Dive Brief:
- The Federal Trade Commission gave the go-ahead for the Albertsons-Safeway merger, one that has been in the works since March. It is forecast for completion "within the next five business days," according to a news release.
- The retailers had "entered into agreements" to sell 168 stores pending FTC's clearance, most of which are to go to Haggen.
- Progressive Grocer reports the merger will give work to more than 250,000 associates.
Dive Insight:
Just last week, Albertsons' sales team plans for after the merger were revealed. It looks like this almost year-long process will finally reach its conclusion soon. Perhaps this merger will also lead to implementing some recent innovations in the supermarket sphere once it closes.