In early 2015, rumors began swirling that Safeway might be up for sale. Speculation was further fueled when Safeway’s CEO, Robert Edwards, announced his retirement shortly thereafter. In March of that year, it was officially announced that Safeway would be acquired by Albertsons in a $9 billion deal.
The merger made sense for a number of reasons. For one, it created a more efficient distribution network, as the two companies had complementary store footprints. Additionally, it gave Albertsons a much needed boost in its online and delivery capabilities, something that Safeway was ahead of the curve on.
So did Albertsons buy Safeway? Yes, in 2015 Albertsons acquired Safeway in a $9 billion deal. The merger made sense for a number of reasons, including creating a more efficient distribution network and giving Albertsons a boost in its online and delivery capabilities.
