Albertsons Companies, Inc. - ACI STOCK NEWS

Kimco Realty, North America's largest publicly traded owner of open-air, grocery-anchored shopping centers, reported Q1 2023 results, showing a significant increase in net income and strong leasing performance. For the first quarter, net income available to common shareholders was $283.5 million, or $0.46 per diluted share, up from $230.9 million or $0.37 per diluted share a year earlier. Funds From Operations (FFO) were $238.1 million, yielding $0.39 per diluted share. The company leased 4.5 million square feet, an increase in occupancy to 95.8%, and achieved a remarkable 44.0% increase in cash rent spreads for new leases. Kimco received a $194.1 million special dividend from Albertsons and sold shares for $282.3 million total proceeds. The board declared a cash dividend of $0.23 per share, marking a 15% increase over the previous year. The full-year outlook for net income is revised to $0.92-$0.96 per diluted share.

Albertsons Companies (NYSE: ACI) has launched a first-of-its-kind program that allows customers to share activity data from their Apple Watch and iPhone through the Sincerely Health digital health platform. This initiative rewards users for staying active, earning up to 75 points daily for closing all Activity rings on their Apple Watch and up to 25 points from their iPhone's Fitness app. The program aims to promote well-being and provides incentives for achieving fitness goals.

In addition to activity tracking, the Sincerely Health platform helps users improve their health score through personalized goals related to physical activity, nutrition, and sleep. The service is free and accessible via Albertsons’ grocery banners.

Albertsons Companies (NYSE: ACI) reported strong financial results for the fourth quarter and full year of fiscal 2022. For the fourth quarter, identical sales rose by 5.6%, with net income reaching $311 million or $0.54 per share. The full year saw identical sales increase by 6.9% and net income of $1,514 million or $2.27 per share. Digital sales surged 16% in Q4 and 28% for the year. Despite these highlights, the company faces challenges, including inflation and decreased COVID-19 related revenue. Capital expenditures totaled $2.153 billion in fiscal 2022, focusing on digital enhancements and store remodels. Additionally, a merger agreement with Kroger is underway, indicating significant strategic changes ahead.

Albertsons Companies (NYSE: ACI) has declared a cash dividend of $0.12 per share for the first quarter of fiscal 2023. The dividend will be payable on May 10, 2023 to stockholders who are on record as of April 26, 2023. With operations in 34 states and the District of Columbia, Albertsons runs 2,271 retail stores, including 1,722 pharmacies and 401 fuel centers. The company remains committed to enhancing community welfare, as evidenced by over $200 million contributed in food and financial support in 2022, including $40 million through its Nourishing Neighbors Program.

However, investors should be aware of the uncertainties affecting the company's outlook, primarily related to the ongoing impacts of the COVID-19 pandemic.

Albertsons Companies (NYSE: ACI) will announce its financial results for Q4 and fiscal year 2022 on April 11, 2023. This period ended February 25, 2023.

Due to its merger agreement with Kroger Co., Albertsons will not hold a conference call or provide financial guidance for this quarter's results.

As of December 3, 2022, the company operates 2,270 stores across 34 states and the District of Columbia, offering a wide range of products through 24 different banners.

Albertsons Companies (NYSE: ACI) has announced the redesign of its Open Nature brand, aimed at health-conscious consumers. The brand is introducing 12 new dairy-free plant-based products, which include yogurt alternatives and non-dairy cheeses, to promote a balanced diet. Additionally, Open Nature now offers grass-fed Angus beef, positioning itself as a significant player in the private label grass-fed market. With over 500 products, Open Nature focuses on high-quality ingredients without unnecessary additives, reflecting the growing trend towards healthier eating patterns.

The Teamsters Warehouse Division has held meetings regarding Kroger's proposed acquisition of Albertsons, announced in October 2022. Over 20,000 Teamsters at Kroger and Albertsons are affected by this merger. The union has expressed concerns about job security, automation, and potential divestitures needed for regulatory approval, emphasizing that collaboration with organized labor is crucial for success. Director Tom Erickson highlighted the union's commitment to ensuring that both current and future members benefit from the merger outcomes.

Albertsons Companies (NYSE: ACI) has launched a new omnichannel marketing campaign called Sincerely, Food. This initiative aims to enhance customer engagement by emphasizing the company's commitment to quality food and well-being. The campaign, inspired by the customer experience, encourages a deeper emotional connection with local banners and highlights the grocer’s strengths in fresh produce and meats. Alongside this, Albertsons introduced the Sincerely Health platform, aimed at educating and rewarding customers on health and wellness journeys. The company operates 2,270 stores across 34 states, focusing on enhancing community well-being.