What would Kroger-Albertsons merger mean for Mariano’s? – NBC Chicago

Kroger and Albertsons, parent companies of Mariano’s and Jewel-Osco, announced Friday its plans to sell more than 400 stores in order to clear a path for a merger between two of the nation’s largest grocery chains.

Kroger and Albertsons agreed to merge in October. Kroger, based in Cincinnati, Ohio, bid $20 billion for Albertsons. Kroger would also assume $4.7 billion of Albertsons’ debt. The deal is targeted to close early next year.

The 413 stores, along with QFC, Mariano’s and Carrs brand names, are being sold to to C&S Wholesale Grocers. Kroger will also divest the Debi Lilly Design, Primo Taglio, Open Nature, ReadyMeals and Waterfront Bistro private label brands. In addition, C&S will get eight distribution centers and two offices.

All fuel centers and pharmacies associated with the divested stores will remain with the stores and continue to operate.

What does that mean for Illinois and Chicago-area grocery shoppers? While not all is currently known…