Albertsons Companies, Inc. - ACI STOCK NEWS

Albertsons Companies (ACI) reported strong Q3 2020 results, showcasing a 12.3% increase in identical sales and a remarkable 225% growth in digital sales, achieving $15.4 billion in total sales. Net income rose to $124 million with adjusted net income of $387 million ($0.66 per share). Adjusted EBITDA surged 53% to $968 million. The company expects 16.5% identical sales growth for fiscal 2020, raising adjusted EPS guidance to $3.05-$3.15. Significant debt refinancing is anticipated to save $25 million annually in interest.

Albertsons Companies (NYSE: ACI) has declared a cash dividend of $0.10 per share for Q4 2020, consistent with its established dividend policy. The dividend is payable on February 10, 2021 to shareholders on record as of January 26, 2021. The company emphasizes its strong free cash flow and capital allocation strategy aimed at driving growth and shareholder value through such dividends.

GENYOUth has launched ticket sales for the Taste of the NFL @Home event, aimed at combating childhood hunger amid the COVID-19 crisis. Scheduled for February 7, 2021, this first-ever livestream will feature renowned chefs like Carla Hall, Andrew Zimmern, and Tim Love, along with special game-day recipes. The initiative addresses the alarming rise in food insecurity, with 1 in 4 children in the U.S. affected. Tickets are priced at $100, including a live cooking experience and a limited-edition snack box. The event aims to raise funds and awareness for food scarcity.

Albertsons Companies (NYSE: ACI) has launched an automated, contactless grocery PickUp kiosk at a Jewel-Osco store in Chicago, marking it as the first American grocer to do so. Developed by Cleveron, the temperature-controlled kiosk enhances eCommerce by allowing customers to pick up groceries with a quick scan of their phone. It features two temperature zones for diverse grocery needs. The kiosk is operational and a second unit is planned for a Bay Area Safeway. This initiative showcases Albertsons' commitment to improving customer convenience and expanding its digital services.

Albertsons Companies, Inc. (NYSE: ACI) will announce its third quarter fiscal 2020 financial results on January 12, 2021, prior to the market opening. The announcement will cover the period ending December 5, 2020. A conference call will follow at 8:30 a.m. Eastern Time, featuring a discussion of the financial results and a Q&A session. Investors can access the call through the company's investor relations webpage. A recording will be available for at least two weeks after the call.

Albertsons Companies (NYSE: ACI) has initiated the administration of COVID-19 vaccinations in response to rising consumer demand. The company has hired over 800 pharmacy staff nationwide to manage this demand and has launched a new website to provide information on vaccine safety and availability. With a focus on community health, Albertsons has partnered with local authorities to target priority groups for vaccination. Safety measures include thorough screening, use of PPE, and maintaining social distancing during the vaccination process.

Albertsons Companies Foundation is distributing nearly $14 million in grants from its Nourishing Neighbors community relief fund to aid local hunger-fighting organizations across the United States. This includes nearly $4 million allocated to 13 large innovation grants for new and impactful hunger relief initiatives. The foundation's commitment stems from a $53 million pledge made earlier this year to combat food insecurity exacerbated by the pandemic. In addition, over 140 organizations will receive grants of up to $100,000 to enhance hunger-relief efforts in marginalized communities.

Albertsons Companies (ACI) has announced the pricing of an upsized private offering of $600 million in additional Senior Notes due 2029, issued at 99% of principal amount. The offering, co-issued with Safeway Inc. and New Albertsons L.P., is expected to close on or about December 22, 2020. The funds will be used to partially redeem $800 million of its outstanding 5.750% senior notes due 2025 and cover related expenses. Completion of the redemption is anticipated on or about January 4, 2021.

Albertsons Companies (NYSE: ACI) announced plans to offer $500 million in additional 3.500% Senior Notes due 2029. The proceeds will fund a partial redemption of $700 million of its 5.750% Senior Notes due 2025 and cover associated fees. The offering is conditional upon the successful completion of this sale. Albertsons operates over 2,200 retail stores and is committed to community initiatives, including significant donations for food relief and social justice. The press release includes forward-looking statements regarding potential future outcomes.