riverside, Los Angeles, Orange, San Diego and Kern. The Company through its predecessor companies has operated retail grocery stores under the “Stater Bros. Markets” name in Southern California since 1936.
Ownership of the Company	'
	Ownership of the Company
	La Cadena Investments (“La Cadena”), a California general partnership whose sole voting partner is the Jack H. Brown Revocable Trust (the “Trust”), holds all of the Company’s issued and outstanding capital stock. Mr. Jack H. Brown, the Chairman of the Board, President and Chief Executive Officer of the Company, as Trustee of the Trust, is the Managing General Partner of La Cadena.
Principles of Consolidation and Subsequent Events	'
	Principles of Consolidation
	The consolidated financial statements include the accounts of the Company and its wholly-owned subsidiaries, Stater Bros. Markets (“Markets”) and Stater Bros. Development, Inc. (“Development”) and Markets’ wholly-owned subsidiaries, Super Rx, Inc. (“Super Rx”) and SBM Dairies, Inc. (“Dairies”). All significant inter-company transactions have been eliminated in consolidation.
Reclassifications	'
	Reclassifications
	Certain amounts for fiscal 2011 and fiscal 2012 have been reclassified to conform to the fiscal 2013 financial statement presentation. The Company reclassified approximately $0.1 million and $1.0 million, in fiscal 2011 and fiscal 2012, respectively, from "Other income, net" to "Gain on sale of property and equipment" in the Consolidated Statement of Income and Comprehensive Income. As a result, the Company's operating profit increased by $0.1 million and $1.0 million for fiscal 2011 and fiscal 2012, respectively.
Use of Estimates	'
	Use of Estimates
	The preparation of financial statements in conformity with generally accepted accounting principles in the United States of America (“GAAP”) requires management to make estimates and assumptions that affect the amounts reported in the financial statements and accompanying notes. Actual results could differ from these estimates.
Fiscal Year	'
	Fiscal Year
	The Company’s fiscal year ends on the last Sunday in September. The fiscal years ended September 25, 2011 and September 29, 2013 were 52-week fiscal years while the fiscal year ended September 30, 2012 was a 53-week fiscal year.
Cash and Cash Equivalents	'
	Cash and Cash Equivalents
	Cash and cash equivalents are reflected at cost, which approximates their fair value, and consist primarily of overnight repurchase agreements and money market funds with maturities of less than three months when purchased.
Inventories	'
	Inventories
	Inventories are stated at the lower of cost (first-in, first-out) or market.
Receivables	'
	Receivables
	Receivables are stated, net of allowance for doubtful accounts. The Company provides specific reserves for accounts deemed to be uncollectable and provides additional reserves based on historical experiences. The carrying amount reported in the balance sheets for receivables approximates their fair value.
Property and Equipment	'
	Property and Equipment
	Property and equipment are stated at cost and are depreciated or amortized, principally on the straight-line basis, over the estimated useful lives of the assets. Leasehold improvements placed in service at the commencement of the lease are amortized over the lesser of their economic useful lives or the initial term of the lease. Other leasehold improvements are amortized over the lesser of their economic useful lives or the remaining lease term including any option period that is reasonably assured of being exercised. Assets under capital leases are amortized over the lesser of their estimated economic useful life or the initial lease term.
	The estimated economic lives are as follows:
		Range	Most Prevalent
	Buildings and improvements	5 - 40 Years	20 Years
	Store furniture and equipment	3 - 10 Years	8 Years
	Property subject to capital leases	Life of Lease	20 Years
Long-Lived Assets	'
	Long-Lived Assets
	The Company reviews the recoverability of its long-lived assets for impairment whenever events or changes in circumstances indicate that the carrying value of such assets may not be recoverable. If the estimated future, undiscounted cash flows from the use of an asset are less than its carrying value, a write-down is recorded to reduce the related asset to estimated fair value.
Deferred Debt Issuance Costs	'
	Deferred Debt Issuance Costs
	Direct costs incurred as a result of financing transactions are capitalized and amortized to interest expense over the terms of the applicable debt agreements using the effective interest method.
Deferred Compensation Plan	'
	Deferred Compensation Plan
	The Company maintains the Stater Bros Holdings Inc. Phantom Stock Plan (the “deferred compensation plan”). It is the Company’s policy to expense awarded units under the deferred compensation plan to the extent that they vest and appreciate during the accounting period.
Self-Insurance Reserves	'
	Self-Insurance Reserves
	The Company is primarily self-insured, subject to certain retention levels for workers’ compensation, automobile and general liability costs. The Company is covered by umbrella insurance policies for catastrophic events. The Company records its self-insurance liabilities based on the claims filed and an estimate of claims incurred but not yet reported. The estimates used by management are based on the Company’s historical experiences as well as current facts and circumstances. The Company uses third party actuarial analysis in making its estimates. Actuarial projections and the Company’s estimate of ultimate losses are subject to a high degree of variability. The variability in the projections and estimates are subject to, but not limited to, such factors as judicial and administrative rulings, legislative actions, and changes in compensation benefits structure. The Company discounted its workers’ compensation, automobile and general liability insurance reserves at a discount rate of 2.50% in fiscal 2012 and 2.00% in fiscal 2013. The Company is self-insured, subject to certain retention levels, for health care costs of eligible non-bargaining unit employees. Such health care reserves are not discounted.
Income Taxes	'
	Income Taxes
	The Company provides for deferred income taxes as timing differences arise between income and expenses recorded for financial and income tax reporting purposes. The Company records a valuation allowance to reflect the estimated amount of deferred tax assets that more-likely-than-not will not be realized. The Company did not record any valuation allowances in fiscal 2012 or fiscal 2013.
Revenue Recognition	'
	Revenue Recognition
	The Company recognizes revenue from the sale of its products at the point of sale to the customer. Sales are recognized net of any promotional discounts given to the customer. Sales taxes are recorded in Other current liabilities and are not recorded as sales. Prescription sales are recognized when prescriptions are adjudicated by the third party insurer and when co-payment is received. The Company recognizes a liability when Stater Bros.’ gift cards (“gift cards”) are sold and recognizes sales revenue when the gift cards are used to purchase its products. Gift cards do not have an expiration date and gift card balances do not reduce because of inactivity or time. The Company does not charge service fees on the gift cards. Gift cards whose likelihood of redemption is deemed to be remote, due primarily to periods of inactivity, are recognized into income.
Cost of Goods Sold	'
	Cost of Goods Sold
	Included in cost of goods sold are direct product purchase costs, in-bound freight costs, direct receiving and inspection costs, quality assurance costs, warehousing and transportation costs including depreciation and amortization, net of earned vendor rebates and allowances. The Company recognizes, as a reduction to cost of goods sold, certain rebates and allowances (“allowances”) from its vendors as the allowances are earned. Allowances are earned by promoting certain products or by purchasing specified amounts of product. The Company records a liability for allowance funds that have been received but not yet earned. Included as a reduction in cost of goods sold for fiscal 2011, fiscal 2012 and fiscal 2013 is $2.1 million, $1.4 million and $0.4 million, respectively, of advertising reimbursement in excess of the fair value of the co-operative advertising.
Selling, General and Administrative Expenses	'
	Selling, General and Administrative Expenses
	Included in selling, general and administrative expenses are store operation costs which include store labor costs associated with receiving, displaying and selling the Company’s products at the store level; advertising costs, net of the portion of co-operative advertising allowances directly related to the fair value of the advertising; certain salary, wages and administrative costs associated with the purchasing of the Company’s products and security, management information services, accounting and corporate management costs.
Vendor Rebates and Allowances	'
	Vendor Rebates and Allowances
	The Company receives certain allowances from its vendors that relate to the purchase and promotion of certain products. Allowances, except for advertising allowances described under “Advertising Allowances”, are recognized as a reduction in cost of goods sold as the performance is completed and inventory sold. Allowances, such as slotting fees, which are tied to the promotion of certain products are recognized as reductions in cost of goods sold as the Company meets the required performance criteria. Allowances that are based upon purchase or sales volumes are recognized as reductions in cost of goods sold as the products are sold. The Company receives lump-sum payments from vendors for the promotion or purchase of products over multi-year periods. The Company records a liability for unearned allowances and recognizes, as a reduction in cost of goods sold, these allowances over time as the criteria of these contracts are met.
Advertising	'
	Advertising
	The Company’s advertising costs, net of vendor allowances for co-operative advertising, are recognized in the period the advertising is incurred and are included in selling, general and administrative expenses. Advertising costs, net of vendor allowances, were $18.3 million, $18.9 million and $17.8 million in fiscal 2011, fiscal 2012 and fiscal 2013, respectively.
Advertising Allowances	'
	Advertising Allowances
	A significant portion of the Company’s advertising expenditures is in the form of print advertisements. The Company distributes its print ads through inserts in local newspapers, in direct mailers and as handouts distributed in its stores. The Company receives co-operative advertising allowances from vendors for advertising specific vendor products over specific periods of time. The Company recognized the portion of co-operative advertising allowances directly related to the fair value of advertising as a reduction in advertising costs. The Company analyzes, on a monthly basis, the direct out-of-pocket costs for printing and distributing its print ads. Using the number of ads in a typical twice weekly advertisement, the actual direct costs of an individual advertisement is determined. The cost determined is deemed to be the fair value of advertising. The amount of co-operative advertising allowance recognized as a reduction in advertising expense was $1.3 million in fiscal 2011, $0.7 million in fiscal 2012 and $0.3 million in fiscal 2013. The amount of advertising reimbursement in excess of the fair value of advertising is recorded as a reduction in cost of goods sold.
Leases	'
	Leases
	Certain of the Company’s operating leases provide for minimum annual payments that change over the life of the lease. The aggregate minimum annual payments are expensed on the straight-line basis over the minimum lease term. The Company recognizes a deferred rent liability for minimum step rents when the amount of rent expense exceeds the actual lease payments and it reduces the deferred rent liability when the actual lease payments exceeds the amount of straight-line rent expense. Rent holidays and tenant improvement allowances for store remodels are amortized on the straight-line basis over the initial term of the lease and any option period that is reasonably assured of being exercised.

The_Company_and_Summary_of_Sig2

The Company and Summary of Significant Accounting Policies (Tables)	12 Months Ended
	Sep. 29, 2013
Organization, Consolidation and Presentation of Financial Statements [Abstract]	'
Estimated Useful Economic Lives	'
	The estimated economic lives are as follows:
		Range	Most Prevalent
	Buildings and improvements	5 - 40 Years	20 Years
	Store furniture and equipment	3 - 10 Years	8 Years
	Property subject to capital leases	Life of Lease	20 Years

LongTerm_Debt_Tables

Long-Term Debt (Tables)	12 Months Ended
	Sep. 29, 2013
Debt Disclosure [Abstract]	'
Schedule of Long-Term Debt	'
	Long-term debt consisted of the following:
		Fiscal Year Ended
		Sept. 30,		Sept. 29,
		2012		2013
		(In thousands)
	Secured Term Loan due 2014	$	104,940	$	93,521
	Unsecured 7.75% Senior Notes due 2015	285,000		285,000
	Unsecured 7.375% Senior Notes due 2018	255,000		255,000
		644,940		633,521
	Less current portion of long-term debt	11,419		24,810
	Long-term debt, less current portion	$	633,521	$	608,711
Scheduled Maturities under Company's Long-Term Debt	'
	Scheduled maturities under the Company’s long-term debt as of September 29, 2013 are as follows:
		(In thousands)
	2014	$	24,810
	2015	353,711
	2016	—
	2017	—
	2018	—
	Thereafter	255,000
	Total long-term debt	$	633,521

Leases_Tables

Leases (Tables)	12 Months Ended
	Sep. 29, 2013
Leases [Abstract]	'
Summary of Future Minimum Lease Payments and Sublease Income	'
	Following is a summary of future minimum lease payments and sublease income as of September 29, 2013:
		Capital		Operating		Sublease
		Leases		Leases		Income
				Minimum
				Payments
		(In thousands)
	2014	$	833	$	40,752	$	4,267
	2015	393		39,374		3,865
	2016	35		35,451		3,703
	2017	—		30,726		3,503
	2018	—		28,117		3,294
	Thereafter	—		155,640		14,212
	Total minimum lease payments	1,261		$	330,060	$	32,844
	Less amounts representing interest	75
	Present value of minimum lease payments	1,186
	Less current portion	772
	Long-term portion	$	414
Summary of Rental Expense and Sublease Income	'
	Rental expense and sublease income were as follows:
		Fiscal Year Ended
		Sept. 25, 2011		Sept. 30, 2012		Sept. 29, 2013
		(In thousands)
	Minimum rentals	$	28,850	$	30,603	$	31,765
	Rentals based on sales	$	16,558	$	15,792	$	15,742
	Sublease income	$	5,528	$	4,608	$	4,790

Income_Taxes_Tables

Income Taxes (Tables)	12 Months Ended
	Sep. 29, 2013
Income Tax Disclosure [Abstract]	'
Schedule of Provision for Income Taxes	'
	The provision for income taxes consisted of the following:
		Sept. 25, 2011				Sept. 30, 2012				Sept. 29, 2013
		(In thousands)
	Current
	Federal	$	15,589			$	15,540			$	16,161
	State	5,270				4,703				4,698
		20,859				20,243				20,859
	Deferred
	Federal	(1,573		)		4,851				(35		)
	State	(1,130		)		774				(282		)
		(2,703		)		5,625				(317		)
	Income tax expense	$	18,156			$	25,868			$	20,542
Schedule of Reconciliation of Provision for Income Taxes to Amounts Computed at Federal Statutory Rate	'
	A reconciliation of the provision for income taxes to amounts computed at the federal statutory rate is as follows:
		Sept. 25, 2011			Sept. 30, 2012			Sept. 29, 2013
	Federal statutory income tax rate	35	%		35	%		35	%
	State franchise tax rate, net of federal income tax benefit	5.8			5.8			5.8
	Tax credits	(0.7	)		(0.2	)		(0.5	)
	Other	0.7			0.1			—
	Effective tax rate	40.8	%		40.7	%		40.3	%
Schedule of Components of Deferred Income Taxes	'
	Components of deferred income taxes are as follows:
		Sept. 30, 2012				Sept. 29, 2013
		(In thousands)
	Deferred income tax assets:
	Self-insurance reserves	$	28,684			$	29,883
	Deferred compensation	32,531				20,902
	Payroll liabilities	32,614				32,068
	State franchise tax	1,665				1,608
	Inventories	2,371				2,306
	Income deferred for book purposes	1,512				1,442
	Other, net	3,540				4,179
	Total deferred income tax assets	102,917				92,388
	Deferred income tax liabilities:
	Property and equipment	(30,113		)		(28,991		)
	Other assets	(2,340		)		(2,381		)
	Total deferred income tax liabilities	(32,453		)		(31,372		)
	Net deferred income tax assets	$	70,464			$	61,016

Retirement_Plans_Tables

Retirement Plans (Tables)	12 Months Ended
	Sep. 29, 2013
Accumulated Other Comprehensive (Income) Loss for Qualified Defined Pension Plan	'
	Amounts recognized in other comprehensive (income) loss for the qualified defined pension plans:
		Pension Plan											Medical Plan
		Sept. 25,				Sept. 30,				Sept. 29,			Sept. 25,				Sept. 30,			Sept. 29,
		2011				2012				2013			2011				2012			2013
		(In thousands)
	Prior service credit	$	(2	)		$	(3	)		$	(3	)	$	(78	)		$	(78	)	$	(78	)
	Net actuarial (gain) loss	6,965				11,944				(23,707		)	$	67			$	87		$	(216	)
	Total recognized in other comprehensive (income) loss, before tax	$	6,963			$	11,941			$	(23,710	)	$	(11	)		$	9		$	(294	)
Changes in Pension Plan's Benefit Obligation and Fair Value of Assets	'
	The following tables provide a reconciliation of the changes in the Pension Plan’s and Medical Plan’s benefit obligation and fair value of assets and a statement of the funded status as of the fiscal years ended September 30, 2012 and September 29, 2013:
		Pension Plan								Medical Plan
		Sept. 30,				Sept. 29,				Sept. 30,			Sept. 29,
		2012				2013				2012			2013
		(In thousands)
	Change in benefit obligation:
	Beginning balance	$	100,182			$	122,413			$	2,077		$	2,235
	Service cost	3,901				4,889				55			69
	Interest cost	4,366				4,478				81			71
	Actuarial (gain) loss	17,106				(19,113		)		109			(179		)
	Benefit payments	(3,142		)		(3,863		)		(87		)	(131		)
	Ending balance	$	122,413			$	108,804			$	2,235		$	2,065
	Change in fair value of plan assets:
	Beginning balance	$	61,887			$	78,306			$	—		$	—
	Actual return on plan assets	7,144				6,305				—			—
	Employer contributions	12,417				8,587				87			131
	Benefit payments	(3,142		)		(3,863		)		(87		)	(131		)
	Ending balance	$	78,306			$	89,335			$	—		$	—
	Funded status:
	Fair value of plan assets	$	78,306			$	89,335			$	—		$	—
	Projected benefit obligation	122,413				108,804				2,235			2,065
	Under funded	$	(44,107	)		$	(19,469	)		$	(2,235	)	$	(2,065	)
Pension Plan's Assets at Fair Value	'
	The following table sets forth by level, within the fair value hierarchy, the Pension Plan’s assets at fair value.
	As of September 30, 2012
		Level 1				Level 2				Level 3			Total
						(In thousands)
	Asset category:
	Fixed income	$	9,354			$	36,040			$	—		$	45,394
	Equity	—				25,802				—			25,802
	Cash	7,110				—				—			7,110
		$	16,464			$	61,842			$	—		$	78,306
	As of September 29, 2013
		Level 1				Level 2				Level 3			Total
						(In thousands)
	Asset category:
	Fixed Income	$	9,809			$	39,170			$	—		$	48,979
	Equity (1)	35,313				—				—			35,313
	Cash	5,043				—				—			5,043
		$	50,165			$	39,170			$	—		$	89,335
	(1) Includes $22.8 million of cash in transit for the purchase of equity securities.
Summary of Significant Unobservable Inputs	'
	For measurements using significant unobservable inputs, Level 3, during fiscal 2012, a reconciliation of the beginning and ending balances is as follows:
		Sept. 30,
		2012
		(In thousands)
	Beginning balance	$	15,167
	Contributions	12,417
	Transfer to level 2	(25,944		)
	Realizied gain	186
	Unrealized gain	4,677
	Transfers out	(3,361		)
	Benefit payments	(3,142		)
	Ending balance	$	—
Schedule of Multi-Employer Plans	'
	The multi-employer contributions listed in the table below are the Company’s multi-employer contributions made in fiscal years 2011, 2012 and 2013. There have been no significant changes that affect the comparability of the fiscal 2011, fiscal 2012 or fiscal 2013 contributions.
			Contributions by the Company
	Pension Fund		Sept. 25,				Sept. 30,				Sept. 29,			Surcharge		Total			Expiration
			2011				2012				2013			Imposed		Collective			Date of
																Bargaining			Collective
																Agreements			Bargaining
																			Agreements
			(In thousands)
	Western Conference of Teamsters Pension Plan		$	9,530			$	9,575			$	9,197		No		4			9/20/15
	Southern California United Food & Commercial Workers Unions and Food Employers Joint Pension Plan (1)		26,711				28,924				30,119			No		1			3/2/14
	Bakery and Confectionery Union and Industry International Pension Fund		234				302				266			No		1			1/11/15
			$	36,475			$	38,801			$	39,582
	-1	The Company was listed in the plans form 5500 as providing more than 5% of the total contributions.
					Pension				FIP/RP
					Protection				Status
					Act Zone				Pending
					Status				Implemented
	Pension Fund		EIN - PN		2012		2013
	Western Conference of Teamsters Pension Plan		91-6145047-001		Green		Green		No
	Southern California United Food & Commercial Workers Unions and Food Employers Joint Pension Plan (1)		95-1939092-001		Red		Red		Implemented
	Bakery and Confectionery Union and Industry International Pension Fund		52-6118572-011		Green		Green		No
	(1) The Company was listed in the plans form 5500 as providing more than 5% of the total contributions.
Schedule of Retirement Plans, Health and Welfare Plans	'
	The Company’s expense for these retirement plans and health and welfare plans consisted of the following:
		Sept. 25,				Sept. 30,				Sept. 29,
		2011				2012				2013
		(In thousands)
	Multi-Employer Pension Plans	$	37,262			$	39,588			$	40,507
	Multi-Employer Health and Welfare	100,061				117,840				120,526
	Total Multi-Employer Benefits	$	137,323			$	157,428			$	161,033
Pension Plan [Member]	'
Components of Net Pension Expense and Periodic Benefit Costs	'
	The following table provides the components of fiscal 2011, fiscal 2012 and fiscal 2013 net pension expense:
		Sept. 25,				Sept. 30,				Sept. 29,
		2011				2012				2013
		(In thousands)
	Expected return on assets	$	(3,819	)		$	(4,094	)		$	(4,699	)
	Service cost	3,532				3,901				4,889
	Interest cost	4,187				4,366				4,478
	Amortization of prior service cost	2				3				3
	Amortization of recognized losses	1,536				2,113				2,987
	Net pension expense	$	5,438			$	6,289			$	7,658
Actuarial Assumptions Used to Determine Net Pension Expense and Periodic Benefit Costs	'
	Actuarial assumptions used to determine net pension expense were:
	Discount rate	5	%		4.5	%		3.7	%
	Rate of increase in compensation levels	3	%		3	%		3.08	%
	Expected long-term rate of return on assets	6.5	%		6.5	%		6	%
Actuarial Assumptions Used to Determine Year-End Projected Benefit Obligation	'
	Actuarial assumptions used to determine year-end projected benefit obligation were:
	Weighted-average discount rate	4.5	%		3.7	%		4.7	%
	Weighted-average rate of compensation increase	3	%		3.08	%		3.08	%
Estimated Future Benefit Payments	'
	The following benefit payments, which reflect expected future service as appropriate, are expected to be paid:
		Pension
		Benefits
		(In thousands)
	2014	$	3,662
	2015	$	4,050
	2016	$	3,952
	2017	$	4,353
	2018	$	5,726
	2019 - 2023	$	35,459
Medical Plan [Member]	'
Components of Net Pension Expense and Periodic Benefit Costs	'
	The following table provides the components of fiscal 2011, fiscal 2012 and fiscal 2013 net periodic benefit costs of the Medical Plan:
		Sept. 25,				Sept. 30,				Sept. 29,
		2011				2012				2013
		(In thousands)
	Service cost	$	54			$	55			$	69
	Interest cost	86				81				71
	Amortization of prior service cost	78				78				78
	Amortization of recognized losses	27				22				37
	Net periodic benefit costs	$	245			$	236			$	255
Actuarial Assumptions Used to Determine Net Pension Expense and Periodic Benefit Costs	'
	Actuarial assumptions used to determine net periodic benefit costs were:
	Discount rate	4.5	%		4.2	%		4.2	%
Actuarial Assumptions Used to Determine Year-End Projected Benefit Obligation	'
	Actuarial assumptions used to determine year-end projected benefit obligation were:
	Weighted-average discount rate	4.2	%		3.2	%		4.2	%
Estimated Future Benefit Payments	'
	The following benefit payments, which reflect expected future service as appropriate, are expected to be paid:
		Medical
		Benefits
		(In thousands)
	2014	$	121
	2015	$	128
	2016	$	117
	2017	$	124
	2018	$	138
	2019 - 2023	$	815

Accrued_Liabilities_Tables

Accrued Liabilities (Tables)	12 Months Ended
	Sep. 29, 2013
Payables and Accruals [Abstract]	'
Schedule of Accrued Liabilities	'
	Accrued liabilities consist of the following:
		Sept. 30,		Sept. 29,
		2012		2013
		(In thousands)
	Accrued property and sales taxes	$	13,994	$	13,074
	Accrued and deferred rents	10,886		12,847
	Gift card liability	5,225		5,074
	Other accrued liabilities	13,764		15,825
	Total accrued liabilities	$	43,869	$	46,820

Supplemental_Cash_Flow_Informa1

Supplemental Cash Flow Information (Tables)	12 Months Ended
	Sep. 29, 2013
Supplemental Cash Flow Elements [Abstract]	'
Supplemental Disclosure of Cash Flow Information	'
		Fiscal Year Ended
		Sept. 25, 2011			Sept. 30, 2012			Sept. 29, 2013
		(In thousands)
	Supplemental disclosure of cash flow information:
	Cash paid during the year for:
	Interest	$	44,294		$	45,587		$	44,662
	Income taxes	$	14,655		$	37,450		$	11,813
	Supplemental disclosure of non-cash items:
	Actuarial gain (loss) on post retirement benefits	$	(6,952	)	$	(11,950	)	$	24,004

Quarterly_Results_unaudited_Ta

Quarterly Results (unaudited) (Tables)	12 Months Ended
	Sep. 29, 2013
Quarterly Financial Information Disclosure [Abstract]	'
Schedule of Quarterly Financial Information	'
	Quarterly results for fiscal 2012 and fiscal 2013 are as follows (in thousands except share and per share amounts):
		Sales		Gross		Operating		Net		Average	Earnings
				Profit		Profit		Income		Shares	Per Share
										Outstanding
	Fiscal 2012 Quarters
	13 weeks ended 12/25/11	$	960,724	$	259,681	$	27,037	$	9,010	33,837	$	266.28
	13 weeks ended 03/25/12	937,663		260,686		39,459		16,433		33,764	486.7
	13 weeks ended 06/24/12	949,772		251,222		23,868		7,278		33,179	219.36
	14 weeks ended 09/30/12	1,025,044		268,019		20,979		4,988		33,179	150.34
		$	3,873,203	$	1,039,608	$	111,343	$	37,709	33,484	$	1,126.18
	Fiscal 2013 Quarters
	13 weeks ended 12/30/12	$	968,744	$	250,729	$	20,900	$	5,449	33,179	$	164.23
	13 weeks ended 03/31/13	961,896		258,772		31,235		11,598		33,179	349.56
	13 weeks ended 06/30/13	968,761		257,674		28,177		9,957		33,004	301.69
	13 weeks ended 09/29/13	960,399		252,591		16,826		3,371		32,521	103.66
		$	3,859,800	$	1,019,766	$	97,138	$	30,375	32,971	$	921.26

The_Company_and_Summary_of_Sig3

The Company and Summary of Significant Accounting Policies - Additional Information (Details) (USD $)	3 Months Ended								12 Months Ended
	Sep. 29, 2013	Jun. 30, 2013	Mar. 31, 2013	Dec. 30, 2012	Sep. 30, 2012	Jun. 24, 2012	Mar. 25, 2012	Dec. 25, 2011	Sep. 29, 2013	Sep. 30, 2012	Sep. 25, 2011
Significant Accounting Policies [Line Items]	'	'	'	'	'	'	'	'	'	'	'
Amounts reclassified to conform with fiscal 2013 financial statement presentation	'	'	'	'	'	'	'	'	'	$1,000,000	$100,000
Increase in operating profit due to reclassifications	16,826,000	28,177,000	31,235,000	20,900,000	20,979,000	23,868,000	39,459,000	27,037,000	97,138,000	111,343,000	101,034,000
Fiscal year duration	'	'	'	'	'	'	'	'	'364 days	'371 days	'364 days
Discount rate of worker's compensation reserve	'	'	'	'	'	'	'	'	2.00%	2.50%	'
Advertising cost	'	'	'	'	'	'	'	'	17,800,000	18,900,000	18,300,000
Advertising allowance	'	'	'	'	'	'	'	'	300,000	700,000	1,300,000
Self-insurance expense	'	'	'	'	'	'	'	'	24,800,000	22,800,000	24,400,000
Accrued payroll and related expenses [Member]	'	'	'	'	'	'	'	'	'	'	'
Significant Accounting Policies [Line Items]	'	'	'	'	'	'	'	'	'	'	'
Amounts accrued for workers' compensation, automobile and general liability self-insurance reserves	74,400,000	'	'	'	71,500,000	'	'	'	74,400,000	71,500,000	'
Co-operative advertising reimbursement [Member]	'	'	'	'	'	'	'	'	'	'	'
Significant Accounting Policies [Line Items]	'	'	'	'	'	'	'	'	'	'	'
Rebates and allowances from vendors	'	'	'	'	'	'	'	'	400,000	1,400,000	2,100,000
Stater Bros. Markets [Member]	'	'	'	'	'	'	'	'	'	'	'
Significant Accounting Policies [Line Items]	'	'	'	'	'	'	'	'	'	'	'
Number of retail grocery supermarkets	166	'	'	'	'	'	'	'	166	'	'
Reclassification from Other income, net to Gain on sale of property and equipment [Member]	'	'	'	'	'	'	'	'	'	'	'
Significant Accounting Policies [Line Items]	'	'	'	'	'	'	'	'	'	'	'
Increase in operating profit due to reclassifications	'	'	'	'	'	'	'	'	'	$1,000,000	$100,000

The_Company_and_Summary_of_Sig4

The Company and Summary of Significant Accounting Policies - Estimated Useful Economic Lives (Details)	12 Months Ended
	Sep. 29, 2013
Buildings and improvements [Member]	'
Property Plant And Equipment Estimated Useful Lifes [Line Items]	'
Useful Life of Property, Plant and Equipment	'20 years
Store furniture and equipment [Member]	'
Property Plant And Equipment Estimated Useful Lifes [Line Items]	'
Useful Life of Property, Plant and Equipment	'8 years
Property subject to capital leases [Member]	'
Property Plant And Equipment Estimated Useful Lifes [Line Items]	'
Useful Life of Property, Plant and Equipment	'20 years
Useful Life of Property, Plant and Equipment	'Life of Lease
Minimum [Member] | Buildings and improvements [Member]	'
Property Plant And Equipment Estimated Useful Lifes [Line Items]	'
Useful Life of Property, Plant and Equipment	'5 years
Minimum [Member] | Store furniture and equipment [Member]	'
Property Plant And Equipment Estimated Useful Lifes [Line Items]	'
Useful Life of Property, Plant and Equipment	'3 years
Maximum [Member] | Buildings and improvements [Member]	'
Property Plant And Equipment Estimated Useful Lifes [Line Items]	'
Useful Life of Property, Plant and Equipment	'40 years
Maximum [Member] | Store furniture and equipment [Member]	'
Property Plant And Equipment Estimated Useful Lifes [Line Items]	'
Useful Life of Property, Plant and Equipment	'10 years

Debt_Issuance_and_Early_Exting1

Debt Issuance and Early Extinguishment of Debt - Additional Information (Details) (USD $)

Mar. 27, 2011

Jan. 14, 2011

Dec. 13, 2010

Nov. 29, 2010

Nov. 29, 2010

Nov. 29, 2010

Sep. 29, 2013

Nov. 29, 2010

Sep. 29, 2013

Sep. 29, 2013

Sep. 29, 2013

Sep. 29, 2013

Sep. 29, 2013

Sep. 29, 2013

Sep. 29, 2013

Sep. 29, 2013

Sep. 29, 2013

Sep. 29, 2013

Nov. 29, 2010

Sep. 20, 2011

Sep. 29, 2013

Sep. 29, 2013

Credit Facility [Member]

8.125% Senior Notes due 2012 [Member]

Credit Facility [Member]

Credit Facility [Member]

Revolving Credit Facility [Member]

Revolving Credit Facility [Member]

Revolving Credit Facility [Member]

Revolving Credit Facility [Member]

Term Loan [Member]

Term Loan [Member]

Term Loan [Member]

Term Loan [Member]

Term Loan [Member]

Letter of Credit [Member]

Senior Notes [Member]

Senior Notes [Member]

Senior Notes [Member]

Senior Notes [Member]

Eurodollar [Member]

Federal Funds Rate [Member]

Prime Rate [Member]

Eurodollar [Member]

Ninety Day Rate [Member]

Twelve Month Rate [Member]

Base Rate [Member]

7.375% New Notes (unregistered) [Member]

7.375% Senior Notes (registered) [Member]

7.375% Senior Notes (registered) [Member]

7.75% Senior Notes due April 2015 [Member]

Debt Instrument [Line Items]

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

Aggregate principal amount

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

$255,000,000

$255,000,000

'

'

Stated interest rate

'

'

'

'

'

8.13%

'

'

1.25%

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

7.38%

7.38%

7.38%

7.75%

Amount of Debt Issuance costs

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

2,000,000

'

'

'

'

'

'

6,600,000

'

'

Borrowing capacity

'

'

'

'

100,000,000

'

'

245,000,000

100,000,000

'

'

'

145,000,000

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

Line of credit facility, amount outstanding

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

0

'

'

'

93,500,000

'

'

'

'

59,900,000

'

'

'

'

Term of the debt instrument

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'4 years

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

Basis spread on variable rate

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

2.50%

0.50%

1.50%

'

2.50%

'

'

1.50%

'

'

'

'

'

Percentage of required periodic principal payment in the first two years

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

5.00%

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

Percentage of required principal payment in years three and four

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

10.00%

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

Interest rate as of year end

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

2.78%

3.34%

'

'

'

'

'

'

Principal amount on interest loan

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

3,600,000

89,900,000

'

'

'

'

'

'

Commitment fee percentage on unused capacity

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

0.25%

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

Available capacity under the credit facility

'

'

'

'

'

'

40,100,000

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

Borrowings during the year

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

0

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

Debt instrument, cumulative sinking fund payments

'

'

'

'

'

525,000,000

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

Purchase of Senior Notes

'

'

'

479,200,000

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

Outstanding balance of Retired Notes

'

'

'

477,500,000

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

Interest to debt expense

'

'

'

1,800,000

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

Purchase of debt

'

'

2,400,000

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

Retire outstanding Notes

'

45,100,000

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

Interest expense

$3,500,000

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

LongTerm_Debt_Schedule_of_Long

Long-Term Debt - Schedule of Long-Term Debt (Details) (USD $)	Sep. 29, 2013	Sep. 30, 2012
In Thousands, unless otherwise specified
Debt Instrument [Line Items]	'	'
Long-term debt	$633,521	$644,940
Less current portion of long-term debt	24,810	11,419
Long-term debt, less current portion	608,711	633,521
Secured Term Loan due 2014 [Member]	'	'
Debt Instrument [Line Items]	'	'
Long-term debt	93,521	104,940
Unsecured 7.75% Senior Notes due 2015 [Member]	'	'
Debt Instrument [Line Items]	'	'
Long-term debt	285,000	285,000
Unsecured 7.375% Senior Notes due 2018 [Member]	'	'
Debt Instrument [Line Items]	'	'
Long-term debt	$255,000	$255,000

LongTerm_Debt_Schedule_of_Long1

Long-Term Debt - Schedule of Long-Term Debt (Parenthetical) (Details)	12 Months Ended
	Sep. 29, 2013	Sep. 30, 2012
Secured Term Loan due 2014 [Member]	'	'
Debt Instrument [Line Items]	'	'
Debt instrument maturity year	'2014	'2014
Unsecured 7.75% Senior Notes due 2015 [Member]	'	'
Debt Instrument [Line Items]	'	'
Stated interest rate	7.75%	7.75%
Debt instrument maturity year	'2015	'2015
Unsecured 7.375% Senior Notes due 2018 [Member]	'	'
Debt Instrument [Line Items]	'	'
Stated interest rate	7.38%	7.38%
Debt instrument maturity year	'2018	'2018

LongTerm_Debt_Scheduled_Maturi

Long-Term Debt - Scheduled Maturities under Long-Term Debt (Details) (USD $)	Sep. 29, 2013	Sep. 30, 2012
In Thousands, unless otherwise specified
Debt Disclosure [Abstract]	'	'
2014	$24,810	'
2015	353,711	'
2016	0	'
2017	0	'
2018	0	'
Thereafter	255,000	'
Long-term debt	$633,521	$644,940

LongTerm_Debt_Additional_Infor

Long-Term Debt - Additional Information (Details) (USD $)	12 Months Ended
In Millions, unless otherwise specified	Sep. 29, 2013	Sep. 30, 2012	Sep. 25, 2011
Debt Instrument [Line Items]	'	'	'
Interest capitalized	$0.40	$0.40	$0.30
Interest expense incurred	46.7	48.3	57.6
Unsecured 7.375% Senior Notes due 2018 [Member]	'	'	'
Debt Instrument [Line Items]	'	'	'
Stated interest rate	7.38%	7.38%	'
Debt instrument maturity year	'2018	'2018	'
Debt instrument, frequency of interest payments	'semi-annually in arrears on May 15 and November 15	'	'
Unsecured 7.75% Senior Notes due 2015 [Member]	'	'	'
Debt Instrument [Line Items]	'	'	'
Stated interest rate	7.75%	7.75%	'
Debt instrument maturity year	'2015	'2015	'
Debt instrument, frequency of interest payments	'semi-annually in arrears on April 15 and October 15	'	'
2014 [Member]	'	'	'
Debt Instrument [Line Items]	'	'	'
Debt instrument, annual principal payment	14.5	'	'
Additional term loan paid	10.3	'	'
2015 [Member]	'	'	'
Debt Instrument [Line Items]	'	'	'
Debt instrument, annual principal payment	$3.60	'	'

Leases_Additional_Information_

Leases - Additional Information (Details)	12 Months Ended
	Sep. 29, 2013
	renewal_option
Leases [Line Items]	'
Description of lease options	'The Company has a sublease with a third party (the “Sublessee”) ending in July 2023, which contains three, five year lease options
Maturity of sublease	'July 2023
Number of sublease renewal options	3
Term of sublease renewal options	'5 years
Former Facilities [Member]	'
Leases [Line Items]	'
Maturity of sublease	'2038
Minimum [Member]	'
Leases [Line Items]	'
Primary lease terms	'3 years
Maximum [Member]	'
Leases [Line Items]	'
Primary lease terms	'55 years

Leases_Summary_of_Future_Minim

Leases - Summary of Future Minimum Lease Payments and Sublease Income (Details) (USD $)	Sep. 29, 2013	Sep. 30, 2012
In Thousands, unless otherwise specified
Leases [Abstract]	'	'
2014	$833	'
2015	393	'
2016	35	'
2017	0	'
2018	0	'
Thereafter	0	'
Total minimum lease payments	1,261	'
Less amounts representing interest	75	'
Present value of minimum lease payments	1,186	'
Less current portion	772	1,242
Capital lease obligations, less current portion	414	1,186
2014	40,752	'
2015	39,374	'
2016	35,451	'
2017	30,726	'
2018	28,117	'
Thereafter	155,640	'
Total minimum lease payments	330,060	'
2014	4,267	'
2015	3,865	'
2016	3,703	'
2017	3,503	'
2018	3,294	'
Thereafter	14,212	'
Total minimum lease payments	$32,844	'

Leases_Summary_of_Rental_Expen

Leases - Summary of Rental Expense and Sublease Income (Details) (USD $)	12 Months Ended
In Thousands, unless otherwise specified	Sep. 29, 2013	Sep. 30, 2012	Sep. 25, 2011
Leases [Abstract]	'	'	'
Minimum rentals	$31,765	$30,603	$28,850
Rentals based on sales	15,742	15,792	16,558
Sublease income	$4,790	$4,608	$5,528

Income_Taxes_Schedule_of_Provi

Income Taxes - Schedule of Provision for Income Taxes (Details) (USD $)	12 Months Ended
In Thousands, unless otherwise specified	Sep. 29, 2013	Sep. 30, 2012	Sep. 25, 2011
Current	'	'	'
Current income tax expense benefit	$20,859	$20,243	$20,859
Deferred	'	'	'
Deferred income tax expense benefit	-317	5,625	-2,703
Income tax expense	20,542	25,868	18,156
Federal [Member]	'	'	'
Current	'	'	'
Current income tax expense benefit	16,161	15,540	15,589
Deferred	'	'	'
Deferred income tax expense benefit	-35	4,851	-1,573
State [Member]	'	'	'
Current	'	'	'
Current income tax expense benefit	4,698	4,703	5,270
Deferred	'	'	'
Deferred income tax expense benefit	($282)	$774	($1,130)

Income_Taxes_Schedule_of_Recon

Income Taxes - Schedule of Reconciliation of Provision for Income Taxes to Amounts Computed at Federal Statutory Rate (Details)	12 Months Ended
	Sep. 29, 2013	Sep. 30, 2012	Sep. 25, 2011
Reconciliation Of Provision Of Income Taxes [Line Items]	'	'	'
Federal statutory income tax rate	35.00%	35.00%	35.00%
State franchise tax rate, net of federal income tax benefit	5.80%	5.80%	5.80%
Tax credits	-0.50%	-0.20%	-0.70%
Other	0.00%	0.10%	0.70%
Effective tax rate	40.30%	40.70%	40.80%

Income_Taxes_Schedule_of_Compo

Income Taxes - Schedule of Components of Deferred Income Taxes (Details) (USD $)	Sep. 29, 2013	Sep. 30, 2012
In Thousands, unless otherwise specified
Deferred income tax assets:	'	'
Self-insurance reserves	$29,883	$28,684
Deferred compensation	20,902	32,531
Payroll liabilities	32,068	32,614
State franchise tax	1,608	1,665
Inventories	2,306	2,371
Income deferred for book purposes	1,442	1,512
Other, net	4,179	3,540
Total deferred income tax assets	92,388	102,917
Deferred income tax liabilities:	'	'
Property and equipment	-28,991	-30,113
Other assets	-2,381	-2,340
Total deferred income tax liabilities	-31,372	-32,453
Net deferred income tax assets	$61,016	$70,464

Retirement_Plans_Additional_In

Retirement Plans - Additional Information (Details) (USD $)	12 Months Ended
	Sep. 29, 2013	Sep. 30, 2012	Sep. 25, 2011
Retirement Plans [Line Items]	'	'	'
Trustee and administrative expenses for Pension Plan	$700,000	$600,000	$500,000
Pension contribution to multi-employer plans	900,000	800,000	800,000
Early Retiree Medical Premium Reimbursement Plan [Member]	'	'	'
Retirement Plans [Line Items]	'	'	'
Maximum benefit under the plan per month	500	'	'
Maximum retirement benefit plan payment period	'120 months	'	'
Profit Sharing [Member]	'	'	'
Retirement Plans [Line Items]	'	'	'
Expenses recognized for plan	1,100,000	1,100,000	600,000
Company contribution percentage	7.50%	'	'
Maximum [Member]	'	'	'
Retirement Plans [Line Items]	'	'	'
Multi-employer pension plans funded, red zone	65.00%	'	'
Multi-employer pension plans funded, yellow zone	80.00%	'	'
Minimum [Member]	'	'	'
Retirement Plans [Line Items]	'	'	'
Multi-employer pension plans funded, green zone	80.00%	'	'
Southern California United Food and Commercial Workers Unions and Food Employers Joint Pension Plan [Member] | Minimum [Member]	'	'	'
Retirement Plans [Line Items]	'	'	'
Total contribution to pension plan	5.00%	'	'
Fixed Income [Member]	'	'	'
Retirement Plans [Line Items]	'	'	'
Strategic target asset allocation	65.00%	'	'
Equity [Member]	'	'	'
Retirement Plans [Line Items]	'	'	'
Strategic target asset allocation	35.00%	'	'
Pension Plan [Member]	'	'	'
Retirement Plans [Line Items]	'	'	'
Expenses recognized for Plan	8,400,000	6,900,000	6,000,000
Company contribution to defined benefit pension plan	3,900,000	'	'
Medical Plan [Member]	'	'	'
Retirement Plans [Line Items]	'	'	'
Company contribution to defined benefit pension plan	100,000	'	'
Expenses recognized for plan	$300,000	'	$200,000

Retirement_Plans_Accumulated_O

Retirement Plans - Accumulated Other Comprehensive (Income) Loss for Qualified Defined Pension Plan (Details) (USD $)	12 Months Ended
In Thousands, unless otherwise specified	Sep. 29, 2013	Sep. 30, 2012	Sep. 25, 2011
Pension Plan [Member]	'	'	'
Defined Benefit Plan Disclosure [Line Items]	'	'	'
Prior service cost (credit)	($3)	($3)	($2)
Net actuarial loss	-23,707	11,944	6,965
Total recognized in accumulated other comprehensive (income) loss, before tax	-23,710	11,941	6,963
Medical Plan [Member]	'	'	'
Defined Benefit Plan Disclosure [Line Items]	'	'	'
Prior service cost (credit)	-78	-78	-78
Net actuarial loss	-216	87	67
Total recognized in accumulated other comprehensive (income) loss, before tax	($294)	$9	($11)

Retirement_Plans_Changes_in_Pe

Retirement Plans - Changes in Pension Plan's Benefit Obligation and Fair Value of Assets (Details) (USD $)	12 Months Ended
In Thousands, unless otherwise specified	Sep. 29, 2013	Sep. 30, 2012	Sep. 25, 2011
Change in fair value of plan assets:	'	'	'
Employer contributions	$39,582	$38,801	$36,475
Pension Plan [Member]	'	'	'
Change in benefit obligation:	'	'	'
Beginning balance	122,413	100,182	'
Service cost	4,889	3,901	3,532
Interest cost	4,478	4,366	4,187
Actuarial (gain) loss	-19,113	17,106	'
Benefit payments	-3,863	-3,142	'
Ending balance	108,804	122,413	100,182
Change in fair value of plan assets:	'	'	'
Beginning balance	78,306	61,887	'
Actual return on plan assets	6,305	7,144	'
Employer contributions	8,587	12,417	'
Benefit payments	-3,863	-3,142	'
Ending balance	89,335	78,306	61,887
Funded status:	'	'	'
Fair value of plan assets	89,335	78,306	61,887
Projected benefit obligation	108,804	122,413	100,182
Under funded	-19,469	-44,107	'
Medical Plan [Member]	'	'	'
Change in benefit obligation:	'	'	'
Beginning balance	2,235	2,077	'
Service cost	69	55	'
Interest cost	71	81	'
Actuarial (gain) loss	-179	109	'
Benefit payments	-131	-87	'
Ending balance	2,065	2,235	'
Change in fair value of plan assets:	'	'	'
Beginning balance	0	0	'
Actual return on plan assets	0	0	'
Employer contributions	131	87	'
Benefit payments	-131	-87	'
Ending balance	0	0	'
Funded status:	'	'	'
Fair value of plan assets	0	0	'
Projected benefit obligation	2,065	2,235	'
Under funded	($2,065)	($2,235)	'

Retirement_Plans_Components_of

Retirement Plans - Components of Net Pension Expense and Periodic Benefit Costs (Details) (USD $)	12 Months Ended
In Thousands, unless otherwise specified	Sep. 29, 2013	Sep. 30, 2012	Sep. 25, 2011
Medical Plan [Member]	'	'	'
Pension Plans, Postretirement and Other Employee Benefits [Line Items]	'	'	'
Service cost	$69	$55	$54
Interest cost	71	81	86
Amortization of prior service cost	78	78	78
Amortization of recognized losses	37	22	27
Net pension expense	255	236	245
Pension Plan [Member]	'	'	'
Pension Plans, Postretirement and Other Employee Benefits [Line Items]	'	'	'
Expected return on assets	-4,699	-4,094	-3,819
Service cost	4,889	3,901	3,532
Interest cost	4,478	4,366	4,187
Amortization of prior service cost	3	3	2
Amortization of recognized losses	2,987	2,113	1,536
Net pension expense	$7,658	$6,289	$5,438

Retirement_Plans_Actuarial_Ass

Retirement Plans - Actuarial Assumptions Used to Determine Net Pension Expense (Details)	12 Months Ended
	Sep. 29, 2013	Sep. 30, 2012	Sep. 25, 2011
Medical Plan [Member]	'	'	'
Pension Plans, Postretirement and Other Employee Benefits [Line Items]	'	'	'
Discount rate	4.20%	4.20%	4.50%
Pension Plan [Member]	'	'	'
Pension Plans, Postretirement and Other Employee Benefits [Line Items]	'	'	'
Discount rate	3.70%	4.50%	5.00%
Rate of increase in compensation levels	3.08%	3.00%	3.00%
Expected long-term rate of return on assets	6.00%	6.50%	6.50%

Retirement_Plans_Actuarial_Ass1

Retirement Plans - Actuarial Assumptions Used to Determine Year-End Projected Benefit Obligation (Details)	Sep. 29, 2013	Sep. 30, 2012	Sep. 25, 2011
Pension Plan [Member]	'	'	'
Pension Plans, Postretirement and Other Employee Benefits [Line Items]	'	'	'
Weighted-average discount rate	4.70%	3.70%	4.50%
Weighted-average rate of compensation increase	3.08%	3.08%	3.00%
Medical Plan [Member]	'	'	'
Pension Plans, Postretirement and Other Employee Benefits [Line Items]	'	'	'
Weighted-average discount rate	4.20%	3.20%	4.20%

Retirement_Plans_Pension_Plans

Retirement Plans - Pension Plan's Assets at Fair Value (Details) (Pension Plan [Member], USD $)	Sep. 29, 2013		Sep. 30, 2012	Sep. 25, 2011
Asset category:	'		'	'
Pension Plan's assets at fair value Total	$89,335,000		$78,306,000	$61,887,000
Fixed Income [Member]	'		'	'
Asset category:	'		'	'
Pension Plan's assets at fair value Total	48,979,000		45,394,000	'
Equity [Member]	'		'	'
Asset category:	'		'	'
Pension Plan's assets at fair value Total	35,313,000	[1]	25,802,000	'
Cash in transit for the purchase of equity securities	22,800,000		'	'
Cash [Member]	'		'	'
Asset category:	'		'	'
Pension Plan's assets at fair value Total	5,043,000		7,110,000	'
Level 1 [Member]	'		'	'
Asset category:	'		'	'
Pension Plan's assets at fair value Total	50,165,000		16,464,000	'
Level 1 [Member] | Fixed Income [Member]	'		'	'
Asset category:	'		'	'
Pension Plan's assets at fair value Total	9,809,000		9,354,000	'
Level 1 [Member] | Equity [Member]	'		'	'
Asset category:	'		'	'
Pension Plan's assets at fair value Total	35,313,000	[1]	0	'
Level 1 [Member] | Cash [Member]	'		'	'
Asset category:	'		'	'
Pension Plan's assets at fair value Total	5,043,000		7,110,000	'
Level 2 [Member]	'		'	'
Asset category:	'		'	'
Pension Plan's assets at fair value Total	39,170,000		61,842,000	'
Level 2 [Member] | Fixed Income [Member]	'		'	'
Asset category:	'		'	'
Pension Plan's assets at fair value Total	39,170,000		36,040,000	'
Level 2 [Member] | Equity [Member]	'		'	'
Asset category:	'		'	'
Pension Plan's assets at fair value Total	0	[1]	25,802,000	'
Level 2 [Member] | Cash [Member]	'		'	'
Asset category:	'		'	'
Pension Plan's assets at fair value Total	0		0	'
Level 3 [Member]	'		'	'
Asset category:	'		'	'
Pension Plan's assets at fair value Total	0		0	'
Level 3 [Member] | Fixed Income [Member]	'		'	'
Asset category:	'		'	'
Pension Plan's assets at fair value Total	0		0	'
Level 3 [Member] | Equity [Member]	'		'	'
Asset category:	'		'	'
Pension Plan's assets at fair value Total	0	[1]	0	'
Level 3 [Member] | Cash [Member]	'		'	'
Asset category:	'		'	'
Pension Plan's assets at fair value Total	$0		$0	'
[1]	Includes $22.8 million of cash in transit for the purchase of equity securities.

Retirement_Plans_Summary_of_Si

Retirement Plans - Summary of Significant Unobservable Inputs (Details) (USD $)	12 Months Ended
In Thousands, unless otherwise specified	Sep. 29, 2013	Sep. 30, 2012	Sep. 25, 2011
Fair Value, Assets Measured on Recurring Basis, Unobservable Input Reconciliation [Line Items]	'	'	'
Contributions	$39,582	$38,801	$36,475
Pension Plan [Member]	'	'	'
Fair Value, Assets Measured on Recurring Basis, Unobservable Input Reconciliation [Line Items]	'	'	'
Beginning balance	0	15,167	'
Contributions	8,587	12,417	'
Transfer to level 2	'	-25,944	'
Realizied gain	'	186	'
Unrealized gain	'	4,677	'
Transfers out	'	-3,361	'
Benefit payments	-3,863	-3,142	'
Ending balance	'	$0	'

Retirement_Plans_Estimation_of

Retirement Plans - Estimation of Future Benefit Payments (Details) (USD $)	Sep. 29, 2013
In Thousands, unless otherwise specified
Pension Plan [Member]	'
Pension Plans, Postretirement and Other Employee Benefits [Line Items]	'
2014	$3,662
2015	4,050
2016	3,952
2017	4,353
2018	5,726
2019 - 2023	35,459
Medical Plan [Member]	'
Pension Plans, Postretirement and Other Employee Benefits [Line Items]	'
2014	121
2015	128
2016	117
2017	124
2018	138
2019 - 2023	$815

Retirement_Plans_Schedule_of_M

Retirement Plans - Schedule of Multi-Employer Pension Plans (Details) (USD $)	12 Months Ended
In Thousands, unless otherwise specified	Sep. 29, 2013		Sep. 30, 2012		Sep. 25, 2011
Multiemployer Plans [Line Items]	'		'		'
Contributions by the Company	$39,582		$38,801		$36,475
Western Conference of Teamsters Pension Plan [Member]	'		'		'
Multiemployer Plans [Line Items]	'		'		'
EIN - PN	'91-6145047-001		'		'
Pension Protection Act Zone Status	'Green		'Green		'
FIP/RP Status Pending Implemented	'No		'		'
Contributions by the Company	9,197		9,575		9,530
Surcharge Imposed	'No		'		'
Total Collective Bargaining Agreements	4		'		'
Expiration Date of Collective Bargaining Agreement	20-Sep-15		'		'
Southern California United Food and Commercial Workers Unions and Food Employers Joint Pension Plan [Member]	'		'		'
Multiemployer Plans [Line Items]	'		'		'
EIN - PN	'95-1939092-001	[1]	'		'
Pension Protection Act Zone Status	'Red	[1]	'Red	[1]	'
FIP/RP Status Pending Implemented	'Implemented	[1]	'		'
Contributions by the Company	30,119	[1]	28,924	[1]	26,711	[1]
Surcharge Imposed	'No	[1]	'		'
Total Collective Bargaining Agreements	1	[1]	'		'
Expiration Date of Collective Bargaining Agreement	2-Mar-14	[1]	'		'
Bakery and Confectionery Union and Industry International Pension Fund [Member]	'		'		'
Multiemployer Plans [Line Items]	'		'		'
EIN - PN	'52-6118572-011		'		'
Pension Protection Act Zone Status	'Green		'Green		'
FIP/RP Status Pending Implemented	'No		'		'
Contributions by the Company	$266		$302		$234
Surcharge Imposed	'No		'		'
Total Collective Bargaining Agreements	1		'		'
Expiration Date of Collective Bargaining Agreement	11-Jan-15		'		'
[1]	The Company was listed in the plans form 5500 as providing more than 5% of the total contributions.

Retirement_Plans_Schedule_of_R

Retirement Plans - Schedule of Retirement Plans Health and Welfare Plans (Details) (USD $)	12 Months Ended
In Thousands, unless otherwise specified	Sep. 29, 2013	Sep. 30, 2012	Sep. 25, 2011
Multiemployer Plans [Line Items]	'	'	'
Multi-Employer Benefits	$161,033	$157,428	$137,323
Multi-Employer Pension Plans [Member]	'	'	'
Multiemployer Plans [Line Items]	'	'	'
Multi-Employer Benefits	40,507	39,588	37,262
Multi-Employer Health and Welfare [Member]	'	'	'
Multiemployer Plans [Line Items]	'	'	'
Multi-Employer Benefits	$120,526	$117,840	$100,061

Labor_Relations_Additional_Inf

Labor Relations - Additional Information (Details)	12 Months Ended
	Sep. 29, 2013
UFCW [Member]	'
Multiemployer Plans [Line Items]	'
Collective bargaining agreements renewed date	'2011-10
Collective bargaining agreements expiry date	'March 2014
International Brotherhood of Teamsters [Member]	'
Multiemployer Plans [Line Items]	'
Collective bargaining agreements renewed date	'2010-10
Collective bargaining agreements expiry date	'September 2015

Fair_Value_of_Financial_Instru1

Fair Value of Financial Instruments - Additional Information (Details) (USD $)	Sep. 29, 2013
In Millions, unless otherwise specified
Estimated Fair Value Of Financial Instruments [Line Items]	'
Long-term debt fair value	$649.60
7.75% Senior Notes [Member]	'
Estimated Fair Value Of Financial Instruments [Line Items]	'
Interest rate on senior notes	7.75%
7.375% Senior Notes [Member]	'
Estimated Fair Value Of Financial Instruments [Line Items]	'
Interest rate on senior notes	7.38%

Deferred_Compensation_Plan_Add

Deferred Compensation Plan - Additional Information (Details) (USD $)	12 Months Ended
In Millions, except Share data, unless otherwise specified	Sep. 29, 2013	Sep. 30, 2012	Sep. 25, 2011
Compensation Related Costs [Abstract]	'	'	'
Compensation arrangement by shares	'5 years	'	'
Compensation arrangement by option rate	20.00%	'	'
Compensation arrangement by share based payment award	946,100	948,600	'
Compensation expense	$4.20	$5.30	$7.90

Related_Party_Transactions_Add

Related Party Transactions - Additional Information (Details) (USD $)	12 Months Ended
	Sep. 29, 2013	Sep. 30, 2012	Sep. 25, 2011
Related Party Transaction [Line Items]	'	'	'
Payments of dividend	$5,000,000	$20,000,000	$5,000,000
Legal fees paid	1,500,000	1,700,000	2,500,000
Mr. Varner (Company's Secretary and a Director) [Member]	'	'	'
Related Party Transaction [Line Items]	'	'	'
Director fees paid	99,000	74,000	53,000
Mr. Smith (the Vice Chairman of the Company) [Member]	'	'	'
Related Party Transaction [Line Items]	'	'	'
Director fees paid	99,000	3,900	'
Cash paid for financial consulting services	$135,000	$36,000	'

Stock_Redemption_Additional_In

Stock Redemption - Additional Information (Details) (USD $)	12 Months Ended
	Sep. 29, 2013	Sep. 30, 2012	Sep. 25, 2011
			trust
Financial Instruments Subject to Mandatory Redemption by Settlement Terms [Line Items]	'	'	'
Redemption of Common Stock	$8,770,000	$8,770,000	$9,540,000
Number of trusts holding shares	'	'	2
Restricted payments	31,200,000	'	'
Class A Common Stock [Member]	'	'	'
Financial Instruments Subject to Mandatory Redemption by Settlement Terms [Line Items]	'	'	'
Redemption of common shares	658	658	715
Redemption of Common Stock	$8,800,000	$8,800,000	$9,500,000

Accrued_Liabilities_Schedule_o

Accrued Liabilities - Schedule of Accrued Liabilities (Details) (USD $)	Sep. 29, 2013	Sep. 30, 2012
In Thousands, unless otherwise specified
Payables and Accruals [Abstract]	'	'
Accrued property and sales taxes	$13,074	$13,994
Accrued and deferred rents	12,847	10,886
Gift card liability	5,074	5,225
Other accrued liabilities	15,825	13,764
Total accrued liabilities	$46,820	$43,869

Supplemental_Cash_Flow_Informa2

Supplemental Cash Flow Information - Supplemental Disclosure of Cash Flow Information (Details) (USD $)	12 Months Ended
In Thousands, unless otherwise specified	Sep. 29, 2013	Sep. 30, 2012	Sep. 25, 2011
Supplemental Cash Flow Elements [Abstract]	'	'	'
Interest paid	$44,662	$45,587	$44,294
Income taxes paid	11,813	37,450	14,655
Actuarial gain (loss) on post retirement benefits	$24,004	($11,950)	($6,952)

Quarterly_Results_unaudited_Sc

Quarterly Results (unaudited) - Schedule of Quarterly Financial Information (Details) (USD $)	3 Months Ended								12 Months Ended
In Thousands, except Share data, unless otherwise specified	Sep. 29, 2013	Jun. 30, 2013	Mar. 31, 2013	Dec. 30, 2012	Sep. 30, 2012	Jun. 24, 2012	Mar. 25, 2012	Dec. 25, 2011	Sep. 29, 2013	Sep. 30, 2012	Sep. 25, 2011
Quarterly Financial Information Disclosure [Abstract]	'	'	'	'	'	'	'	'	'	'	'
Sales	$960,399	$968,761	$961,896	$968,744	$1,025,044	$949,772	$937,663	$960,724	$3,859,800	$3,873,203	$3,693,306
Gross Profit	252,591	257,674	258,772	250,729	268,019	251,222	260,686	259,681	1,019,766	1,039,608	990,892
Operating Profit	16,826	28,177	31,235	20,900	20,979	23,868	39,459	27,037	97,138	111,343	101,034
Net income	$3,371	$9,957	$11,598	$5,449	$4,988	$7,278	$16,433	$9,010	$30,375	$37,709	$26,290
Average Shares Outstanding (in shares)	32,521	33,004	33,179	33,179	33,179	33,179	33,764	33,837	32,971	33,484	34,108
Earnings Per Share (in usd per share)	$103.66	$301.69	$349.56	$164.23	$150.34	$219.36	$486.70	$266.28	$921.26	$1,126.18	$770.79