Publix to Acquire 49 Albertsons stores

Lakeland, Fla. Publix Super Markets said Monday it has agreed to buy 49 Albertsons stores in Florida from Albertsons LLC. Terms of the transaction, which is expected to close in September, were not disclosed.

The purchase includes 15 stores in northern Florida, 30 locations in central Florida and four locations in southern Florida. Grand opening dates for all locations will depend on the scope of the remodels, Publix said.

"The demand for the high-quality service our associate owners provide gives us the opportunity to reinvest in these communities by acquiring additional sites for Publix stores," said Ed Crenshaw, CEO, Publix, in a prepared statement.

Albertsons LLC said it would continue to operate a limited number of Florida stores, its distribution center in Plant City and division office in Lake Mary.