In The Mix

ISSAQUAH, WASH. Costco. After cfo Richard Galanti noted in a conference call that Australia could be one of three countries Costco might enter over the next three years, the country’s media took note, particularly after whisperings that Wal-Mart might be interested in a major purchase down under, with Woolworths and Coles Myer named as targets. —Australia’s abuzz with rumors of

, PLEASANTON, CALIF. Safeway has appointed Steve Neibergall president of its eastern division. Neibergall has worked at Safeway since 1989 and most recently was senior vp of produce and floral. He replaces Hank Cominiello, who recently was promoted to group vp for retail initiatives.

, BELLEVUE, WASH. Cost-U-Less May same-store sales rose 3.7% on total sales growth of 4.6% to $17.2 million. In the eight weeks ended May 27, comps gained 3.7% on a total sales gain of 3.6%.

, CINCINNATI Kroger announced it had reached a new contract with the UFCW in Detroit. Details of the tentative deal were withheld pending ratification. The agreement affects 9,900 associates at 101 stores in the Detroit metro area.