Safeway's Blackhawk inks deal with Kroger

CINCINNATI Safeway-owned Blackhawk Network has signed an exclusive agreement with Kroger for its Gift Card Mall program.

"We are delighted to bring Blackhawk Network's Gift Card Mall, which carries over 100 best in class retail branded gift cards, to Kroger's nearly 2,500 stores across the country," said Don Kingsborough, president and chief executive officer of Blackhawk Network. "With the addition of Kroger to our list of distinguished retail partners, Blackhawk Network's Gift Card Malls will now be conveniently located in grocery stores that represent 90% of the top supermarket sales volume in the United States."

Kroger plans to support the launch with aggressive and innovative marketing campaigns that include television, radio and in-store promotions.

Kroger will display Blackhawk Network's gift cards on gondola ends and at check stands.

The retailer’s 780 convenience stores will also feature Blackhawk Network's gift cards in late 2008.