Fresh & Easy responds to critical report

EL SEGUNDO, Calif. Tesco's Fresh & Easy Neighborhood Market Thursday responded to a recent report by the Urban and Environmental Policy Institute of Occidental College, which claims that Tesco's entry into the United States will be agressive and its growth will be at the expense of its smaller competitors, the environment and its employees.

"We've not had the opportunity to review the UEPI report in any detail; however, we welcome the opportunity to prove to our customers and constituents in the US that we stand by our promise to deliver fresh, quality, affordable foods in all communities, to be a good steward of the environment and to be a great place to work. Our employees -- all of whom we intend will work more than 20 hours per week -- will be compensated well above the minimum wage and receive a competitive rewards package that includes health care, a quarterly bonus and other benefits. And, we will seek every opportunity to site stores in many types of neighborhoods, including those underserved by traditional supermarkets," said Tim Mason, ceo of  Fresh & Easy Neighborhood Market.