Albertsons Is Merging With Rite Aid, Creating New Supermarket & Health Brand

Photo: Caldorwards4 | Wikimedia Commons

Out of all the popular grocery chains, Albertsons was always my favorite. I remember walking home from school and picking up some fried chicken from the deli, a jalapeño cheddar bun, and a Monster energy drink to fuel the rest of my evening.

As I grew older, I saw less Albertsons stand the test of time. The two locations closest to me shut down, forcing me to find other locations slightly further. Now, though, it looks like there’s hope left for our beloved supermarket chain.

In a bold move to expand their reach, Albertsons announced that they will be merging with pharmacy retailer Rite Aid.

Supermarket News reported that under this merger, a majority of Albertsons private label products will now be sold at Rite Aid stores. Albertsons’ existing in-store pharmacies will also rebrand into Rite Aid. Both stores will then unite under a new, yet to be announced, name and branding.

Because some Rite Aids and Albertsons stores are pretty close to one another in proximity in certain regions, it’s still unknown whether there will be closures once the merger happens.

Patrons can expect the deal to be finalized in the latter half of 2018.