Marketing

Kroger, Alberstons selling 431 stores as part of merger

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September 12, 2023

The Kroger Co. and Albertsons Companies Inc. will sell of over 400 stores to C&S Wholesale Grocers LLC as part of the merger between Kroger and Alberstons.

The divestiture plan ensures no stores will close as a result of the merger and that all front-line associates will remain employed, all existing collective bargaining agreements will continue, and associates will continue to receive industry-leading health care and pension benefits alongside bargained-for wages, according to a press release.

Founded in 1918 as a supplier to independent grocery stores, C&S currently operates Grand Union grocery stores and Piggly Wiggly franchise and corporate-owned stores in the Midwest and Carolinas.

"Following the announcement of our proposed merger with Albertsons Cos., we embarked on a robust and thoughtful process to identify a well-capitalized buyer who will operate as a fierce competitor and ensure divested stores and their associates will continue serving their communities in the ways they do today. C&S achieves all these objectives," Rodney McMullen, chairman and CEO of The Kroger Co., said in the release. "C&S is led by an experienced management team with an extensive background in food retail and distribution and has the financial strength to continue investing in associates and the business for the long run. Importantly in our agreement, C&S commits to honoring all collective bargaining agreements which include industry-leading benefits, retaining front-line associates and further investing for growth."