Albertsons Companies has announced a new regional operating structure and the next phase of its Merch United merchandising strategy as the grocery retailer seeks to simplify operations, accelerate decision-making and respond more effectively to local customer needs.
The company will consolidate its existing 11 divisions into four regions under an operating approach it calls the “ACI Edge.” Albertsons said the model is designed to combine the scale and resources of a national retailer with the accountability and local focus of its individual banners.
“We call it the ACI Edge. It combines the scale and capabilities of a national retailer with the accountability and local focus that have long distinguished our banners,” CEO Susan Morris said.
“By consolidating 11 divisions into four regions and centralizing center store merchandising, we can make faster decisions, improve in-stocks and move accountability closer to our stores, where fresh, service and local execution matter most to customers,” Morris added.
Under the new structure, the California Region will comprise the Southern California and Northern California markets. The West Region will include Mountain West, Portland and Seattle, while the South Region will cover the Southwest, Southern and United markets. The East Region will include Jewel-Osco, Mid-Atlantic and Shaw’s.
Each region will contain local markets responsible for strengthening customer relationships, supporting stores and improving performance within their communities.
Albertsons is also expanding its Merch United model by centralizing center store merchandising. Customer insights, supplier relationships, strategy, product selection, placement, promotions and pricing will be managed by a single enterprise team.
The company said the model will combine its national buying power, data and analytics capabilities with the customer knowledge and local expertise of its market teams. Fresh merchandising decisions will remain at the market level and will continue to reflect local preferences and market conditions.
