Albertson’s Sale of Stores Means Layoffs at Brea Site

Albertson’s Inc. said Tuesday that it will lay off an undisclosed number of workers at its Brea distribution center after its sale of stores to win regulatory approval for its $9.8-billion acquisition of American Stores Co.

Michael Read, spokesman for the Idaho-based Albertson’s, declined to say how many workers might lose jobs at the center, which has about 760 employees, mostly warehouse workers and drivers. He said Albertson’s is working with Teamsters Local 952 of Orange and the Employment Development Department to help “soften the blow” for workers.

Read said some employees may be rehired by grocery companies that are buying the stores Albertson’s is selling.

Union official Ed J. Mireles said no layoffs are expected until late August.

Albertson’s, which also owns Max Grocery stores, said last week that it would divest 117 stores in California to win antitrust approval of its planned acquisition of American Stores, which owns Lucky stores.

In Orange County, 20 Albertson’s, Lucky or Max Grocery Stores will change hands. Colton-based Stater Bros. Inc. will pick up 14 supermarkets, Commerce-based Certified Grocers of California will buy four stores, while Ralphs Grocery Co. and Vons Cos. will each get one.

Employees at the 20 Albertson’s grocery stores that are changing hands in Orange County are expected to keep their jobs, Read said.