Kroger, Albertsons Companies, and C&S Wholesale Grocers have recently announced an updated and expanded divestiture plan as part of their proposed merger. This new plan is a response to concerns raised by antitrust regulators regarding the original agreement and aims to enhance competition in overlapping regions.

The amended divestiture package includes an increase in the number of stores, facilities, and banner names to ensure that C&S can operate competitively after the merger is complete. The companies are confident that this updated plan will strengthen their position in regulatory challenges and court proceedings related to the proposed merger.

Rodney McMullen, Chairman and CEO of Kroger, expressed his satisfaction with the updated package, emphasizing that it maintains Kroger’s commitments to customers, associates, and communities. Importantly, McMullen assured that no stores will close as a result of the merger, and all frontline associates will remain employed with existing collective bargaining agreements, healthcare and pension benefits, and bargained-for wages intact.

The proposed merger between Kroger and Albertsons aims to provide meaningful benefits to consumers, associates, and communities across the country. It aims to expand access to fresh, affordable food and create a compelling alternative to large, non-union retailers. By adding a well-capitalized competitor to new geographies, the merged company seeks to secure the long-term future of unionized grocery jobs.

Eric Winn, CEO of C&S, expressed confidence in the expanded divestiture package, stating that it will ensure the continued success of the stores and enable C&S to serve communities for generations to come. He also mentioned the excitement of welcoming storied banners, quality private label brands, and experienced retail associates into the C&S family.

Under the amended agreement, C&S will acquire a total of 579 stores, an increase of 166 stores from the original plan. Furthermore, C&S will license the Albertsons banner in California and Wyoming, as well as the Safeway banner in Arizona and Colorado. Kroger will re-banner the retained Albertsons and Safeway stores in these states following the merger’s completion. The divestiture plan includes a range of states and locations, ensuring a well-rounded presence for the newly formed company.

To support the additional stores conveyed to C&S, the updated divestiture package includes increased distribution capacity, larger facilities, and expanded transition services agreements. This will enable C&S to operate the divested stores competitively and cohesively. All fuel centers and pharmacies associated with the divested stores will remain operational.

The amended agreement includes the divestiture of private label brands to C&S and provides access to other major private label brands. This will allow the combined company to offer a wide range of products and options to customers.

The proposed merger is subject to customary closing conditions, including regulatory clearance, and the completion of the merger between Kroger and Albertsons. Upon fulfilling these conditions, C&S will pay Kroger an all-cash consideration of approximately $2.9 billion.

The merger aims to bring lower prices and more choices to customers, improve wages and comprehensive benefits for employees, and invest in ending hunger in communities across America. Kroger and Albertsons remain committed to defending the merger in court and unlocking its numerous benefits.

To learn more about the combined company’s commitment to customers, associates, and communities, visit the website www.krogeralbertsons.com.

About Kroger:
The Kroger Co. is dedicated to its Purpose: To Feed the Human Spirit™. With nearly half a million associates, the company serves over 11 million customers through a seamless digital shopping experience and retail food stores under various banner names. Its goal is to inspire and uplift with food, while also creating communities that are free from hunger and food waste.

The story is based on a press release that includes forward-looking statements. It is recommended that readers refer to the filings made by Kroger and Albertsons with the Securities and Exchange Commission to get a better understanding of the risks and uncertainties that may affect the proposed transaction and updated divestiture plan.

https://ir.kroger.com/news/news-details/2024/Kroger-Albertsons-Companies-and-CS-Wholesale-Grocers-LLC-Announce-an-Updated-and-Expanded-Divestiture-Plan/default.aspx

Source: The Kroger Co.

https://stmdailynews.com/category/lifestyle/business

Metrolink’s SCORE program is a groundbreaking initiative designed to revolutionize Southern California’s rail system in preparation for the highly anticipated 2028 Olympic and Paralympic Games. With a staggering budget of $10 billion, this ambitious program encompasses a wide range of upgrades, including enhancements to grade crossings, stations, signals, tracks, and other essential components.

Accelerating Towards a Zero-Emissions Future:
One of the paramount goals of the SCORE program is to expedite progress towards Metrolink’s vision of a zero-emissions future. As the population of Southern California continues to soar, it is crucial to bolster transportation infrastructure to meet the rising demand while concurrently reducing greenhouse gas emissions. As a consequence of these improvements, certain cities will become eligible to apply for quiet zones, further enhancing residents’ quality of life.

Construction Projects and Safety Enhancement:
Scheduled to commence in 2023, the construction projects under the SCORE program aim to complete all improvements prior to the commencement of the 2028 Olympic Games. Safety enhancements are at the forefront of this endeavor, ensuring that commuters and travelers can rely on a safer and more efficient rail system. Additionally, both peak and off-peak rail services will be expanded, granting improved access to job centers and affordable housing, subsequently fostering economic development and providing enhanced opportunities for individuals across the region.

Connectivity and Economic Growth:
An exceptional advantage offered by the SCORE program is the elevated connectivity it will afford other rail providers. Seamlessly integrating with different modes of transportation will enhance the overall travel experience, allowing commuters to effortlessly reach their intended destinations. This heightened connectivity will not only facilitate economic growth but also generate employment prospects and attract further investment to the area, promoting regional prosperity.

Promoting a Healthier Environment:
The SCORE program not only concentrates on transportation improvements but also actively contributes to creating a healthier environment. By transitioning towards zero-emission technology, emissions will be significantly reduced, leading to cleaner air for all Southern California residents. This eco-conscious approach will have long-term benefits for the region’s overall well-being and quality of life.

Assessing the Impact:
The Los Angeles Economic Development Corporation (LAEDC) conducted a thorough study to evaluate the impact of the SCORE program. The findings indicate that the construction investments associated with the program will enhance the region’s appeal to millions of visitors expected for the 2028 Olympics while creating sustained prosperity for years beyond the Games.

Specific Projects and Their Objectives:
The SCORE program encompasses several significant projects tailored to address specific needs and improve the efficiency and safety of Metrolink’s rail system. Noteworthy projects include the Simi Valley Double Track, Burbank Junction Speed Improvements, Chatsworth Station Improvements, Marengo Siding Extension Project, El Monte Siding Extension Project, Rancho Cucamonga Siding Extension Project, and Serra Siding Extension Project.

The SCORE program represents an indispensable stride towards revamping Southern California’s rail infrastructure to cater to the region’s burgeoning population and ambitious sustainability goals. Through safety enhancements, increased services, improved connectivity, and the generation of economic opportunities, the program will not only benefit commuters but also contribute to a brighter and healthier future for all residents. As the countdown to 2028 commences, the SCORE program sets the stage for an exceptional rail system that will endure as a legacy long after the Games conclude.

https://metrolinktrains.com/score

https://stmdailynews.com/category/the-bridge/urbanism

About Metrolink

Metrolink (reporting mark SCAX) is a commuter rail system in Southern California, serving Los Angeles, Orange, Riverside, San Bernardino, and Ventura counties, as well as to Oceanside in San Diego County.^[8][9] The system consists of eight lines and 69 stations operating on 545.6 miles (878.1 km) of track.^[7] Arrow is operated under a contract with the San Bernardino County Transportation Authority (SBCTA).^[6]

In 2023, the system had a ridership of 4,861,000, or about 17,100 per weekday as of the fourth quarter of 2023.

Metrolink connects with Los Angeles County’s Metro Rail and Metro Busway systems, San Diego County’s Coaster commuter rail and Sprinter hybrid rail services, and with Amtrak‘s Pacific Surfliner, Coast Starlight, Southwest Chief, Sunset Limited, and Texas Eagle inter-city rail services.^[10] Metrolink owns several hundred miles of track; however, it also shares track with freight railroads.

The system, founded in 1991 as the Southern California Regional Rail Authority (SCRRA) and adopting “Metrolink” as its moniker,^[11] started operation in 1992. Average weekday ridership was 42,928 as of 2017.^[12] It is operated by Amtrak under contract with the SCRRA. (Wikipedia)

Star Wars Day, celebrated annually on May 4th, has become a cherished occasion for millions of Star Wars fans across the globe. On this special day, fans gather to honor and revel in the beloved Star Wars media franchise, created by the visionary filmmaker George Lucas.

The origins of this holiday are rooted in a delightful pun on the iconic Star Wars phrase, “May the Force be with you.” The amusing play on words goes, “May the Fourth be with you.” Ever since this catchy tagline emerged, it has captured the hearts of fans and has become synonymous with Star Wars Day. While the holiday was not officially endorsed by Lucasfilm, its popularity soared among fans who embraced the opportunity to commemorate it.

The earliest recorded use of the phrase dates back to 1979, the day following Margaret Thatcher’s ascent to become the Prime Minister of the United Kingdom. In a gesture of congratulations, Thatcher’s political party, the Conservatives, published an advertisement in the Evening News featuring the message, “May the Fourth Be with You, Maggie.”

Over the years, this pun has made appearances in various forms, from a UK Parliament defence debate in 1994 to astrophysicist Jeanne Cavelos’ book “The Science of Star Wars” in 1999. The phrase continued to gain traction and prominence.

In 2008, the first Facebook groups dedicated to celebrating Star Wars Day emerged. Then, in 2011, the inaugural organized celebration took place in the vibrant city of Toronto, Canada. This event featured trivia games, costume contests, and screenings of tribute films, setting the stage for future festivities.

In 2013, The Walt Disney Company, following its acquisition of Lucasfilm in 2012, officially acknowledged Star Wars Day and commenced hosting events and galas at Disneyland and Walt Disney World. This extraordinary collaboration prompted a wave of fresh and exciting Star Wars content and experiences that enthralled fans on every Star Wars Day.

While May 4th holds a special place in the hearts of Star Wars enthusiasts, other dates have also found themselves intertwined with the saga’s celebrations. May 5th has become affectionately known as “Revenge of the Fifth,” focusing on the notorious Sith and other villains within the franchise. Additionally, May 25th, the anniversary of the release of the original Star Wars movie in 1977, has been officially declared Star Wars Day by the Los Angeles City Council.

The widespread adoration for Star Wars Day has transcended beyond the realms of movies and fandom. Major League Baseball, association football, and college sports teams all pay homage to Star Wars, and Minor League Baseball teams often put together captivating promotions centered around the galactic adventure.

Even astronauts aboard the International Space Station celebrated Star Wars Day in 2015 by enjoying screenings of the films. In a delightful gesture, the carillon bells inside the Peace Tower on Parliament Hill in Ottawa, Canada chimed to the tune of “The Imperial March” theme from Star Wars, further immortalizing the magic of the franchise.

In 2023, on Star Wars Day, the late Carrie Fisher, who stole hearts with her portrayal of the iconic Princess Leia, will receive a star on the Hollywood Walk of Fame. This momentous occasion serves as a testament to the enduring significance and profound impact Star Wars has had on popular culture.

Star Wars Day continues to unite fans worldwide, cultivating a sense of community and channeling their boundless love for the epic saga. This annual celebration allows enthusiasts to pay tribute to the beloved franchise and perpetuate its timeless legacy. May the Fourth be with you!

https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Star_Wars_Day

https://stmdailynews.com/category/entertainment