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UNITED STATES
SECURITIES AND EXCHANGE COMMISSION
Washington, D.C. 20549
FORM 10-K
  
x ANNUAL REPORT PURSUANT TO SECTION 13 OR 15(d) OF THE SECURITIES EXCHANGE ACT OF 1934
For the fiscal year ended February 23, 2019
OR
☐ TRANSITION REPORT PURSUANT TO SECTION 13 OR 15(d) OF THE SECURITIES EXCHANGE ACT OF 1934
For the transition period from _____ to _____
Commission File Number: 333-205546
ABSCOMPANIESLOGOA07.JPG
Albertsons Companies, Inc.
(Exact name of registrant as specified in its charter)
Delaware
 
47-4376911
(State or other jurisdiction of
incorporation or organization)
 
(I.R.S. Employer
Identification No.)
 
 
250 Parkcenter Blvd.
 
 
Boise, Idaho
 
83706
(Address of principal
executive offices)
 
(Zip Code)
 
Registrant's telephone number, including area code (208) 395-6200
Not applicable
(Former name, former address and former fiscal year, if changed since last report)
 
Securities registered under Section 12(b) of the Exchange Act: None
 
Securities registered under Section 12(g) of the Exchange Act: None
 
Indicate by check mark if the registrant is a well-known seasoned issuer, as defined in Rule 405 of the Securities Act. Yes ☐ No ☒
 
Indicate by check mark if the registrant is not required to file reports pursuant to Section 13 or Section 15(d) of the Act. Yes ☒ No ☐
Indicate by check mark whether the registrant (1) has filed all reports required to be filed by Section 13 or 15(d) of the Securities Exchange Act of 1934 during the preceding 12 months (or for such shorter period that the registrant was required to file such reports), and (2) has been subject to such filing requirements for the past 90 days. Yes ☐ No ☒ (Note: The registrant is a voluntary filer and not subject to the filing requirements of Section 13 or 15(d) of the Securities Exchange Act of 1934. Although not subject to these filing requirements, the registrant has filed all reports that would have been required to be filed by Section 13 or 15(d) of the Securities Exchange Act of 1934 during the preceding 12 months had the registrant been subject to such requirements.)
Indicate by check mark whether the registrant has submitted electronically every Interactive Data File required to be submitted pursuant to Rule 405 of Regulation S-T during the preceding 12 months (or for such shorter period that the registrant was required to submit such files). Yes ☒ No ☐




Indicate by check mark if disclosure of delinquent filers pursuant to Item 405 of Regulation S-K is not contained herein, and will not be contained, to the best of registrant's knowledge, in definitive proxy or information statements incorporated by reference in Part III of this Form 10-K or any amendment to this Form 10-K ☒

Indicate by check mark whether the registrant is a large accelerated filer, an accelerated filer, a non-accelerated filer, a smaller reporting company, or an emerging growth company. See the definitions of "large accelerated filer," "accelerated filer," "smaller reporting company," and "emerging growth company" in Rule 12b-2 of the Exchange Act.
Large accelerated filer
 
o
Accelerated filer
 
o
 
 
 
 
Non-accelerated filer
 
x  
Smaller reporting company
 
o
 
 
 
 
 
 
Emerging growth company
 
o
 
 
 
If an emerging growth company, indicate by check mark if the registrant has elected not to use the extended transition period for complying with any new or revised financial accounting standards provided pursuant to Section 13(a) of the Exchange Act. o
Indicate by check mark whether the registrant is a shell company (as defined in Rule 12b-2 of the Exchange Act).  Yes ¨ No x
As of April 24, 2019, the registrant had 277,882,010 shares of common stock, par value $0.01 per share, outstanding.

DOCUMENTS INCORPORATED BY REFERENCE
None
 
 
 







Albertsons Companies, Inc. and Subsidiaries



 
 
 
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Table of Contents


PART I

SPECIAL NOTE REGARDING FORWARD-LOOKING STATEMENTS
This Annual Report on Form 10-K contains forward-looking statements. All statements other than statements of historical facts contained in this Annual Report on Form 10-K, including statements regarding our future operating results and financial position, business strategy and plans and objectives of management for future operations, are forward-looking statements. In many cases, you can identify forward-looking statements by terms such as "may," "should," "expects," "plans," "anticipates," "could," "intends," "target," "projects," "contemplates," "believes," "estimates," "predicts," "potential," or "continue" or the negative of these terms or other similar expressions.

Forward-looking statements are based on our current expectations and assumptions and involve risks and uncertainties that could cause actual results or events to be materially different from those anticipated. The Company undertakes no obligation to update or revise any such statements as a result of new information, future events or otherwise. We may not actually achieve the plans, intentions or expectations disclosed in our forward-looking statements, and you should not place undue reliance on our forward-looking statements. Our forward-looking statements do not reflect the potential impact of any future acquisitions, mergers, dispositions, joint ventures or investments we may make. As used in this Form 10-K, unless the context otherwise requires, references to "Albertsons," "the Company," "ACI," "we," "us" and "our" refer to Albertsons Companies, Inc. and, where appropriate, its subsidiaries.

NON-GAAP FINANCIAL MEASURES
We define EBITDA as generally accepted accounting principles ("GAAP") earnings (net loss) before interest, income taxes, depreciation and amortization. We define Adjusted EBITDA as earnings (net loss) before interest, income taxes, depreciation and amortization, further adjusted to eliminate the effects of items management does not consider in assessing our ongoing performance. We define Free Cash Flow as Adjusted EBITDA less capital expenditures. See "Results of Operations" for further discussion and a reconciliation of Adjusted EBITDA and Free Cash Flow.

EBITDA, Adjusted EBITDA and Free Cash Flow (collectively, the "Non-GAAP Measures") are performance measures that provide supplemental information we believe is useful to analysts and investors to evaluate our ongoing results of operations, when considered alongside other GAAP measures such as net income, operating income and gross profit. These Non-GAAP Measures exclude the financial impact of items management does not consider in assessing our ongoing operating performance, and thereby facilitate review of our operating performance on a period-to-period basis. Other companies may have different capital structures or different lease terms, and comparability to our results of operations may be impacted by the effects of acquisition accounting on our depreciation and amortization. As a result of the effects of these factors and factors specific to other companies, we believe EBITDA, Adjusted EBITDA and Free Cash Flow provide helpful information to analysts and investors to facilitate a comparison of our operating performance to that of other companies. We also use Adjusted EBITDA, as further adjusted for additional items defined in our debt instruments, for board of director and bank compliance reporting. Our presentation of Non-GAAP Measures should not be construed as an inference that our future results will be unaffected by unusual or non-recurring items.

Non-GAAP Measures should not be considered as measures of discretionary cash available to us to invest in the growth of our business. We compensate for these limitations by relying primarily on our GAAP results and using Non-GAAP Measures only for supplemental purposes.


4

Table of Contents


Item 1 - Business

Overview

Albertsons is one of the largest food and drug retailers in the United States, with both strong local presence and national scale. We also manufacture and process some of the food for sale in our stores. We maintain a website (www.AlbertsonsCompanies.com) that includes additional information about the Company. We make available through our website, free of charge, our annual reports on Form 10-K, our quarterly reports on Form 10-Q, our current reports on Form 8-K and our interactive data files, including amendments. These forms are available as soon as reasonably practicable after we have filed them with, or furnished them electronically to, the SEC.

Stores

As of February 23, 2019, we operated 2,269 stores across 34 states and the District of Columbia under 20 well-known banners, including Albertsons, Safeway, Vons, Jewel-Osco, Shaw's, Acme, Tom Thumb, Randalls, United Supermarkets, Market Street, Pavilions, Star Market, Carrs and Haggen as well as meal kit company Plated. We provide our customers with convenient and value-added services, including through our 1,739 pharmacies, 1,282 in-store branded coffee shops and 397 adjacent fuel centers. Our Plated meal kit offering is supported by six fulfillment centers. Complementary to our large network of stores, we aim to provide our customers a seamless omni-channel shopping experience by offering a growing set of digital offerings, including home deliveries, "Drive up and Go" curbside pickup, meal kits and online prescription refills.

Segments

We are engaged in the operation of food and drug retail stores that offer grocery products, general merchandise, health and beauty care products, pharmacy, fuel and other items and services. Our retail operating divisions are geographically based, have similar economic characteristics and similar expected long-term financial performance and are reported in one reportable segment. Our operating segments and reporting units are made up of 13 divisions, which have been aggregated into one reportable segment. Each reporting unit constitutes a business for which discrete financial information is available and for which management regularly reviews the operating results. Across all operating segments, the Company operates primarily one store format. Each store offers the same general mix of products with similar pricing to similar categories of customers, have similar distribution methods, operate in similar regulatory environments and purchase merchandise from similar or the same vendors.

Merchandising and Manufacturing

We offer more than 11,000 high-quality products under our Own Brands portfolio. Our Own Brands products resonate well with our shoppers as evidenced by Own Brands sales of over $12.5 billion in fiscal 2018. Year over year, we have demonstrated significant progress and increased sales penetration of Own Brands by 50 basis points to 25.1%, excluding pharmacy, fuel and in-store branded coffee sales.

Own Brands continues to deliver on innovation with more than 1,100 new items launched in fiscal 2018 and more than 1,000 in the pipeline for fiscal 2019. We are excited about our O Organics and Open Nature brands, which posted a combined 13.6% growth in sales year-over-year, with over 1,900 items, and we plan to introduce approximately 350 new items in fiscal 2019. In addition to new item innovation and brand development, Own Brands continues to focus on package redesign to refresh shelf presence and comply with new regulatory nutrition guideline changes. 

As measured by units for fiscal 2018, 10.2% of our Own Brands merchandise was manufactured in Company-owned facilities, and the remainder of our Own Brands merchandise was purchased from third parties. We closely monitor make-versus-buy decisions on internally sourced products to optimize their quality and profitability. In addition, we believe that the Company's scale will provide opportunities to leverage our fixed manufacturing costs in

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order to drive innovation across our Own Brands portfolio. As of February 23, 2019, we operated 20 food production plants. These plants consisted of seven milk plants, four soft drink bottling plants, three bakery plants, two ice cream product plants, two grocery/prepared food plants, one ice plant and one soup plant.

Employees

As of February 23, 2019, we employed approximately 267,000 full- and part-time employees, of which approximately 170,000 were covered by collective bargaining agreements. During fiscal 2018, collective bargaining agreements covering approximately 8,500 employees were renegotiated. Collective bargaining agreements covering approximately 106,000 employees have expired or are scheduled to expire in fiscal 2019. We believe that our relations with our employees are good.

Executive Officers of the Registrant

The disclosure regarding our executive officers is set forth in Item 10 of Part III of this Form 10-K under the heading "Directors, Executive Officers and Corporate Governance," in Item 10 and is incorporated herein by reference.

Seasonality

Our business is generally not seasonal in nature, but a larger share of annual revenues may be generated in our fourth quarter due to the major holidays in November and December.

Competitive Environment

Our competition includes, but is not limited to, traditional and specialty supermarkets, natural and organic food stores, general merchandise supercenters, membership clubs, online retailers, home delivery companies, meal kit services and pharmacies. Our competitive position depends on successfully competing on product quality and selection, store quality, shopping experience, customer service, convenience and price.

Item 1A - Risk Factors

There are risks and uncertainties that can affect our business. The significant risk factors are discussed below. The following information should be read together with "Management's Discussion and Analysis of Financial Condition and Results of Operations" in Item 7 of this Form 10-K, which includes forward-looking statements and factors that could cause us not to realize our goals or meet our expectations.

Risks Relating to Our Business and Industry

Various operating factors and general economic conditions affecting the food retail industry may affect our business and may adversely affect our business and operating results.

Our operations and financial performance are affected by economic conditions such as macroeconomic conditions, credit market conditions and the level of consumer confidence. While the combination of improved economic conditions, the trend towards lower unemployment, higher wages and lower gasoline prices have contributed to improved consumer confidence, there is continued uncertainty about the strength of the economic recovery. If the economy does not continue to improve or if it weakens, or if gasoline prices rebound, consumers may reduce spending, trade down to a less expensive mix of products or increasingly rely on food discounters, all of which could impact our sales. In addition, consumers' perception or uncertainty related to the economic recovery and future fuel prices could also dampen overall consumer confidence and reduce demand for our product offerings. Both inflation and deflation affect our business. Food deflation could reduce sales growth and earnings, while food inflation could reduce gross profit margins. Several food items and categories, such as meat and dairy, experienced price deflation in fiscal 2018

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and fiscal 2017, and price inflation could continue to remain at low levels in the future. We are unable to predict if the economy will continue to improve, the rate at which the economy may improve, the direction of gasoline prices or if deflationary trends will occur. If the economy does not continue to improve or if it weakens, fuel prices increase or deflationary trends occur, our business and operating results could be adversely affected.

Competition in our industry is intense, and our failure to compete successfully may adversely affect our profitability and operating results.

The food and drug retail industry is large and dynamic, characterized by intense competition among a collection of local, regional and national participants. We face strong competition from other brick and mortar food and/or drug retailers, supercenters, club stores, discount stores, online retailers, specialty and niche supermarkets, drug stores, general merchandisers, wholesale stores, convenience stores, natural food stores, farmers' markets, local chains and stand-alone stores that cater to the individual cultural preferences of specific neighborhoods, restaurants and home delivery and meal solution companies. Shifts in the competitive landscape, consumer preference or market share may have an adverse effect on our profitability and results of operations.

As a result of consumers' growing desire to shop online, we also face increasing competition from both our existing competitors that have incorporated the internet as a direct-to-consumer channel and online providers that sell grocery products. In addition, we face increasing competition from online distributors of pharmaceutical products. Although we have a growing internet presence and offer our customers the ability to shop online for both home delivery and curbside pickup, there is no assurance that these online initiatives will be successful. In addition, these initiatives may have an adverse impact on our profitability as a result of lower gross profits or greater operating costs to compete.

Our ability to attract customers is dependent, in large part, upon a combination of channel preference, location, store conditions, quality, price, service, convenience and selection. In each of these areas, traditional and non-traditional competitors compete with us and may successfully attract our customers by matching or exceeding what we offer or by providing greater shopping convenience. In recent years, many of our competitors have aggressively added locations and adopted a multi-channel approach to marketing and advertising. Our responses to competitive pressures, such as additional promotions, increased advertising, additional capital investment and the development of our internet offerings, could adversely affect our profitability and cash flow. We cannot guarantee that our competitive response will succeed in increasing or maintaining our share of retail food sales.

An increasingly competitive industry and deflation in the prices of certain foods have made it difficult for food retailers to achieve positive identical sales growth on a consistent basis. We and our competitors have attempted to maintain or grow our and their respective share of retail food sales through capital and price investment, increased promotional activity and new store growth, creating a more difficult environment to consistently increase year-over-year sales. Several of our primary competitors are larger than we are or have greater financial resources available to them and, therefore, may be able to devote greater resources to invest in price, promotional activity and new or remodeled stores in order to grow their share of retail food sales. Price investment by our competitors has also, from time to time, adversely affected our operating margins. In recent years, we have invested in price in order to remain competitive and generate sales growth; however, there can be no assurance this strategy will be successful.

Because we face intense competition, we need to anticipate and respond to changing consumer preferences and demands more effectively than our competitors. We devote significant resources to differentiating our banners in the local markets where we operate and invest in loyalty programs to drive traffic. Our local merchandising teams spend considerable time working with store directors to make sure we are satisfying consumer preferences. In addition, we strive to achieve and maintain favorable recognition of our own brands and offerings, and market these offerings to consumers and maintain and enhance a perception of value for consumers. While we seek to continuously respond to changing consumer preferences, there are no assurances that our responses will be successful.


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Our continued success is dependent upon our ability to control operating expenses, including managing health care and pension costs stipulated by our collective bargaining agreements, to effectively compete in the food retail industry. Several of our primary competitors are larger than we are, or are not subject to collective bargaining agreements, allowing them to more effectively leverage their fixed costs or more easily reduce operating expenses. Finally, we need to source, market and merchandise efficiently. Changes in our product mix also may negatively affect our profitability. Failure to accomplish our objectives could impair our ability to compete successfully and adversely affect our profitability.

Profit margins in the food retail industry are low. In order to increase or maintain our profit margins, we develop operating strategies to increase revenues, increase gross margins and reduce costs, such as new marketing programs, new advertising campaigns, productivity improvements, shrink reduction initiatives, distribution center efficiencies, manufacturing efficiencies, energy efficiency programs and other similar strategies. Our failure to achieve forecasted revenue growth, gross margin improvement or cost reductions could have a material adverse effect on our profitability and operating results.

Increased commodity prices may adversely impact our profitability.

Many of our own and sourced products include ingredients such as wheat, corn, oils, milk, sugar, proteins, cocoa and other commodities. Commodity prices worldwide have been volatile. Any increase in commodity prices may cause an increase in our input costs or the prices our vendors seek from us. Although we typically are able to pass on modest commodity price increases or mitigate vendor efforts to increase our costs, we may be unable to continue to do so, either in whole or in part, if commodity prices increase materially. If we are forced to increase prices, our customers may reduce their purchases at our stores or trade down to less profitable products. Both may adversely impact our profitability as a result of reduced revenue or reduced margins.

Fuel prices and availability may adversely affect our results of operations.

We currently operate 397 fuel centers that are adjacent to many of our store locations. As a result, we sell a significant amount of gasoline. Increased regulation or significant increases in wholesale fuel costs could result in lower gross profit on fuel sales, and demand could be affected by retail price increases as well as by concerns about the effect of emissions on the environment. We are unable to predict future regulations, environmental effects, political unrest, acts of terrorism and other matters that may affect the cost and availability of fuel, and how our customers will react, which could adversely affect our results of operations.

Our stores rely heavily on sales of perishable products, and product supply disruptions may have an adverse effect on our profitability and operating results.

Reflecting consumer preferences, we have a significant focus on perishable products. Sales of perishable products accounted for approximately 41.2% of our total sales in fiscal 2018. We rely on various suppliers and vendors to provide and deliver our perishable product inventory on a continuous basis. We could suffer significant perishable product inventory losses and significant lost revenue in the event of the loss of a major supplier or vendor, disruption of our distribution network, extended power outages, natural disasters or other catastrophic occurrences.

Severe weather and natural disasters may adversely affect our business.

Severe weather conditions such as hurricanes, earthquakes, floods, extended winter storms, heat waves or tornadoes, as well as other natural disasters in areas in which we have stores or distribution centers or from which we source or obtain products have caused and may cause physical damage to our properties, closure of one or more of our stores, manufacturing facilities or distribution centers, lack of an adequate work force in a market, temporary disruption in the manufacture of products, temporary disruption in the supply of products, disruption in the transport of goods, delays in the delivery of goods to our distribution centers or stores, a reduction in customer traffic and a reduction in the

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availability of products in our stores. In addition, adverse climate conditions and adverse weather patterns, such as drought or flood, that impact growing conditions and the quantity and quality of crops yielded by food producers may adversely affect the availability or cost of certain products within the grocery supply chain. Any of these factors may disrupt our business and adversely affect our business.

Threats or potential threats to security of food and drug safety, the occurrence of a widespread health epidemic or regulatory concerns in our supply chain may adversely affect our business.

Acts or threats, whether perceived or real, of war or terror or other criminal activity directed at the food and drug industry or the transportation industry, whether or not directly involving our stores, could increase our operating costs and operations, or impact general consumer behavior and consumer spending. Other events that give rise to actual or potential food contamination, drug contamination or food-borne illnesses, or a widespread regional, national or global health epidemic, such as pandemic flu, could have an adverse effect on our operating results or disrupt production and delivery of our products, our ability to appropriately staff our stores and potentially cause customers to avoid public gathering places or otherwise change their shopping behaviors.

We source our products from vendors and suppliers and related networks across the globe who may be subject to regulatory actions or face criticism due to actual or perceived social injustices, including human trafficking, child labor or environmental, health and safety violations. A disruption in our supply chain due to any regulatory action or social injustice could have an adverse impact on our supply chain and ultimately our business, including potential harm to our reputation.

We could be affected if consumers lose confidence in the food supply chain or the quality and safety of our products.

We could be adversely affected if consumers lose confidence in the safety and quality of certain food products. Adverse publicity about these types of concerns, such as the fiscal 2018 concerns relating to romaine lettuce, whether valid or not, may discourage consumers from buying our products or cause production and delivery disruptions. The real or perceived sale of contaminated food products by us could result in product liability claims, a loss of consumer confidence and product recalls, which could have a material adverse effect on our business.

Consolidation in the healthcare industry could adversely affect our business and financial condition.

Many organizations in the healthcare industry have consolidated to create larger healthcare enterprises with greater market power, which has resulted in greater pricing pressures. If this consolidation trend continues, it could give the resulting enterprises even greater bargaining power, which may lead to further pressure on the prices for our pharmacy products and services. If these pressures result in reductions in our prices, we will become less profitable unless we are able to achieve corresponding reductions in costs or develop profitable new revenue streams. We expect that market demand, government regulation, third-party reimbursement policies, government contracting requirements and societal pressures will continue to cause the healthcare industry to evolve, potentially resulting in further business consolidations and alliances among the industry participants we engage with, which may adversely impact our business, financial condition and results of operations.

Certain risks are inherent in providing pharmacy services, and our insurance may not be adequate to cover any claims against us.

We currently operate 1,739 pharmacies and, as a result, we are exposed to risks inherent in the packaging, dispensing, distribution and disposal of pharmaceuticals and other healthcare products, such as risks of liability for products which cause harm to consumers, as well as increased regulatory risks and related costs. Although we maintain insurance, we cannot guarantee that the coverage limits under our insurance programs will be adequate to protect us against future claims, or that we will be able to maintain this insurance on acceptable terms in the future, or at all. Our results of operations, financial condition or cash flows may be materially adversely affected if in the future our insurance coverage

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proves to be inadequate or unavailable, or there is an increase in the liability for which we self-insure, or we suffer harm to our reputation as a result of an error or omission.

We are subject to numerous federal and state regulations. Each of our in-store pharmacies must be licensed by the state government. The licensing requirements vary from state to state. An additional registration certificate must be granted by the U.S. Drug Enforcement Administration, and, in some states, a separate controlled substance license must be obtained to dispense controlled substances. In addition, pharmacies selling controlled substances are required to maintain extensive records and often report information to state and federal agencies. If we fail to comply with existing or future laws and regulations, we could suffer substantial civil or criminal penalties, including the loss of our licenses to operate pharmacies and our ability to participate in federal and state healthcare programs. As a consequence of the severe penalties we could face, we must devote significant operational and managerial resources to complying with these laws and regulations.

Recently, pharmaceutical manufacturers, wholesale distributors and retailers have faced intense scrutiny and, in some cases, investigations and litigation relating to the distribution of prescription opioid pain medications. On May 22, 2018, we received a subpoena from the Office of the Attorney General for the State of Alaska (the "Alaska Attorney General") stating that the Alaska Attorney General has reason to believe that we have engaged in unfair or deceptive trade practices under Alaska's Unfair Trade Practices and Consumer Act and seeking documents regarding our policies, procedures, controls, training, dispensing practices and other matters in connection with the sale and marketing of opioid pain medications. We have been cooperating with the Alaska Attorney General in this investigation and do not currently have a basis to believe we have violated Alaska's Unfair Trade Practices and Consumer Act. However, the investigation remains in its early stages.

Albertson's LLC has been named in a complaint brought by The Blackfeet Tribe of the Blackfeet Indian Reservation.  The complaint was filed on August 29, 2018 in the United States District Court for the Northern District of Ohio as one of 62 cases consolidated under rules governing multidistrict litigation. We were served with the complaint on January 11, 2019. The complaint asserts unspecified allegations that we contributed to the national opioid situation.  As a drug retailer that only dispenses medication as prescribed by licensed physicians, we believe that the claims are factually inaccurate and without merit.

Application of federal and state laws and regulations could subject our current practices to allegations of impropriety or illegality, or could require us to make significant changes to our operations. In addition, we cannot predict the impact of future legislation and regulatory changes on our pharmacy business or assure that we will be able to obtain or maintain the regulatory approvals required to operate our business.

Integrating acquisitions may be time-consuming and create costs that could reduce our net income and cash flows.

Part of our strategy includes pursuing acquisitions that we believe will be accretive to our business. With respect to any possible future acquisitions, the process of integrating the acquired business may be complex and time consuming, may be disruptive to the business and may cause an interruption of, or a distraction of management's attention from, the business as a result of a number of obstacles, including, but not limited to:

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transaction litigation;
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a failure of our due diligence process to identify significant risks or issues;
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the loss of customers of the acquired company or our Company;
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negative impact on the brands or banners of the acquired company or our Company;
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a failure to maintain or improve the quality of customer service;
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difficulties assimilating the operations and personnel of the acquired company;
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our inability to retain key personnel of the acquired company;
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the incurrence of unexpected expenses and working capital requirements;

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our inability to achieve the financial and strategic goals, including synergies, for the combined businesses; and
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difficulty in maintaining internal controls, procedures and policies.

Any of the foregoing obstacles, or a combination of them, could decrease gross profit margins or increase selling, general and administrative expenses in absolute terms and/or as a percentage of net sales, which could in turn negatively impact our net income and cash flows.

We may not be able to consummate acquisitions in the future on terms acceptable to us, or at all. In addition, acquisitions are accompanied by the risk that the obligations and liabilities of an acquired company may not be adequately reflected in the historical financial statements of that company and the risk that those historical financial statements may be based on assumptions which are incorrect or inconsistent with our assumptions or approach to accounting policies. Any of these material obligations, liabilities or incorrect or inconsistent assumptions could adversely impact our results of operations and financial condition.

A significant majority of our employees are unionized, and our relationship with unions, including labor disputes or work stoppages, could have an adverse impact on our operations and financial results.

As of February 23, 2019, approximately 170,000 of our employees were covered by collective bargaining agreements. Collective bargaining agreements covering approximately 106,000 of our employees have expired or are scheduled to expire in fiscal 2019. In future negotiations with labor unions, we expect that health care, pension costs and/or contributions and wage costs, among other issues, will be important topics for negotiation. If, upon the expiration of such collective bargaining agreements, we are unable to negotiate acceptable contracts with labor unions, it could result in strikes by the affected workers and thereby significantly disrupt our operations. As part of our collective bargaining agreements, we may need to fund additional pension contributions, which would negatively impact our free cash flow. Further, if we are unable to control health care and pension costs provided for in the collective bargaining agreements, we may experience increased operating costs and an adverse impact on our financial results.

Increased pension expenses, contributions and surcharges may have an adverse impact on our financial results.

We are sponsors of defined benefit retirement plans for certain employees at our Safeway Inc. ("Safeway"), United Supermarkets, LLC ("United") and Shaw's stores and distribution centers. The funded status of these plans (the difference between the fair value of the plan assets and the projected benefit obligation) is a significant factor in determining annual pension expense and cash contributions to fund the plans.

Unfavorable investment performance, increased pension expense and cash contributions may have an adverse impact on our financial results. Under the Employee Retirement Income Security Act of 1974, as amended ("ERISA"), the Pension Benefit Guaranty Corporation ("PBGC") has the authority to petition a court to terminate an underfunded pension plan under limited circumstances. In the event that our defined benefit pension plans are terminated for any reason, we could be liable to the PBGC for the entire amount of the underfunding, as calculated by the PBGC based on its own assumptions (which would result in a larger obligation than that based on the actuarial assumptions used to fund such plans). Under ERISA and the Internal Revenue Code (the "Code"), the liability under these defined benefit plans is joint and several with all members of the control group, such that each member of the control group would be liable for the defined benefit plans of each other member of the control group.

In addition, we participate in various multiemployer pension plans for substantially all employees represented by unions pursuant to collective bargaining agreements that require us to contribute to these plans. Under the Pension Protection Act of 2006 (the "PPA"), contributions in addition to those made pursuant to a collective bargaining agreement may be required in limited circumstances.


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Pension expenses for multiemployer pension plans are recognized by us as contributions are made. Benefits generally are based on a fixed amount for each year of service. Our contributions to multiemployer plans were $451.1 million, $431.2 million and $399.1 million during fiscal 2018, fiscal 2017 and fiscal 2016, respectively.

Based on an assessment of the most recent information available, we believe that most of the multiemployer plans to which we contribute are underfunded. We are only one of a number of employers contributing to these plans. We have attempted, however, as of February 23, 2019, to estimate our share of the underfunding of multiemployer plans to which we contribute, based on the ratio of our contributions to the total of all contributions to these plans in a year. As of February 23, 2019, our estimate of the Company's share of the underfunding of multiemployer plans to which we contribute was $4.7 billion. Our share of underfunding described above is an estimate and could change based on the amount contributed to the plans, investment returns on the assets held in the plans, actions taken by trustees who manage the plans' benefit payments, interest rates, the amount of withdrawal liability payments made to the plans, if the employers currently contributing to these plans cease participation, and requirements under the PPA, the Multiemployer Pension Reform Act of 2014 and applicable provisions of the Code. Safeway is the second largest contributing employer to the Food Employers Labor Relations Association and United Food and Commercial Workers Joint Pension Plan (“FELRA”). FELRA reported in its 2017 Form 5500 that it projects that it will become insolvent in approximately the fourth quarter of 2020.

The United States Congress established a joint committee in February 2018 with the objective of formulating recommendations to improve the solvency of multiemployer pension plans and the PBGC. Although the joint committee's term expired without it making any formal recommendations, Congress is expected to continue to consider these issues, which may result in legislative changes. If the funding required for these plans declines, our future expense could be favorably affected. Favorable legislation could also decrease our financial obligations to the plans. On the other hand, our share of the underfunding and our future expense and liability could increase if the financial condition of the plans deteriorated or if adverse changes in the law occurred. We continue to evaluate our potential exposure to underfunded multiemployer pension plans.

In the event we were to exit certain markets or otherwise cease contributing to these plans, we could trigger a substantial withdrawal liability. Any accrual for withdrawal liability will be recorded when a withdrawal is probable and can be reasonably estimated, in accordance with GAAP. All trades or businesses in the employer's control group are jointly and severally liable for the employer's withdrawal liability.

We are subject to withdrawal liabilities related to Safeway's previous closure in 2015 of its Dominick's division. One of the plans, the UFCW & Employers Midwest Pension Fund (the "Midwest Plan"), had asserted we may be liable for mass withdrawal liability, if the plan has a mass withdrawal, in addition to the liability the Midwest Plan already has assessed. We believe it is unlikely that a mass withdrawal will occur in the foreseeable future and dispute that the Midwest Plan would have the right to assess mass withdrawal liability against us if the Midwest Plan had a mass withdrawal. We are disputing in arbitration the amount of the withdrawal liability the Midwest Plan has assessed. The amount of the withdrawal liability recorded as of February 23, 2019 with respect to the Dominick's division was $142.1 million.

See Note 12—Employee benefit plans and collective bargaining agreements in our consolidated financial statements, included elsewhere in this document, for more information relating to our participation in these multiemployer pension plans.

Unfavorable changes in government regulation may have a material adverse effect on our business.

Our stores are subject to various federal, state, local and foreign laws, regulations and administrative practices. We must comply with numerous provisions regulating health and sanitation standards, food labeling, energy, environmental, equal employment opportunity, minimum wages, pension, health insurance and other welfare plans, and licensing for the sale of food, drugs and alcoholic beverages. We cannot predict either the nature of future laws, regulations,

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interpretations or applications, or the effect either additional government laws, regulations or administrative procedures, when and if promulgated, or disparate federal, state, local and foreign regulatory schemes would have on our future business. In addition, regulatory changes could require the reformulation of certain products to meet new standards, the recall or discontinuance of certain products not able to be reformulated, additional record keeping, expanded documentation of the properties of certain products, expanded or different labeling and/or scientific substantiation. Any or all of such requirements could have an adverse effect on our business.

The minimum wage continues to increase and is subject to factors outside of our control. Changes to wage regulations could have an impact on our future results of operations.

A considerable number of our employees are paid at rates related to the federal minimum wage. Additionally, many of our stores are located in states, including California, where the minimum wage is greater than the federal minimum wage and where a considerable number of employees receive compensation equal to the state's minimum wage. For example, as of February 23, 2019, we employed approximately 68,000 associates in California, where the current minimum wage was increased to $12.00 per hour effective January 1, 2019, and will gradually increase to $15.00 per hour by January 1, 2022. In Maryland, where we employed approximately 7,200 associates as of February 23, 2019, the minimum wage is $10.10 per hour, and, while not final, Maryland lawmakers are advancing a bill that could gradually increase the minimum wage to $15.00 per hour by 2025. Moreover, municipalities may set minimum wages above the applicable state standards. For example, the minimum wage in Seattle, Washington, where we employed approximately 1,800 associates as of February 23, 2019, was increased to $16.00 per hour effective January 1, 2019 for employers with more than 500 employees nationwide. In Chicago, Illinois, where we employed approximately 6,200 associates as of February 23, 2019, the minimum wage was increased to $12.00 per hour effective July 1, 2018, and will gradually increase to $13.00 per hour by July 1, 2019. Any further increases in the federal minimum wage or the enactment of additional state or local minimum wage increases could increase our labor costs, which may adversely affect our results of operations and financial condition.

The food retail industry is labor intensive. Our ability to meet our labor needs, while controlling wage and labor-related costs, is subject to numerous external factors, including the availability of qualified persons in the workforce in the local markets in which we are located, unemployment levels within those markets, prevailing wage rates, changing demographics, health and other insurance costs and changes in employment and labor laws. Such laws related to employee hours, wages, job classification and benefits could significantly increase operating costs. In the event of increasing wage rates, if we fail to increase our wages competitively, the quality of our workforce could decline, causing our customer service to suffer, while increasing wages for our employees could cause our profit margins to decrease. If we are unable to hire and retain employees capable of meeting our business needs and expectations, our business and brand image may be impaired. Any failure to meet our staffing needs or any material increase in turnover rates of our employees may adversely affect our business, results of operations and financial condition.

Failure to attract and retain qualified associates could materially adversely affect our financial performance.

Our ability to continue to conduct and expand our operations depends on our ability to attract and retain a large and growing number of qualified associates. Our ability to meet our labor needs, including our ability to find qualified personnel to fill positions that become vacant at our existing stores and distribution centers, while controlling our associate wage and related labor costs, is generally subject to numerous external factors, including the availability of a sufficient number of qualified persons in the work force of the markets in which we operate, unemployment levels within those markets, prevailing wage rates, changing demographics, health and other insurance costs and adoption of new or revised employment and labor laws and regulations. If we are unable to locate, to attract or to retain qualified personnel, the quality of service we provide to our customers may decrease and our financial performance may be adversely affected.

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Unfavorable changes in, failure to comply with or increased costs to comply with environmental laws and regulations could adversely affect us. The storage and sale of petroleum products could cause disruptions and expose us to potentially significant liabilities.

Our operations, including our 397 fuel centers, are subject to various laws and regulations relating to the protection of the environment, including those governing the storage, management, disposal and cleanup of hazardous materials. Some environmental laws, such as the Comprehensive Environmental Response, Compensation and Liability Act and similar state statutes, impose strict, and under certain circumstances joint and several, liability for costs to remediate a contaminated site, and also impose liability for damages to natural resources.

Federal regulations under the Clean Air Act require phase out of the production of ozone depleting refrigerants that include hydrochlorofluorocarbons, the most common of which is R-22. By 2020, production of new R-22 refrigerant gas will be completely phased out; however, recovered and recycled/reclaimed R-22 will be available for servicing systems after 2020. We are reducing our R-22 footprint while continuing to repair leaks, thus extending the useful lifespan of existing equipment. For fiscal 2018, we incurred approximately $15 million for system retrofits, and we have budgeted approximately $12 million for subsequent years. Leak repairs are part of the ongoing refrigeration maintenance budget. We may be required to spend additional capital above and beyond what is currently budgeted for system retrofits and leak repairs which could have a significant impact on our business, results of operations and financial condition.

Third-party claims in connection with releases of or exposure to hazardous materials relating to our current or former properties or third-party waste disposal sites can also arise. In addition, the presence of contamination at any of our properties could impair our ability to sell or lease the contaminated properties or to borrow money using any of these properties as collateral. The costs and liabilities associated with any such contamination could be substantial and could have a material adverse effect on our business. Under current environmental laws, we may be held responsible for the remediation of environmental conditions regardless of whether we lease, sublease or own the stores or other facilities and regardless of whether such environmental conditions were created by us or a prior owner or tenant. In addition, the increased focus on climate change, waste management and other environmental issues may result in new environmental laws or regulations that negatively affect us directly or indirectly through increased costs on our suppliers. There can be no assurance that environmental contamination relating to prior, existing or future sites or other environmental changes will not adversely affect us through, for example, business interruption, cost of remediation or adverse publicity.

We are subject to, and may in the future be subject to, legal or other proceedings that could have a material adverse effect on us.

From time to time, we are a party to legal proceedings, including matters involving personnel and employment issues, personal injury, antitrust claims, intellectual property claims and other proceedings arising in or outside of the ordinary course of business. In addition, there are an increasing number of cases being filed against companies generally, which contain class-action allegations under federal and state wage and hour laws. We estimate our exposure to these legal proceedings and establish reserves for the estimated liabilities. Assessing and predicting the outcome of these matters involves substantial uncertainties. Although not currently anticipated by management, unexpected outcomes in these legal proceedings or changes in management's forecast assumptions or predictions could have a material adverse impact on our results of operations.


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We may be adversely affected by risks related to our dependence on IT systems. Any future changes to or intrusion into these IT systems, even if we are compliant with industry security standards, could materially adversely affect our reputation, financial condition and operating results.

We have complex IT systems that are important to the success of our business operations and marketing initiatives. If we were to experience failures, breakdowns, substandard performance or other adverse events affecting these systems, or difficulties accessing the proprietary business data stored in these systems, or in maintaining, expanding or upgrading existing systems or implementing new systems, we could incur significant losses due to disruptions in our systems and business.

Improper activities by third parties, exploitation of encryption technology, new data-hacking tools and discoveries and other events or developments may result in future intrusions into or compromise of our networks, payment card terminals or other payment systems.

In particular, the techniques used by criminals to obtain unauthorized access to sensitive data change frequently and often cannot be recognized until launched against a target; accordingly, we may not be able to anticipate these frequently changing techniques or implement adequate preventive measures for all of them. Any unauthorized access into our customers' sensitive information, or data belonging to us or our suppliers, even if we are compliant with industry security standards, could put us at a competitive disadvantage, result in deterioration of our customers' confidence in us and subject us to potential litigation, liability, fines and penalties and consent decrees, resulting in a possible material adverse impact on our financial condition and results of operations.

As a merchant that accepts debit and credit cards for payment, we are subject to the Payment Card Industry ("PCI") Data Security Standard ("PCI DSS"), issued by the PCI Council. PCI DSS contains compliance guidelines and standards with regard to our security surrounding the physical administrative and technical storage, processing and transmission of individual cardholder data. By accepting debit cards for payment, we are also subject to compliance with American National Standards Institute ("ANSI") data encryption standards and payment network security operating guidelines. Failure to be PCI compliant or to meet other payment card standards may result in the imposition of financial penalties or the allocation by the card brands of the costs of fraudulent charges to us. Despite our efforts to comply with these or other payment card standards and other information security measures, we cannot be certain that all of our IT systems will be able to prevent, contain or detect all cyber-attacks or intrusions from known malware or malware that may be developed in the future. To the extent that any disruption results in the loss, damage or misappropriation of information, we may be adversely affected by claims from customers, financial institutions, regulatory authorities, payment card associations and others. In addition, privacy and information security laws and standards continue to evolve and could expose us to further regulatory burdens. The cost of complying with stricter laws and standards, including PCI DSS and ANSI data encryption standards and the California Consumer Privacy Act which will take effect in January 2020, could be significant.

The loss of confidence from a data security breach involving our customers or employees could hurt our reputation and cause customer retention and employee recruiting challenges.

We receive and store personal information in connection with our marketing and human resources organizations. The protection of our customer and employee data is critically important to us. Despite our considerable efforts to secure our respective computer networks, security could be compromised, confidential information could be misappropriated or system disruptions could occur, as has occurred with a number of other retailers. If we experience a data security breach, we could be exposed to government enforcement actions, possible assessments from the card brands if credit card data was involved and potential litigation. In addition, our customers could lose confidence in our ability to protect their personal information, which could cause them to stop shopping at our stores altogether.

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Unauthorized computer intrusions could adversely affect our brands and could discourage customers from shopping with us.
 
In 2014, we were the subject of an unauthorized intrusion affecting 800 of our stores in an attempt to obtain credit card data. While the claims arising out of this intrusion have been substantially resolved, there can be no assurance that we will not suffer a similar criminal attack in the future or that unauthorized parties will not gain access to personal information of our customers. While we have implemented additional security software and hardware designed to provide additional protections against unauthorized intrusions, there can be no assurance that unauthorized individuals will not discover a means to circumvent our security. Hackers and data thieves are increasingly sophisticated and operate large-scale and complex attacks. Experienced computer programmers and hackers may be able to penetrate our security controls and misappropriate or compromise sensitive personal, proprietary or confidential information, create system disruptions or cause shutdowns. They also may be able to develop and deploy malicious software programs that attack our systems or otherwise exploit any security vulnerabilities. Computer intrusions could adversely affect our brands, have caused us to incur legal and other fees, may cause us to incur additional expenses for additional security measures and could discourage customers from shopping in our stores.

We use a combination of insurance and self-insurance to address potential liabilities for workers' compensation, automobile and general liability, property risk (including earthquake and flood coverage), director and officers' liability, employment practices liability, pharmacy liability and employee health care benefits.

We use a combination of insurance and self-insurance to address potential liabilities for workers' compensation, automobile and general liability, property risk (including earthquake and flood coverage), director and officers' liability, employment practices liability, pharmacy liability and employee health care benefits and cyber and terrorism risks. We estimate the liabilities associated with the risks retained by us, in part, by considering historical claims experience, demographic and severity factors and other actuarial assumptions which, by their nature, are subject to a high degree of variability. Among the causes of this variability are unpredictable external factors affecting future inflation rates, discount rates, litigation trends, legal interpretations, benefit level changes and claim settlement patterns.

The majority of our workers' compensation liability is from claims occurring in California. California workers' compensation has received intense scrutiny from the state's politicians, insurers, employers and providers, as well as the public in general.

Our long-lived assets, primarily goodwill and store-level assets, are subject to periodic testing for impairment, and we may incur significant impairment charges as a result.

Our long-lived assets, primarily goodwill and store-level assets, are subject to periodic testing for impairment. We have incurred significant impairment charges to earnings in the past. Long-lived asset impairment charges were $36.3 million, $100.9 million and $46.6 million in fiscal 2018, fiscal 2017 and fiscal 2016, respectively. Failure to achieve sufficient levels of cash flow at reporting units and at store-level could result in impairment charges on long-lived assets. We also review goodwill for impairment annually on the first day of the fiscal fourth quarter or if events or changes in circumstances indicate the occurrence of a triggering event. During fiscal 2017, we recorded a goodwill impairment loss of $142.3 million. The annual evaluation of goodwill performed for our reporting units during the fourth quarters of fiscal 2018 and fiscal 2016 did not result in impairment.

Our operations are dependent upon the availability of a significant amount of energy and fuel to manufacture, store, transport and sell products.

Our operations are dependent upon the availability of a significant amount of energy and fuel to manufacture, store, transport and sell products. Energy and fuel costs are influenced by international, political and economic circumstances and have experienced volatility over time. To reduce the impact of volatile energy costs, we have entered into contracts

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to purchase electricity and natural gas at fixed prices to satisfy a portion of our energy needs. We also manage our exposure to changes in energy prices utilized in the shipping process through the use of short-term diesel fuel derivative contracts. Volatility in fuel and energy costs that exceeds offsetting contractual arrangements could adversely affect our results of operations.

We may have liability under certain operating leases that were assigned to third parties.

We may have liability under certain operating leases that were assigned to third parties. If any of these third parties fail to perform their obligations under the leases, we could be responsible for the lease obligation. Due to the wide dispersion among third parties and the variety of remedies available, we believe that if an assignee became insolvent it would not have a material effect on our financial condition, results of operations or cash flows. No liability has been recorded for assigned leases in our consolidated balance sheet related to these contingent obligations.

We may be unable to attract and retain key personnel, which could adversely impact our ability to successfully execute our business strategy.

The continued successful implementation of our business strategy depends in large part upon the ability and experience of members of our senior management. In addition, our performance is dependent on our ability to identify, hire, train, motivate and retain qualified management, technical, sales and marketing and retail personnel. If we lose the services of members of our senior management or are unable to continue to attract and retain the necessary personnel, we may not be able to successfully execute our business strategy, which could have an adverse effect on our business.


Risks Relating to our Indebtedness

Our substantial level of indebtedness could adversely affect our financial condition and prevent us from fulfilling our obligations under our indebtedness.

We have a significant amount of indebtedness. As of February 23, 2019, we had $10.1 billion of debt outstanding (other than capital lease obligations), and, subject to our borrowing base, we would have been able to borrow an additional $3.4 billion under our ABL Facility.

Our substantial indebtedness could have important consequences. For example, it could:
•
increase our vulnerability to general adverse economic and industry conditions;
•
require us to dedicate a substantial portion of our cash flow from operations to payments on our indebtedness, thereby reducing the availability of our cash flow to fund working capital, capital expenditures and other general corporate purposes, including acquisitions;
•
limit our flexibility in planning for, or reacting to, changes in our business and the industry in which we operate;
•
place us at a competitive disadvantage compared to our competitors that have less debt; and
•
limit our ability to borrow additional funds.

In addition, there can be no assurance that we will be able to refinance any of our debt or that we will be able to refinance our debt on commercially reasonable terms. If we were unable to make payments or refinance our debt or obtain new financing under these circumstances, we would have to consider other options, such as:
•
sales of assets;
•
sales of equity; or
•
negotiations with our lenders to restructure the applicable debt.


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Our debt instruments may restrict, or market or business conditions may limit, our ability to obtain additional indebtedness, refinance our indebtedness or use some of our options.

Despite our significant indebtedness levels, we may still be able to incur substantially more debt, which could further exacerbate the risks associated with our substantial leverage.

We and our subsidiaries may be able to incur substantial additional indebtedness in the future. The terms of the credit agreements that govern our ABL Facility and our Term Loan Facility (together with the ABL Facility, the "Senior Secured Credit Facilities") and the indentures that govern NALP's 6.52% to 7.15% Medium-Term Notes, due July 2027-June 2028, 7.75% Debentures due June 2026, 7.45% Senior Debentures due August 2029, 8.70% Senior Debentures due May 2030 and 8.00% Senior Debentures due May 2031 (collectively, the "NALP Notes"), Safeway's 3.95% Senior Notes due August 2020, 4.75% Senior Notes due December 2021, 7.45% Senior Debentures due September 2027 and 7.25% Senior Debentures due February 2031, and ACI's 6.625% Senior Notes due June 2024 (the "2024 Notes"), 5.750% Senior Notes due September 2025 and 7.5% Senior Notes due March 2026 (the "2026 Notes") permit us to incur significant additional indebtedness, subject to certain limitations. If new indebtedness is added to our and our subsidiaries' current debt levels, the related risks that we and they now face would intensify.

To service our indebtedness, we require a significant amount of cash, and our ability to generate cash depends on many factors beyond our control.

Our ability to make cash payments on and to refinance our indebtedness and to fund planned capital expenditures will depend on our ability to generate significant operating cash flow in the future, as described in the section entitled "Management's Discussion and Analysis of Financial Condition and Results of Operations" of this Annual Report on Form 10-K. This ability is, to a significant extent, subject to general economic, financial, competitive, legislative, regulatory and other factors that are beyond our control.

Our business may not generate sufficient cash flow from operations to enable us to pay our indebtedness or to fund our other liquidity needs. In any such circumstance, we may need to refinance all or a portion of our indebtedness, on or before maturity. We may not be able to refinance any indebtedness on commercially reasonable terms, or at all. If we cannot service our indebtedness, we may have to take actions such as selling assets, seeking additional equity or reducing or delaying capital expenditures, strategic acquisitions and investments. Any such action, if necessary, may not be effected on commercially reasonable terms or at all. The instruments governing our indebtedness may restrict our ability to sell assets and our use of the proceeds from such sales.

If we are unable to generate sufficient cash flow or are otherwise unable to obtain funds necessary to meet required payments of principal, premium, if any, and interest on our indebtedness, or if we otherwise fail to comply with the various covenants in the instruments governing our indebtedness, we could be in default under the terms of the agreements governing such indebtedness. In the event of such default, the holders of such indebtedness could elect to declare all the funds borrowed thereunder to be due and payable, together with accrued and unpaid interest, the lenders under our credit agreement, or any replacement revolving credit facility in respect thereof, could elect to terminate their revolving commitments thereunder, cease making further loans and institute foreclosure proceedings against our assets, and we could be forced into bankruptcy or liquidation.

Our debt instruments limit our flexibility in operating our business.

Our debt instruments contain various covenants that limit our and our restricted subsidiaries' ability to engage in specified types of transactions. A breach of any of these covenants could result in a default under our debt instruments. Any debt agreements we enter into in the future may further limit our ability to enter into certain types of transactions. In addition, certain of the covenants governing the ABL Facility, the Term Loan Facilities and our existing notes restrict, among other things, our and our restricted subsidiaries' ability to:
•
incur additional indebtedness or provide guarantees in respect of obligations of other persons;

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•
pay dividends on, repurchase or make distributions to our owners or make other restricted payments or make certain investments;
•
prepay, redeem or repurchase debt;
•
make loans, investments and capital expenditures;
•
sell or otherwise dispose of certain assets;
•
incur liens;
•
engage in sale and leaseback transactions;
•
restrict dividends, loans or asset transfers from our subsidiaries;
•
consolidate, merge, sell or otherwise dispose of all or substantially all of our assets;
•
enter into a new or different line of business; and
•
enter into certain transactions with our affiliates.

In addition, the restrictive covenants in our ABL Facility require us, in certain circumstances, to maintain a specific fixed charge coverage ratio. Our ability to meet that financial ratio can be affected by events beyond our control, and there can be no assurance that we will meet it. A breach of this covenant could result in a default under such facilities. Moreover, the occurrence of a default under our ABL Facility could result in an event of default under our other indebtedness. Upon the occurrence of an event of default under our ABL Facility, the lenders could elect to declare all amounts outstanding under the ABL Facility to be immediately due and payable and terminate all commitments to extend further credit. Even if we are able to obtain new financing, it may not be on commercially reasonable terms, or terms that are acceptable to us.

Currently, substantially all of our assets are pledged as collateral under the Senior Secured Credit Facilities.

As of February 23, 2019, our total indebtedness was approximately $10.1 billion, including $4.7 billion outstanding under our Senior Secured Credit Facilities. As of February 23, 2019, we had $520.8 million of outstanding standby letters of credit under our Senior Secured Credit Facilities. Substantially all of our and our subsidiaries' assets are pledged as collateral for this indebtedness. As of February 23, 2019, our ABL Facility would have permitted additional borrowings of up to a maximum of $3.4 billion subject to our borrowing base as of that date. If we are unable to repay all secured borrowings under our Senior Secured Credit Facilities when due, whether at maturity or if declared due and payable following a default, the administrative agents or the lenders, as applicable, would have the right to proceed against the collateral pledged to secure the indebtedness and may sell the assets pledged as collateral in order to repay those borrowings, which could have a material adverse effect on our business, financial condition, results of operations or cash flows.

Increases in interest rates and/or a downgrade of our credit ratings could negatively affect our financing costs and our ability to access capital.

We have exposure to future interest rates based on the variable rate debt under our credit facilities and to the extent we raise additional debt in the capital markets to meet maturing debt obligations, to fund our capital expenditures and working capital needs and to finance future acquisitions. Daily working capital requirements are typically financed with operational cash flow and through the use of various committed lines of credit. The interest rate on these borrowing arrangements is generally determined from the inter-bank offering rate at the borrowing date plus a pre-set margin. Although we employ risk management techniques to hedge against interest rate volatility, significant and sustained increases in market interest rates could materially increase our financing costs and negatively impact our reported results.

We rely on access to bank and capital markets as sources of liquidity for cash requirements not satisfied by cash flows from operations. A downgrade in our credit ratings from the internationally recognized credit rating agencies could negatively affect our ability to access the bank and capital markets, especially in a time of uncertainty in either of those

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markets. A rating downgrade could also impact our ability to grow our business by substantially increasing the cost of, or limiting access to, capital.

Item 1B - Unresolved Staff Comments

None.


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Item 2 - Properties

As of February 23, 2019, we operated 2,269 stores located in 34 states and the District of Columbia as shown in the following table:
Location
 
Number of
stores
 
Location
 
Number of
stores
 
Location
 
Number of
stores
Alaska
 
25

 
Iowa
 
1

 
North Dakota
 
1

Arizona
 
138

 
Louisiana
 
16

 
Oregon
 
122

Arkansas
 
1

 
Maine
 
21

 
Pennsylvania
 
50

California
 
598

 
Maryland
 
65

 
Rhode Island
 
8

Colorado
 
107

 
Massachusetts
 
75

 
South Dakota
 
3

Connecticut
 
4

 
Montana
 
38

 
Texas
 
213

Delaware
 
18

 
Nebraska
 
5

 
Utah
 
5

District of Columbia
 
12

 
Nevada
 
49

 
Vermont
 
19

Hawaii
 
22

 
New Hampshire
 
26

 
Virginia
 
39

Idaho
 
41

 
New Jersey
 
76

 
Washington
 
219

Illinois
 
182

 
New Mexico
 
35

 
Wyoming
 
14

Indiana
 
4

 
New York
 
17

 

 


The following table summarizes our stores by size as of February 23, 2019:
Square Footage
 
Number of stores
 
Percent of total
Less than 30,000
 
208

 
9.2
%
30,000 to 50,000
 
792

 
34.9
%
More than 50,000
 
1,269

 
55.9
%
Total stores
 
2,269

 
100.0
%

Approximately 42% of our operating stores are owned or ground-leased properties.

Our corporate headquarters are located in Boise, Idaho. We own our headquarters. The premises is approximately 250,000 square feet in size. In addition to our corporate headquarters, we have corporate offices in Pleasanton, California and Phoenix, Arizona. We believe our properties are well maintained, in good operating condition and suitable for operating our business.

Item 3 - Legal Proceedings

The Company is subject from time to time to various claims and lawsuits arising in the ordinary course of business, including lawsuits involving trade practices, lawsuits alleging violations of state and/or federal wage and hour laws (including alleged violations of meal and rest period laws and alleged misclassification issues), real estate disputes and other matters. Some of these suits purport or may be determined to be class actions and/or seek substantial damages. It is the opinion of the Company's management that although the amount of liability with respect to certain of the matters described herein cannot be ascertained at this time, any resulting liability of these and other matters, including any punitive damages, will not have a material adverse effect on the Company's business or financial condition. See also the matters under the caption Legal Proceedings in Note 14 - Commitments and contingencies and off balance sheet arrangements in our consolidated financial statements, included elsewhere in this document.


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The Company continually evaluates its exposure to loss contingencies arising from pending or threatened litigation and believes it has made provisions where the loss contingency can be reasonably estimated and an adverse outcome is probable. Nonetheless, assessing and predicting the outcomes of these matters involves substantial uncertainties. Management currently believes that the aggregate range of reasonably possible loss for the Company's exposure in excess of the amount accrued is expected to be immaterial to the Company. It remains possible that despite management's current belief, material differences in actual outcomes or changes in management's evaluation or predictions could arise that could have a material effect on the Company's financial condition, results of operations or cash flows.

Item 4 - Mine Safety Disclosures

None.

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PART II

Item 5 - Market for Registrant's Common Equity, Related Stockholder Matters and Issuer Purchase of Equity Securities

As of the date of this report, there is no publicly-traded market for the Company's common stock. All of the shares of the Company's common stock are held by Albertsons Investor Holdings LLC ("Albertsons Investor") and KIM ACI, LLC ("KIM ACI").

Distributions

On June 30, 2017, the Company's predecessor, Albertsons Companies, LLC, made a cash distribution of $250.0 million to its equityholders. The Company does not intend to declare or pay a dividend for the foreseeable future. Any dividends or changes to ACI's dividend policy will be made at the discretion of the board of directors of ACI and will depend upon many factors, including the financial condition of ACI, earnings, legal requirements, including limitations imposed by Delaware law, and restrictions in ACI's debt agreements that limit its ability to pay dividends to stockholders and other factors the board of directors of ACI deems relevant.


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Item 6 - Selected Financial Information

The selected consolidated financial information set forth below is derived from our annual Consolidated Financial Statements for the periods indicated below, including the Consolidated Balance Sheets at February 23, 2019 and February 24, 2018 and the related Consolidated Statements of Operations and Comprehensive Income (Loss) and Consolidated Statements of Cash Flows for the 52 weeks ended February 23, 2019, February 24, 2018 and February 25, 2017 and notes thereto appearing elsewhere in this Form 10-K.
(in millions)
Fiscal
2018
 
Fiscal
2017 (2)
 
Fiscal
2016 (2)
 
Fiscal
2015 (2)
 
Fiscal
2014 (1)(2)
Results of Operations
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
Net sales and other revenue
$
60,534.5

 
$
59,924.6

 
$
59,678.2

 
$
58,734.0

 
$
27,198.6

Gross Profit
16,894.6

 
16,361.1

 
16,640.5

 
16,061.7

 
7,502.8

Selling and administrative expenses
16,107.3

 
16,275.4

 
16,032.9

 
15,702.6

 
8,157.0

Goodwill impairment
—

 
142.3

 
—

 
—

 
—

Operating income (loss)
787.3

 
(56.6
)
 
607.6

 
359.1

 
(654.2
)
Interest expense, net
830.8

 
874.8

 
1,003.8

 
950.5

 
633.2

Loss (gain) on debt extinguishment
8.7

 
(4.7
)
 
111.7

 
—

 
—

Other (income) expense
(104.4
)
 
(9.2
)
 
(44.3
)
 
(49.6
)
 
91.2

Income (loss) before income taxes
52.2

 
(917.5
)
 
(463.6
)
 
(541.8
)
 
(1,378.6
)
Income tax benefit
(78.9
)
 
(963.8
)
 
(90.3
)
 
(39.6
)
 
(153.4
)
Net income (loss)
$
131.1

 
$
46.3

 
$
(373.3
)
 
$
(502.2
)
 
$
(1,225.2
)
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
Balance Sheet (at end of period)
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
Cash and cash equivalents
$
926.1

 
$
670.3

 
$
1,219.2

 
$
579.7

 
$
1,125.8

Total assets
20,776.6

 
21,812.3

 
23,755.0

 
23,770.0

 
25,678.3

Total stockholders' / member equity
1,450.7

 
1,398.2

 
1,371.2

 
1,613.2

 
2,168.5

Total debt, including capital leases
10,586.4

 
11,875.8

 
12,337.9

 
12,226.3

 
12,569.0

Net cash provided by (used in) operating activities
1,687.9

 
1,018.8

 
1,813.5

 
901.6

 
(165.1
)
(1) Includes results from four weeks for the stores purchased in the Safeway acquisition on January 30, 2015.
(2) These periods have been adjusted for the retrospective adoption of Accounting Standards Update ("ASU") 2017-07, "Compensation - Retirement Benefits (Topic 715) - Improving the Presentation of Net Periodic Pension Cost and Net Periodic Postretirement Benefit Cost" in the first quarter of fiscal 2018. We reclassified non-service pension and post-retirement cost components to Other (income) expense from Selling and administrative expenses. See Note 1 - Description of business, basis of presentation and summary of significant accounting policies within Item 8 of this Form 10-K for additional information.

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Item 7 - Management's Discussion and Analysis of Financial Condition and Results of Operations
The following discussion and analysis of our financial condition and results of operations should be read in conjunction with our Consolidated Financial Statements and related notes found in Item 8 in this Form 10-K. This discussion contains forward-looking statements based upon current expectations that involve numerous risks and uncertainties. Our actual results may differ materially from those contained in any forward-looking statements.
Our last three fiscal years consisted of the 52 weeks ended February 23, 2019 ("fiscal 2018"), February 24, 2018 ("fiscal 2017") and February 25, 2017 ("fiscal 2016"). The Company's fiscal year ending February 29, 2020 will consist of 53 weeks ("fiscal 2019"). In this Management's Discussion and Analysis of Financial Condition and Results of Operations of Albertsons Companies, Inc., the words "Albertsons," "the Company," "we," "us," "our" and "ours" refer to Albertsons Companies, Inc., together with its subsidiaries.
OVERVIEW

We are one of the largest food and drug retailers in the United States, with both a strong local presence and national scale. As of February 23, 2019, we operated 2,269 stores across 34 states and the District of Columbia under 20 well-known banners including Albertsons, Safeway, Vons, Jewel-Osco, Shaw's, Acme, Tom Thumb, Randalls, United Supermarkets, Market Street, Pavilions, Star Market, Carrs and Haggen, as well as meal kit company Plated. Additionally, as of February 23, 2019, we operated 1,282 in-store branded coffee shops, 397 adjacent fuel centers, 23 dedicated distribution centers, six Plated fulfillment centers, 20 manufacturing facilities and various online platforms.

We employed a diverse workforce of approximately 267,000, 275,000 and 273,000 associates as of February 23, 2019, February 24, 2018 and February 25, 2017, respectively. As of February 23, 2019, approximately 170,000 of our employees were covered by collective bargaining agreements. Collective bargaining agreements covering approximately 106,000 employees have expired or are scheduled to expire in fiscal 2019. If, upon the expiration of such collective bargaining agreements, we are unable to negotiate acceptable contracts with labor unions, it could increase our operating costs and disrupt our operations.
Our Strategy

We run a great brick and mortar supermarket business focused on fresh and local merchandising. We believe this provides the foundation for growth in both the four-wall and no-wall (eCommerce) environments as we allow our customers to shop with us whenever, wherever and however they want. We operate our business through the execution of the following strategies:

Enhancing and Upgrading Our Fresh, Natural and Organic Offerings and Signature Products. We continue to enhance and upgrade our fresh, natural and organic offerings across our meat, produce, service deli and bakery departments to meet the changing tastes and preferences of our customers. We also believe that continued innovation and expansion of our high-volume, high-quality and differentiated signature products will contribute to stronger sales growth.

Expanding Our Own Brands Offerings. We continue to drive sales growth and profitability by extending our Own Brand offerings across our banners, including high-quality and recognizable brands O Organics, Signature Brands, Signature Cafe and Lucerne, each of which achieved over $1 billion in sales in the fiscal year ended February 23, 2019. Our Own Brand products achieved over $12.5 billion in sales during fiscal 2018, with 25.1% own brands penetration.

Leveraging Our Effective and Scalable Loyalty Programs. We believe we can grow basket size and improve the shopping experience for our customers with our just for U and fuel and grocery-based loyalty programs. Over 16.4 million members are currently enrolled in our loyalty programs. We believe we can further enhance our merchandising and marketing programs by utilizing our customer analytics capabilities, including advanced digital marketing and mobile applications, to improve customer retention and provide targeted promotions to our customers. For example, our just

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for U and fuel and grocery rewards customers have demonstrated greater basket size, improved customer retention rates and an increased likelihood to redeem promotions offered in our stores.

Providing Our Customers with Convenient Digital Solutions. We seek to provide our customers with the means to shop how, when and where they choose. As consumer preferences evolve towards greater convenience, we are improving our online offerings, including home delivery and "Drive Up and Go" services. We continue to enhance our delivery platform to offer more delivery options and windows across our store base, including early morning deliveries, same-day deliveries, deliveries within hours and unattended deliveries. In addition, we are seeking to expand our curbside "Drive Up and Go" program in order to enable customers to conveniently pick up their goods on the way home or to the office. We have added to our delivery offerings with our alliance with Instacart, offering delivery in as little as an hour across key market areas. We believe our strategy of providing customers with a variety of in-store and online options that suit their varying individual needs will drive additional sales growth and differentiate us from many of our competitors.

Capitalizing on Demand for Health and Wellness Services. We intend to leverage our portfolio of 1,739 pharmacies and our growing network of wellness clinics to capitalize on increasing customer demand for health and wellness services. Pharmacy customers are among our most loyal, and we plan to continue to grow our pharmacy script counts through new patient prescription transfer programs and initiatives such as clinic, hospital and preferred network partnerships, which we believe will expand our access to more customers. To further enhance our pharmacy offerings, in 2017 we acquired MedCart Specialty Pharmacy, a URAC-accredited specialty pharmacy with accreditation and license to operate in over 40 states, which extends our ability to service our customers' health needs.

Continuously Evaluating and Upgrading Our Store Portfolio. We plan to pursue a disciplined but committed capital allocation strategy to upgrade, remodel and relocate stores to attract customers to our stores and to increase store volumes. We opened six and 15 new stores in fiscal 2018 and fiscal 2017, respectively, and expect to open approximately 15 new stores in fiscal 2019. We completed 128 upgrade and remodel projects in fiscal 2018 and expect to complete approximately 300 upgrade and remodel projects during fiscal 2019.

Driving Innovation. We intend to drive traffic and sales growth through constant innovation. We will remain focused on identifying emerging trends in food and sourcing new and innovative products. We are adjusting our store layouts to accommodate a greater assortment of grab-and-go, individually packaged and snack-sized meals. We continue to roll out new merchandising initiatives across our store base, including meal kits, product sampling events, quality prepared foods and in-store dining.

Sharing Best Practices Across Divisions. Our division leaders collaborate closely to ensure the rapid sharing of best practices. Recent examples include the expansion of our O Organics and Open Nature offerings across banners, the roll-out of signature products such as Albertsons' in-store fresh-cut fruit and vegetables and implementing Safeway's successful wine and floral shop strategies, with broader product assortments and new fixtures across many of our banners.

Enhancing Our Operating Margin. Our focus on sales growth provides an opportunity to enhance our operating margin by leveraging our fixed costs. We plan to realize further margin benefits through added scale from partnering with vendors and by achieving efficiencies in manufacturing and distribution. We are investing in our supply channel, including the automation of several of our distribution centers, in order to create efficiencies and reduce costs. In addition, we maintain a disciplined approach to expense management and budgeting.

Capitalizing on Our Fully Realized Synergy Realization Plan. We achieved approximately $823 million in annual run-rate synergies as of the end of fiscal 2018 from our acquisition of Safeway. During fiscal 2016, fiscal 2017 and fiscal 2018, we achieved synergies from the Safeway acquisition of approximately $575 million, $675 million and $775 million, respectively.


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Focusing on Sustainability. We strive to make every day a better day for our people, customers, communities and planet. During fiscal 2018, we raised approximately $43 million to benefit 2,000 organizations through foundation grants and donated more than $226 million to food banks and other hunger relief agencies. We also recycled more than 705 million pounds of cardboard and 22 million pounds of plastic film from our facilities.

Stores
The following table shows stores operating, acquired, opened, divested and closed during the periods presented:
 
 
52 weeks ended
 
 
February 23,
2019
 
February 24,
2018
 
February 24,
2017
Stores, beginning of period
 
2,318

 
2,324

 
2,271

Acquired (1)
 
—

 
5

 
78

Opened
 
6

 
15

 
15

Closed
 
(55
)
 
(26
)
 
(40
)
Stores, end of period
 
2,269

 
2,318

 
2,324

(1) Excludes acquired stores not yet re-opened as of the end of each respective period.
The following table summarizes our stores by size:
 
 
Number of Stores
 
Percent of Total
 
Retail Square Feet (1)
Square Footage
 
February 23,
2019
 
February 24,
2018
 
February 23,
2019
 
February 24,
2018
 
February 23,
2019
 
February 24,
2018
Less than 30,000
 
208

 
211

 
9.2
%
 
9.1
%
 
4.9

 
4.9

30,000 to 50,000
 
792

 
810

 
34.9
%
 
34.9
%
 
33.2

 
34.0

More than 50,000
 
1,269

 
1,297

 
55.9
%
 
56.0
%
 
74.9

 
76.5

Total Stores
 
2,269

 
2,318

 
100.0
%
 
100.0
%
 
113.0

 
115.4

(1) In millions, reflects total square footage of retail stores operating at the end of the period.

ACQUISITIONS AND OTHER INVESTMENTS

Termination of Merger Agreement with Rite Aid

As previously disclosed, on February 18, 2018, the Company and its wholly-owned subsidiaries, Ranch Acquisition II LLC and Ranch Acquisition Corp. (together with Ranch Acquisition II LLC, "Merger Subs") and Rite Aid Corporation ("Rite Aid") entered into an Agreement and Plan of Merger (the "Merger Agreement"). On August 8, 2018, the Company, Merger Subs and Rite Aid entered into a Termination Agreement (the "Termination Agreement") under which the parties mutually agreed to terminate the Merger Agreement. Subject to limited customary exceptions, the Termination Agreement also mutually releases the parties from any claims of liability to one another relating to the contemplated merger transaction. Under the terms of the Merger Agreement, neither the Company nor Rite Aid will be responsible for any payments to the other party as a result of the termination of the Merger Agreement.

MedCart

On May 31, 2017, we acquired MedCart Specialty Pharmacy, a URAC-accredited specialty pharmacy with accreditation and license to operate in over 40 states, which extends our ability to service our customers' health needs.


27

Table of Contents


Plated

On September 20, 2017, we acquired Plated, a provider of meal kit services. The deal advanced a shared strategy to reinvent the way consumers discover, purchase and experience food. In teaming up with Plated, we added a meal kit company with leading technology and data capabilities.

El Rancho

On November 16, 2017, we acquired a 45% equity interest in each of Mexico Foods Parent LLC and La Fabrica Parent LLC ("El Rancho"), a Texas-based specialty grocer with 16 stores that focuses on Latino customers. We have the option to acquire the remaining 55% of El Rancho at any time until six months after the delivery of El Rancho's financial results for the fiscal year ended December 31, 2021. If we elect to exercise the option to acquire the remaining equity of El Rancho, the price to be paid by us for the remaining equity will be calculated using a predetermined market-based formula. Our equity interest in El Rancho expands our presence in the fast-growing Latino grocery sector and complements our successful operation of a variety of store banners in neighborhoods with significant Latino populations.

Casa Ley

During the fourth quarter of fiscal 2017, we completed the sale of our equity method investment in Casa Ley, S.A. de C.V. ("Casa Ley") and distributed approximately $0.934 in cash per Casa Ley contingent value right ("CVR") (or approximately $222 million in the aggregate) pursuant to the terms of the Casa Ley CVR agreement.
Haggen

During fiscal 2015, Haggen Holdings, LLC ("Haggen") secured Bankruptcy Court approval for bidding procedures for the sale of 29 stores. On March 25, 2016, we entered into a purchase agreement to acquire the 29 additional stores, which included 15 stores originally sold to Haggen as part of the Federal Trade Commission divestitures, and certain trade names and other intellectual property, for an aggregate purchase price of approximately $114 million. We completed the acquisition of these 29 stores on June 23, 2016.

RESULTS OF OPERATIONS
The following table and related discussion sets forth certain information and comparisons regarding the components of our Consolidated Statements of Operations for fiscal 2018, fiscal 2017 and fiscal 2016, respectively (in millions):
 
Fiscal
2018
 
Fiscal
2017
 
Fiscal
2016
Net sales and other revenue
$
60,534.5

100.0
 %
 
$
59,924.6

100.0
 %
 
$
59,678.2

100.0
 %
Cost of sales
43,639.9

72.1

 
43,563.5

72.7

 
43,037.7

72.1

Gross profit
16,894.6

27.9

 
16,361.1

27.3

 
16,640.5

27.9

Selling and administrative expenses
16,107.3

26.6

 
16,275.4

27.1

 
16,032.9

26.9

Goodwill impairment
—

—

 
142.3

0.2

 
—

—

Operating income (loss)
787.3

1.3

 
(56.6
)
—

 
607.6

1.0

Interest expense, net
830.8

1.4

 
874.8

1.5

 
1,003.8

1.7

Loss (gain) on debt extinguishment
8.7

—

 
(4.7
)
—

 
111.7

0.2

Other income
(104.4
)
(0.2
)
 
(9.2
)
—

 
(44.3
)
(0.1
)
Income (loss) before income taxes
52.2

0.1

 
(917.5
)
(1.5
)
 
(463.6
)
(0.8
)
Income tax benefit
(78.9
)
(0.1
)
 
(963.8
)
(1.6
)
 
(90.3
)
(0.2
)
Net income (loss)
$
131.1

0.2
 %
 
$
46.3

0.1
 %
 
$
(373.3
)
(0.6
)%

28



Identical Sales, Excluding Fuel
Identical sales include stores operating during the same period in both the current year and the prior year, comparing sales on a daily basis. Direct to consumer internet sales are included in identical sales, and fuel sales are excluded from identical sales. Acquired stores become identical on the one-year anniversary date of the acquisition. Identical sales results, on an actual basis, for the past three fiscal years were as follows:
 
Fiscal
2018
 
Fiscal
2017
 
Fiscal
2016
Identical sales, excluding fuel
1.0%
 
(1.3)%
 
(0.4)%
Net Sales and Other Revenue
Net sales and other revenue increased $609.9 million, or 1.0%, from $59,924.6 million in fiscal 2017 to $60,534.5 million in fiscal 2018. The components of the change in Net sales and other revenue for fiscal 2018 were as follows (in millions):
 
Fiscal
2018
Net sales and other revenue for fiscal 2017
$
59,924.6

Identical sales increase of 1.0%
539.6

Increase in fuel sales
351.3

Decrease in sales due to store closures, net of new store openings
(413.6
)
Other (1)
132.6

Net sales and other revenue for fiscal 2018
$
60,534.5

(1) Includes changes in non-identical sales and other miscellaneous revenue.

The primary increase in Net sales and other revenue in fiscal 2018 as compared to fiscal 2017 was driven by our 1.0% increase in identical sales and an increase in fuel sales of $351.3 million, partially offset by a reduction in sales related to the closure of 55 stores in fiscal 2018.

Net sales and other revenue increased $246.4 million, or 0.4%, from $59,678.2 million in fiscal 2016 to $59,924.6 million in fiscal 2017. The components of the change in Net sales and other revenue for fiscal 2017 were as follows (in millions):
 
Fiscal
2017
Net sales and other revenue for fiscal 2016
$
59,678.2

Additional sales due to new stores and acquisitions, net of store closings
589.4

Increase in fuel sales
411.2

Identical sales decline of 1.3%
(740.4
)
Other (1)
(13.8
)
Net sales and other revenue for fiscal 2017
$
59,924.6

(1) Includes changes in non-identical sales and other miscellaneous revenue.

The primary increase in Net sales and other revenue in fiscal 2017 as compared to fiscal 2016 was driven by an increase of $589.4 million from new stores and acquisitions, net of store closings, and an increase of $411.2 million in fuel sales primarily driven by higher average retail pump prices, partially offset by a decline of $740.4 million from our 1.3% decline in identical sales.

29



Gross Profit
Gross profit represents the portion of Net sales and other revenue remaining after deducting the Cost of sales during the period, including purchase and distribution costs. These costs include inbound freight charges, purchasing and receiving costs, warehouse inspection costs, warehousing costs and other costs associated with our distribution network. Advertising, promotional expenses and vendor allowances are also components of Cost of sales.
Gross profit margin increased 60 basis points to 27.9% in fiscal 2018 compared to 27.3% in fiscal 2017. Excluding the impact of fuel, gross profit margin increased 70 basis points. The increase in fiscal 2018 as compared to fiscal 2017 was primarily attributable to lower shrink expense as a percentage of sales partially due to the completion of our store conversions related to the Safeway acquisition and the implementation of inventory management initiatives, lower advertising costs and improved product mix, including improved sales penetration in Own Brands.
Fiscal 2018 vs. Fiscal 2017
Basis point increase
(decrease)
Lower shrink expense
31
Product mix, including increased Own Brands penetration
16
Advertising
14
Acquisition synergies
6
Other
3
Total
70
Gross profit margin decreased 60 basis points to 27.3% in fiscal 2017 compared to 27.9% in fiscal 2016. Excluding the impact of fuel, gross profit margin decreased 50 basis points. The decrease in fiscal 2017 as compared to fiscal 2016 was primarily attributable to our investment in promotions and price and higher shrink expense as a percentage of sales, which was partially due to system conversions related to our integration.
Fiscal 2017 vs. Fiscal 2016
Basis point increase
(decrease)
Investment in price and changes in product mix
(36)
Increase in shrink expense
(23)
LIFO expense
(1)
Acquisition synergies
10
Total
(50)

30



Selling and Administrative Expenses
Selling and administrative expenses consist primarily of store level costs, including wages, employee benefits, rent, depreciation and utilities, in addition to certain back-office expenses related to our corporate and division offices.
Selling and administrative expenses decreased 50 basis points to 26.6% of Net sales and other revenue in fiscal 2018 from 27.1% in fiscal 2017. Excluding the impact of fuel, Selling and administrative expenses as a percentage of Net sales and other revenue decreased 50 basis points during fiscal 2018 compared to fiscal 2017.
Fiscal 2018 vs. Fiscal 2017
Basis point increase
(decrease) 
Net property dispositions, asset impairment and lease exit costs
(39)
Depreciation and amortization
(27)
Cost reduction initiatives
(18)
Employee wage and benefit costs (primarily incentive pay)
28
Other (includes an increase in acquisition and integration costs)
6
Total
(50)

The decrease during fiscal 2018 compared to fiscal 2017 was primarily attributable to lower depreciation and amortization expense, higher gains related to the sale of assets and the Company's cost reduction initiatives, partially offset by increased employee wage and benefit costs and higher acquisition and integration costs. Higher gains related to the sale of assets were primarily due to the disposition of various store properties during fiscal 2018. Increased employee wage and benefit costs were primarily attributable to incentive pay as a result of improved operating performance. Higher acquisition and integration costs were primarily driven by the 506 store conversions in fiscal 2018 related to the Safeway integration compared to 219 store conversions in fiscal 2017.
Selling and administrative expenses increased 20 basis points to 27.1% of Net sales and other revenue in fiscal 2017 from 26.9% in fiscal 2016. Excluding the impact of fuel, Selling and administrative expenses as a percentage of Net sales and other revenue increased 40 basis points during fiscal 2017 compared to fiscal 2016.
Fiscal 2017 vs. Fiscal 2016
Basis point increase
(decrease) 
Employee wage and benefit costs
20
Net property dispositions, asset impairment and lease exit costs
18
Depreciation and amortization
14
Store related costs
12
Pension expense, net
(17)
Safeway acquisition synergies
(7)
Total
40

Increased employee wage and benefit costs, asset impairments and lease exit costs, higher depreciation and amortization expense and higher store related costs during fiscal 2017 compared to fiscal 2016 were offset by lower pension costs and increased Safeway acquisition synergies. Increased employee wage and benefit costs and higher store related costs were primarily attributable to deleveraging of sales on fixed costs. Higher asset impairments and lease exit costs were primarily related to asset impairments in underperforming and closed stores. These increases were partially offset by lower pension expense, net driven by a $25.4 million settlement gain during fiscal 2017 primarily due to an annuity settlement on a portion of our defined benefit pension obligation.


31



Goodwill Impairment

No goodwill impairment was recorded in fiscal 2018 compared to $142.3 million in fiscal 2017.
Interest Expense, Net

Interest expense, net was $830.8 in fiscal 2018, $874.8 million in fiscal 2017 and $1,003.8 million in fiscal 2016. The decrease in Interest expense, net for fiscal 2018 compared to fiscal 2017 is primarily due to lower average outstanding borrowings as a result of our term loan paydown and other debt reduction during fiscal 2018 and lower amortization and write-off of deferred financing costs and original issue discount, partially offset by $10.9 million of interest that was due and payable on the floating rate senior secured notes that were issued in connection with the Merger Agreement and later redeemed as further described herein.
The following details our components of Interest expense, net for the respective fiscal years (in millions):
 
Fiscal
2018
 
Fiscal
2017
 
Fiscal
2016
ABL Facility, senior secured and unsecured notes, term loans and debentures
$
698.3

 
$
701.5

 
$
764.3

Capital lease obligations
81.8

 
96.3

 
106.8

Amortization and write off of deferred financing costs
42.7

 
56.1

 
84.4

Amortization and write off of debt discounts
20.3

 
16.0

 
22.3

Other interest (income) expense
(12.3
)
 
4.9

 
26.0

Interest expense, net
$
830.8

 
$
874.8

 
$
1,003.8


The weighted average interest rate during the year was 6.6%, excluding amortization of debt discounts and deferred financing costs. The weighted average interest rate during fiscal 2017 and fiscal 2016 was 6.5% and 6.8%, respectively.
Loss (Gain) on Debt Extinguishment
During fiscal 2018, we repurchased Safeway's 7.45% Senior Debentures due 2027 and 7.25% Debentures due 2031 with a par value of $333.7 million and a book value of $322.4 million, and NALP Notes with a par value of $108.4 million and a book value of $96.4 million for an aggregate of $424.4 million (the "2018 Repurchases"). We also redeemed Safeway's 5.00% Senior Notes due 2019 (the "2018 Redemption") for $271.7 million, which included an associated make-whole premium of $3.1 million. In connection with the 2018 Repurchases and the 2018 Redemption, we recorded a loss on debt extinguishment of $8.7 million.
During fiscal 2017, we repurchased NALP Notes with a par value of $160.0 million and a book value of $140.2 million for $135.5 million plus accrued interest of $3.7 million (the "NALP Notes Repurchase"). In connection with the NALP Notes Repurchase, we recorded a gain on debt extinguishment of $4.7 million.
On June 24, 2016, a portion of the net proceeds from the issuance of the 2024 Notes was used to fully redeem $609.6 million of 7.75% Senior Secured Notes due 2022 (the "2016 Redemption"). In connection with the 2016 Redemption, we recorded a $111.7 million loss on debt extinguishment comprised of an $87.7 million make-whole premium and a $24.0 million write off of deferred financing costs and original issue discount.
Other Income
For fiscal 2018, Other income was $104.4 million primarily driven by adjustments related to acquisition-related contingent consideration, gains related to non-operating minority investments and non-service cost components of net pension and post-retirement expense. For fiscal 2017, Other income was $9.2 million primarily driven by changes in our equity method investment in Casa Ley, changes in the fair value of the contingent value rights, which we refer to as CVRs, non-service cost components of net pension and post-retirement expense and gains and losses on the sale of

32



non-operating minority investments. For fiscal 2016, Other income was $44.3 million primarily driven by gains on the sale of certain investments, changes in our equity method investments and non-service cost components of net pension and post-retirement expense.
Income Taxes
Income tax was a benefit of $78.9 million in fiscal 2018, $963.8 million in fiscal 2017 and $90.3 million in fiscal 2016. Prior to the Reorganization Transactions, a substantial portion of our businesses and assets were held and operated by limited liability companies, which are generally not subject to entity-level federal or state income taxation. See Note 1 - Description of business, basis of presentation and summary of significant accounting policies in our consolidated financial statements, included elsewhere in this document, for a discussion and definition of the "Reorganization Transactions." On December 22, 2017, the Tax Cuts and Jobs Act (the "Tax Act") was signed into law, which resulted in a significant ongoing benefit to us, primarily due to the reduction in the corporate tax rate from 35% to 21% and the ability to accelerate depreciation deductions for qualified property purchases.
The components of the change in income taxes for the last three fiscal years were as follows:
 
Fiscal
2018
 
Fiscal
2017
 
Fiscal
2016
Income tax expense (benefit) at federal statutory rate
$
11.0

 
$
(301.5
)
 
$
(162.3
)
State income taxes, net of federal benefit
0.7

 
(39.8
)
 
(20.2
)
Change in valuation allowance
(3.3
)
 
(218.0
)
 
107.1

Unrecognized tax benefits
(16.2
)
 
(36.5
)
 
(18.7
)
Member loss
—

 
83.1

 
16.6

Charitable donations
(4.4
)
 
—

 
(11.1
)
Tax credits
(10.8
)
 
(9.1
)
 
(17.3
)
Indemnification asset
—

 
—

 
5.1

Effect of Tax Cuts and Jobs Act
(56.9
)
 
(430.4
)
 
—

CVR liability adjustment
—

 
(20.3
)
 
7.5

Reorganization of limited liability companies
—

 
46.7

 
—

Nondeductible equity-based compensation expense
3.8

 
1.6

 
4.2

Other
(2.8
)
 
(39.6
)
 
(1.2
)
Income tax benefit
$
(78.9
)
 
$
(963.8
)
 
$
(90.3
)

As a result of the Tax Act, the Company recorded a net non-cash tax benefit of $56.9 million and $430.4 million in fiscal 2018 and fiscal 2017, respectively, primarily due to the lower corporate tax rate. The income tax benefit in fiscal 2017 includes a net $218.0 million non-cash benefit from the reversal of a valuation allowance, partially offset by an increase of $46.7 million in net deferred tax liabilities from our limited liability companies related to the Reorganization Transactions.

Adjusted EBITDA

EBITDA, Adjusted EBITDA and Free Cash Flow (collectively, the "Non-GAAP Measures") are performance measures that provide supplemental information we believe is useful to analysts and investors to evaluate our ongoing results of operations, when considered alongside other GAAP measures such as net income, operating income, gross profit and Net cash provided by operating activities. These Non-GAAP Measures exclude the financial impact of items management does not consider in assessing our ongoing operating performance, and thereby facilitate review of our operating performance on a period-to-period basis. Other companies may have different capital structures or different lease terms, and comparability to our results of operations may be impacted by the effects of acquisition accounting on our depreciation and amortization. As a result of the effects of these factors and factors specific to other companies, we believe EBITDA, Adjusted EBITDA and Free Cash Flow provide helpful information to analysts and investors to facilitate a comparison of our operating performance to that of other companies. We also use Adjusted EBITDA, as

33



further adjusted for additional items defined in our debt instruments, for board of director and bank compliance reporting. The presentation of Non-GAAP Measures should not be construed as an inference that our future results will be unaffected by unusual or non-recurring items.
For fiscal 2018, Adjusted EBITDA was $2.7 billion, or 4.5% of Net sales and other revenue, compared to $2.4 billion, or 4.0% of Net sales and other revenue, for fiscal 2017. The increase in Adjusted EBITDA primarily reflects our identical sales increase, improved gross profit and realization of our cost reduction initiatives.
The following is a reconciliation of Net income (loss) to Adjusted EBITDA (in millions):
 
Fiscal
2018

Fiscal
2017

Fiscal
2016
Net income (loss)
$
131.1

 
$
46.3

 
$
(373.3
)
Depreciation and amortization
1,738.8

 
1,898.1

 
1,804.8

Interest expense, net
830.8

 
874.8

 
1,003.8

Income tax benefit
(78.9
)
 
(963.8
)
 
(90.3
)
EBITDA
2,621.8

 
1,855.4

 
2,345.0

 
 
 
 
 
 
Integration costs (1)
186.3

 
156.2

 
144.1

Acquisition-related costs (2)
73.4

 
61.5

 
69.5

Loss (gain) on debt extinguishment
8.7

 
(4.7
)
 
111.7

Equity-based compensation expense
47.7

 
45.9

 
53.3

Net (gain) loss on property dispositions, asset impairment and lease exit costs (3)
(165.0
)
 
66.7

 
(39.2
)
Goodwill impairment
—

 
142.3

 
—

LIFO expense (benefit)
8.0

 
3.0

 
(7.9
)
Collington acquisition (4)
—

 
—

 
78.9

Miscellaneous adjustments (5)
(39.6
)
 
71.6

 
61.1

Adjusted EBITDA
$
2,741.3

 
$
2,397.9

 
$
2,816.5

(1) Related to activities to integrate acquired businesses, primarily the Safeway acquisition.
(2) Includes expenses related to acquisition and financing activities, including management fees of $13.8 million in each year. Fiscal 2018 includes expenses related to the mutually terminated merger with Rite Aid. Fiscal 2016 includes adjustments to tax indemnification assets of $12.3 million.
(3) Fiscal 2018 includes gains related to various property dispositions and the amortization of deferred gains related to sale leaseback transactions. Fiscal 2017 includes asset impairment losses of $100.9 million primarily related to underperforming stores. Fiscal 2016 includes a net gain of $42.9 million related to the disposition of a portfolio of surplus properties.
(4) Fiscal 2016 charge to pension expense, net related to the settlement of a pre-existing contractual relationship and assumption of the pension plan related to the acquisition of Collington Services, LLC ("Collington").
(5) Miscellaneous adjustments include the following:


34



 
Fiscal
2018
 
Fiscal
2017
 
Fiscal
2016
Lease related adjustments (a)
$
5.8

 
$
17.4

 
$
27.0

Net realized and unrealized gain on non-operating investments
(17.2
)
 
(5.1
)
 
(9.7
)
Adjustments to contingent consideration
(59.3
)
 
—

 
—

Facility closures and related transition costs (b)
13.4

 
12.4

 
23.0

Costs related to initial public offering and reorganization transactions
1.6

 
8.7

 
23.9

Changes in our equity method investment in Casa Ley and related CVR adjustments
—

 
53.8

 
1.5

Certain legal and regulatory accruals and settlements, net
4.0

 
(13.7
)
 
(0.1
)
Other (c)
12.1

 
(1.9
)
 
(4.5
)
Total miscellaneous adjustments
$
(39.6
)
 
$
71.6

 
$
61.1

(a) Primarily includes lease adjustments related to deferred rents, deferred gains on leases and costs incurred on leased surplus properties.
(b) Includes costs related to facility closures and the transition to our decentralized operating model.
(c) Primarily includes gains and losses from interest rate and commodity hedges, and adjustments for unconsolidated equity investments

The following is a reconciliation of Net cash provided by operating activities to Free Cash Flow, which we define as Adjusted EBITDA less capital expenditures (in millions):
 
Fiscal
2018
 
Fiscal
2017
 
Fiscal
2016
Net cash provided by operating activities
$
1,687.9

 
$
1,018.8

 
$
1,813.5

Income tax benefit
(78.9
)
 
(963.8
)
 
(90.3
)
Deferred income tax
81.5

 
1,094.1

 
219.5

Interest expense, net
830.8

 
874.8

 
1,003.8

Changes in operating assets and liabilities
(176.2
)
 
222.1

 
(251.9
)
Amortization and write-off of deferred financing costs
(42.7
)
 
(56.1
)
 
(84.4
)
Acquisition and integration costs
259.7

 
217.7

 
213.6

Pension and post-retirement expense, net of contributions
174.8

 
22.8

 
(84.0
)
Collington acquisition
—

 
—

 
78.9

Other adjustments
4.4

 
(32.5
)
 
(2.2
)
Adjusted EBITDA
2,741.3

 
2,397.9

 
2,816.5

Less: capital expenditures
(1,362.6
)
 
(1,547.0
)
 
(1,414.9
)
Free Cash Flow
$
1,378.7

 
$
850.9

 
$
1,401.6



35



LIQUIDITY AND FINANCIAL RESOURCES
The following table sets forth the major sources and uses of cash and cash equivalents and restricted cash at the end of each period (in millions):
 
February 23,
2019
 
February 24,
2018
 
February 25,
2017
Cash and cash equivalents and restricted cash at end of period
$
967.7

 
$
680.8

 
$
1,229.1

Cash flows provided by operating activities
1,687.9

 
1,018.8

 
1,813.5

Cash flows used in investing activities
(86.8
)
 
(469.0
)
 
(1,079.6
)
Cash flows used in financing activities
(1,314.2
)
 
(1,098.1
)
 
(97.8
)
Net Cash Provided By Operating Activities
Net cash provided by operating activities was $1,687.9 million during fiscal 2018 compared to net cash provided by operating activities of $1,018.8 million during fiscal 2017. The increase in net cash flow from operating activities during fiscal 2018 compared to fiscal 2017 was primarily due to the increase in Adjusted EBITDA, principally reflecting the results in fiscal 2018 compared to fiscal 2017, and changes in working capital primarily related to accounts payable and accrued liabilities, which includes $42.3 million in payments related to litigation settlements in fiscal 2017, partially offset by $199.3 million in pension contributions in fiscal 2018.
Net cash provided by operating activities was $1,018.8 million during fiscal 2017 compared to net cash provided by operating activities of $1,813.5 million during fiscal 2016. The decrease in net cash flow from operating activities during fiscal 2017 compared to fiscal 2016 was primarily due to the decrease in Adjusted EBITDA, principally reflecting the results in fiscal 2017 compared to fiscal 2016, and changes in working capital primarily related to accounts payable and accrued liabilities and the $42.3 million payment on litigation settlements, partially offset by a decrease in interest and income taxes paid of $110.7 million and $113.4 million, respectively. Fiscal 2016 cash provided by operating activities also includes a correction in the classification of certain book overdrafts resulting in an increase of $139.2 million.
Net Cash Used In Investing Activities
Net cash used in investing activities during fiscal 2018 was $86.8 million primarily due to payments for property and equipment, including lease buyouts, of $1,362.6 million, which includes approximately $70 million of Safeway integration-related capital expenditures, partially offset by proceeds from the sale of assets of $1,252.0 million. Asset sale proceeds primarily relate to the sale and subsequent leaseback of seven of our distribution center properties during fiscal 2018 and other property dispositions.
Net cash used in investing activities during fiscal 2017 was $469.0 million primarily due to payments for property and equipment, including lease buyouts, of $1,547.0 million, which includes approximately $200 million of Safeway integration-related capital expenditures, and payments for business acquisitions of $148.8 million partially offset by proceeds from the sale of assets of $939.2 million and proceeds from the sale of our equity method investment in Casa Ley of $344.2 million. Asset sale proceeds primarily relate to the sale and subsequent leaseback of 94 store properties during the third and fourth quarters of fiscal 2017.
Net cash used in investing activities during fiscal 2016 was $1,079.6 million primarily due to payments for property and equipment, including lease buyouts, of $1,414.9 million, which includes approximately $250 million of Safeway integration-related capital expenditures, and payments for business acquisitions of $220.6 million partially offset by proceeds from the sale of assets of $477.0 million. Asset sale proceeds include the sale and 36-month leaseback of two distribution centers in Southern California and the sale of a portfolio of surplus properties.

36



In fiscal 2018, we spent approximately $1,363 million for capital expenditures, including approximately $70 million of Safeway integration-related capital expenditures. For fiscal 2018, we completed 128 upgrade and remodel projects and opened six new stores. In fiscal 2019, we expect to spend approximately $1,450 million in capital expenditures, or approximately 2.4% of our sales in fiscal 2018, as follows (in millions):
Projected Fiscal 2019 Capital Expenditures
 
New stores and remodels
$
575.0

IT
350.0

Real estate and expansion capital
225.0

Maintenance
200.0

Supply chain
100.0

Total
$
1,450.0

Net Cash Used In Financing Activities
Net cash used in financing activities was $1,314.2 million in fiscal 2018 consisting of payments on long-term debt and capital leases of $3,179.8 million, partially offset by proceeds from the issuance of long-term debt of $1,969.8 million. Proceeds from the issuance of long-term debt and payments of long-term debt consisted of the issuance of the 2026 Notes, the issuance and subsequent redemption of the $750.0 million floating rate senior secured notes as a result of the mutual termination of the Merger Agreement, borrowings and repayments under our asset-based loan facility, the repayment of term loans in connection with the refinancing and repurchase of Safeway's notes described herein. Net cash used in financing activities was $1,098.1 million in fiscal 2017 due primarily to payments on long-term debt and capital lease obligations of $977.8 million, payment of the Casa Ley CVR and a member distribution of $250.0 million, partially offset by proceeds from the issuance of long-term debt. Net cash used in financing activities was $97.8 million in fiscal 2016 due primarily to payments on long-term debt and capital lease obligations, partially offset by proceeds from the issuance of long-term debt.
Debt Management
Total debt, including both the current and long-term portions of capital lease obligations and net of debt discounts and deferred financing costs, decreased $1.3 billion to $10.6 billion as of the end of fiscal 2018 compared to $11.9 billion as of the end of fiscal 2017. The decrease in fiscal 2018 was primarily due to the repurchase of NALP and Safeway notes, and the repayment made in connection with the term loan repricing described below, offset by the issuance of $600.0 million of principal amount of 7.5% Senior Unsecured Notes.
Outstanding debt, including current maturities and net of debt discounts and deferred financing costs, principally consisted of (in millions):
 
February 23,
2019
Term loans
$
4,610.7

Notes and debentures
5,069.2

Capital leases
762.3

Other notes payable and mortgages
144.2

Total debt, including capital leases
$
10,586.4

On November 16, 2018, the Company repaid approximately $976 million in aggregate principal amount of the $2,976.0 million term loan tranche B-4 (the "2017 Term B-4 Loan") along with accrued and unpaid interest on such amount and fees and expenses related to the Term Loan Repayment and the 2018 Term B-7 Loan (each as defined below), for which the Company used approximately $610 million of cash on hand and approximately $410 million of borrowings under the ABL Facility (such repayment, the "Term Loan Repayment"). Substantially concurrently with the Term Loan Repayment, the Company amended the Company's Second Amended and Restated Term Loan Agreement, dated as

37



of August 25, 2014 and effective as of January 30, 2015 (as amended, the "Term Loan Agreement"), to establish a new term loan tranche and amend certain provisions of the Term Loan Agreement. The new tranche consists of $2,000.0 million of new term B-7 loans (the "2018 Term B-7 Loan"). The 2018 Term B-7 Loan, together with cash on hand, was used to repay in full the remaining principal amount outstanding under the 2017 Term B-4 Loan. During fiscal 2018, Safeway repurchased certain amounts of its 7.45% Senior Debentures due 2027 and 7.25% Debentures due 2031 with a par value of $333.7 million and a book value of $322.4 million.

During fiscal 2018, the Company, through three separate transactions, completed the sale and leaseback of seven of the Company's distribution centers for an aggregate purchase price, net of closing costs, of approximately $950 million. In connection with the sale and leasebacks, the Company entered into lease agreements for each of the properties for initial terms of 15 to 20 years. The aggregate initial annual rent payment for the properties will be approximately $55 million and includes 1.50% to 1.75% annual rent increases over the initial lease terms.
Liquidity and Factors Affecting Liquidity
We estimate our liquidity needs over the next fiscal year to be in the range of $4.0 billion to $4.5 billion, which includes anticipated requirements for working capital, capital expenditures, interest payments and scheduled principal payments of debt, operating leases and capital leases. Based on current operating trends, we believe that cash flows from operating activities and other sources of liquidity, including borrowings under our ABL Facility, will be adequate to meet our liquidity needs for the next 12 months and for the foreseeable future. We believe we have adequate cash flow to continue to maintain our current debt ratings and to respond effectively to competitive conditions. In addition, we may enter into refinancing transactions from time to time. There can be no assurance, however, that our business will continue to generate cash flow at or above current levels or that we will maintain our ability to borrow under our ABL Facility. See "Contractual Obligations" for a more detailed description of our commitments as of the end of fiscal 2018.
As of February 23, 2019, we had no borrowings outstanding under our ABL Facility and total availability of approximately $3.4 billion (net of letter of credit usage). As of February 24, 2018, we had no borrowings outstanding under our ABL Facility and total availability of approximately $3.1 billion (net of letter of credit usage).
The ABL Facility contains no financial maintenance covenants unless and until (a) excess availability is less than (i) 10% of the lesser of the aggregate commitments and the then-current borrowing base at any time or (ii) $250.0 million at any time or (b) an event of default is continuing. If any such event occurs, we must maintain a fixed charge coverage ratio of 1.0:1.0 from the date such triggering event occurs until such event of default is cured or waived and/or the 30th day that all such triggers under clause (a) no longer exist.
During fiscal 2018 and fiscal 2017, there were no financial maintenance covenants in effect under the ABL Facility because the conditions listed above (and similar conditions in our refinanced asset-based revolving credit facilities) had not been met.


38



CONTRACTUAL OBLIGATIONS
The table below presents our significant contractual obligations as of February 23, 2019 (in millions) (1):
 
 
Payments Due Per Year
 
 
Total
 
2019
 
2020-2021
 
2022-2023
 
Thereafter
Long-term debt (2)
 
$
10,086.3

 
$
51.5

 
$
370.4

 
$
2,661.9

 
$
7,002.5

Estimated interest on long-term debt (3)
 
4,248.5

 
633.1

 
1,231.3

 
1,075.8

 
1,308.3

Operating leases (4)
 
8,216.6

 
879.7

 
1,623.7

 
1,374.6

 
4,338.6

Capital leases (4)
 
1,203.0

 
170.5

 
286.2

 
237.2

 
509.1

Other long-term liabilities (5)
 
1,183.8

 
319.3

 
394.2

 
156.9

 
313.4

Purchase obligations (6)
 
402.3

 
179.4

 
83.7

 
55.4

 
83.8

Total contractual obligations
 
$
25,340.5

 
$
2,233.5

 
$
3,989.5

 
$
5,561.8

 
$
13,555.7

(1) The contractual obligations table excludes funding of pension and other postretirement benefit obligations, which totaled $199.3 million in fiscal 2018 and is expected to total $12.4 million in fiscal 2019. This table excludes contributions under various multiemployer pension plans, which totaled $451.1 million in fiscal 2018 and is expected to total approximately $475 million in fiscal 2019.
(2) Long-term debt amounts exclude any debt discounts and deferred financing costs. See Note 8 - Long-term debt in our consolidated financial statements, included elsewhere in this document, for additional information.
(3) Amounts include contractual interest payments using the interest rate as of February 23, 2019 applicable to our variable interest term debt instruments and stated fixed rates for all other debt instruments, excluding interest rate swaps. See Note 8 - Long-term debt in our consolidated financial statements, included elsewhere in this document, for additional information.
(4) Represents the minimum rents payable under operating and capital leases, excluding common area maintenance, insurance or tax payments, for which we are obligated.
(5) Consists of self-insurance liabilities, which have not been reduced by insurance-related receivables, and deferred cash consideration related to Plated. Excludes the $142.1 million of assumed withdrawal liabilities related to Safeway's previous closure of its Dominick's division, and excludes the unfunded pension and postretirement benefit obligation of $502.6 million. The amount of unrecognized tax benefits of $376.2 million as of February 23, 2019 has been excluded from the contractual obligations table because a reasonably reliable estimate of the timing of future tax settlements cannot be determined. Excludes contingent consideration because the timing and settlement is uncertain. Also excludes deferred tax liabilities and certain other deferred liabilities that will not be settled in cash and other lease-related liabilities already reflected as operating lease commitments.
(6) Purchase obligations include various obligations that have specified purchase commitments. As of February 23, 2019, future purchase obligations primarily relate to fixed asset, marketing and information technology commitments, including fixed price contracts. In addition, not included in the contractual obligations table are supply contracts to purchase product for resale to consumers which are typically of a short-term nature with limited or no purchase commitments. We also enter into supply contracts which typically include either volume commitments or fixed expiration dates, termination provisions and other customary contractual considerations. The supply contracts that are cancelable have not been included above.
Guarantees

We are party to a variety of contractual agreements pursuant to which we may be obligated to indemnify the other party for certain matters. These contracts primarily relate to our commercial contracts, operating leases and other real estate contracts, trademarks, intellectual property, financial agreements and various other agreements. Under these agreements, we may provide certain routine indemnifications relating to representations and warranties (for example, ownership of assets, environmental or tax indemnifications) or personal injury matters. The terms of these indemnifications range in duration and may not be explicitly defined. We believe that if we were to incur a loss in any of these matters, the loss would not have a material effect on our financial statements.

We are liable for certain operating leases that were assigned to third parties. If any of these third parties fail to perform their obligations under the leases, we could be responsible for the lease obligation. See Note 14 - Commitments and contingencies and off balance sheet arrangements in our consolidated financial statements, included elsewhere in this document, for additional information. Because of the wide dispersion among third parties and the variety of remedies available, we believe that if an assignee became insolvent it would not have a material effect on our financial condition, results of operations or cash flows.

39



In the ordinary course of business, we enter into various supply contracts to purchase products for resale and purchase and service contracts for fixed asset and information technology commitments. These contracts typically include volume commitments or fixed expiration dates, termination provisions and other standard contractual considerations.
Letters of Credit
We had letters of credit of $520.8 million outstanding as of February 23, 2019. The letters of credit are maintained primarily to support our performance, payment, deposit or surety obligations. We typically pay bank fees of 1.25% plus a fronting fee of 0.125% on the face amount of the letters of credit.

NEW ACCOUNTING POLICIES NOT YET ADOPTED

See Note 1 - Description of business, basis of presentation and summary of significant accounting policies in our consolidated financial statements, included elsewhere in this document, for new accounting pronouncements which have not yet been adopted.
CRITICAL ACCOUNTING POLICIES
The preparation of consolidated financial statements in conformity with GAAP requires management to make estimates and assumptions that affect the reported amounts of assets and liabilities and disclosure of contingent assets and liabilities as of the date of the consolidated financial statements and the reported amounts of revenues and expenses during the reporting period. Actual results could differ from those estimates.
We have chosen accounting policies that we believe are appropriate to report accurately and fairly our operating results and financial position, and we apply those accounting policies in a fair and consistent manner. See Note 1 - Description of business, basis of presentation and summary of significant accounting policies in our consolidated financial statements, included elsewhere in this document, for a discussion of our significant accounting policies.
Management believes the following critical accounting policies reflect its more subjective or complex judgments and estimates used in the preparation of our consolidated financial statements.
Vendor Allowances
Consistent with standard practices in the retail industry, we receive allowances from many of the vendors whose products we buy for resale in our stores. These vendor allowances are provided to increase the sell-through of the related products. We receive vendor allowances for a variety of merchandising activities: placement of the vendors' products in our advertising; display of the vendors' products in prominent locations in our stores; supporting the introduction of new products into our retail stores and distribution systems; exclusivity rights in certain categories; and compensation for temporary price reductions offered to customers on products held for sale at retail stores. We also receive vendor allowances for buying activities such as volume commitment rebates, credits for purchasing products in advance of their need and cash discounts for the early payment of merchandise purchases. The majority of the vendor allowance contracts have terms of less than one year.
We recognize vendor allowances for merchandising activities as a reduction of cost of sales when the related products are sold. Vendor allowances that have been earned because of completing the required performance under the terms of the underlying agreements but for which the product has not yet been sold are recognized as reductions of inventory. The amount and timing of recognition of vendor allowances as well as the amount of vendor allowances to be recognized as a reduction of ending inventory require management judgment and estimates. We determine these amounts based on estimates of current year purchase volume using forecast and historical data and a review of average inventory turnover data. These judgments and estimates affect our reported gross profit, operating earnings (loss) and inventory

40



amounts. Our historical estimates have been reliable in the past, and we believe the methodology will continue to be reliable in the future. Based on previous experience, we do not expect significant changes in the level of vendor support.
Self-Insurance Liabilities
We are primarily self-insured for workers' compensation, property, automobile and general liability. The self-insurance liability is undiscounted and determined actuarially, based on claims filed and an estimate of claims incurred but not yet reported. We have established stop-loss amounts that limit our further exposure after a claim reaches the designated stop-loss threshold. In determining our self-insurance liabilities, we perform a continuing review of our overall position and reserving techniques. Since recorded amounts are based on estimates, the ultimate cost of all incurred claims and related expenses may be more or less than the recorded liabilities.
Any actuarial projection of self-insured losses is subject to a high degree of variability. Litigation trends, legal interpretations, benefit level changes, claim settlement patterns and similar factors influenced historical development trends that were used to determine the current year expense and, therefore, contributed to the variability in the annual expense. However, these factors are not direct inputs into the actuarial projection, and thus their individual impact cannot be quantified.
Long-Lived Asset Impairment

We regularly review our individual stores' operating performance, together with current market conditions, for indications of impairment. When events or changes in circumstances indicate that the carrying value of an individual store's assets may not be recoverable, its future undiscounted cash flows are compared to the carrying value. If the carrying value of store assets to be held and used is greater than the future undiscounted cash flows, an impairment loss is recognized to record the assets at fair value. For property and equipment held for sale, we recognize impairment charges for the excess of the carrying value plus estimated costs of disposal over the fair value. Fair values are based on discounted cash flows or current market rates. These estimates of fair value can be significantly impacted by factors such as changes in the current economic environment and real estate market conditions. Long-lived asset impairment losses were $36.3 million, $100.9 million and $46.6 million in fiscal 2018, fiscal 2017 and fiscal 2016, respectively.
Business Combination Measurements

In accordance with applicable accounting standards, we estimate the fair value of acquired assets and assumed liabilities as of the acquisition date of business combinations. These fair value adjustments are input into the calculation of goodwill related to the excess of the purchase price over the fair value of the tangible and identifiable intangible assets acquired and liabilities assumed in the acquisition.

The fair value of assets acquired and liabilities assumed are determined using market, income and cost approaches from the perspective of a market participant. The fair value measurements can be based on significant inputs that are not readily observable in the market. The market approach indicates value for a subject asset based on available market pricing for comparable assets. The market approach used includes prices and other relevant information generated by market transactions involving comparable assets, as well as pricing guides and other sources. The income approach indicates value for a subject asset based on the present value of cash flows projected to be generated by the asset. Projected cash flows are discounted at a required market rate of return that reflects the relative risk of achieving the cash flows and the time value of money. The cost approach, which estimates value by determining the current cost of replacing an asset with another of equivalent economic utility, was used, as appropriate, for certain assets for which the market and income approaches could not be applied due to the nature of the asset. The cost to replace a given asset reflects the estimated reproduction or replacement cost for the asset, adjusted for obsolescence, whether physical, functional or economic.

41



Goodwill

As of February 23, 2019, our goodwill totaled $1.2 billion, of which $917.3 million related to our acquisition of Safeway. We review goodwill for impairment in the fourth quarter of each year, and also upon the occurrence of triggering events. We perform reviews of each of our reporting units that have goodwill balances. We review goodwill for impairment by initially considering qualitative factors to determine whether it is more likely than not that the fair value of a reporting unit is less than its carrying amount, including goodwill, as a basis for determining whether it is necessary to perform a quantitative analysis. If it is determined that it is more likely than not that the fair value of reporting unit is less than its carrying amount, a quantitative analysis is performed to identify goodwill impairment. If it is determined that it is not more likely than not that the fair value of the reporting unit is less than its carrying amount, it is unnecessary to perform a quantitative analysis. We may elect to bypass the qualitative assessment and proceed directly to performing a quantitative analysis.

In the second quarter of the fiscal year ended February 24, 2018, there was a sustained decline in the market multiples of publicly traded peer companies. In addition, during the second quarter of the fiscal year ended February 24, 2018, we revised our short-term operating plan. As a result, we determined that an interim review of the recoverability of our goodwill was necessary. Consequently, we recorded a goodwill impairment loss of $142.3 million, substantially all within the Acme reporting unit relating to the November 2015 acquisition of stores from the Great Atlantic & Pacific Tea Company, Inc., due to changes in the estimate of our long-term future financial performance to reflect lower expectations for growth in revenue and earnings than previously estimated. The goodwill impairment loss was based on a quantitative analysis using a combination of a discounted cash flow model (income approach) and a guideline public company comparative analysis (market approach).

Goodwill has been allocated to all of our reporting units, and none of our reporting units have a zero or negative carrying amount of net assets. As of February 23, 2019, there are two reporting units with no goodwill due to the impairment loss recorded during the second quarter of the fiscal year ended February 24, 2018. There are nine reporting units with an aggregate goodwill balance of $1,034.6 million, of which the fair value of each reporting unit was substantially in excess of its carrying value, which indicates a remote likelihood of a future impairment loss. There are two reporting units with an aggregate goodwill balance of $148.7 million where it is reasonably possible that future changes in judgments, assumptions and estimates we made in assessing the fair value of the reporting unit could cause us to recognize impairment charges on a portion of the goodwill balance within each reporting unit. For example, a future decline in market conditions, continued underperformance of these two reporting units or other factors could negatively impact the estimated future cash flows and valuation assumptions used to determine the fair value of these two reporting units and lead to future impairment charges.

The annual evaluation of goodwill performed for our reporting units during the fourth quarters of fiscal 2018, fiscal 2017 and fiscal 2016 did not result in impairment.
Employee Benefit Plans

Substantially all of our employees are covered by various contributory and non-contributory pension, profit sharing or 401(k) plans, in addition to defined benefit plans for Safeway, Shaw's and United employees. Certain employees participate in a long-term retention incentive bonus plan. We also provide certain health and welfare benefits, including short-term and long-term disability benefits to inactive disabled employees prior to retirement. Most union employees participate in multiemployer retirement plans pursuant to collective bargaining agreements, unless the collective bargaining agreement provides for participation in plans sponsored by us.
We recognize a liability for the underfunded status of the defined benefit plans as a component of pension and post-retirement benefit obligations. Actuarial gains or losses and prior service costs or credits are recorded within Other comprehensive (loss) income. The determination of our obligation and related expense for our sponsored pensions and other post-retirement benefits is dependent, in part, on management's selection of certain actuarial assumptions in

42



calculating these amounts. These assumptions include, among other things, the discount rate and expected long-term rate of return on plan assets.
The objective of our discount rate assumptions was intended to reflect the rates at which the pension benefits could be effectively settled. In making this determination, we take into account the timing and amount of benefits that would be available under the plans. As of February 27, 2016, we changed the method used to estimate the service and interest rate components of net periodic benefit cost for our defined benefit pension plans and other post-retirement benefit plans. Historically, the service and interest rate components were estimated using a single weighted average discount rate derived from the yield curve used to measure the benefit obligation at the beginning of the period. We have elected to use a full yield curve approach in the estimation of service and interest cost components of net pension and other post-retirement benefit plan expense by applying the specific spot rates along the yield curve used in the determination of the projected benefit obligation to the relevant projected cash flows. We utilized weighted discount rates of 4.12% and 4.21% for our pension plan expenses for fiscal 2018 and fiscal 2017, respectively. To determine the expected rate of return on pension plan assets held by us for fiscal 2018, we considered current and forecasted plan asset allocations as well as historical and forecasted rates of return on various asset categories. Our weighted assumed pension plan investment rate of return was 6.38% and 6.40% for fiscal 2018 and fiscal 2017, respectively. See Note 12 - Employee benefit plans and collective bargaining agreements in our consolidated financial statements, included elsewhere in this document, for more information on the asset allocations of pension plan assets.
Sensitivity to changes in the major assumptions used in the calculation of our pension and other post-retirement plan liabilities is illustrated below (dollars in millions).
 
Percentage
Point Change
 
Projected Benefit Obligation
Decrease / (Increase)
 
Expense
Decrease / (Increase)
Discount rate
+/- 1.00%
 
$194.8 / $(234.0)
 
$26.8 / $(5.2)
Expected return on assets
+/- 1.00%
 
- / -
 
$17.6 / $(17.6)
 
In fiscal 2018 and fiscal 2017, we contributed $199.3 million and $21.9 million, respectively, to our pension and post-retirement plans. We expect to contribute $12.4 million to our pension and post-retirement plans in fiscal 2019.
Income Taxes and Uncertain Tax Positions

We review the tax positions taken or expected to be taken on tax returns to determine whether and to what extent a benefit can be recognized in our consolidated financial statements. See Note 11 - Income taxes in our consolidated financial statements, included elsewhere in this document, for the amount of unrecognized tax benefits and other disclosures related to uncertain tax positions. Various taxing authorities periodically examine our income tax returns. These examinations include questions regarding our tax filing positions, including the timing and amount of deductions and the allocation of income to various tax jurisdictions. In evaluating these various tax filing positions, including state and local taxes, we assess our income tax positions and record tax benefits for all years subject to examination based upon management's evaluation of the facts, circumstances and information available at the reporting date. For those tax positions where it is more likely than not that a tax benefit will be sustained, we have recorded the largest amount of tax benefit with a greater than 50% likelihood of being realized upon ultimate settlement with a taxing authority that has full knowledge of all relevant information. For those income tax positions where it is not more likely than not that a tax benefit will be sustained, no tax benefit has been recognized in our financial statements. A number of years may elapse before an uncertain tax position is examined and fully resolved. As of February 23, 2019, we are no longer subject to federal income tax examinations for fiscal years prior to 2012 and in most states, we are no longer subject to state income tax examinations for fiscal years before 2007. Tax years 2007 through 2017 remain under examination. The assessment of our tax position relies on the judgment of management to estimate the exposures associated with our various filing positions.


43



Item 7A - Quantitative and Qualitative Disclosures About Market Risk

We are exposed to market risk from a variety of sources, including changes in interest rates, foreign currency exchange rates and commodity prices. We have from time to time selectively used derivative financial instruments to reduce these market risks. We do not utilize financial instruments for trading or other speculative purposes, nor do we utilize leveraged financial instruments. Our market risk exposures related to interest rates, foreign currency and commodity prices are discussed below and have not materially changed from the prior fiscal year. We use derivative financial instruments to reduce these market risks related to interest rates.

Interest Rate Risk and Long-Term Debt

We are exposed to market risk from fluctuations in interest rates. We manage our exposure to interest rate fluctuations through the use of interest rate swaps. Our risk management objective and strategy is to utilize these interest rate swaps to protect us against adverse fluctuations in interest rates by reducing our exposure to variability in cash flows relating to interest payments on a portion of our outstanding debt. We believe that we are meeting our objectives of hedging our risks in changes in cash flows that are attributable to changes in LIBOR, which is the designated benchmark interest rate being hedged, on an amount of our debt principal equal to the then-outstanding swap notional amount. In accordance with the swap agreement, we receive a floating rate of interest and pay a fixed rate of interest over the life of the contract.

Interest rate volatility could also materially affect the interest rate we pay on future borrowings under the ABL Facility and the Term Loan Facilities. The interest rate we pay on future borrowings under the ABL Facility and the Term Loan Facilities are dependent on LIBOR. We believe a 100 basis point increase on our variable interest rates would impact our interest expense by approximately $22 million.

The table below provides information about our derivative financial instruments and other financial instruments that are sensitive to changes in interest rates, including debt instruments and interest rate swaps. For debt obligations, the table presents principal amounts due and related weighted average interest rates by expected maturity dates. For interest rate swaps, the table presents average notional amounts and weighted average interest rates by expected (contractual) maturity dates (dollars in millions):
 
Fiscal 2019
 
Fiscal 2020
 
Fiscal 2021
 
Fiscal 2022
 
Fiscal 2023
 
Thereafter
 
Total
 
Fair Value
Long-Term Debt
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
Fixed Rate - Principal payments
$
4.2

 
$
141.1

 
$
134.5

 
$
4.7

 
$
5.0

 
$
5,102.5

 
$
5,392.0

 
$
5,139.2

Weighted average interest rate
7.15%

 
4.04%

 
4.83%

 
6.97%

 
6.98%

 
6.86%

 
6.74%

 
 
Variable Rate - Principal payments
$
47.3

 
$
47.4

 
$
47.4

 
$
1,124.0

 
$
1,528.2

 
$
1,900.0

 
$
4,694.3

 
$
4,662.0

Weighted average interest rate (1)
5.54%

 
5.54%

 
5.54%

 
5.39%

 
5.69%

 
5.52%

 
5.54%

 
 
(1) Excludes effect of interest rate swaps. Also excludes debt discounts and deferred financing costs.

 
Pay Fixed / Receive Variable
 
Fiscal 2019
 
Fiscal 2020
 
Fiscal 2021
 
Fiscal 2022
 
Fiscal 2023
 
Thereafter
Cash Flow Hedges
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
Average Notional amount outstanding
$
2,514.0

 
$
1,957.0

 
$
1,653.0

 
$
593.0

 
$
—

 
$
—

Average pay rate
5.8%

 
5.8%

 
5.8%

 
5.9%

 
0.0%

 
0.0%

Average receive rate
5.5%

 
5.3%

 
5.3%

 
5.3%

 
0.0%

 
0.0%



44

Table of Contents


Commodity Price Risk

We have entered into fixed price contracts to purchase electricity and natural gas for a portion of our energy needs. We expect to take delivery of these commitments in the normal course of business, and, as a result, these commitments qualify as normal purchases. We also manage our exposure to changes in diesel prices utilized in our distribution process through the use of short-term heating oil derivative contracts. These contracts are economic hedges of price risk and are not designated or accounted for as hedging instruments for accounting purposes. Changes in the fair value of these instruments are recognized in earnings. We do not believe that these energy and commodity swaps would cause a material change to our financial position.


45

Table of Contents


Item 8 - Financial Statements and Supplementary Data


REPORT OF INDEPENDENT REGISTERED PUBLIC ACCOUNTING FIRM
To the Board of Directors of Albertsons Companies, Inc.
Opinion on the Financial Statements
We have audited the accompanying consolidated balance sheets of Albertsons Companies, Inc. and its subsidiaries (the "Company") as of February 23, 2019 and February 24, 2018, and the related consolidated statements of operations and comprehensive income (loss), cash flows and stockholders'/member equity for the 52 weeks ended February 23, 2019, the 52 weeks ended February 24, 2018 and the 52 weeks ended February 25, 2017, and the related notes (collectively referred to as the "financial statements"). In our opinion, the financial statements present fairly, in all material respects, the financial position of the Company as of February 23, 2019 and February 24, 2018, and the results of its operations and its cash flows for each of the three years in the period ended February 23, 2019, in conformity with the accounting principles generally accepted in the United States of America.
Basis for Opinion
These financial statements are the responsibility of the Company's management. Our responsibility is to express an opinion on the Company's financial statements based on our audits. We are a public accounting firm registered with the Public Company Accounting Oversight Board (United States) (the "PCAOB") and are required to be independent with respect to the Company in accordance with the U.S. federal securities laws and the applicable rules and regulations of the Securities and Exchange Commission and the PCAOB.
We conducted our audits in accordance with the standards of the PCAOB. Those standards require that we plan and perform the audit to obtain reasonable assurance about whether the financial statements are free of material misstatement, whether due to error or fraud. The Company is not required to have, nor were we engaged to perform, an audit of its internal control over financial reporting. As part of our audits, we are required to obtain an understanding of internal control over financial reporting but not for the purpose of expressing an opinion on the effectiveness of the Company's internal control over financial reporting. Accordingly, we express no such opinion.
Our audits included performing procedures to assess the risks of material misstatement of the financial statements, whether due to error or fraud, and performing procedures that respond to those risks. Such procedures included examining, on a test basis, evidence regarding the amounts and disclosures in the financial statements. Our audits also included evaluating the accounting principles used and significant estimates made by management, as well as evaluating the overall presentation of the financial statements. We believe that our audits provide a reasonable basis for our opinion.

/s/ Deloitte & Touche LLP
Boise, Idaho
April 24, 2019

We have served as the Company's auditor since 2006.


46

Albertsons Companies, Inc. and Subsidiaries
Consolidated Balance Sheets
(in millions, except share data)


 
 
February 23,
2019
 
February 24,
2018
ASSETS
 
 
 
Current assets
 
 
 
 
Cash and cash equivalents
$
926.1

 
$
670.3

 
Receivables, net
586.2

 
615.3

 
Inventories, net
4,332.8

 
4,421.1

 
Prepaid assets
316.2

 
368.6

 
Other current assets
88.7

 
73.3

 
          Total current assets
6,250.0

 
6,148.6

 
 
 
 
 
Property and equipment, net
9,861.3

 
10,770.3

Intangible assets, net
2,834.5

 
3,142.5

Goodwill
1,183.3

 
1,183.3

Other assets
647.5

 
567.6

TOTAL ASSETS
$
20,776.6

 
$
21,812.3

 
 
 
 
 
LIABILITIES
 
 
 
Current liabilities
 
 
 
 
Accounts payable
$
2,918.7

 
$
2,833.0

 
Accrued salaries and wages
1,054.7

 
984.1

 
Current maturities of long-term debt and capitalized lease obligations
148.8

 
168.2

 
Current portion of self-insurance liability
306.8

 
296.0

 
Taxes other than income taxes
309.0

 
323.5

 
Other current liabilities
414.7

 
424.8

 
          Total current liabilities
5,152.7

 
5,029.6

 
 
 
 
 
Long-term debt and capitalized lease obligations
10,437.6

 
11,707.6

Deferred income taxes
561.4

 
579.9

Long-term self-insurance liability
839.5

 
921.7

Other long-term liabilities
2,334.7

 
2,175.3

 
 
 
 
 
Commitments and contingencies


 


 
 
 
 
STOCKHOLDERS' EQUITY
 
 
 
 
Preferred stock, $0.01 par value; 30,000,000 shares authorized, no shares issued and outstanding as of February 23, 2019 and February 24, 2018, respectively
—

 
—

 
Common stock, $0.01 par value; 1,000,000,000 shares authorized, 277,882,010 and 279,654,028 shares issued and outstanding as of February 23, 2019 and February 24, 2018, respectively
2.8

 
2.8

 
Additional paid-in capital
1,814.2

 
1,773.3

 
Treasury stock, at cost, 1,772,018 and no shares held as of February 23, 2019 and February 24, 2018, respectively
(25.8
)
 
—

 
Accumulated other comprehensive income
91.3

 
191.1

 
Accumulated deficit
(431.8
)
 
(569.0
)
 
Total stockholders' equity
1,450.7

 
1,398.2

TOTAL LIABILITIES AND STOCKHOLDERS' EQUITY
$
20,776.6

 
$
21,812.3



The accompanying notes are an integral part of these Consolidated Financial Statements.


47

Albertsons Companies, Inc. and Subsidiaries
Consolidated Statements of Operations and Comprehensive Income (Loss)
(in millions)


 
52 weeks ended
February 23, 2019
 
52 weeks ended
February 24, 2018
 
52 weeks ended
February 25, 2017
Net sales and other revenue
$
60,534.5

 
$
59,924.6

 
$
59,678.2

Cost of sales
43,639.9

 
43,563.5

 
43,037.7

Gross profit
16,894.6

 
16,361.1

 
16,640.5

 
 
 
 
 
 
Selling and administrative expenses
16,107.3

 
16,275.4

 
16,032.9

Goodwill impairment
—

 
142.3

 
—

Operating income (loss)
787.3

 
(56.6
)
 
607.6

 
 
 
 
 
 
Interest expense, net
830.8

 
874.8

 
1,003.8

Loss (gain) on debt extinguishment
8.7

 
(4.7
)
 
111.7

Other income
(104.4
)
 
(9.2
)
 
(44.3
)
Income (loss) before income taxes
52.2

 
(917.5
)
 
(463.6
)
 
 
 
 
 
 
Income tax benefit
(78.9
)
 
(963.8
)
 
(90.3
)
Net income (loss)
$
131.1

 
$
46.3

 
$
(373.3
)
 
 
 
 
 
 
Other comprehensive income (loss):
 
 
 
 
 
(Loss) gain on interest rate swaps, net of tax
(15.5
)
 
47.0

 
39.4

Recognition of pension (loss) gain, net of tax
(83.1
)
 
92.2

 
82.0

Foreign currency translation adjustment, net of tax
(0.3
)
 
65.0

 
(20.5
)
Other
(0.9
)
 
(0.3
)
 
(1.0
)
Other comprehensive (loss) income
$
(99.8
)
 
$
203.9

 
$
99.9

 
 
 
 
 
 
Comprehensive income (loss)
$
31.3

 
$
250.2

 
$
(273.4
)


The accompanying notes are an integral part of these Consolidated Financial Statements.


48

Albertsons Companies, Inc. and Subsidiaries
Consolidated Statements of Cash Flows
(in millions)


 
52 weeks ended February 23, 2019
 
52 weeks ended February 24, 2018
 
52 weeks ended February 25, 2017
Cash flows from operating activities:
 
 
 
 
 
  Net income (loss)
$
131.1

 
$
46.3

 
$
(373.3
)
Adjustments to reconcile net income (loss) to net cash provided by operating activities:
 
 
 
 
 
Net (gain) loss on property dispositions, asset impairment and lease exit costs
(165.0
)
 
66.7

 
(39.2
)
Goodwill impairment
—

 
142.3

 
—

Depreciation and amortization
1,738.8

 
1,898.1

 
1,804.8

LIFO expense (benefit)
8.0

 
3.0

 
(7.9
)
Deferred income tax
(81.5
)
 
(1,094.1
)
 
(219.5
)
Pension and post-retirement benefits expense
24.5

 
(0.9
)
 
95.5

Contributions to pension and post-retirement benefit plans
(199.3
)
 
(21.9
)
 
(11.5
)
Amortization and write-off of deferred financing costs
42.7

 
56.1

 
84.4

Loss (gain) on debt extinguishment
8.7

 
(4.7
)
 
111.7

Equity-based compensation expense
47.7

 
45.9

 
53.3

Other
(44.0
)
 
104.1

 
63.3

Changes in operating assets and liabilities, net of effects of acquisition of businesses:
 
 
 
 
 
Receivables, net
28.8

 
21.7

 
(9.2
)
Inventories, net
80.3

 
45.6

 
2.7

Accounts payable, accrued salaries and wages and other accrued liabilities
98.4

 
(158.2
)
 
233.6

Self-insurance assets and liabilities
(48.7
)
 
(55.3
)
 
(42.5
)
Other operating assets and liabilities
17.4

 
(75.9
)
 
67.3

Net cash provided by operating activities
1,687.9

 
1,018.8

 
1,813.5

 
 
 
 
 
 
Cash flows from investing activities:
 
 
 
 
 
Business acquisitions, net of cash acquired
—

 
(148.8
)
 
(220.6
)
Payments for property, equipment, intangibles, including payments for lease buyouts
(1,362.6
)
 
(1,547.0
)
 
(1,414.9
)
Proceeds from sale of assets
1,252.0

 
939.2

 
477.0

Proceeds from sale of Casa Ley
—

 
344.2

 
—

Other
23.8

 
(56.6
)
 
78.9

Net cash used in investing activities
(86.8
)
 
(469.0
)
 
(1,079.6
)
 


49

Albertsons Companies, Inc. and Subsidiaries
Consolidated Statements of Cash Flows
(in millions)

 
 
 
 
 
 
 
52 weeks ended February 23, 2019
 
52 weeks ended February 24, 2018
 
52 weeks ended February 25, 2017
Cash flows from financing activities:
 
 
 
 
 
Proceeds from issuance of long-term debt
$
1,969.8

 
$
290.0

 
$
3,053.1

Payments on long-term borrowings
(3,082.3
)
 
(870.6
)
 
(2,832.7
)
Payment of make-whole premium on debt extinguishment
(3.1
)
 
—

 
(87.7
)
Payments of obligations under capital leases
(97.5
)
 
(107.2
)
 
(123.2
)
Payments for debt financing costs
(27.0
)
 
(1.5
)
 
(31.8
)
Payment of Casa Ley contingent value right
—

 
(222.0
)
 
—

Employee tax withholding on vesting of phantom units
(15.3
)
 
(17.5
)
 
(17.4
)
Member distributions
—

 
(250.0
)
 
—

Purchase of treasury stock, at cost
(25.8
)
 
—

 
—

Proceeds from financing leases
—

 
137.6

 
—

Other
(33.0
)
 
(56.9
)
 
(58.1
)
Net cash used in financing activities
(1,314.2
)
 
(1,098.1
)
 
(97.8
)
 
 
 
 
 
 
Net increase (decrease) in cash and cash equivalents and restricted cash
286.9

 
(548.3
)
 
636.1

Cash and cash equivalents and restricted cash at beginning of period
680.8

 
1,229.1

 
593.0

Cash and cash equivalents and restricted cash at end of period
$
967.7

 
$
680.8

 
$
1,229.1

 
 
 
 
 
 
Reconciliation of capital investments:
 
 
 
 
 
Payments for property and equipment, including payments for lease buyouts
$
(1,362.6
)
 
$
(1,547.0
)
 
$
(1,414.9
)
Payments for lease buyouts
18.9

 
26.5

 
39.4

Total payments for capital investments, excluding lease buyouts
$
(1,343.7
)
 
$
(1,520.5
)
 
$
(1,375.5
)
 
 
 
 
 
 
Supplemental cash flow information:
 
 
 
 
 
Non-cash investing and financing activities were as follows:
 
 
 
 
 
Additions of capital lease obligations, excluding business acquisitions
$
6.0

 
$
31.0

 
$
11.5

Purchases of property and equipment included in accounts payable
243.1

 
179.7

 
220.2

Interest and income taxes paid:
 
 
 
 
 
Interest paid, net of amount capitalized
805.9

 
813.5

 
924.2

Income taxes paid
18.2

 
15.8

 
129.2




The accompanying notes are an integral part of these Consolidated Financial Statements.


50

Albertsons Companies, Inc. and Subsidiaries
Consolidated Statements of Stockholders' / Member Equity
(in millions, except share data)


 
Albertsons Companies, LLC
 
 
Albertsons Companies, Inc.
 
Member investment
 
Accumulated other comprehensive income (loss)
 
(Accumulated deficit) /
Retained earnings
 
 
Common Stock
 
Additional paid in capital
 
Treasury Stock
 
Accumulated other comprehensive income
 
Accumulated deficit
 
Total stockholders' / member
equity
 
 
 
 
 
Shares
 
Amount
 
 
 
 
 
Balance as of February 27, 2016
$
1,967.9

 
$
(112.7
)
 
$
(242.0
)
 
 
—

 
—

 
$
—

 
$
—

 
$
—

 
$
—

 
$
1,613.2

Equity-based compensation
53.3

 
—

 
—

 
 
—

 
—

 
—

 
—

 
—

 
—

 
53.3

Employee tax withholding on vesting of phantom units
(17.4
)
 
—

 
—

 
 
—

 
—

 
—

 
—

 
—

 
—

 
(17.4
)
Net loss
—

 
—

 
(373.3
)
 
 
—

 
—

 
—

 
—

 
—

 
—

 
(373.3
)
Other member activity
(4.5
)
 
—

 
—

 
 
—

 
—

 
—

 
—

 
—

 
—

 
(4.5
)
Other comprehensive income, net of tax
—

 
99.9

 
—

 
 
—

 
—

 
—

 
—

 
—

 
—

 
99.9

Balance as of February 25, 2017
1,999.3

 
(12.8
)
 
(615.3
)
 
 
—

 
—

 
—

 
—

 
—

 
—

 
1,371.2

Equity-based compensation prior to Reorganization Transactions
24.6

 
—

 
—

 
 
—

 
—

 
—

 
—

 
—

 
—

 
24.6

Employee tax withholding on vesting of phantom units prior to Reorganization Transactions
(17.4
)
 
—

 
—

 
 
—

 
—

 
—

 
—

 
—

 
—

 
(17.4
)
Member distribution
(250.0
)
 
—

 
—

 
 
—

 
—

 
—

 
—

 
—

 
—

 
(250.0
)
Other member activity
(1.6
)
 
—

 
—

 
 
—

 
—

 
—

 
—

 
—

 
—

 
(1.6
)
Net loss prior to Reorganization Transactions
—

 
—

 
(342.0
)
 
 
—

 
—

 
—

 
—

 
—

 
—

 
(342.0
)
Other comprehensive income, net of tax prior to Reorganization Transactions
—

 
39.3

 
—

 
 
—

 
—

 
—

 
—

 
—

 
—

 
39.3

Reorganization Transactions
(1,754.9
)
 
(26.5
)
 
957.3

 
 
279,654,028

 
2.8

 
1,752.1

 
—

 
26.5

 
(957.3
)
 
—

Equity-based compensation after Reorganization Transactions
—

 
—

 
—

 
 
—

 
—

 
21.3

 
—

 
—

 
—

 
21.3

Employee tax withholding on vesting of phantom units after Reorganization Transactions
—

 
—

 
—

 
 
—

 
—

 
(0.1
)
 
—

 
—

 
—

 
(0.1
)
Net income after Reorganization Transactions
—

 
—

 
—

 
 
—

 
—

 
—

 
—

 
—

 
388.3

 
388.3

Other comprehensive income, net of tax after Reorganization Transactions
—

 
—

 
—

 
 
—

 
—

 
—

 
—

 
164.6

 
—

 
164.6

Balance as of February 24, 2018
—

 
—

 
—

 
 
279,654,028

 
2.8

 
1,773.3

 
—

 
191.1

 
(569.0
)
 
1,398.2

Equity-based compensation
—

 
—

 
—

 
 
—

 
—

 
47.7

 
—

 
—

 
—

 
47.7

Employee tax withholding on vesting of phantom units
—

 
—

 
—

 
 
—

 
—

 
(15.3
)
 
—

 
—

 
—

 
(15.3
)
Treasury stock purchases, at cost
—

 
—

 
—

 
 
(1,772,018
)
 
—

 
—

 
(25.8
)
 
—

 
—

 
(25.8
)
Reorganization Transactions
—

 
—

 
—

 
 
—

 
—

 
13.1

 
—

 
—

 
—

 
13.1

Other activity
—

 
—

 
—

 
 
—

 
—

 
(4.6
)
 
—

 
—

 
6.1

 
1.5

Net income
—

 
—

 
—

 
 
—

 
—

 
—

 
—

 
—

 
131.1

 
131.1

Other comprehensive loss, net of tax
—

 
—

 
—

 
 
—

 
—

 
—

 
—

 
(99.8
)
 
—

 
(99.8
)
Balance as of February 23, 2019
$
—

 
$
—

 
$
—

 
 
277,882,010

 
$
2.8

 
$
1,814.2

 
$
(25.8
)
 
$
91.3

 
$
(431.8
)
 
$
1,450.7



The accompanying notes are an integral part of these Consolidated Financial Statements.

51

Albertsons Companies, Inc. and Subsidiaries
Notes to Consolidated Financial Statements



NOTE 1 - DESCRIPTION OF BUSINESS, BASIS OF PRESENTATION AND SUMMARY OF SIGNIFICANT ACCOUNTING POLICIES

Description of Business

Albertsons Companies, Inc. and its subsidiaries (the "Company" or "ACI") is a food and drug retailer that, as of February 23, 2019, operated 2,269 retail stores together with 397 associated fuel centers, 23 dedicated distribution centers, 20 manufacturing facilities and various online platforms. The Company also provides a meal kit offering supported by six fulfillment centers. The Company's retail food businesses and in-store pharmacies operate throughout the United States under the banners Albertsons, Safeway, Vons, Jewel-Osco, Shaw's, Acme, Tom Thumb, Randalls, United Supermarkets, Market Street, Pavilions, Star Market, Carrs and Haggen, as well as meal kit company Plated. The Company has no separate assets or liabilities other than its investments in its subsidiaries and all of its business operations are conducted through its operating subsidiaries.

Basis of Presentation and Reorganization Transactions

The Company's Consolidated Financial Statements have been prepared in accordance with accounting principles generally accepted in the United States of America ("GAAP"). Intercompany transactions and accounts have been eliminated in consolidation for all periods presented. The Company's investments in unconsolidated affiliates are recorded using the equity method.

Prior to December 3, 2017, ACI had no material assets or operations. On December 3, 2017, Albertsons Companies, LLC ("ACL") and its parent, AB Acquisition LLC, a Delaware limited liability company ("AB Acquisition"), completed a reorganization of its legal entity structure whereby the existing equityholders of AB Acquisition each contributed their equity interests in AB Acquisition to Albertsons Investor Holdings LLC ("Albertsons Investor") and KIM ACI, LLC ("KIM ACI"). In exchange, equityholders received a proportionate share of units in Albertsons Investor and KIM ACI, respectively. Albertsons Investor and KIM ACI then contributed all of the AB Acquisition equity interests they received to ACI in exchange for common stock issued by ACI. As a result, Albertsons Investor and KIM ACI became the parents of ACI owning all of its outstanding common stock with AB Acquisition and its subsidiary, ACL, becoming wholly-owned subsidiaries of ACI. On February 25, 2018, ACL merged with and into ACI, with ACI as the surviving corporation (such transactions, collectively, the "Reorganization Transactions"). Prior to February 25, 2018, substantially all of the assets and operations of ACI were those of its subsidiary, ACL. The Reorganization Transactions were accounted for as a transaction between entities under common control and, accordingly, there was no change in the basis of the underlying assets and liabilities. The Consolidated Financial Statements are reflective of the changes that occurred as a result of the Reorganization Transactions. Prior to February 25, 2018, the Consolidated Financial Statements of ACI reflect the net assets and operations of ACL.

Significant Accounting Policies

Fiscal year: The Company's fiscal year ends on the last Saturday in February. Unless the context otherwise indicates, reference to a fiscal year of the Company refers to the calendar year in which such fiscal year commences. The Company's first quarter consists of 16 weeks, the second, third and fourth quarters generally each consist of 12 weeks, and the fiscal year generally consists of 52 weeks.

Use of estimates: The preparation of the Company's Consolidated Financial Statements in conformity with GAAP requires management to make estimates and assumptions that affect the reported amounts of assets and liabilities and the disclosure of contingent assets and liabilities at the date of the financial statements and the reported amounts of revenues and expenses for the reporting periods presented. Certain estimates require difficult, subjective or complex judgments about matters that are inherently uncertain. Actual results could differ from those estimates.


52



Cash and cash equivalents: Cash equivalents include all highly liquid investments with original maturities of three months or less at the time of purchase and outstanding deposits related to credit and debit card sales transactions that settle within a few days. Cash and cash equivalents related to credit and debit card transactions were $364.5 million and $315.8 million as of February 23, 2019 and February 24, 2018, respectively.

Restricted cash: Restricted cash is included in Other current assets and Other assets within the Consolidated Balance Sheets and primarily relates to surety bonds and funds held in escrow. The Company had $41.6 million and $10.5 million of restricted cash as of February 23, 2019 and February 24, 2018, respectively.

Receivables, net: Receivables consist primarily of trade accounts receivable, pharmacy accounts receivable and vendor receivables. Management makes estimates of the uncollectibility of its accounts receivable. In determining the adequacy of the allowances for doubtful accounts, management analyzes the value of collateral, historical collection experience, aging of receivables and other economic and industry factors. It is possible that the accuracy of the estimation process could be materially impacted by different judgments, estimations and assumptions based on the information considered and could result in a further adjustment of receivables. The allowance for doubtful accounts and bad debt expense were not material for any of the periods presented.

Inventories, net: Substantially all of the Company's inventories consist of finished goods valued at the lower of cost or market and net of vendor allowances.

As of February 23, 2019 and February 24, 2018, approximately 85.9% and 86.1%, respectively, of the Company's inventories were valued under the last-in, first-out ("LIFO") method. The Company primarily uses the retail inventory or the item-cost method to determine inventory cost before application of any LIFO adjustment. Under the retail inventory method, inventory cost is determined, before the application of any LIFO adjustment, by applying a cost-to-retail ratio to various categories of similar items to the retail value of those items. Under the item-cost method, the most recent purchase cost is used to determine the cost of inventory before the application of any LIFO adjustment. Replacement or current cost was higher than the carrying amount of inventories valued using LIFO by $125.1 million and $117.1 million as of February 23, 2019 and February 24, 2018, respectively. During fiscal 2018 and 2017, inventory quantities in certain LIFO layers were reduced. These reductions resulted in a liquidation of LIFO inventory quantities carried at lower costs prevailing in prior years as compared with the cost of fiscal 2018 and 2017 purchases. As a result, cost of sales decreased by $18.1 million and $16.7 million in fiscal 2018 and 2017, respectively. Liquidations of LIFO layers during fiscal 2016 did not have a material effect on the results of operations. Cost for the remaining inventories, which represents perishable and fuel inventories, was determined using the most recent purchase cost, which approximates the first-in, first-out ("FIFO") method. Perishables are counted every four weeks and are carried at the last purchased cost which approximates FIFO cost. Fuel inventories are carried at the last purchased cost, which approximates FIFO cost. The Company records inventory shortages based on actual physical counts at its facilities and also provides allowances for inventory shortages for the period between the last physical count and the balance sheet date.

Property and equipment, net: Property and equipment is recorded at cost or fair value for assets acquired as part of a business combination, and depreciation is calculated on the straight-line method over the estimated useful lives of the assets. Estimated useful lives are generally as follows: buildings - seven to 40 years; leasehold improvements - the shorter of the remaining lease term or ten to 20 years; fixtures and equipment - three to 15 years; and specialized supply chain equipment - six to 25 years.

Assets under capital leases are recorded at the lower of the present value of the future minimum lease payments or the fair value of the asset and are amortized on the straight-line method over the lesser of the lease term or the estimated useful life. Interest capitalized on property under construction was immaterial for all periods presented.

Impairment of long-lived assets: The Company regularly reviews its individual stores' operating performance, together with current market conditions, for indicators of impairment. When events or changes in circumstances indicate

53



that the carrying value of the individual store's assets may not be recoverable, its future undiscounted cash flows are compared to the carrying value. If the carrying value of store assets to be held and used is greater than the future undiscounted cash flows, an impairment loss is recognized to record the assets at fair value. For property and equipment held for sale, the Company recognizes impairment charges for the excess of the carrying value plus estimated costs of disposal over the fair value. Fair values are based on discounted cash flows or current market rates. These estimates of fair value can be significantly impacted by factors such as changes in the current economic environment and real estate market conditions. Long-lived asset impairments are recorded as a component of Selling and administrative expenses.

Lease exit costs: The Company records a liability for costs associated with closures of retail stores, distribution centers and other properties that are no longer utilized in current operations. For properties that have closed and are under long-term lease agreements, the present value of any remaining liability under the lease, net of estimated sublease recovery and discounted using credit adjusted risk-free rates, is recognized as a liability and charged to Selling and administrative expenses. These lease liabilities are usually paid over the lease terms associated with the property. Adjustments to lease exit reserves primarily relate to changes in subtenant income or actual exit costs that differ from original estimates. Lease exit reserves for closed properties are included as a component of Other current liabilities and Other long-term liabilities.

Intangible assets, net: The Company reviews finite-lived intangible assets for impairment in accordance with its policy for long-lived assets. The Company reviews intangible assets with indefinite useful lives and tests for impairment annually on the first day of the fourth quarter and also if events or changes in circumstances indicate the occurrence of a triggering event. The review consists of comparing the estimated fair value of the cash flows generated by the asset to the carrying value of the asset. Intangible assets with indefinite useful lives consist of restricted covenants and liquor licenses. Intangible assets with finite lives consist primarily of trade names, naming rights, customer prescription files, internally developed software and beneficial lease rights. Intangible assets with finite lives are amortized on a straight-line basis over an estimated economic life ranging from five to 40 years. Beneficial lease rights and unfavorable lease obligations are recorded on acquired leases based on the differences between the contractual rents for the remaining lease terms under the respective lease agreement and prevailing market rents for the related geography as of the lease acquisition date. Beneficial lease rights and unfavorable lease obligations are amortized over the expected lease term using the straight-line method.

Business combination measurements: In accordance with applicable accounting standards, the Company estimates the fair value of acquired assets and assumed liabilities as of the acquisition date of business combinations. These fair value adjustments are input into the calculation of goodwill related to the excess of the purchase price over the fair value of the tangible and identifiable intangible assets acquired and liabilities assumed in the acquisition.

The fair value of assets acquired and liabilities assumed are determined using market, income and cost approaches from the perspective of a market participant. The fair value measurements can be based on significant inputs that are not readily observable in the market. The market approach indicates value for a subject asset based on available market pricing for comparable assets. The market approach used includes prices and other relevant information generated by market transactions involving comparable assets, as well as pricing guides and other sources. The income approach indicates value for a subject asset based on the present value of cash flows projected to be generated by the asset. Projected cash flows are discounted at a required market rate of return that reflects the relative risk of achieving the cash flows and the time value of money. The cost approach, which estimates value by determining the current cost of replacing an asset with another of equivalent economic utility, was used for certain assets for which the market and income approaches could not be applied due to the nature of the asset. The cost to replace a given asset reflects the estimated reproduction or replacement cost for the asset, adjusted for obsolescence, whether physical, functional or economic.
Goodwill: The Company reviews goodwill for impairment annually on the first day of its fourth quarter and also if events or changes in circumstances indicate the occurrence of a triggering event. The Company reviews goodwill for

54



impairment by initially considering qualitative factors to determine whether it is more likely than not that the fair value of a reporting unit is less than its carrying amount, including goodwill, as a basis for determining whether it is necessary to perform a quantitative analysis. If it is determined that it is more likely than not that the fair value of reporting unit is less than its carrying amount, a quantitative analysis is performed to identify goodwill impairment. If it is determined that it is not more likely than not that the fair value of the reporting unit is less than its carrying amount, it is unnecessary to perform a quantitative analysis. The Company may elect to bypass the qualitative assessment and proceed directly to performing a quantitative analysis.

Investment in unconsolidated affiliates: The Company records equity in earnings from unconsolidated affiliates in Other income. Income from unconsolidated affiliates, excluding losses related to the disposal of the Company's investment in Casa Ley, S.A. de C.V. ("Casa Ley"), was immaterial in fiscal 2018, fiscal 2017 and fiscal 2016.

El Rancho: On November 16, 2017, the Company acquired an equity interest in Mexico Foods Parent LLC and La Fabrica Parent LLC ("El Rancho"), a Texas-based specialty grocer with 16 stores, for $100.0 million purchase consideration, consisting of $70.0 million in cash and $30.0 million of equity in the Company. The investment represents a 45% ownership interest in El Rancho which the Company is accounting for under the equity method. The Company has the option to acquire the remaining 55% of El Rancho at any time until six months after the delivery of El Rancho's financial results for the fiscal year ended December 31, 2021. If the Company elects to exercise the option to acquire the remaining equity of El Rancho, the price to be paid will be calculated using a predetermined market-based formula.

Casa Ley: During the fourth quarter of fiscal 2017, the Company sold its equity method investment in Casa Ley to Tenedora CL del Noroeste, S.A. de C.V. for ₱6.5 billion Mexican pesos (approximately $348.4 million in U.S. dollars). In connection with the sale, the Company recorded a loss, net of $25.0 million in the third quarter of fiscal 2017, which is included in Other income, driven by the change in the fair value of the assets held for sale and the change in fair value of the related Casa Ley contingent value rights ("CVRs"). Net proceeds from the sale were used to distribute approximately $222 million in cash (or approximately $0.934 in cash per Casa Ley CVR) pursuant to the terms of the Casa Ley CVR agreement.

Company-Owned life insurance policies ("COLI"): The Company has COLI policies that have a cash surrender value. The Company has loans against these policies. The Company has no intention of repaying the loans prior to maturity or cancellation of the policies. Therefore, the Company offsets the cash surrender value by the related loans. As of February 23, 2019 and February 24, 2018, the cash surrender values of the policies were $158.8 million and $170.9 million, and the balances of the policy loans were $94.4 million and $103.4 million, respectively. The net balance of the COLI policies is included in Other assets.

Interest rate risk management: The Company has entered into several interest rate swap contracts ("Swaps") to hedge against the variability in cash flows relating to interest payments on its outstanding variable rate term debt. Swaps are recognized in the Consolidated Balance Sheets at fair value. Changes in the fair value of Swaps designated as cash flow hedges, to the extent the hedges are highly effective, are recorded in Other comprehensive (loss) income, net of income taxes. Ineffective portions of cash flow hedges, if any, are recognized in current period earnings. Other comprehensive income (loss) is reclassified into current period earnings when the hedged transaction affects earnings. The Company assesses, both at the inception of the hedge and on an ongoing basis, whether derivatives used as hedging instruments are highly effective in offsetting the changes in the fair value or cash flow of the hedged items. If it is determined that a derivative is not highly effective as a hedge or ceases to be highly effective, the Company discontinues hedge accounting prospectively.

Energy contracts: The Company has entered into contracts to purchase electricity and natural gas at fixed prices for a portion of its energy needs. The Company expects to take delivery of the electricity and natural gas in the normal course of business. Contracts that qualify for the normal purchase exception under derivatives and hedging accounting guidance are not recorded at fair value. Energy purchased under these contracts is expensed as delivered. The Company also manages its exposure to changes in diesel prices utilized in the Company's distribution process through the use

55



of short-term heating oil derivative contracts. These contracts are economic hedges of price risk and are not designated or accounted for as hedging instruments for accounting purposes. Changes in the fair value of these instruments are recognized in earnings.

Self-Insurance liabilities: The Company is primarily self-insured for workers' compensation, property, automobile and general liability. The self-insurance liability is undiscounted and determined actuarially, based on claims filed and an estimate of claims incurred but not yet reported. The Company has established stop-loss amounts that limit the Company's further exposure after a claim reaches the designated stop-loss threshold. Stop-loss amounts for claims incurred for the years presented range from $0.5 million to $5.0 million per claim, depending upon the type of insurance coverage and the year the claim was incurred. In determining its self-insurance liabilities, the Company performs a continuing review of its overall position and reserving techniques. Since recorded amounts are based on estimates, the ultimate cost of all incurred claims and related expenses may be more or less than the recorded liabilities.
The Company has reinsurance receivables of $20.3 million and $21.7 million recorded within Receivables, net and $41.1 million and $62.4 million recorded within Other assets as of February 23, 2019 and February 24, 2018, respectively. The self-insurance liabilities and related reinsurance receivables are recorded gross.

Changes in self-insurance liabilities consisted of the following (in millions):
 
February 23,
2019
 
February 24,
2018
Beginning balance
$
1,217.7

 
$
1,264.9

Expense
323.5

 
314.4

Claim payments
(279.3
)
 
(287.6
)
Other reductions (1)
(115.6
)
 
(74.0
)
Ending balance
1,146.3

 
1,217.7

Less current portion
(306.8
)
 
(296.0
)
Long-term portion
$
839.5

 
$
921.7

(1) Primarily reflects the systematic adjustments to the fair value of assumed self-insurance liabilities from acquisitions and actuarial adjustments for claims experience.

Deferred rents: The Company recognizes rent holidays from the period of time the Company has possession of the property, as well as tenant allowances and escalating rent provisions, on a straight‑line basis over the expected term of the operating lease. The expected term may also include the exercise of renewal options if such exercise is determined to be reasonably assured and is used to determine whether the lease is capital or operating. Deferred rents are included in Other current liabilities and Other long-term liabilities.

Deferred gains on leases: The Company may receive up-front funds upon sublease or assignment of existing leases. Deferred gains related to subleases and assignments as of February 23, 2019 and February 24, 2018 were $13.7 million and $13.9 million, respectively, recorded in Other current liabilities, and $44.9 million and $58.6 million, respectively, recorded in Other long-term liabilities. These proceeds are amortized on a straight-line basis over an estimated sublease term.

In addition, deferred gains have been recorded in connection with several sale-leaseback transactions and are amortized over the lives of the leases. The current portion of deferred gains related to sale-leaseback transactions was $46.5 million and $62.4 million as of February 23, 2019 and February 24, 2018, respectively, recorded in Other current liabilities, with the long-term portion of $819.1 million and $482.2 million as of February 23, 2019 and February 24, 2018, respectively, recorded in Other long-term liabilities. Amortization of deferred gains related to sale-leaseback transactions was $75.7 million, $50.3 million and $37.0 million in fiscal 2018, fiscal 2017 and fiscal 2016, respectively, and was recorded as a component of Selling and administrative expenses.


56



Benefit plans and Multiemployer plans: Substantially all of the Company's employees are covered by various contributory and non-contributory pension, profit sharing or 401(k) plans, in addition to dedicated defined benefit plans for certain Safeway Inc. ("Safeway"), Shaw's and United Supermarkets, LLC ("United") employees. Certain employees participate in a long-term retention incentive bonus plan. The Company also provides certain health and welfare benefits, including short-term and long-term disability benefits to inactive disabled employees prior to retirement.

The Company recognizes a liability for the underfunded status of the defined benefit plans as a component of Other long-term liabilities. Actuarial gains or losses and prior service costs or credits are recorded within Other comprehensive (loss) income. The determination of the Company's obligation and related expense for its sponsored pensions and other post-retirement benefits is dependent, in part, on management's selection of certain actuarial assumptions in calculating these amounts. These assumptions include, among other things, the discount rate and expected long-term rate of return on plan assets.

Most union employees participate in multiemployer retirement plans pursuant to collective bargaining agreements, unless the collective bargaining agreement provides for participation in plans sponsored by the Company. Pension expense for the multiemployer plans is recognized as contributions are funded.

See Note 12 - Employee benefit plans and collective bargaining agreements for additional information.

Revenue recognition: Revenues from the retail sale of products are recognized at the point of sale to the customer, net of returns and sales tax. Pharmacy sales are recorded upon the customer receiving the prescription. Third party receivables from pharmacy sales were $252.2 million and $205.5 million as of February 23, 2019 and February 24, 2018, respectively, and are recorded in Receivables, net. For eCommerce related sales, which primarily include home delivery, "Drive Up and Go" curbside pickup and meal kit delivery, revenues are recognized upon either pickup in store or delivery to the customer and may include revenue for separately charged delivery services. Discounts provided to customers by the Company at the time of sale are recognized as a reduction in sales as the products are sold. Discounts provided to customers by vendors, usually in the form of coupons, are not recognized as a reduction in sales, provided the coupons are redeemable at any retailer that accepts coupons. The Company recognizes revenue and records a corresponding receivable from the vendor for the difference between the sales prices and the cash received from the customer. The Company records a contract liability when rewards are earned by customers in connection with the Company's loyalty programs. As rewards are redeemed or expire, the Company reduces the contract liability and recognizes revenue. The contract liability balance was immaterial in fiscal 2018, fiscal 2017 and fiscal 2016.

The Company records a contract liability when it sells its own proprietary gift cards. The Company records a sale when the customer redeems the gift card. The Company's gift cards do not expire. The Company reduces the contract liability and records revenue for the unused portion of gift cards ("breakage") in proportion to its customers' pattern of redemption, which the Company determined to be the historical redemption rate. The Company's contract liability related to gift cards was $55.9 million as of February 23, 2019 and $55.6 million as of February 24, 2018.


57



Disaggregated Revenues

The following table represents sales revenue by type of similar product (in millions):
 
Fiscal
2018
 
Fiscal
2017
 
Fiscal
2016
 
Amount
(1)
 
% of Total
 
Amount
(1)
 
% of Total
 
Amount
(1)
 
% of Total
Non-perishables (2)
$
26,371.8

 
43.6
%
 
$
26,522.0

 
44.3
%
 
$
26,699.2

 
44.7
%
Perishables (3)
24,920.9

 
41.2
%
 
24,583.7

 
41.0
%
 
24,398.5

 
40.9
%
Pharmacy
4,986.6

 
8.2
%
 
5,002.6

 
8.3
%
 
5,119.2

 
8.6
%
Fuel
3,455.9

 
5.7
%
 
3,104.6

 
5.2
%
 
2,693.4

 
4.5
%
Other (4)
799.3

 
1.3
%
 
711.7

 
1.2
%
 
767.9

 
1.3
%
Total
$
60,534.5

 
100.0
%
 
$
59,924.6

 
100.0
%
 
$
59,678.2

 
100.0
%
(1) eCommerce related sales are included in the categories to which the revenue pertains.
(2) Consists primarily of general merchandise, grocery and frozen foods.
(3) Consists primarily of produce, dairy, meat, deli, floral and seafood.
(4) Consists primarily of lottery and various other commissions, rental income and other miscellaneous income.

Cost of sales and vendor allowances: Cost of sales includes, among other things, purchasing, inbound freight costs, product quality testing costs, warehousing costs, internal transfer costs, advertising costs, private label program costs and strategic sourcing program costs.

The Company receives vendor allowances or rebates ("Vendor Allowances") for a variety of merchandising initiatives and buying activities. The terms of the Company's Vendor Allowances arrangements vary in length but are primarily expected to be completed within a quarter. The Company records Vendor Allowances as a reduction of Cost of sales when the associated products are sold. Vendor Allowances that have been earned as a result of completing the required performance under terms of the underlying agreements but for which the product has not yet been sold are recognized as reductions of inventory. The reduction of inventory for these Vendor Allowances was $74.8 million and $60.6 million as of February 23, 2019 and February 24, 2018, respectively.

Advertising costs are included in Cost of sales and are expensed in the period the advertising occurs. Cooperative advertising funds are recorded as a reduction of Cost of sales when the advertising occurs. Advertising costs were $422.3 million, $497.5 million and $502.4 million, net of cooperative advertising allowances of $101.3 million, $81.1 million and $71.9 million for fiscal 2018, fiscal 2017 and fiscal 2016, respectively.

Selling and administrative expenses: Selling and administrative expenses consist primarily of store and corporate employee-related costs such as salaries and wages, health and welfare, workers' compensation and pension benefits, as well as marketing and merchandising, rent, occupancy and operating costs, gains and losses related to the disposition of properties, asset impairment losses, amortization of intangibles and other administrative costs.

Income taxes: Prior to the Reorganization Transactions, ACL was organized as a limited liability company, wholly owned by its parent, AB Acquisition. As such, income taxes in respect of these operations were payable by the equity members of AB Acquisition. Entity-level federal and state taxes were provided on ACL's Subchapter C corporation subsidiaries, and state income taxes on its limited liability company subsidiaries where applicable. Upon completion of the Reorganization Transactions, all of the operating subsidiaries became subsidiaries of Albertsons Companies Inc., with all operations taxable as part of a consolidated group for federal and state income tax purposes. In connection with the Reorganization Transactions, in the fourth quarter of fiscal 2017, the Company recorded deferred income taxes on operations held by limited liability companies and previously taxed to the equity members. The Company's loss before taxes is primarily from domestic operations.


58



Deferred taxes are provided for the net tax effects of temporary differences between the financial reporting and income tax basis of assets and liabilities using enacted tax rates in effect for the year in which the differences are expected to reverse. The effect of a change in tax rates on deferred tax assets and liabilities is recognized in income in the period that includes the enactment date. Valuation allowances are established where management determines that it is more likely than not that some portion or all of a deferred tax asset will not be realized. The Company reviews tax positions taken or expected to be taken on tax returns to determine whether and to what extent a tax benefit can be recognized. The Company evaluates its positions taken and establishes liabilities in accordance with the applicable accounting guidance for uncertain tax positions. The Company reviews these liabilities as facts and circumstances change and adjusts accordingly. The Company recognizes any interest and penalties associated with uncertain tax positions as a component of Income tax expense. The Tax Act requires a U.S. shareholder of a controlled foreign corporation to provide U.S. taxes on its share of global low-taxed income ("GILTI"). The current and deferred tax impact of GILTI is not material to the Company. Accordingly, the Company will report the tax impact of GILTI as a period cost and not provide deferred taxes for the basis difference that would be expected to reverse as GILTI.

The Company is contractually indemnified by SUPERVALU INC. ("SuperValu") for any tax liability of New Albertsons L.P. ("NALP") arising from tax years prior to the NALP acquisition. The Company is also contractually obligated to pay SuperValu any tax benefit it receives in a tax year after the NALP acquisition as a result of an indemnification payment made by SuperValu. An indemnification asset and liability, where necessary, has been recorded to reflect this arrangement.

Segments: The Company and its subsidiaries offer grocery products, general merchandise, health and beauty care products, pharmacy, fuel and other items and services in its stores or through eCommerce channels. The Company's retail operating divisions are geographically based, have similar economic characteristics and similar expected long-term financial performance and are reported in one reportable segment. The Company's operating segments and reporting units are its 13 divisions, which have been aggregated into one reportable segment. Each reporting unit constitutes a business for which discrete financial information is available and for which management regularly reviews the operating results. Across all operating segments, the Company operates primarily one store format. Each store offers the same general mix of products with similar pricing to similar categories of customers, has similar distribution methods, operates in similar regulatory environments and purchases merchandise from similar or the same vendors.

Recently adopted accounting standards: In May 2014, the Financial Accounting Standards Board ("FASB") issued Accounting Standards Update ("ASU") 2014-09, "Revenue from Contracts with Customers (Topic 606)". The core principle of the guidance is that an entity should recognize revenue to depict the transfer of promised goods or services to customers in an amount that reflects the consideration to which the entity expects to be entitled in exchange for those goods or services. The Company adopted this guidance in the first quarter of fiscal 2018 on a modified retrospective basis, including implementing changes to processes and controls to comply with the new disclosure requirements. The adoption of this standard resulted in a decrease to accumulated deficit of $5.8 million. The adjustment relates to breakage on the unredeemed portion of the Company's gift cards, which are now recognized in proportion to customer redemptions of gift cards, rather than waiting until the likelihood of redemption becomes remote. Similar to previous guidance, in certain third-party arrangements where the Company had previously determined it acts as a principal versus an agent, the Company will continue to record revenue for these arrangements on a gross basis under the new guidance.

In March 2017, the FASB issued ASU 2017-07, "Compensation - Retirement Benefits (Topic 715) - Improving the Presentation of Net Periodic Pension Cost and Net Periodic Postretirement Benefit Cost." The Company adopted this guidance in the first quarter of fiscal 2018 on a retrospective basis. This ASU requires an employer to report the service cost component of net pension and post-retirement expense in the same line as other compensation costs from services rendered by employees during the period. Other components of net pension and post-retirement expense are required to be presented in the income statement separately from the service cost component. For the fiscal years ended February 24, 2018 and February 25, 2017, the Company reclassified $51.7 million and $32.9 million, respectively, of non-service pension and post-retirement cost components to Other income from Selling and administrative expenses.


59



In November 2016, the FASB issued ASU 2016-18, "Statement of Cash Flows - Restricted Cash (Topic 230)". The Company adopted this guidance in the first quarter of fiscal 2018 on a retrospective basis. The new guidance requires that restricted cash be added to Cash and cash equivalents when reconciling the beginning and ending amounts on the Consolidated Statements of Cash Flows. The guidance also requires entities that report cash and cash equivalents and restricted cash separately on the Consolidated Balance Sheets to reconcile those amounts to the Consolidated Statements of Cash Flows. For the fiscal years ended February 24, 2018 and February 25, 2017, the adoption of this standard resulted in a decrease to Net cash used in investing activities and an increase to Net increase (decrease) in cash and cash equivalents and restricted cash of $(0.6) million and $3.4 million, respectively. The following table provides a reconciliation of the amount of Cash and cash equivalents reported on the Consolidated Balance Sheets to the total of Cash and cash equivalents and restricted cash shown on the Consolidated Statements of Cash Flows (in millions):
 
February 23,
2019
 
February 24,
2018
 
February 25,
2017
Cash and cash equivalents
$
926.1

 
$
670.3

 
$
1,219.2

Restricted cash
41.6

 
10.5

 
9.9

Cash and cash equivalents and restricted cash
$
967.7

 
$
680.8

 
$
1,229.1



In August 2017, the FASB issued ASU 2017-12, "Derivatives and Hedging (Topic 815)". The new guidance more closely aligns the results of cash flow and fair value hedge accounting with risk management activities through changes to both the designation and measurement guidance for qualifying hedging relationships and the presentation of hedge results in the financial statements. The guidance expands hedge accounting for both nonfinancial and financial risk components and refines the measurement of hedge results to better reflect an entity's hedging strategies. The Company elected to early adopt this ASU beginning the first day of fiscal 2018. The adoption of this guidance did not have a material impact on the Company's Consolidated Financial Statements.

In January 2016, the FASB issued ASU 2016-01, "Financial Instruments-Overall (Subtopic 825-10): Recognition and Measurement of Financial Assets and Financial Liabilities". The ASU is intended to improve the recognition and measurement of financial instruments. The Company adopted this guidance in the first quarter of fiscal 2018. The new guidance requires equity investments, other than those accounted for under the equity method, to be measured at fair value, with changes in fair value recognized in net income. The guidance also amends certain disclosure requirements associated with the fair value of financial instruments. The adoption of this guidance did not have a material impact on the Company's Consolidated Financial Statements.

In August 2018, the FASB issued ASU 2018-15, "Intangibles - Goodwill and Other - Internal-Use Software (Subtopic 350-40)". The ASU is intended to improve the recognition and measurement of financial instruments. The new guidance aligns the requirements for capitalizing implementation costs incurred in a hosting arrangement that is a service contract with the requirements for capitalizing implementation costs incurred to develop or obtain internal-use software (and hosting arrangements that include an internal-use software license). The Company elected to early adopt this ASU in the second quarter of fiscal 2018 on a prospective basis. The adoption of this guidance did not have a material impact on the Company's Consolidated Financial Statements.

Recently issued accounting standards: In February 2016, the FASB issued ASU 2016-02, "Leases (Topic 842)". The ASU will require organizations that lease assets to recognize on the balance sheet the assets and liabilities for the rights and obligations created by those leases. The new guidance will require both classifications of leases, operating and capital, to be recognized on the balance sheet. Consistent with current GAAP, the recognition, measurement and presentation of expenses and cash flows arising from a lease will depend on its classification. The ASU also will require disclosures to help investors and other financial statement users better understand the amount, timing and uncertainty of cash flows arising from leases. The Company plans to adopt this guidance in the first quarter of fiscal 2019. The Company plans to apply the practical expedients permitted within the guidance, which allows the Company to carryforward its historical lease classification, and to apply the transition option which does not require application of the guidance to comparative periods in the year of adoption. The Company has formed a dedicated project team and developed a comprehensive multi-stage project plan to assess and implement this ASU. This assessment includes

60



reviewing all forms of leases and leveraging a technology solution in implementing the new ASU. Upon adoption of the ASU, the Company expects to recognize a right of use asset of approximately $5.3 billion and a lease liability of approximately $5.4 billion. Upon adoption of the ASU, the Company also expects to recognize a transitional adjustment of approximately $866 million ($641 million, net of tax) to Stockholders' equity to eliminate deferred gains on sale-leaseback transactions. The transitional adjustment of the deferred gain on sale-leaseback transactions will result in the elimination of approximately $47 million ($34 million, net of tax) of annual amortization of deferred gains in future Consolidated Statements of Operations. The Company does not expect the adoption to have a material impact on the Company's Consolidated Statements of Cash Flows. The preparation for adoption of this ASU is ongoing and the estimated impacts of adoption are preliminary and subject to change.

In February 2018, the FASB issued ASU 2018-02, "Reclassification of Certain Tax Effects from Accumulated Other Comprehensive Income". This ASU amends ASC 220, "Income Statement - Reporting Comprehensive Income," to allow a reclassification from accumulated other comprehensive income to retained earnings for stranded tax effects resulting from the Tax Act. In addition, under the ASU, the Company may be required to provide certain disclosures regarding stranded tax effects. The ASU will take effect for public entities for annual reporting periods beginning after December 15, 2018, and interim periods within those fiscal years. The Company plans to adopt this guidance in the first quarter of fiscal 2019. The Company is currently evaluating the effect of the standard on its Consolidated Financial Statements.

NOTE 2 - ACQUISITIONS

Termination of Merger Agreement with Rite Aid

As previously disclosed, on February 18, 2018, the Company and its wholly-owned subsidiaries, Ranch Acquisition II LLC and Ranch Acquisition Corp. (together with Ranch Acquisition II LLC, "Merger Subs") and Rite Aid Corporation ("Rite Aid") entered into an Agreement and Plan of Merger (the "Merger Agreement"). On August 8, 2018, the Company, Merger Subs and Rite Aid entered into a Termination Agreement (the "Termination Agreement") under which the parties mutually agreed to terminate the Merger Agreement. Subject to limited customary exceptions, the Termination Agreement also mutually releases the parties from any claims of liability to one another relating to the contemplated merger transaction. Under the terms of the Merger Agreement, neither the Company nor Rite Aid will be responsible for any payments to the other party as a result of the termination of the Merger Agreement.

Fiscal 2017

Plated

On September 20, 2017, the Company acquired DineInFresh, Inc. ("Plated"), a provider of meal kit services, for purchase consideration of $219.5 million, consisting of cash consideration of $117.3 million, deferred cash consideration with a fair value of $42.1 million, and contingent consideration with a fair value of $60.1 million on the acquisition date. The total deferred cash consideration is $50.0 million and is paid out in installment payments over three years. In addition, the sellers have the potential to earn additional contingent consideration of up to $125.0 million if certain revenue targets are met over the next three years. The contingent consideration will be paid in cash or equity that is puttable to the Company in the event the Company's parent does not complete an initial public offering or change of control within a certain period of time following the closing.

The Plated acquisition was accounted for under the acquisition method of accounting. The purchase price was allocated to the fair values of the identifiable assets and liabilities, with any excess of purchase price over the fair value recognized as goodwill. Net assets acquired primarily consisted of intangible assets and goodwill valued at $67.1 million and $146.2 million, respectively. Intangible assets acquired consisted of trademarks and tradenames, customer lists and software. The goodwill was primarily attributable to synergies the Company expects to achieve related to the acquisition. In connection with the acquisition, the Company also expensed $6.3 million related to unvested equity awards of Plated.

61



The goodwill is not deductible for tax purposes. Pro forma results are not presented as the acquisition was not considered material to the Company. Third party acquisition-related costs were immaterial for fiscal 2017 and were expensed as incurred as a component of Selling and administrative expenses.

MedCart

On May 31, 2017, the Company acquired MedCart Specialty Pharmacy for $34.5 million, including the cost of acquired inventory. The acquisition was accounted for under the acquisition method of accounting and resulted in $11.6 million of goodwill that is deductible for tax purposes. In connection with the purchase, the Company provided an earn-out opportunity that has the potential to pay the sellers an additional $17.2 million, collectively, if the business achieves specified performance targets during the first three years subsequent to the acquisition. As the earn-out is conditioned on the continued service of the sellers, it will be recorded as compensation expense based on the probability of achieving the performance targets. Pro forma results are not presented, as the acquisition was not considered material to the Company.

Fiscal 2016

Haggen

During fiscal 2015, Haggen Holdings, LLC ("Haggen") secured Bankruptcy Court approval for bidding procedures for the sale of 29 stores. On March 25, 2016, the Company entered into a purchase agreement to acquire the 29 stores from Haggen, including 15 stores originally sold to Haggen as part of the Federal Trade Commission mandated divestitures, and certain trade names and intellectual property, for an aggregate purchase price of approximately $113.8 million, including the cost of acquired inventory. The fiscal 2016 Haggen transaction was accounted for under the acquisition method of accounting. The following summarizes the allocation of the fair value of assets acquired and liabilities assumed at the acquisition date (in millions):
 
June 2,
2016
Inventory
$
31.8

Other current assets
2.5

Property and equipment
89.9

Intangible assets, primarily pharmacy scripts and trade names
31.4

Total assets acquired
155.6

 
 
Capital lease obligations
35.2

Other long-term liabilities
22.7

Total liabilities assumed
57.9

 
 
Net assets purchased
97.7

Goodwill
16.1

Total purchase consideration
$
113.8


The goodwill recorded of $16.1 million was primarily attributable to the operational and administrative synergies expected to arise from the transaction. The goodwill associated with this transaction is deductible for tax purposes. This transaction did not have a material impact on the Company's Consolidated Statement of Operations and Comprehensive Income (Loss) for fiscal 2016. Pro forma results are not presented, as the acquisition was not considered material to the consolidated Company. Third-party acquisition-related costs were immaterial for fiscal 2016 and were expensed as incurred as a component of Selling and administrative expenses.
During fiscal 2016, the Company had other individually immaterial acquisitions resulting in net cash paid of $106.8 million and an additional $20.6 million of goodwill.


62



NOTE 3 - LEASE EXIT COSTS AND PROPERTIES HELD FOR SALE
Lease Exit Costs

Changes to the Company's lease exit cost reserves for closed properties consisted of the following (in millions):
 
February 23,
2019
 
February 24,
2018
Beginning balance
$
58.2

 
$
44.4

Additions
26.6

 
32.7

Payments
(16.6
)
 
(17.9
)
Disposals
(1.7
)
 
(1.0
)
Ending balance
$
66.5

 
$
58.2



The Company closed 55 non-strategic stores in fiscal 2018 and 26 in fiscal 2017. Lease exit costs related to closed properties were recorded at the time of closing as a component of Selling and administrative expenses.
Properties Held for Sale
Assets held for sale and liabilities held for sale are recorded in Other current assets and Other current liabilities, respectively, and consisted of the following (in millions):
 
February 23,
2019
 
February 24,
2018
Assets held for sale:
 
 
 
Beginning balance
$
29.9

 
$
3.1

Transfers in
18.6

 
295.5

Disposals
(46.7
)
 
(268.7
)
Ending balance
$
1.8

 
$
29.9

 
 
 
 
Liabilities held for sale:
 
 
 
Beginning balance
$
10.5

 
$
15.4

Transfers in
5.7

 
—

Disposals
(7.9
)
 
(4.9
)
Ending balance
$
8.3

 
$
10.5


Sale-Leaseback Transactions

During fiscal 2018, the Company, through three separate transactions, completed the sale and leaseback of seven of the Company's distribution centers for an aggregate purchase price, net of closing costs, of approximately $950 million. In connection with the sale and leasebacks, the Company entered into lease agreements for each of the properties for initial terms of 15 to 20 years. The aggregate initial annual rent payment for the properties will be approximately $55 million and includes 1.50% to 1.75% annual rent increases over the initial lease terms. The Company qualified for sale-leaseback and operating lease accounting on all of the distribution centers and recorded total deferred gains of $362.5 million, which are being amortized over the respective lease periods.

During fiscal 2017, certain subsidiaries of the Company sold 94 of the Company's store properties for an aggregate purchase price, net of closing costs, of approximately $962 million. In connection with the sale and subsequent leaseback, the Company entered into lease agreements for each of the properties for initial terms of 20 years with varying multiple five-year renewal options. The aggregate initial annual rent payments for the 94 properties will be approximately $65 million, with scheduled rent increases occurring generally every one or five years over the initial 20-year term. The Company qualified for sale-leaseback and operating lease accounting on 80 of the store properties

63



and recorded a deferred gain of $360.1 million, which is being amortized over the respective lease periods. The remaining 14 stores did not qualify for sale-leaseback accounting primarily due to continuing involvement with adjacent properties that have not been legally subdivided from the store properties. The Company expects these store properties to qualify for sale-leaseback accounting once the adjacent properties have been legally subdivided. The financing lease liability recorded for the 14 store properties was $133.4 million.

NOTE 4 - PROPERTY AND EQUIPMENT

Property and equipment consisted of the following (in millions):
 
February 23,
2019
 
February 24,
2018
Land
$
2,382.7

 
$
2,624.7

Buildings
4,968.4

 
5,407.9

Property under construction
652.2

 
579.3

Leasehold improvements
1,468.3

 
1,367.5

Fixtures and equipment
5,132.1

 
4,488.9

Property under capital leases
970.8

 
1,037.1

Total property and equipment
15,574.5

 
15,505.4

 
 
 
 
Accumulated depreciation and amortization
(5,713.2
)
 
(4,735.1
)
Total property and equipment, net
$
9,861.3

 
$
10,770.3



Depreciation expense was $1,257.7 million, $1,330.5 million and $1,245.5 million for fiscal 2018, fiscal 2017 and fiscal 2016, respectively. Amortization expense related to capitalized lease assets was $101.4 million, $120.2 million and $144.5 million in fiscal 2018, fiscal 2017 and fiscal 2016, respectively. Fixed asset impairment losses of $31.0 million, $78.8 million and $39.5 million were recorded as a component of Selling and administrative expenses in fiscal 2018, fiscal 2017 and fiscal 2016, respectively. The impairment losses primarily relate to assets in underperforming stores.

NOTE 5 - GOODWILL AND INTANGIBLE ASSETS

The following table summarizes the changes in the Company's goodwill balances (in millions):
 
February 23,
2019
 
February 24,
2018
Balance at beginning of year
$
1,183.3

 
$
1,167.8

Acquisitions and related adjustments
—

 
157.8

Impairment
—

 
(142.3
)
Balance at end of year
$
1,183.3

 
$
1,183.3



During the second quarter of fiscal 2017, there was a sustained decline in the market multiples of publicly traded peer companies. In addition, during the second quarter of fiscal 2017, the Company revised its short-term operating plan. As a result, the Company determined that an interim review of its recoverability of goodwill was necessary. Consequently, during the second quarter of fiscal 2017, the Company recorded a goodwill impairment loss of $142.3 million, substantially all within the Acme reporting unit relating to the November 2015 acquisition of stores from The Great Atlantic and Pacific Tea Company, Inc., due to changes in the estimate of its long-term future financial performance to reflect lower expectations for growth in revenue and earnings than previously estimated. The goodwill impairment loss was based on a quantitative analysis using a combination of a discounted cash flow model (income approach) and a guideline public company comparative analysis (market approach).


64



The Company's Intangible assets, net consisted of the following (in millions):
 
 
 
February 23,
2019
 
February 24,
2018
 
Estimated useful lives (Years)
 
Gross carrying amount
 
Accumulated amortization
 
Net
 
Gross carrying amount
 
Accumulated amortization
 
Net
Trade names
40
 
$
1,959.1

 
$
(231.7
)
 
$
1,727.4

 
$
1,960.4

 
$
(174.1
)
 
$
1,786.3

Beneficial lease rights
12
 
892.0

 
(410.6
)
 
481.4

 
918.3

 
(355.7
)
 
562.6

Customer prescription files
5
 
1,483.4

 
(1,276.1
)
 
207.3

 
1,486.4

 
(1,078.1
)
 
408.3

Internally developed software
5
 
672.4

 
(348.1
)
 
324.3

 
537.1

 
(246.3
)
 
290.8

Other intangible
    assets (1)
6
 
22.4

 
(14.4
)
 
8.0

 
27.1

 
(7.9
)
 
19.2

Total finite-lived intangible assets
 
 
5,029.3

 
(2,280.9
)
 
2,748.4

 
4,929.3

 
(1,862.1
)
 
3,067.2

Liquor licenses and restricted covenants
Indefinite
 
86.1

 
—

 
86.1

 
75.3

 
—

 
75.3

Total intangible assets, net
 
 
$
5,115.4

 
$
(2,280.9
)
 
$
2,834.5

 
$
5,004.6

 
$
(1,862.1
)
 
$
3,142.5


(1) Other intangible assets consists of covenants not to compete, specialty accreditation and licenses and patents.

Amortization expense for intangible assets with finite useful lives was $444.2 million, $525.2 million and $512.7 million for fiscal 2018, fiscal 2017 and fiscal 2016, respectively. Estimated future amortization expense associated with the net carrying amount of intangibles with finite lives is as follows (in millions):
Fiscal Year
Amortization Expected
2019
$
457.9

2020
217.8

2021
191.8

2022
163.8

2023
119.0

Thereafter
1,598.1

Total
$
2,748.4



During fiscal 2018, fiscal 2017 and fiscal 2016, the Company had intangible asset impairment losses of $5.3 million, $22.1 million and $7.1 million, respectively. The impairment losses primarily relate to underperforming stores, with fiscal 2017 also including a $12.8 million loss related to information technology assets in connection with the Company's development of a new digital platform.

The Company had long-term liabilities for unfavorable operating lease intangibles related to above-market leases of $372.6 million and $440.1 million as of February 23, 2019 and February 24, 2018, respectively. Amortization of unfavorable operating leases recorded as a reduction of expense was $64.5 million, $77.8 million and $97.9 million for fiscal 2018, fiscal 2017 and fiscal 2016, respectively.

NOTE 6 - FAIR VALUE MEASUREMENTS
The accounting guidance for fair value established a framework for measuring fair value and established a three-level valuation hierarchy for disclosure of fair value measurement. The valuation hierarchy is based upon the transparency of inputs to the valuation of an asset or liability at the measurement date. The three levels are defined as follows:

65



Level 1 -
Quoted prices in active markets for identical assets or liabilities;
Level 2 -
Inputs other than quoted prices included within Level 1 that are either directly or indirectly observable;
Level 3 -
Unobservable inputs in which little or no market activity exists, requiring an entity to develop its own assumptions that market participants would use to value the asset or liability.

Fair value is defined as the price that would be received to sell an asset or paid to transfer a liability in an orderly transaction between market participants at the measurement date.

The following table presents assets and liabilities which are measured at fair value on a recurring basis as of February 23, 2019 (in millions):
 
 
Fair Value Measurements
 
 
Total
 
Quoted prices 
in active markets
for identical
assets
(Level 1)
 
Significant
observable
inputs
(Level 2)
 
Significant
unobservable
inputs
(Level 3)
Assets:
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
Cash equivalents:
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
Money Market
 
$
489.0

 
$
489.0

 
$
—

 
$
—

Short-term investments (1)
 
23.1

 
21.0

 
2.1

 
—

Non-current investments (2)
 
84.2

 
30.5

 
53.7

 
—

Total
 
$
596.3

 
$
540.5

 
$
55.8

 
$
—

 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
Liabilities:
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
Derivative contracts (3)
 
$
21.1

 
$
—

 
$
21.1

 
$
—

Total
 
$
21.1

 
$
—

 
$
21.1

 
$
—

(1) Primarily relates to Mutual Funds. Included in Other current assets.
(2) Primarily relates to investments in publicly traded stock (Level 1) and U.S. Treasury Notes and Corporate Bonds (Level 2). Included in Other assets.
(3) Primarily relates to interest rate swaps. Included in Other current liabilities.


66



The following table presents assets and liabilities which are measured at fair value on a recurring basis as of February 24, 2018 (in millions):
 
 
Fair Value Measurements
 
 
Total
 
Quoted prices 
in active markets
for identical
assets
(Level 1)
 
Significant
observable
inputs
(Level 2)
 
Significant
unobservable
inputs
(Level 3)
Assets:
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
Cash equivalents:
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
Money Market
 
$
198.0

 
$
198.0

 
$
—

 
$
—

Short-term investments (1)
 
24.5

 
22.1

 
2.4

 
—

Non-current investments (2)
 
91.2

 
40.2

 
51.0

 
—

Total
 
$
313.7

 
$
260.3

 
$
53.4

 
$
—

 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
Liabilities:
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
Derivative contracts (3)
 
$
11.8

 
$
—

 
$
11.8

 
$
—

Contingent consideration (4)
 
60.0

 
—

 
—

 
60.0

Total
 
$
71.8

 
$
—

 
$
11.8

 
$
60.0

(1) Primarily relates to Mutual Funds. Included in Other current assets.
(2) Primarily relates to investments in publicly traded stock (Level 1) and U.S. Treasury Notes and Corporate Bonds (Level 2). Included in Other assets.
(3) Primarily relates to interest rate swaps. Included in Other current liabilities.
(4) Included in Other current liabilities and Other long-term liabilities.

Contingent consideration obligations are a Level 3 measurement based on cash flow projections and other assumptions for the milestone performance targets. Changes in fair value of the contingent consideration are recorded in the consolidated statements of operations within Other income.

A reconciliation of the beginning and ending balances for contingent consideration obligations are as follows (in millions):
 
Contingent Consideration
 
February 23,
2019

February 24,
2018
Beginning balance
$
60.0

 
$
281.0

Plated acquisition
—

 
60.1

Change in fair value
(59.3
)
 
(50.9
)
Payments
(0.7
)
 
(230.2
)
Ending balance
$
—

 
$
60.0



The estimated fair value of the Company's debt, including current maturities, was based on Level 2 inputs, being market quotes or values for similar instruments, and interest rates currently available to the Company for the issuance of debt with similar terms and remaining maturities as a discount rate for the remaining principal payments. As of February 23, 2019, the fair value of total debt was $9,801.2 million compared to a carrying value of $10,086.3 million, excluding debt discounts and deferred financing costs. As of February 24, 2018, the fair value of total debt was $10,603.4 million compared to the carrying value of $11,340.5 million, excluding debt discounts and deferred financing costs.

67



Assets Measured at Fair Value on a Nonrecurring Basis

The Company measures certain assets at fair value on a non-recurring basis, including long-lived assets and goodwill, which are evaluated for impairment. Long-lived assets include store-related assets such as property and equipment and certain intangible assets. The inputs used to determine the fair value of long-lived assets and a reporting unit are considered Level 3 measurements due to their subjective nature. As described elsewhere in these Consolidated Financial Statements, the Company recorded a goodwill impairment loss of $142.3 million during fiscal 2017. No goodwill impairment losses were recorded during fiscal 2018 and fiscal 2016. The Company also recorded long-lived asset impairment losses of $36.3 million, $100.9 million and $46.6 million during fiscal 2018, fiscal 2017 and fiscal 2016, respectively.

NOTE 7 - DERIVATIVE FINANCIAL INSTRUMENTS
Interest Rate Risk Management

The Company is exposed to market risk from fluctuations in interest rates. The Company manages its exposure to interest rate fluctuations through the use of interest rate swaps (the "Cash Flow Hedges"). The Company's risk management objective and strategy with respect to interest rate swaps is to protect the Company against adverse fluctuations in interest rates by reducing its exposure to variability in cash flows relating to interest payments on a portion of its outstanding debt. The Company is meeting its objective by hedging the risk of changes in its cash flows (interest payments) attributable to changes in the London Inter-Bank Offering Rate ("LIBOR"), the designated benchmark interest rate being hedged, on an amount of the Company's debt principal equal to the then-outstanding swap notional amount.
Cash Flow Interest Rate Swaps

For derivative instruments that are designated and qualify as Cash Flow Hedges of forecasted interest payments, the Company reports the effective portion of the gain or loss as a component of Other comprehensive income (loss) until the interest payments being hedged are recorded as Interest expense, net, at which time the amounts in Other comprehensive income (loss) are reclassified as an adjustment to Interest expense, net. Gains or losses on any ineffective portion of derivative instruments in cash flow hedging relationships are recorded in the period in which they occur as a component of Other income in the Consolidated Statement of Operations and Comprehensive Income (Loss). The Company has entered into several swaps with maturity dates in 2019, 2021 and 2023 to hedge against variability in cash flows relating to interest payments on a portion of the Company's outstanding variable rate term debt. The aggregate notional amount of all swaps as of February 23, 2019 and February 24, 2018, were $2,123.2 million and $3,110.0 million, of which $2,065.2 million and $3,052.0 million are designated as Cash Flow Hedges, respectively, as defined by GAAP. The undesignated portion of the Company's interest rate swaps is attributable to principal payments expected to be made through the loan's maturity.

During fiscal 2014, in connection with the financing related to the Safeway acquisition, the Company entered into a deal-contingent interest rate swap ("Deal-Contingent Swap") used to hedge against adverse fluctuations in interest rates by reducing its exposure to variability in cash flows relating to interest payments on anticipated variable rate debt issuances in connection with the Safeway acquisition. In accordance with the swap agreement, the Company receives a floating rate of interest and pays a fixed rate of interest for the life of the contract. The aggregate notional amount of the Deal-Contingent Swap as of February 23, 2019 and February 24, 2018 was $930.2 million and $1,667.0 million, respectively. At the close of the Safeway acquisition, the Company designated it as a Cash Flow Hedge. The fair value of the swap liability on the designation date was $96.1 million with changes in fair value recorded through earnings for the period prior to the designation date.

On June 20, 2018, the Company entered into two new interest rate swap agreements with notional amounts of $339.0 million and $254.0 million, with an effective date of March 2019 and maturing in March 2023. These swaps hedge

68



against variability in cash flows relating to interest payments on the Company's outstanding variable rate debt. Accordingly, the interest rate swaps have been designated as Cash Flow Hedges as defined by GAAP.

As of February 23, 2019 and February 24, 2018, the fair value of the Company's interest rate swap liability was $21.6 million and $13.0 million, respectively, and was recorded in Other current liabilities.

Contemporaneously with the refinancing of the Albertsons Term Loans on December 23, 2016 (as described in Note 8 - Long-term debt), the Company amended each of its existing interest rate swaps to reduce the floor on LIBOR from 100 basis points to 75 basis points. As a result, the Company dedesignated its original Cash Flow Hedges and redesignated the amended swaps prospectively. Losses of $23.9 million, net of tax, deferred into Other comprehensive income (loss) as of the dedesignation date, which were associated with the original Cash Flow Hedges, are being amortized to interest expense over the remaining life of the hedges.

Activity related to the Company's derivative instruments designated as Cash Flow Hedges consisted of the following (in millions):
 
 
Amount of (loss) income recognized from derivatives
 
 
Derivatives designated as hedging instruments
 
Fiscal
2018
 
Fiscal
2017
 
Fiscal
2016
 
Location of (loss) income recognized from derivatives
Designated interest rate swaps
 
$
(15.5
)
 
$
47.0

 
$
39.4

 
Other comprehensive (loss) income


Activity related to the Company's derivative instruments not designated as hedging instruments was immaterial during fiscal 2018, fiscal 2017 and fiscal 2016.


69



NOTE 8 - LONG-TERM DEBT

The Company's long-term debt as of February 23, 2019 and February 24, 2018, net of debt discounts of $197.0 million and $249.6 million, respectively, and deferred financing costs of $65.2 million and $79.7 million, respectively, consisted of the following (in millions):
 
February 23,
2019
 
February 24,
2018
Albertsons Term Loans, due 2022 to 2025, interest range of 4.32% to 5.69%
$
4,610.7

 
$
5,610.7

Senior Unsecured Notes due 2024, 2025 and 2026, interest rate of 6.625%, 5.750% and 7.5%, respectively
3,071.6

 
2,476.1

Safeway Inc. 5.00% Senior Notes due 2019
—

 
269.5

Safeway Inc. 3.95% Senior Notes due 2020
137.2

 
137.5

Safeway Inc. 4.75% Senior Notes due 2021
130.6

 
130.8

New Albertson's L.P. 6.52% to 7.15% Medium Term Notes due 2027 - 2028
154.0

 
190.9

Safeway Inc. 7.45% Senior Debentures due 2027
129.2

 
152.5

Safeway Inc. 7.25% Debentures due 2031
278.3

 
576.6

New Albertson's L.P. 7.75% Debentures due 2026
143.0

 
140.1

New Albertson's L.P. 7.45% Debentures due 2029
484.2

 
525.5

New Albertson's L.P. 8.70% Debentures due 2030
186.8

 
186.6

New Albertson's L.P. 8.00% Debentures due 2031
354.3

 
350.8

Other financing liabilities, unsecured
125.4

 
242.7

Mortgage notes payable, secured
18.8

 
20.9

Total debt
9,824.1

 
11,011.2

Less current maturities
(51.5
)
 
(66.1
)
Long-term portion
$
9,772.6

 
$
10,945.1



As of February 23, 2019, the future maturities of long-term debt, excluding debt discounts and deferred financing costs, consisted of the following (in millions):
2019
$
51.5

2020
188.5

2021
181.9

2022
1,128.7

2023
1,533.2

Thereafter
7,002.5

Total
$
10,086.3



The Company's term loans (the "Albertsons Term Loans"), asset-based loan ("ABL") facility (the "ABL Facility") and certain of the outstanding notes and debentures have restrictive covenants, subject to the right to cure in certain circumstances, calling for the acceleration of payments due in the event of a breach of a covenant or a default in the payment of a specified amount of indebtedness due under certain debt arrangements. There are no restrictions on the Company's ability to receive distributions from its subsidiaries to fund interest and principal payments due under the ABL Facility, the Albertsons Term Loans and the Company's senior unsecured notes (the "Senior Unsecured Notes"). Each of the ABL Facility, Albertsons Term Loans and the Senior Unsecured Notes restrict the ability of the Company to pay dividends and distribute property to the Company's stockholders. As a result, all of the Company's consolidated net assets are effectively restricted with respect to their ability to be transferred to the Company's stockholders. Notwithstanding the foregoing, the ABL Facility, the Albertsons Term Loans and the Senior Unsecured Notes each contain customary exceptions for certain dividends and distributions, including the ability to make cumulative distributions under the Albertsons Term Loans and Senior Unsecured Notes of up to the greater of $1.0 billion or 4.0% of the Company's total assets (which is measured at the time of such distribution) and the ability to make distributions if certain payment conditions are satisfied under the ABL Facility. During fiscal 2017, the Company utilized the

70



foregoing exception in connection with distributions to equity holders (as described in Note 10 - Stockholders' Equity). The Company was in compliance with all such covenants and provisions as of and for the fiscal year ended February 23, 2019.
Albertsons Term Loans

As of February 27, 2016, the Albertsons Term Loans under the Albertsons term loan agreement totaled $7,365.3 million, excluding debt discounts and deferred financing costs. The Albertsons Term Loans consisted of a Term B-2 Loan of $1,426.2 million with an interest rate of LIBOR, subject to a 1.0% floor, plus 4.50%, a Term B-3 Loan of $914.4 million with an interest rate of LIBOR, subject to a 1.0% floor, plus 4.125%, a Term B-4 Loan of $3,581.9 million with an interest rate of LIBOR, subject to a 1.0% floor, plus 4.5%, a Term B-4-1 Loan of $297.8 million with an interest rate of LIBOR, subject to a 1.0% floor, plus 4.5% and a Term B-5 Loan of $1,145.0 million with an interest rate of LIBOR, subject to a 1.0% floor, plus 4.5%.
On May 31, 2016, a portion of the net proceeds from the issuance of the 6.625% Senior Unsecured Notes (the "2024 Notes"), as further discussed below, was used to repay $519.8 million of principal on the then-existing Term B-3 Loan due 2019. The Company wrote off $15.0 million of deferred financing costs and original issue discounts in connection with the Term B-3 Loan paydown.
On June 22, 2016, the Company amended the agreement governing the Albertsons Term Loans in which three new term loan tranches were established and certain provisions of such agreement were amended. The tranches consisted of $3,280.0 million of a 2016-1 Term B-4 Loan, $1,145.0 million of a 2016-1 Term B-5 Loan and $2,100.0 million of a Term B-6 Loan (collectively, the "June 2016 Term Loans"). The proceeds from the issuance of the June 2016 Term Loans, together with $300.0 million of borrowings under the ABL Facility, were used to repay the then-existing Albertsons Term Loans and related interest and fees (collectively, the "June 2016 Term Loan Refinancing"). The June 2016 Term Loan Refinancing was accounted for as a debt modification. In connection with the June 2016 Term Loan Refinancing, the Company expensed $27.6 million of financing costs and also wrote off $12.8 million of deferred financing costs associated with the original Albertsons Term Loans. The 2016-1 Term B-4 Loan had an original maturity date of August 25, 2021, and had an interest rate of LIBOR, subject to a 1.0% floor, plus 3.5%. The 2016-1 Term B-5 Loan had an original maturity date of December 21, 2022, and had an interest rate of LIBOR, subject to a 1.0% floor, plus 3.75%. The Term B-6 Loan had an original maturity date of June 22, 2023, and had an interest rate of LIBOR, subject to a 1.0% floor, plus 3.75%.
On August 9, 2016, a portion of the net proceeds from the issuance of the 5.750% Senior Secured Notes (the "2025 Notes"), as further discussed below, was used to repay $500.0 million of principal on the Term B-6 Loan. The Company wrote off $9.2 million of deferred financing costs and original issue discounts in connection with the Term B-6 Loan paydown.
On December 23, 2016, the Company amended the agreement governing the Albertsons Term Loans in which three new term loan tranches were established and certain provisions of such agreement were amended. The new tranches consisted of $3,271.8 million of a new 2016-2 Term B-4 Loan, $1,142.1 million of a new 2016-2 Term B-5 Loan and $1,600.0 million of a new 2016-1 Term B-6 Loan (collectively, the "New Term Loans"). The proceeds from the issuance of the New Term Loans were used to repay the then-existing Albertsons Term Loans and related interest and fees (collectively, the "December 2016 Term Loan Refinancing"). The December 2016 Term Loan Refinancing was accounted for as a debt modification. In connection with the December 2016 Term Loan Refinancing the Company expensed $7.9 million of financing costs and also wrote off $14.0 million of deferred financing costs associated with the original Albertsons Term Loans.

As of February 25, 2017, the Albertsons Term Loans under the Albertsons term loan agreement totaled $6,013.9 million, excluding debt discounts and deferred financing costs. The Albertsons Term Loans consisted of a Term B-4 Loan of $3,271.8 million with an interest rate of LIBOR, subject to a 0.75% floor, plus 3.00%, a Term B-5 Loan of $1,142.1

71



million with an interest rate of LIBOR, subject to a 0.75% floor, plus 3.25%, a Term B-6 Loan of $1,600.0 million with an interest rate of LIBOR, subject to a 0.75% floor, plus 3.25%.
On June 16, 2017, the Company repaid $250.0 million of the existing term loans. In connection with the repayment, the Company wrote off $7.6 million of deferred financing costs and original issue discounts.
On June 27, 2017, the Company entered into a repricing amendment to the term loan agreement which established three new term loan tranches. The new tranches consist of $3,013.6 million of a new Term B-4 Loan, $1,139.3 million of a new Term B-5 Loan and $1,596.0 million of a new Term B-6 Loan. The (i) new Term B-4 Loan will mature on August 25, 2021, and has an interest rate of LIBOR, subject to a 0.75% floor, plus 2.75%, (ii) new Term B-5 Loan will mature on December 21, 2022, and has an interest rate of LIBOR, subject to a 0.75% floor, plus 3.00%, and (iii) new Term B-6 Loan will mature on June 22, 2023, and has an interest rate of LIBOR, subject to a 0.75% floor, plus 3.00%. The repricing amendment to the term loans was accounted for as a debt modification. In connection with the term loan amendment, the Company expensed $3.9 million of financing costs and also wrote off $17.8 million of deferred financing costs associated with the original term loans.
On November 16, 2018, the Company repaid approximately $976 million in aggregate principal amount of the $2,976.0 million term loan tranche B-4 (the "2017 Term B-4 Loan") along with accrued and unpaid interest on such amount and fees and expenses related to the Term Loan Repayment and the 2018 Term B-7 Loan (each as defined below), for which the Company used approximately $610 million of cash on hand and approximately $410 million of borrowings under the ABL Facility (such repayment, the "Term Loan Repayment"). Substantially concurrently with the Term Loan Repayment, the Company amended the Company's Second Amended and Restated Term Loan Agreement, dated as of August 25, 2014 and effective as of January 30, 2015 (as amended, the "Term Loan Agreement"), to establish a new term loan tranche and amend certain provisions of the Term Loan Agreement. The new tranche consists of $2,000.0 million of new term B-7 loans (the "2018 Term B-7 Loan"). The 2018 Term B-7 Loan, together with cash on hand, was used to repay in full the remaining principal amount outstanding under the 2017 Term B-4 Loan (the "2018 Term Loan Refinancing"). The 2018 Term Loan Refinancing was accounted for as a debt modification or extinguishment on a lender by lender basis. In connection with the 2018 Term Loan Refinancing and Term Loan Repayment, the Company expensed $4.1 million of financing costs and capitalized $3.6 million of financing costs and $15.0 million of original issue discount. The Company also wrote off $12.9 million of deferred financing costs and $8.6 million of original issue discount associated with the 2017 Term B-4 Loan. The 2018 Term B-7 Loan has a maturity date of November 17, 2025. The 2018 Term B-7 Loan amortizes, on a quarterly basis, at a rate of 1.0% per annum of the original principal amount of the 2018 Term B-7 Loan (which payments will be reduced as a result of the application of prepayments in accordance with the terms therewith). The 2018 Term B-7 Loan bears interest, at the borrower's option, at a rate per annum equal to either (a) the base rate plus 2.00% or (b) LIBOR (subject to a 0.75% floor) plus 3.0%.

The Albertsons Term Loan facilities are guaranteed by Albertsons' existing and future direct and indirect wholly owned domestic subsidiaries that are not borrowers, subject to certain exceptions. The Albertsons Term Loan facilities are secured by, subject to certain exceptions, (i) a first-priority lien on substantially all of the assets of the borrowers and guarantors (other than accounts receivable, inventory and related assets of the proceeds thereof (the "Albertsons ABL Priority Collateral")) and (ii) a second-priority lien on substantially all of the Albertsons ABL Priority Collateral.
Asset-Based Loan Facility

On November 16, 2018, the Company's existing ABL Facility, which provides for a $4,000.0 million senior secured revolving credit facility, was amended and restated in connection with the 2018 Term Loan Refinancing to extend the maturity date of the facility to November 16, 2023. The ABL Facility has an interest rate of LIBOR plus a margin ranging from 1.25% to 1.75% and also provides for a letters of credit ("LOC") sub-facility of $1,975.0 million. In connection with the ABL Facility amendment, the Company capitalized $13.5 million of financing costs.


72



Borrowings of $610.0 million under the ABL Facility were used in connection with the Term Loan Repayment and the Safeway Notes Repurchase (as defined below). The $610.0 million was repaid on December 2, 2018. As of February 23, 2019 and February 24, 2018, there were no outstanding borrowings and the ABL LOC sub-facility had $520.8 million and $576.8 million letters of credit outstanding, respectively.
  
As noted above, on June 22, 2016, borrowings of $300.0 million were used in connection with the Term Loan Refinancing. On August 9, 2016, $470.0 million of the net proceeds from the issuance of the 2025 Notes was used to repay the ABL Facility.

The ABL Facility is guaranteed by the Company's existing and future direct and indirect wholly owned domestic subsidiaries that are not borrowers, subject to certain exceptions. The ABL Facility is secured by, subject to certain exceptions, (i) a first-priority lien on substantially all of the ABL Facility priority collateral and (ii) a third-priority lien on substantially all other assets (other than real property). The ABL Facility contains no financial covenant unless and until (a) excess availability is less than (i) 10.0% of the lesser of the aggregate commitments and the then-current borrowing base at any time or is (ii) $250.0 million at any time or (b) an event of default is continuing. If any of such events occur, the Company must maintain a fixed charge coverage ratio of 1.0 to 1.0 from the date such triggering event occurs until such event of default is cured or waived and/or the 30th day that all such triggers under clause (a) no longer exist.
Senior Unsecured Notes
On May 31, 2016, the Company and substantially all of its subsidiaries completed the sale of $1,250.0 million of principal amount of its 6.625% Senior Unsecured Notes which will mature on June 15, 2024. Interest on the 2024 Notes is payable semi-annually in arrears on June 15 and December 15 of each year, commencing on December 15, 2016. The 2024 Notes are also fully and unconditionally guaranteed, jointly and severally, by each of the subsidiaries that are additional issuers under the indenture governing such notes.
On August 9, 2016, the Company and substantially all of its subsidiaries completed the sale of $1,250.0 million of principal amount of its 5.750% Senior Unsecured Notes which will mature on March 15, 2025. Interest on the 2025 Notes is payable semi-annually in arrears on March 15 and September 15 of each year, commencing on March 15, 2017. The 2025 Notes are also fully and unconditionally guaranteed, jointly and severally, by each of the subsidiaries that are additional issuers under the indenture governing such notes.
On February 5, 2019, the Company and substantially all of its subsidiaries completed the sale of $600.0 million of principal amount of its 7.5% Senior Unsecured Notes which will mature on March 15, 2026 (the "2026 Notes"). Interest on the 2026 Notes is payable semi-annually in arrears on March 15 and September 15 of each year, commencing on September 15, 2019. The 2026 Notes have not been and will not be registered with the SEC. The 2026 Notes are also fully and unconditionally guaranteed, jointly and severally, by substantially all of our subsidiaries that are not issuers under the indenture governing such notes. A portion of the proceeds from the 2026 Notes was used to fully redeem the Safeway 5.00% Senior Notes due in 2019.
The Company, an issuer and direct or indirect parent of each of the other issuers of the 2024 Notes, the 2025 Notes and the 2026 Notes, has no independent assets or operations. All of the direct or indirect subsidiaries of the Company, other than subsidiaries that are issuers, or guarantors, as applicable, of the 2024 Notes, the 2025 Notes and the 2026 Notes, are minor, individually and in the aggregate.
Senior Secured Notes

On October 23, 2014, the Company completed the sale of $1,145.0 million of principal amount of 7.75% Senior Secured Notes (the "2022 Notes") with an original maturity date of October 15, 2022. On February 9, 2015, following the Safeway acquisition, Albertsons redeemed $535.4 million of the 2022 Notes. On June 24, 2016, a portion of the net proceeds from the issuance of the 2024 Notes was used to fully redeem $609.6 million of principal amount of 2022

73



Notes, and to pay an associated make-whole premium of $87.7 million and accrued interest (the "2022 Redemption"). The Company recorded a $111.7 million loss on debt extinguishment related to the 2022 Redemption comprised of the $87.7 million make-whole premium and a $24.0 million write off of deferred financing costs and original issue discounts.
Safeway Notes
During fiscal 2018, Safeway repurchased its 7.45% Senior Debentures due 2027 and 7.25% Debentures due 2031 with a par value of $333.7 million and a book value of $322.4 million for $333.7 million plus accrued interest of $7.7 million (the "Safeway Notes Repurchase"). In connection with the Safeway Notes Repurchase, the Company recorded a loss on debt extinguishment of $11.3 million.
On February 6, 2019, a portion of the net proceeds from the issuance of the 2026 Notes were used to fully redeem $268.6 million of principal of Safeway 5.00% Senior Notes due 2019, and to pay an associated make-whole premium of $3.1 million and accrued interest of $6.4 million (the "2019 Redemption"). The Company recorded a $3.1 million loss on debt extinguishment related to the 2019 Redemption.
NALP Notes
During fiscal 2018, the Company repurchased NALP Notes with a par value of $108.4 million and a book value of $96.4 million for $90.7 million plus accrued interest of $1.2 million (the "2018 NALP Notes Repurchase"). In connection with the 2018 NALP Notes Repurchase, the Company recorded a gain on debt extinguishment of $5.7 million.
During fiscal 2017, the Company repurchased NALP Notes with a par value of $160.0 million and a book value of $140.2 million for $135.5 million plus accrued interest of $3.7 million (the "2017 NALP Notes Repurchase"). In connection with the 2017 NALP Notes Repurchase, the Company recorded a gain on debt extinguishment of $4.7 million.
Merger Related Financing

On June 25, 2018, in connection with the Merger Agreement, the Company issued $750.0 million in aggregate principal amount of floating rate senior secured notes (the "Floating Rate Notes") at an issue price of 99.5%. As a result of the Termination Agreement with Rite Aid on August 8, 2018, the Company redeemed all of the Floating Rate Notes at a redemption price equal to 99.5% of the aggregate principal amount of the notes, plus accrued and unpaid interest.
Deferred Financing Costs and Interest Expense, Net

Financing costs incurred to obtain all financing other than ABL Facility financing are recognized as a direct reduction from the carrying amount of the debt liability and amortized over the term of the related debt using the effective interest method. Financing costs incurred to obtain ABL Facility financing are capitalized and amortized over the term of the related debt facilities using the straight-line method. Deferred financing costs associated with ABL Facility financing are included in Other assets and were $45.1 million and $46.3 million as of February 23, 2019 and February 24, 2018, respectively.

During fiscal 2018, total amortization and write off of deferred financing costs of $42.7 million included $12.9 million of deferred financing costs written off in connection with the Albertsons Term Loan amendment and reductions. During fiscal 2017, total amortization and write off of deferred financing costs of $56.1 million included $22.2 million of deferred financing costs written off in connection with Albertsons Term Loan amendment and reductions. During fiscal 2016, total amortization expense of $84.4 million included $42.1 million of deferred financing costs written off in connection with Albertsons Term Loan amendments and reductions.

74



Interest expense, net consisted of the following (in millions):
 
Fiscal
2018
 
Fiscal
2017
 
Fiscal
2016
ABL Facility, senior secured and unsecured notes, term loans and debentures
$
698.3

 
$
701.5

 
$
764.3

Capital lease obligations
81.8

 
96.3

 
106.8

Amortization and write off of deferred financing costs
42.7

 
56.1

 
84.4

Amortization and write off of debt discounts
20.3

 
16.0

 
22.3

Other interest (income) expense
(12.3
)
 
4.9

 
26.0

Interest expense, net
$
830.8

 
$
874.8

 
$
1,003.8



NOTE 9 - LEASES
 
The Company leases certain retail stores, distribution centers, office facilities and equipment from third parties. The typical lease period is 15 to 20 years with renewal options for varying terms and, to a limited extent, options to purchase. Certain leases contain percent rent based on sales, escalation clauses or payment of executory costs such as property taxes, utilities, insurance and maintenance.
Future minimum lease payments to be made by the Company for non-cancelable operating lease and capital lease obligations as of February 23, 2019 consisted of the following (in millions):
 
Lease Obligations
Fiscal year
Operating Leases
 
Capital Leases
2019
$
879.7

 
$
170.5

2020
840.5

 
151.3

2021
783.2

 
134.9

2022
723.6

 
123.1

2023
651.0

 
114.1

Thereafter
4,338.6

 
509.1

Total future minimum obligations
$
8,216.6

 
1,203.0

Less interest
 
 
(440.7
)
Present value of net future minimum lease obligations
 
 
762.3

Less current portion
 
 
(97.3
)
Long-term obligations
 
 
$
665.0



The Company subleases certain property to third parties. Future minimum tenant rental income under these non-cancelable operating leases as of February 23, 2019 was $360.3 million.

Rent expense and tenant rental income under operating leases consisted of the following (in millions):
 
Fiscal
2018
 
Fiscal
2017
 
Fiscal
2016
Minimum rent
$
853.5

 
$
831.6

 
$
792.2

Contingent rent
10.3

 
12.0

 
13.4

  Total rent expense
863.8

 
843.6

 
805.6

Tenant rental income
(107.2
)
 
(98.8
)
 
(89.3
)
  Total rent expense, net of tenant rental income
$
756.6

 
$
744.8

 
$
716.3




75



NOTE 10 - STOCKHOLDERS' EQUITY

Equity-Based Compensation

The Company maintains the Albertsons Companies, Inc. Phantom Unit Plan (formerly, the AB Acquisition LLC Phantom Unit Plan) (the "Phantom Unit Plan"), an equity-based incentive plan, which provides for grants of "Phantom Units" to certain employees, directors and consultants. Prior to the Reorganization Transactions, the Phantom Unit Plan was maintained by its former parent, AB Acquisition, and each Phantom Unit provided the participant with a contractual right to receive, upon vesting, one incentive unit in AB Acquisition. Subsequent to the Reorganization Transactions, each Phantom Unit now provides the participant with a contractual right to receive, upon vesting, one management incentive unit in each of its parents, Albertsons Investor and KIM ACI, that collectively, own all of the outstanding shares of the Company. The Phantom Units vest over a service period, or upon a combination of both a service period and achievement of certain performance-based thresholds. The fair value of the Phantom Units is determined using an option pricing model, adjusted for lack of marketability and using an expected term or time to liquidity based on judgments made by management. Equity-based compensation expense recognized by the Company was $47.7 million, $45.9 million and $53.3 million in fiscal 2018, fiscal 2017 and fiscal 2016, respectively.

The Company recorded an income tax benefit of $12.9 million, $15.6 million and $11.1 million related to equity-based compensation in fiscal 2018, fiscal 2017 and fiscal 2016, respectively.
During fiscal 2018, the Company granted 1.9 million Phantom Units to its employees and directors, consisting of 1.5 million new awards issued and granted in fiscal 2018 and 0.4 million previously issued awards of performance-based Phantom Units that were deemed granted upon the establishment of the fiscal 2018 performance target and that would vest upon both the achievement of such performance target and continued service through the last day of fiscal 2018. The 1.5 million new awards issued and granted in fiscal 2018 include 1.4 million Phantom Units that have solely time-based vesting and 0.1 million performance-based Phantom Units that were deemed granted upon the establishment of the fiscal 2018 annual performance target and that would vest upon both the achievement of such performance target and continued service through the last day of fiscal 2018. The 1.9 million Phantom Units deemed granted have an aggregate grant date value of $60.2 million.

As of February 23, 2019, the Company had $53.7 million of unrecognized compensation cost related to 1.7 million unvested Phantom Units. That cost is expected to be recognized over a weighted average period of 2.5 years. The aggregate fair value of Phantom Units that vested in fiscal 2018 was $31.5 million.
Treasury Stock
During fiscal 2018, the Company repurchased 1,772,018 shares of common stock allocable to certain current and former members of management (the "management holders") for $25.8 million in cash. The shares are classified as treasury stock on the Consolidated Balance Sheet. The shares repurchased represented a portion of the shares allocable to management. Proceeds from the repurchase were used by the management holders to repay outstanding loans of the management holders with a third party financial institution. As there is no current active market for shares of the Company's common stock, the shares were repurchased at a negotiated price between the Company and the management holders.
Distribution
On June 30, 2017, the Company's predecessor, Albertsons Companies, LLC, made a cash distribution of $250.0 million to its equityholders, which resulted in a modification of certain vested awards. As a result of the modification, equity-based compensation expense recognized for fiscal 2017 includes $2.4 million of additional expense.


76



NOTE 11 - INCOME TAXES

The components of income tax benefit consisted of the following (in millions):
 
Fiscal
2018
 
Fiscal
2017
 
Fiscal
2016
Current
 
 
 
 
 
  Federal (1)
$
9.0

 
$
54.0

 
$
108.6

  State (2)
(6.7
)
 
26.5

 
20.6

  Foreign
0.3

 
49.8

 
—

Total Current
2.6

 
130.3

 
129.2

 
 
 
 
 
 
Deferred
 
 
 
 
 
  Federal
(77.9
)
 
(807.7
)
 
(177.9
)
  State
(3.6
)
 
(216.6
)
 
(41.6
)
  Foreign
—

 
(69.8
)
 
—

Total Deferred
(81.5
)
 
(1,094.1
)
 
(219.5
)
Income tax benefit
$
(78.9
)
 
$
(963.8
)
 
$
(90.3
)
(1) Federal current tax expense net of $12.8 million, $22.4 million and $31.2 million tax benefit of NOLs in fiscal 2018, fiscal 2017 and fiscal 2016, respectively.
(2) State current tax expense net of $9.5 million, $9.6 million and $3.8 million tax benefit of NOLs in fiscal 2018, fiscal 2017 and fiscal 2016, respectively.

The difference between the actual tax provision and the tax provision computed by applying the statutory federal income tax rate to income (loss) before income taxes was attributable to the following (in millions):
 
Fiscal
2018
 
Fiscal
2017
 
Fiscal
2016
Income tax expense (benefit) at federal statutory rate
$
11.0

 
$
(301.5
)
 
$
(162.3
)
State income taxes, net of federal benefit
0.7

 
(39.8
)
 
(20.2
)
Change in valuation allowance
(3.3
)
 
(218.0
)
 
107.1

Tax Cuts and Jobs Act
(56.9
)
 
(430.4
)
 
—

Unrecognized tax benefits
(16.2
)
 
(36.5
)
 
(18.7
)
Member loss
—

 
83.1

 
16.6

Charitable donations
(4.4
)
 
—

 
(11.1
)
Tax Credits
(10.8
)
 
(9.1
)
 
(17.3
)
Indemnification asset
—

 
—

 
5.1

CVR liability adjustment
—

 
(20.3
)
 
7.5

Reorganization of limited liability companies
—

 
46.7

 
—

Nondeductible equity-based compensation expense
3.8

 
1.6

 
4.2

Other
(2.8
)
 
(39.6
)
 
(1.2
)
Income tax benefit
$
(78.9
)
 
$
(963.8
)
 
$
(90.3
)


The valuation allowance activity on deferred tax assets was as follows (in millions):
 
February 23,
2019
 
February 24,
2018
 
February 25,
2017
Beginning balance
$
134.9

 
$
387.6

 
$
286.8

Additions charged to income tax expense
3.5

 
141.0

 
107.1

Reductions credited to income tax expense
(6.8
)
 
(359.0
)
 
—

Changes to other comprehensive income or loss and other
7.9

 
(34.7
)
 
(6.3
)
Ending balance
$
139.5

 
$
134.9

 
$
387.6




77



The Tax Act, enacted in December 2017, resulted in significant changes to U.S. income tax and related laws. The Company is impacted by a number of aspects of the Tax Act, most notably the reduction in the top U.S. corporate income tax rate from 35% to 21%, a one-time transition tax on the accumulated unremitted foreign earnings and profits of the Company's foreign subsidiaries and 100% expensing of certain qualified property acquired and placed in service after September 27, 2017.

The SEC staff issued Staff Accounting Bulletin No. 118 ("SAB 118") to address the application of GAAP in situations when the registrant does not have the necessary information available, prepared or analyzed in reasonable detail to complete the accounting for income tax effects of the Tax Act. SAB 118 allowed companies to record a provisional amount during a measurement period not to extend beyond one year from the date of enactment, which ended in the fourth quarter of fiscal 2018. In fiscal 2017, the Company recorded a provisional non-cash tax benefit of $430.4 million. In fiscal 2018, the Company recorded $56.9 million of additional tax benefit, primarily to account for refinement of transition tax and the remeasurement of deferred taxes. The Company has completed its analysis of the Tax Act based on currently available technical guidance. The Company will continue to assess further guidance issued by the Internal Revenue Service ("IRS") and record the impact of such guidance, if any, in the year issued.

In connection with the Reorganization Transactions, the Company recorded deferred tax liabilities in excess of deferred tax assets of $46.7 million in fiscal 2017 for the limited liability companies held by AB Acquisition and taxed previously to the members.

Also in connection with the Reorganization Transactions, the Company reorganized its Subchapter C corporation subsidiaries which allows the Company to use deferred tax assets, which previously had offsetting valuation allowance, against future taxable income of certain other Subchapter C subsidiaries that have a history of taxable income and are projected to continue to have future taxable income. The Company reassessed its valuation allowance based on available negative and positive evidence to estimate if sufficient taxable income will be generated to use existing deferred tax assets. On the basis of this evaluation, the Company released a substantial portion of its valuation allowance against its net deferred tax assets, resulting in a $218.0 million non-cash tax benefit in fiscal 2017. The Company continues to maintain a valuation allowance against net deferred tax assets in jurisdictions where it is not more likely than not to be realized.

Prior to the Reorganization Transactions, taxes on income from limited liability companies held by AB Acquisition were payable by the members in accordance with their respective ownership percentages, resulting in tax expense of $83.1 million and $16.6 million in fiscal 2017 and fiscal 2016, respectively, for losses benefited by the members.


78



Deferred income taxes reflect the net tax effects of temporary differences between the bases of assets and liabilities for financial reporting and income tax purposes. The Company's deferred tax assets and liabilities consisted of the following (in millions):
 
February 23,
2019
 
February 24,
2018
Deferred tax assets:
 
 
 
Compensation and benefits
$
132.0

 
$
122.3

Net operating loss
165.9

 
160.5

Pension & postretirement benefits
195.6

 
194.7

Reserves
1.5

 
6.3

Self-Insurance
259.7

 
265.1

Tax credits
64.2

 
57.4

Other
58.7

 
59.3

Gross deferred tax assets
877.6

 
865.6

Less: valuation allowance
(139.5
)
 
(134.9
)
Total deferred tax assets
738.1

 
730.7

 
 
 
 
Deferred tax liabilities:
 
 
 
Debt discounts
62.8

 
73.7

Depreciation and amortization
876.1

 
903.5

Inventories
346.5

 
322.9

Other
14.1

 
10.5

Total deferred tax liabilities
1,299.5

 
1,310.6

 
 
 
 
Net deferred tax liability
$
(561.4
)
 
$
(579.9
)
 
 
 
 
Noncurrent deferred tax asset
$
—

 
$
—

Noncurrent deferred tax liability
(561.4
)
 
(579.9
)
Total
$
(561.4
)
 
$
(579.9
)


The Company assesses the available positive and negative evidence to estimate if sufficient future taxable income will be generated to use the existing deferred tax assets. On the basis of this evaluation, as of February 23, 2019, a valuation allowance of $139.5 million has been recorded for the portion of the deferred tax asset that is not more likely than not to be realized, consisting primarily of carryovers in jurisdictions where the Company has minimal presence or does not expect to have future taxable income. The Company will continue to evaluate the need to adjust the valuation allowance. The amount of the deferred tax asset considered realizable, however, could be adjusted depending on the Company's performance in certain subsidiaries or jurisdictions.

The Company currently has federal and state net operating loss ("NOL") carryforwards of $385.1 million and $2,043.2 million, respectively, which will begin to expire in 2019 and continue through the fiscal year ending February 2038. As of February 23, 2019, the Company had federal and state credit carryforwards of $12.5 million and $46.5 million, respectively, the majority of which will expire in 2023.


79



Changes in the Company's unrecognized tax benefits consisted of the following (in millions):
 
Fiscal
2018
 
Fiscal
2017
 
Fiscal
2016
Beginning balance
$
356.0

 
$
418.0

 
$
435.3

Increase related to tax positions taken in the current year
1.6

 
65.4

 
63.8

Increase related to tax positions taken in prior years
35.1

 
4.6

 
6.4

Decrease related to tax position taken in prior years
(0.4
)
 
(70.0
)
 
(71.0
)
Decrease related to settlements with taxing authorities
(8.3
)
 
(17.5
)
 
(9.8
)
Decrease related to lapse of statute of limitations
(7.8
)
 
(44.5
)
 
(6.7
)
Ending balance
$
376.2

 
$
356.0

 
$
418.0



Included in the balance of unrecognized tax benefits as of February 23, 2019, February 24, 2018 and February 25, 2017 are tax positions of $267.7 million, $249.0 million and $231.3 million, respectively, which would reduce the Company's effective tax rate if recognized in future periods. Of the $267.7 million that could impact tax expense, the Company has recorded $9.7 million of indemnification assets that would offset any future recognition. As of February 23, 2019, the Company is no longer subject to federal income tax examinations for the fiscal years prior to 2012 and in most states, is no longer subject to state income tax examinations for fiscal years before 2007. The Company recognizes accrued interest and penalties related to unrecognized tax benefits as a component of income tax expense. The Company recognized expense related to interest and penalties, net of settlement adjustments, of $1.8 million, $4.6 million and $4.5 million for fiscal 2018, fiscal 2017 and fiscal 2016, respectively.

In fiscal 2016, the Company adopted the IRS safe harbor rule for taxpayers operating retail establishments for determining whether expenditures paid or incurred to remodel or refresh a qualified building are deductible. As a result of adopting this safe harbor, the Company reduced $70.1 million of uncertain tax benefit in fiscal 2016, and there was no impact on the tax provision due to an offsetting deferred adjustment. The Company believes it is reasonably possible that the reserve for uncertain tax positions may be reduced by approximately $124.2 million in the next 12 months due to ongoing tax examinations and expiration of statutes of limitations.

NOTE 12 - EMPLOYEE BENEFIT PLANS AND COLLECTIVE BARGAINING AGREEMENTS

Pension Plans

The Company sponsors a defined benefit pension plan (the "Safeway Plan") for substantially all of its employees under the Safeway banners not participating in multiemployer pension plans. Effective April 1, 2015, the Company implemented a soft freeze of the Safeway Plan. A soft freeze means that all existing employees as of March 31, 2015 currently participating will remain in the Safeway Plan, but any new non-union employees hired after that date will no longer be part of the Safeway Plan but instead will be offered retirement benefits under an enhanced 401(k) program. On December 30, 2018, the Company implemented a hard freeze of non-union benefits of employees of the Safeway Plan. All future benefit accruals for non-union employees ceased as of this date. Instead, non-union participants will be offered retirement benefits under the Company's 401(k) plans. The Safeway Plan continues to remain fully open to union employees and past service benefits, including future interest credits, for non-union employees continue to be maintained under the Safeway Plan. The hard freeze resulted in an immaterial curtailment charge in fiscal 2018. The Company also sponsors a defined benefit pension plan (the "Shaw's Plan") covering union employees under the Shaw's banner. The Company also sponsors a frozen plan (the "United Plan") covering certain employees under the United banners and a Retirement Restoration Plan that provides death benefits and supplemental income payments for certain senior executives after retirement. The Retirement Restoration Plan is unfunded.

On May 15, 2016, the Company, through an indirect, wholly-owned subsidiary, acquired 100% of the outstanding equity of Collington Services, LLC ("Collington") from C&S Wholesale Grocers, Inc. ("C&S") for nominal cash consideration and the assumption of certain liabilities, primarily related to employee compensation and benefits of the

80



workforce acquired. Prior to the acquisition, C&S, through its wholly-owned subsidiary, Collington, managed and operated the Company's distribution center located in Upper Marlboro, Maryland. By purchasing the equity of Collington, the Company settled a pre-existing reimbursement arrangement under the previous supply agreement relating to the pension plan in which Collington employees participate. Consequently, the Company, through its newly acquired subsidiary, Collington, assumed primary liability for the Collington employees participating in the pension plan. Prior to the acquisition of Collington, the pension plan was a multiple employer plan, with Safeway and C&S being the respective employers. The Safeway portion of the plan was accounted for as a multiemployer plan, with the C&S portion being accounted for by the Company through the previous supply agreement. Also, contemporaneously with the acquisition of Collington, the Company negotiated a new supply agreement with C&S and negotiated concessions directly from the union representing the Collington employees at the distribution center. The acquisition of Collington resulted in a charge of approximately $78.9 million to pension expense during the first quarter of fiscal 2016. Upon the assumption of the C&S portion of the pension plan through the equity acquisition, the multiple-employer pension plan was accounted for as a single employer plan.
Other Post-Retirement Benefits

In addition to the Company's pension plans, the Company provides post-retirement medical and life insurance benefits to certain employees. Retirees share a portion of the cost of the post-retirement medical plans. The Company pays all the cost of the life insurance plans. The plans are unfunded.

Additionally, in connection with the Collington transaction, the Company negotiated with the respective unions a new unfunded post-retirement obligation with a projected benefit obligation of approximately $15.5 million, recorded through Other comprehensive income (loss) as prior service cost during the first quarter of fiscal 2016.


81



The following table provides a reconciliation of the changes in the retirement plans' benefit obligation and fair value of assets over the two-year period ended February 23, 2019 and a statement of funded status as of February 23, 2019 and February 24, 2018 (in millions):
 
Pension
 
Other Post-Retirement Benefits
  
February 23, 2019
 
February 24, 2018
 
February 23, 2019
 
February 24, 2018
Change in projected benefit obligation:
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
Beginning balance
$
2,351.8

 
$
2,613.0

 
$
26.9

 
$
31.2

Service cost
52.4

 
49.8

 
1.0

 
1.0

Interest cost
85.8

 
88.3

 
0.5

 
0.9

Actuarial loss (gain)
0.5

 
(56.6
)
 
(2.4
)
 
(4.5
)
Plan participant contributions
—

 
—

 
0.4

 
0.5

Benefit payments
(167.8
)
 
(78.7
)
 
(2.6
)
 
(2.2
)
Plan amendments
3.1

 
—

 
—

 
—

Settlements
—

 
(264.0
)
 
—

 
—

Ending balance
$
2,325.8

 
$
2,351.8

 
$
23.8

 
$
26.9

 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
Change in fair value of plan assets:
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
Beginning balance
$
1,814.0

 
$
1,934.8

 
$
—

 
$
—

Actual return on plan assets
3.6

 
201.6

 
—

 
—

Employer contributions
197.2

 
20.2

 
2.1

 
1.7

Plan participant contributions
—

 
—

 
0.4

 
0.5

Benefit payments (including settlements)
(167.8
)
 
(342.6
)
 
(2.5
)
 
(2.2
)
Ending balance
$
1,847.0

 
$
1,814.0

 
$
—

 
$
—

 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
Components of net amount recognized in financial position:
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
Other current liabilities
$
(6.7
)
 
$
(6.8
)
 
$
(2.1
)
 
$
(2.2
)
Other long-term liabilities
(472.1
)
 
(531.0
)
 
(21.7
)
 
(24.7
)
Funded status
$
(478.8
)
 
$
(537.8
)
 
$
(23.8
)
 
$
(26.9
)


Amounts recognized in Accumulated other comprehensive income consisted of the following (in millions):
 
Pension
 
Other Post-Retirement
Benefits
 
February 23,
2019
 
February 24,
2018
 
February 23, 2019
 
February 24, 2018
Net actuarial gain
$
(140.6
)
 
$
(256.4
)
 
$
(8.2
)
 
$
(6.0
)
Prior service cost
3.1

 
0.3

 
5.6

 
9.3

 
$
(137.5
)
 
$
(256.1
)
 
$
(2.6
)
 
$
3.3



Information for the Company's pension plans, all of which have an accumulated benefit obligation in excess of plan assets as of February 23, 2019 and February 24, 2018, is shown below (in millions):
 
February 23,
2019
 
February 24,
2018
Projected benefit obligation
$
2,325.8

 
$
2,351.8

Accumulated benefit obligation
2,323.9

 
2,349.6

Fair value of plan assets
1,847.0

 
1,814.0



82



The following table provides the components of net expense for the retirement plans and other changes in plan assets and benefit obligations recognized in Other comprehensive (loss) income (in millions):
 
Pension
 
Other Post-Retirement
Benefits
 
Fiscal
2018
 
Fiscal
2017
 
Fiscal
2018
 
Fiscal
2017
Components of net expense:
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
Estimated return on plan assets
$
(112.6
)
 
$
(119.6
)
 
$
—

 
$
—

Service cost
52.4

 
49.8

 
1.0

 
1.0

Interest cost
85.8

 
88.3

 
0.5

 
0.9

Amortization of prior service cost
0.1

 
0.1

 
3.7

 
3.7

Amortization of net actuarial (gain) loss
(6.3
)
 
0.4

 
(0.2
)
 
(0.1
)
Collington acquisition
—

 
—

 
—

 
—

Gain due to settlement accounting
—

 
(25.4
)
 
—

 
—

Loss due to curtailment accounting
0.1

 
—

 
—

 
—

Net expense (benefit)
19.5

 
(6.4
)
 
5.0

 
5.5

 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
Changes in plan assets and benefit obligations recognized in Other comprehensive (loss) income:
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
Net actuarial loss (gain)
109.4

 
(138.6
)
 
(2.4
)
 
(4.5
)
Gain due to settlement accounting
—

 
25.4

 
—

 
—

Loss due to curtailment accounting
(0.1
)
 
—

 
—

 
—

Amortization of net actuarial gain (loss)
6.3

 
(0.4
)
 
0.2

 
0.1

Prior service cost
3.1

 
—

 
—

 
—

Amortization of prior service cost
(0.1
)
 
(0.1
)
 
(3.7
)
 
(3.7
)
Total recognized in Other comprehensive (loss) income
118.6

 
(113.7
)
 
(5.9
)
 
(8.1
)
Total net expense and changes in plan assets and benefit obligations recognized in Other comprehensive (loss) income
$
138.1

 
$
(120.1
)
 
$
(0.9
)
 
$
(2.6
)


Prior service costs are amortized on a straight-line basis over the average remaining service period of active participants. When the accumulation of actuarial gains and losses exceeds 10% of the greater of the projected benefit obligation and the fair value of plan assets, the excess is amortized over the average remaining service period of active participants. No significant prior service costs or estimated net actuarial gain or loss is expected to be amortized from Other comprehensive income (loss) into periodic benefit cost during fiscal 2019.

As of February 27, 2016, the Company changed the method used to estimate the service and interest rate components of net periodic benefit cost for its defined benefit pension plans and other post-retirement benefit plans. Historically, the service and interest rate components were estimated using a single weighted average discount rate derived from the yield curve used to measure the benefit obligation at the beginning of the period. The Company has elected to use a full yield curve approach in the estimation of service and interest cost components of net pension and other post-retirement benefit plan expense by applying the specific spot rates along the yield curve used in the determination of the projected benefit obligation to the relevant projected cash flows. The Company made this change to improve the correlation between projected benefit cash flows and the corresponding yield curve spot rates and to provide a more precise measurement of service and interest costs. This change does not affect the measurement and calculation of the Company's total benefit obligations. The Company has accounted for this change as a change in estimate that is inseparable from a change in accounting principle and accounted for it prospectively beginning in the first quarter of fiscal 2016. This change did not have a material impact on the Company's fiscal 2016 net pension expense.


83



Assumptions
The weighted average actuarial assumptions used to determine year-end projected benefit obligations for pension plans were as follows:
 
February 23,
2019
 
February 24,
2018
Discount rate
4.17
%
 
4.12
%
Rate of compensation increase
2.87
%
 
2.87
%
The weighted average actuarial assumptions used to determine net periodic benefit costs for pension plans were as follows: 
 
February 23,
2019
 
February 24,
2018
Discount rate
4.12
%
 
4.21
%
Expected return on plan assets:
6.38
%
 
6.40
%

On February 24, 2018, the Company adopted the new MP-2017 projection scale to the RP-2014 mortality tables to be applied on a generational basis for calculating the Company's 2017 year-end benefit obligations. The tables assume an improvement in life expectancy in the future but at a slower rate than the MP-2016 projection scale to the RP-2014 mortality table used for calculating the Company's 2016 year-end benefit obligations and 2017 expense. Similarly, on February 23, 2019, the Company adopted the new MP-2018 projection scale which assumes an improvement in life expectancy at a marginally slower rate than the MP-2017 projection scale. The change to the mortality table projection scale resulted in an immaterial decrease to the Company's current year benefit obligation and future expenses.
The Company has adopted and implemented an investment policy for the defined benefit pension plans that incorporates a strategic long-term asset allocation mix designed to meet the Company's long-term pension requirements. This asset allocation policy is reviewed annually and, on a regular basis, actual allocations are rebalanced to the prevailing targets. The investment policy also emphasizes the following key objectives: (1) maintaining a diversified portfolio among asset classes and investment styles; (2) maintaining an acceptable level of risk in pursuit of long-term economic benefit; (3) maximizing the opportunity for value-added returns from active investment management while establishing investment guidelines and monitoring procedures for each investment manager to ensure the characteristics of the portfolio are consistent with the original investment mandate; and (4) maintaining adequate controls over administrative costs.
The following table summarizes actual allocations for the Safeway Plan which had $1.6 billion in plan assets as of February 23, 2019: 
 
 
 
 
Plan Assets
Asset category
 
Target
 
February 23,
2019
 
February 24,
2018
Equity
 
65%
 
62.5
%
 
65.0
 %
Fixed income
 
35%
 
35.6
%
 
35.5
 %
Cash and other
 
—%
 
1.9
%
 
(0.5
)%
Total
 
100%
 
100.0
%
 
100.0
 %


84



The following table summarizes the actual allocations for the Shaw's Plan which had approximately $247 million in plan assets as of February 23, 2019:    
 
 
 
 
Plan Assets
Asset category
 
Target
 
February 23,
2019
 
February 24,
2018
Equity
 
65%
 
60.5
%
 
65.4
%
Fixed income
 
35%
 
35.9
%
 
32.2
%
Cash and other
 
—%
 
3.6
%
 
2.4
%
Total
 
100%
 
100.0
%
 
100.0
%


The following table summarizes the actual allocations for the United Plan which had approximately $33 million in plan assets as of February 23, 2019:
 
 
 
 
Plan Assets
Asset category
 
Target (1)
 
February 23,
2019
 
February 24,
2018
Equity
 
50%
 
50.3
 %
 
50.1
%
Fixed income
 
50%
 
50.0
 %
 
47.9
%
Cash and other
 
—%
 
(0.3
)%
 
2.0
%
Total
 
100%
 
100.0
 %
 
100.0
%
(1)
The target market value of equity securities for the United Plan is 50% of plan assets. If the equity percentage exceeds 60% or drops below 40%, the asset allocation is adjusted to target.

Expected return on pension plan assets is based on historical experience of the Company's portfolios and the review of projected returns by asset class on broad, publicly traded equity and fixed-income indices, as well as target asset allocation.


85



Pension Plan Assets
The fair value of the Company's pension plan assets as of February 23, 2019, excluding pending transactions of $79.5 million payable to an intermediary agent, by asset category are as follows (in millions): 
 
 
Fair Value Measurements
Asset category
 
Total
 
Quoted Prices in Active Markets for Identical Assets
(Level 1)
 
Significant Observable Inputs
(Level 2)
 
Significant Unobservable Inputs
(Level 3)
 
Assets Measured at NAV
Cash and cash equivalents (1)
 
$
10.8

 
$
1.6

 
$
9.2

 
$
—

 
$
—

Short-term investment collective trust (2)
 
73.3

 
—

 
73.3

 
—

 
—

Common and preferred stock: (3)
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
Domestic common and preferred stock
 
254.5

 
254.5

 
—

 
—

 
—

International common stock
 
64.0

 
64.0

 
—

 
—

 
—

Collective trust funds (2)
 
649.9

 
—

 
—

 
—

 
649.9

Corporate bonds (4)
 
126.0

 
—

 
126.0

 
—

 
—

Mortgage- and other asset-backed securities (5)
 
42.8

 
—

 
42.8

 
—

 
—

Mutual funds (6)
 
257.2

 
139.9

 
29.2

 
—

 
88.1

U.S. government securities (7)
 
362.5

 
—

 
362.5

 
—

 
—

Other securities (8)
 
85.5

 
—

 
51.6

 
—

 
33.9

Total
 
$
1,926.5

 
$
460.0

 
$
694.6

 
$
—

 
$
771.9


(1)
The carrying value of these items approximates fair value.
(2)
These investments are valued based on the Net Asset Value ("NAV") of the underlying investments and are provided by the fund issuers. There are no unfunded commitments or redemption restrictions for these funds. Funds meeting the practical expedient are included in the Assets Measured at NAV column.
(3)
The fair value of common stock is based on the exchange quoted market prices. When quoted prices are not available for identical stock, an industry valuation model is used which maximizes observable inputs.
(4)
The fair value of corporate bonds is generally based on yields currently available on comparable securities of the same or similar issuers with similar credit ratings and maturities. When quoted prices are not available for identical or similar bonds, the fair value is based upon an industry valuation model, which maximizes observable inputs.
(5)
The fair value of mortgage- and other asset-backed securities is generally based on yields currently available on comparable securities of the same or similar issuers with similar credit ratings and maturities. When quoted prices are not available for comparable securities, the fair value is based upon an industry valuation model which maximizes observable inputs.
(6)
These investments are open-ended mutual funds that are registered with the SEC which are valued using the NAV. The NAV of the mutual funds is a published price in an active market. The NAV is determined once a day after the closing of the exchange based upon the underlying assets in the fund, less the fund's liabilities, expressed on a per-share basis. There are no unfunded commitments, or redemption restrictions for these funds, and the funds are required to transact at the published price.
(7)
The fair value of U.S. government securities is based on quoted market prices when available. When quoted prices are not available, the fair value of U.S. government securities is based on yields currently available on comparable securities or on an industry valuation model which maximizes observable inputs.
(8)
Level 2 Other securities, which consist primarily of U.S. municipal bonds, foreign government bonds and foreign agency securities are valued based on yields currently available on comparable securities of issuers with similar credit ratings. Also included in Other securities is a commingled fund valued based on the NAV of the underlying investments and is provided by the issuer and exchange-traded derivatives that are valued based on quoted prices in an active market for identical derivatives, assets and liabilities. Funds meeting the practical expedient are included in the Assets Measured at NAV column. Exchange-traded derivatives are valued based on quoted prices in an active market for identical derivatives assets and liabilities. Non-exchange-traded derivatives are valued using industry valuation models, which maximize observable inputs, such as interest-rate yield curve data, foreign exchange rates and applicable spot and forward rates.

86




The fair value of the Company's pension plan assets as of February 24, 2018, excluding pending transactions of $87.4 million payable to an intermediary agent, by asset category are as follows (in millions): 
 
 
Fair Value Measurements
Asset category
 
Total
 
Quoted Prices in Active Markets for Identical Assets
(Level 1)
 
Significant Observable Inputs
(Level 2)
 
Significant Unobservable Inputs
(Level 3)
 
Assets Measured at NAV
Cash and cash equivalents (1)
 
$
6.5

 
$
1.5

 
$
5.0

 
$
—

 
$
—

Short-term investment collective trust (2)
 
67.0

 
—

 
67.0

 
—

 
—

Common and preferred stock: (3)
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
Domestic common and preferred stock
 
244.7

 
244.7

 
—

 
—

 
—

International common stock
 
59.0

 
59.0

 
—

 
—

 
—

Collective trust funds (2)
 
686.0

 
—

 
1.3

 
—

 
684.7

Corporate bonds (4)
 
118.7

 
—

 
118.7

 
—

 
—

Mortgage- and other asset-backed securities (5)
 
45.2

 
—

 
45.2

 
—

 
—

Mutual funds (6)
 
254.3

 
146.0

 
21.3

 
—

 
87.0

U.S. government securities (7)
 
354.5

 
—

 
354.5

 
—

 
—

Other securities (8)
 
65.5

 
0.1

 
26.6

 
—

 
38.8

Total
 
$
1,901.4

 
$
451.3

 
$
639.6

 
$
—

 
$
810.5


(1)
The carrying value of these items approximates fair value.
(2)
These investments are valued based on the NAV of the underlying investments and are provided by the fund issuers. There are no unfunded commitments or redemption restrictions for these funds. Funds meeting the practical expedient are included in the Assets Measured at NAV column.
(3)
The fair value of common stock is based on the exchange quoted market prices. When quoted prices are not available for identical stock, an industry valuation model is used which maximizes observable inputs.
(4)
The fair value of corporate bonds is generally based on yields currently available on comparable securities of the same or similar issuers with similar credit ratings and maturities. When quoted prices are not available for identical or similar bonds, the fair value is based upon an industry valuation model, which maximizes observable inputs.
(5)
The fair value of mortgage- and other asset-backed securities is generally based on yields currently available on comparable securities of the same or similar issuers with similar credit ratings and maturities. When quoted prices are not available for comparable securities, the fair value is based upon an industry valuation model which maximizes observable inputs.
(6)
These investments are open-ended mutual funds that are registered with the SEC which are valued using the NAV. The NAV of the mutual funds is a published price in an active market. The NAV is determined once a day after the closing of the exchange based upon the underlying assets in the fund, less the fund's liabilities, expressed on a per-share basis. There are no unfunded commitments, or redemption restrictions for these funds, and the funds are required to transact at the published price.
(7)
The fair value of U.S. government securities is based on quoted market prices when available. When quoted prices are not available, the fair value of U.S. government securities is based on yields currently available on comparable securities or on an industry valuation model which maximizes observable inputs.
(8)
Level 2 Other securities, which consist primarily of U.S. municipal bonds, foreign government bonds and foreign agency securities are valued based on yields currently available on comparable securities of issuers with similar credit ratings. Also included in Other securities is a commingled fund valued based on the NAV of the underlying investments and is provided by the issuer and exchange-traded derivatives that are valued based on quoted prices in an active market for identical derivatives, assets and liabilities. Funds meeting the practical expedient are included in the Assets Measured at NAV column. Exchange-traded derivatives are valued based on quoted prices in an active market for identical derivatives assets and liabilities. Non-exchange-traded derivatives are valued using industry valuation models, which maximize observable inputs, such as interest-rate yield curve data, foreign exchange rates and applicable spot and forward rates.

87



Contributions

In fiscal 2018 and 2017, the Company contributed $199.3 million and $21.9 million, respectively, to its pension and post-retirement plans. The Company's funding policy for the defined benefit pension plan is to contribute the minimum contribution required under the Employee Retirement Income Security Act of 1974, as amended, and other applicable laws as determined by the Company's external actuarial consultant. At the Company's discretion, additional funds may be contributed to the defined benefit pension plans. The Company's fiscal 2018 contributions include $150.0 million of additional discretionary contributions to reduce the Pension Benefit Guaranty Corporation premium costs and improve the overall funded status of the plans. The Company expects to contribute $12.4 million to its pension and post-retirement plans in fiscal 2019. The Company will recognize contributions in accordance with applicable regulations, with consideration given to recognition for the earliest plan year permitted.
Estimated Future Benefit Payments

The following benefit payments, which reflect expected future service as appropriate, are expected to be paid (in millions):
 
Pension Benefits
 
Other Benefits
2019
$
275.7

 
$
2.3

2020
185.1

 
2.1

2021
179.6

 
2.1

2022
174.6

 
2.0

2023
171.3

 
1.9

2024 – 2028
734.5

 
8.6


Multiemployer Pension Plans

The Company contributes to various multiemployer pension plans. These multiemployer plans generally provide retirement benefits to participants based on their service to contributing employers. The benefits are paid from assets held in trust for that purpose. Plan trustees typically are responsible for determining the level of benefits to be provided to participants, the investment of the assets and plan administration. Expense is recognized in connection with these plans as contributions are funded.

The risks of participating in these multiemployer plans are different from the risks associated with single-employer plans in the following respects:
•
Assets contributed to the multiemployer plan by one employer may be used to provide benefits to employees of other participating employers.
•
If a participating employer stops contributing to the plan, the unfunded obligations of the plan may be borne by the remaining participating employers.
•
If the Company chooses to stop participating in some multiemployer plans, or makes market exits or store closures or otherwise has participation in the plan fall below certain levels, the Company may be required to pay those plans an amount based on the underfunded status of the plan, referred to as withdrawal liability. The Company records the actuarially determined liability at an undiscounted amount.

The Company's participation in these plans is outlined in the table below. The EIN-Pension Plan Number column provides the Employer Identification Number ("EIN") and the three-digit plan number, if applicable. Unless otherwise noted, the most recent Pension Protection Act of 2006 ("PPA") zone status available for fiscal 2018 and fiscal 2017 is for the plan's year ending at December 31, 2017 and December 31, 2016, respectively. The zone status is based on information received from the plans and is certified by each plan's actuary. The FIP/RP Status Pending/Implemented

88



column indicates plans for which a funding improvement plan ("FIP") or a rehabilitation plan ("RP") is either pending or has been implemented by the plan trustees.

Certain plans have been aggregated in the Other funds line in the following table, as the contributions to each of these plans are not individually material. None of the Company's collective bargaining agreements require that a minimum contribution be made to these plans.

As a part of the Safeway acquisition, the Company assumed withdrawal liabilities related to Safeway's 2015 closure of its Dominick's division. The Company recorded a $221.8 million multiemployer pension withdrawal liability related to Safeway's withdrawal from these plans. The Company is disputing in arbitration certain factors used to determine the allocation of the unfunded vested benefits, and therefore, the annual pension payment installments due to the UFCW Midwest Plan are also in dispute. The Company's estimated liability reflects the Company's best estimate of the probable outcome of this arbitration. The amount of the withdrawal liability recorded as of February 23, 2019 with respect to the Dominick's division was $142.1 million, primarily reflecting minimum required payments made subsequent to the date of consummation of the Safeway acquisition.

The following tables contain information about the Company's multiemployer plans:
 
EIN - PN
Pension Protection Act zone status (1)
Company's 5% of total plan contributions
FIP/RP status pending/implemented
 
 
Pension fund
2018
2017
2017
2016
UFCW-Northern California Employers Joint Pension Trust Fund
946313554 - 001
Red
Red
Yes
Yes
Implemented
Western Conference of Teamsters Pension Plan
916145047 - 001
Green
Green
No
No
No
Southern California United Food & Commercial Workers Unions and Food Employers Joint Pension Plan (4)
951939092 - 001
Red
Red
Yes
Yes
Implemented
Food Employers Labor Relations Association and United Food and Commercial Workers Pension Fund
526128473 - 001
Red
Red
Yes
Yes
Implemented
Sound Retirement Trust (6)
916069306 - 001
Green
Red
Yes
Yes
Implemented
Bakery and Confectionery Union and Industry International Pension Fund
526118572 - 001
Red
Red
Yes
Yes
Implemented
UFCW Union and Participating Food Industry Employers Tri-State Pension Fund
236396097 - 001
Red
Red
Yes
Yes
Implemented
Rocky Mountain UFCW Unions & Employers Pension Plan
846045986 - 001
Green
Green
Yes
Yes
No
UFCW Local 152 Retail Meat Pension Fund (5)
236209656 - 001
Red
Red
Yes
Yes
Implemented
Desert States Employers & UFCW Unions Pension Plan
846277982 - 001
Green
Green
Yes
Yes
No
UFCW International Union - Industry Pension Fund (5)
516055922 - 001
Green
Green
Yes
No
No
Mid Atlantic Pension Fund
461000515 - 001
Green
Green
Yes
Yes
No
Retail Food Employers and UFCW Local 711 Pension Trust Fund
516031512 - 001
Yellow
Red
Yes
Yes
Implemented
Oregon Retail Employees Pension Trust
936074377 - 001
Green
Green
Yes
Yes
No


89



 
Contributions of Company (in millions)
Surcharge imposed (2)
Expiration date of collective bargaining agreements
Total collective bargaining agreements
Most significant collective bargaining agreement(s)(3)
Pension fund
2018
2017
2016
Count
Expiration
UFCW-Northern California Employers Joint Pension Trust Fund
$
104.4

$
110.2

$
98.9

No
10/13/2018 to 7/27/2020
63
56
10/13/2018
Western Conference of Teamsters Pension Plan
63.7

61.2

59.1

No
3/16/2019 to 10/1/2022
51
15
9/20/2020
Southern California United Food & Commercial Workers Unions and Food Employers Joint Pension Plan (4)
108.4

92.4

63.9

No
3/11/2018 to 3/6/2021
47
43
3/3/2019
Food Employers Labor Relations Association and United Food and Commercial Workers Pension Fund
20.4

20.4

33.8

No
10/26/2019 to 2/22/2020
21
16
10/26/2019
Sound Retirement Trust (6)
39.1

32.1

33.1

Yes
10/13/2018 to 10/16/2021
118
22
5/4/2019
Bakery and Confectionery Union and Industry International Pension Fund
17.4

16.6

17.1

Yes
9/3/2011 to 1/22/2022
92
28
9/6/2020
UFCW Union and Participating Food Industry Employers Tri-State Pension Fund
14.0

15.8

16.7

No
1/31/2018 to 1/25/2022
5
2
3/20/2020
Rocky Mountain UFCW Unions & Employers Pension Plan
10.8

10.8

11.0

Yes
1/12/2019 to 6/11/2022
81
30
2/23/2019
UFCW Local 152 Retail Meat Pension Fund (5)
10.8

11.0

10.8

No
5/2/2020
4
4
5/2/2020
Desert States Employers & UFCW Unions Pension Plan
9.1

9.3

9.1

Yes
5/9/2019 to 11/5/2022
16
13
10/24/2020
UFCW International Union - Industry Pension Fund (5)
13.1

12.4

8.6

No
8/25/2018 to 11/5/2022
27
8
6/11/2022
Mid Atlantic Pension Fund
6.6

6.8

6.9

No
10/26/2019 to 2/22/2020
19
16
10/26/2019
Retail Food Employers and UFCW Local 711 Pension Trust Fund
7.1

6.6

5.4

No
5/19/2018 to 12/13/2020
7
2
3/3/2019
Oregon Retail Employees Pension Trust
7.6

6.6

2.3

No
9/1/2016 to 12/6/2019
111
25
8/4/2018
Other funds
18.6

19.0

22.4

 
 
 
 
 
Total Company contributions to U.S. multiemployer pension plans
$
451.1

$
431.2

$
399.1

 
 
 
 
 

(1) PPA established three categories (or "zones") of plans: (1) "Green Zone" for healthy; (2) "Yellow Zone" for endangered; and (3) "Red Zone" for critical. These categories are based upon the funding ratio of the plan assets to plan liabilities. In general, Green Zone plans have a funding ratio greater than 80%, Yellow Zone plans have a funding ratio between 65% - 79%, and Red Zone plans have a funding ratio less than 65%.
(2)
Under the PPA, a surcharge may be imposed when employers make contributions under a collective bargaining agreement that is not in compliance with a rehabilitation plan. As of February 23, 2019, the collective bargaining agreements under which the Company was making contributions were in compliance with rehabilitation plans adopted by the applicable pension fund.
(3)
These columns represent the number of most significant collective bargaining agreements aggregated by common expiration dates for each of the Company's pension funds listed above.
(4)
The information for this fund was obtained from the Form 5500 filed for the plan's year-end at March 31, 2018 and March 31, 2017.
(5)
The information for this fund was obtained from the Form 5500 filed for the plan's year-end at June 30, 2017 and June 30, 2016.
(6) The information for this fund was obtained from the Form 5500 filed for the plan's year-end at September 30, 2017 and September 30, 2016.
Collective Bargaining Agreements

As of February 23, 2019, the Company had approximately 267,000 employees, of which approximately 170,000 were covered by collective bargaining agreements. During fiscal 2018, collective bargaining agreements covering approximately 8,500 employees were renegotiated. Collective bargaining agreements covering approximately 106,000 employees have expired or are scheduled to expire in fiscal 2019.

90



Multiemployer Health and Welfare Plans

The Company makes contributions to multiemployer health and welfare plans in amounts set forth in the related collective bargaining agreements. These plans provide medical, dental, pharmacy, vision, and other ancillary benefits to active employees and retirees as determined by the trustees of each plan. The majority of the Company's contributions cover active employees and as such, may not constitute contributions to a postretirement benefit plan. However, the Company is unable to separate contribution amounts to postretirement benefit plans from contribution amounts paid to active employee plans. Total contributions to multiemployer health and welfare plans were $1.3 billion, $1.2 billion and $1.2 billion for fiscal 2018, fiscal 2017 and fiscal 2016, respectively.
Defined Contribution Plans and Supplemental Retirement Plans

Many of the Company's employees are eligible to contribute a percentage of their compensation to defined contribution plans ("401(k) Plans"). Participants in the 401(k) Plans may become eligible to receive a profit-sharing allocation in the form of a discretionary Company contribution based on employee compensation. In addition, the Company may also provide matching contributions based on the amount of eligible compensation contributed by the employee. The Company provides supplemental retirement benefits through the Albertson's LLC Executive Deferred Compensation Makeup Plan and the United Supplemental Plan, which provide certain key employees with retirement benefits that supplement those provided by the 401(k) Plans. All Company contributions to the 401(k) Plans are made at the discretion of the Company's board of directors. Total contributions for these plans were $45.1 million, $44.6 million and $38.8 million for fiscal 2018, fiscal 2017 and fiscal 2016, respectively.

NOTE 13 - RELATED PARTIES AND OTHER RELATIONSHIPS
Transition Services Agreement with SuperValu

The Consolidated Financial Statements include expenses for certain support functions provided by SuperValu through Transition Services Agreements ("TSA") including, but not limited to, general corporate expenses related to finance, legal, information technology, warehouse and distribution, human resources, communications, processing and handling cardholder data, and procurement of goods. Fees are calculated on a per-store and distribution center basis of fixed and variable costs for services.

On April 16, 2015, the Company entered into a letter agreement regarding the TSA with SuperValu (the "TSA Letter Agreement") pursuant to which SuperValu will provide services to the Company as needed to transition and wind down the TSA and the services SuperValu provides under the TSA. In exchange for these transition and wind down services, the TSA Letter Agreement calls for eight payments of $6.25 million every six months for aggregate fees of $50.0 million. These payments are separate from and incremental to the fixed and variable fees the Company pays to SuperValu under the TSA. The parties also agreed to negotiate in good faith if either the costs associated with the transition and wind down services are materially higher (i.e. 5.0% or more) than anticipated, or SuperValu is not performing in all material respects the transition and wind down services as needed to support the Company's transition and wind down activities.
On October 17, 2017, the Company exercised its right to terminate the TSAs with SuperValu. The Company's TSAs terminated during the third quarter of fiscal 2018.

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Summary of SuperValu activity

Activities with SuperValu that are included in the Consolidated Statements of Operations and Comprehensive Income (Loss) consisted of the following (in millions):
 
Fiscal
2018
 
Fiscal
2017
 
Fiscal
2016
Supply agreements included in Cost of sales
$
1,064.8

 
$
1,674.7

 
$
1,749.1

Selling and administrative expenses
40.7

 
119.4

 
157.1

Total
$
1,105.5

 
$
1,794.1

 
$
1,906.2


Cerberus

In connection with the Safeway acquisition, the Company entered into a four-year management agreement with Cerberus Capital Management, L.P. and the consortium of investors, which commenced on January 30, 2015, requiring an annual management fee of $13.8 million. The Company made the final payment under the management agreement in the fourth quarter of fiscal 2017. The agreement was extended for a fifth year and a payment of the $13.8 million management fee was made in the fourth quarter of fiscal 2018.

NOTE 14 - COMMITMENTS AND CONTINGENCIES AND OFF BALANCE SHEET ARRANGEMENTS
Guarantees

California Department of Industrial Relations: On October 24, 2012, the Office of Self-Insurance Plans, a program within the director's office of the California Department of Industrial Relations (the "DIR"), notified SuperValu, which was then the owner of NALP, a wholly-owned subsidiary of the Company, that additional collateral was required to be posted in connection with the Company's, and certain other subsidiaries', California self-insured workers' compensation obligations pursuant to applicable regulations. The notice from the DIR stated that the additional collateral was required as a result of an increase in estimated future liabilities, as determined by the DIR pursuant to a review of the self-insured California workers' compensation claims with respect to the applicable businesses. On January 21, 2014, the Company entered into a Collateral Substitution Agreement with the California Self-Insurers' Security Fund to provide collateral. The collateral not covered by the California Self-Insurers' Security Fund is covered by an irrevocable LOC for the benefit of the State of California Office of Self-Insurance Plans. The amount of the LOC is adjusted annually based on semi-annual filings of an actuarial study reflecting liabilities as of December 31 of each year reduced by claim closures and settlements. The related LOC was $143.0 million as of February 23, 2019 and $205.6 million as of February 24, 2018.

Lease Guarantees: The Company may have liability under certain operating leases that were assigned to third parties. If any of these third parties fail to perform their obligations under the leases, the Company could be responsible for the lease obligation. Because of the wide dispersion among third parties and the variety of remedies available, the Company believes that if an assignee became insolvent, it would not have a material effect on the Company's financial condition, results of operations or cash flows.

The Company also provides guarantees, indemnifications and assurances to others in the ordinary course of its business.
Legal Proceedings

The Company is subject from time to time to various claims and lawsuits arising in the ordinary course of business, including lawsuits involving trade practices, lawsuits alleging violations of state and/or federal wage and hour laws (including alleged violations of meal and rest period laws and alleged misclassification issues), real estate disputes and other matters. Some of these suits purport or may be determined to be class actions and/or seek substantial damages.

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It is the opinion of the Company's management that although the amount of liability with respect to certain of the matters described herein cannot be ascertained at this time, any resulting liability of these and other matters, including any punitive damages, will not have a material adverse effect on the Company's business or financial condition.

The Company continually evaluates its exposure to loss contingencies arising from pending or threatened litigation and believes it has made provisions where the loss contingency can be reasonably estimated and an adverse outcome is probable. Nonetheless, assessing and predicting the outcomes of these matters involves substantial uncertainties. Management currently believes that the aggregate range of reasonably possible loss for the Company's exposure in excess of the amount accrued is expected to be immaterial to the Company. It remains possible that despite management's current belief, material differences in actual outcomes or changes in management's evaluation or predictions could arise that could have a material effect on the Company's financial condition, results of operations or cash flows.

Office of Inspector General: In January 2016, the Company received a subpoena from the Office of the Inspector General of the Department of Health and Human Services (the "OIG") pertaining to the pricing of drugs offered under the Company's MyRxCare discount program and the impact on reimbursements to Medicare, Medicaid and TRICARE (the "Government Health Programs"). In particular, the OIG is requesting information on the relationship between the prices charged for drugs under the MyRxCare program and the "usual and customary" prices reported by the Company in claims for reimbursements to the Government Health Programs or other third-party payors. The Company cooperated with the OIG in the investigation. The Company is currently unable to determine the probability of the outcome of this matter or the range of reasonably possible loss, if any.

Civil Investigative Demand: On December 16, 2016, the Company received a civil investigative demand from the United States Attorney for the District of Rhode Island in connection with a False Claims Act investigation relating to the Company's influenza vaccination programs. The investigation concerns whether the Company's provision of store coupons to its customers who received influenza vaccinations in its store pharmacies constituted an improper benefit to those customers under the federal Medicare and Medicaid programs. The Company believes that its provision of the store coupons to its customers is an allowable incentive to encourage vaccinations. The Company cooperated with the U.S. Attorney in the investigation. The Company is currently unable to determine the probability of the outcome of this matter or the range of possible loss, if any.

Security Breach: In 2014, the Company was the subject of criminal intrusions by the installation of malware on a portion of its computer network that processes payment card transactions for approximately 800 of its stores through its then service provider SuperValu. The Company believes these were attempts to collect payment card data. The forensic investigation into the intrusions indicated that although the Company was then compliant with the Payment Card Industry (PCI) Data Security Standards issued by the PCI Council, it was not compliant with all of these standards at the time of the intrusions. As a result, the Company was assessed by certain card companies for incremental counterfeit fraud losses, non-ordinary course expenses (such as card reissuance costs) and case management costs. The Company has paid or recorded an estimated liability for all of such assessments, and is seeking recovery from MasterCard of its assessment. As a result of the intrusion, two class action complaints were filed against the Company by consumers. These complaints have been dismissed, although the appeal of the dismissal of one case remains pending. In 2015, the Company also received a letter from the Office of the Attorney General of the Commonwealth of Pennsylvania stating that the Illinois and Pennsylvania Attorneys General Offices were leading a multi-state group requesting specified information concerning the two data breach incidents. The Company has cooperated with the investigation. The multi-state group did not make a monetary demand, and the Company is unable to estimate the possibility or range of loss, if any.

Terraza/Lorenz: Two lawsuits have been brought against Safeway and the Safeway Benefits Plan Committee (the "Benefit Plans Committee," and together with Safeway, the "Safeway Benefits Plans Defendants") and other third parties alleging breaches of fiduciary duty under the Employee Retirement Income Security Act of 1974, as amended ("ERISA") with respect to Safeway's 401(k) Plan (the "Safeway 401(k) Plan"). On July 14, 2016, a complaint ("Terraza") was filed in the United States District Court for the Northern District of California by a participant in the Safeway

93



401(k) Plan individually and on behalf of the Safeway 401(k) Plan. An amended complaint was filed on November 18, 2016. On August 25, 2016, a second complaint ("Lorenz") was filed in the United States District Court for the Northern District of California by another participant in the Safeway 401(k) Plan individually and on behalf of all others similarly situated against the Safeway Benefits Plans Defendants and against the Safeway 401(k) Plan's former recordkeepers. An amended complaint was filed on September 16, 2016, and a second amended complaint was filed on November 21, 2016. In general, both lawsuits allege that the Safeway Benefits Plans Defendants breached their fiduciary duties under ERISA regarding the selection of investments offered under the Safeway 401(k) Plan and the fees and expenses related to those investments. On March 13, 2017, the United States District Court for the Northern District of California denied the Safeway Benefits Plan Defendants' motion to dismiss with respect to Terraza, and granted in part and denied in part the Safeway Benefits Plan Defendants' motion to dismiss with respect to Lorenz. Discovery closed on June 8, 2018. The parties filed summary judgment motions, which were heard and taken under submission on August 16, 2018. Plaintiffs' motion was denied and defendants' motion was granted in part and denied in part. Bench trials for both matters are set for May 6, 2019. Though the Company believes these lawsuits are without merit and intends to contest each of them vigorously, it has recorded an estimated liability for these matters.

False Claims Act: The Company is currently subject to two qui tam actions alleging violations of the False Claims Act ("FCA"). Violations of the FCA are subject to treble damages and penalties of up to a specified dollar amount per false claim. In United States ex rel. Schutte and Yarberry v. SuperValu, New Albertson's, Inc., et al, which is pending in the U.S. District Court for the Central District of Illinois, the relators allege that defendants (including various subsidiaries of the Company) overcharged federal healthcare programs by not providing the government, as a part of usual and customary prices, the benefit of discounts given to customers who requested that defendants match competitor prices. The complaint was originally filed under seal and amended on November 30, 2015. Both sides have moved for summary judgment, and motions are pending before the court. Discovery is complete, and trial will be set after the Court rules on the pending dispositive motions. In United States ex rel. Proctor v. Safeway, also pending in the Central District of Illinois, the relator alleges that Safeway submitted fraudulent, inflated pricing information to government healthcare programs in connection with prescription drug claims, by failing to include pharmacy discount program pricing as a part of its usual and customary prices. On August 26, 2015, the underlying complaint was unsealed. Discovery is complete and trial is currently set for September 10, 2019. In both of the above cases, the government previously investigated the relators' allegations and declined to intervene. Relators elected to pursue their respective cases on their own and in each case have alleged FCA damages in excess of $100 million, before trebling and excluding penalties. The Company is vigorously defending each of these matters and believes each of these cases is without merit. The Company has recorded an estimated liability for these matters.
 
The Company was also subject to another FCA qui tam action entitled United States ex rel. Zelickowski v. Albertson's LLC. In that case, the relators alleged that Albertson's LLC overcharged federal healthcare programs by not providing the government, as a part of its usual and customary prices to the government, the benefit of discounts given to customers who enrolled in the Albertson's LLC discount-club program. The complaint was originally filed under seal and amended on June 20, 2017. On December 17, 2018, the case was dismissed, without prejudice.

Alaska Attorney General's Investigation: On May 22, 2018, the Company received a subpoena from the Office of the Attorney General for the State of Alaska (the "Alaska Attorney General") stating that the Alaska Attorney General has reason to believe the Company has engaged in unfair or deceptive trade practices under Alaska's Unfair Trade Practices and Consumer Act and seeking documents regarding the Company's policies, procedures, controls, training, dispensing practices and other matters in connection with the sale and marketing of opioid pain medications. The Company has been cooperating with the Alaska Attorney General in this investigation. The Company does not currently have a basis to believe it has violated Alaska's Unfair Trade Practices and Consumer Act, however, at this time, the Company is unable to determine the probability of the outcome of this matter or estimate a range of reasonably possible loss, if any.

Opioid Litigation: Albertson's LLC is one of multiple defendants named in a complaint brought by The Blackfeet Tribe of the Blackfeet Indian Reservation asserting unspecified allegations that the Company contributed to the national

94



opioid epidemic. An amended complaint was filed on August 29, 2018 in the United States District Court for the Northern District of Ohio as one of approximately 1,623 cases filed in or transferred to that district for coordinated or consolidated pretrial proceedings pursuant to 28 U.S.C. §1407. The Company was served on January 11, 2019 and filed a motion to dismiss on February 15, 2019. The Company has recently been named in ten additional actions also pending in the Northern District of Ohio under the rules governing multidistrict litigation. In addition, the State of New Mexico recently commenced a similar action against the Company and others in the County of Santa Fe, New Mexico. The Company is vigorously defending these matters and believes that these cases are without merit. At this early stage in the proceedings, the Company is unable to determine the probability of the outcome of this matter or the range of reasonably possible loss, if any.
Other Commitments

In the ordinary course of business, the Company enters into various supply contracts to purchase products for resale and purchase and service contracts for fixed asset and information technology commitments. These contracts typically include volume commitments or fixed expiration dates, termination provisions and other standard contractual considerations.

NOTE 15 - OTHER COMPREHENSIVE INCOME OR LOSS

Total comprehensive earnings are defined as all changes in stockholders' equity during a period, other than those from investments by or distributions to stockholders/members. Generally, for the Company, total comprehensive income equals net income plus or minus adjustments for interest rate swaps, pension and other post-retirement liabilities and foreign currency translation adjustments, driven primarily by the Company's equity method investment in Casa Ley.

While total comprehensive earnings are the activity in a period and are largely driven by net earnings in that period, accumulated other comprehensive income or loss ("AOCI") represents the cumulative balance of other comprehensive income, net of tax, as of the balance sheet date. AOCI is primarily the cumulative balance related to interest rate swaps, pension and other post-retirement benefit adjustments and foreign currency translation adjustments. Changes in the AOCI balance by component are shown below (in millions):
 
Fiscal 2018
 
Total
 
Interest rate swaps
 
Pension and Post-retirement benefit plan items
 
Foreign currency translation adjustments
 
Other
Beginning AOCI balance
$
191.1

 
$
18.9

 
$
171.9

 
$
(1.1
)
 
$
1.4

Other comprehensive loss before reclassifications
(129.8
)
 
(18.6
)
 
(110.0
)
 
(0.3
)
 
(0.9
)
Amounts reclassified from Accumulated other comprehensive income
(5.6
)
 
(2.3
)
 
(2.7
)
 
—

 
(0.6
)
Tax benefit
35.6

 
5.4

 
29.6

 
—

 
0.6

Current-period other comprehensive loss, net
(99.8
)
 
(15.5
)
 
(83.1
)
 
(0.3
)
 
(0.9
)
Ending AOCI balance
$
91.3

 
$
3.4

 
$
88.8

 
$
(1.4
)
 
$
0.5



95



 
Fiscal 2017
 
Total
 
Interest rate swaps
 
Pension and Post-retirement benefit plan items
 
Foreign currency translation adjustments
 
Other
Beginning AOCI balance
$
(12.8
)
 
$
(28.1
)
 
$
79.7

 
$
(66.1
)
 
$
1.7

Other comprehensive income before reclassifications
207.0

 
33.7

 
143.1

 
23.7

 
6.5

Amounts reclassified from Accumulated other comprehensive income
90.9

 
32.4

 
(21.3
)
 
84.9

 
(5.1
)
Tax (expense) benefit
(94.0
)
 
(19.1
)
 
(29.6
)
 
(43.6
)
 
(1.7
)
Current-period other comprehensive income (loss), net
203.9

 
47.0

 
92.2

 
65.0

 
(0.3
)
Ending AOCI balance
$
191.1

 
$
18.9

 
$
171.9

 
$
(1.1
)
 
$
1.4



NOTE 16 - QUARTERLY INFORMATION (unaudited)

The summarized quarterly financial data presented below reflects all adjustments, which in the opinion of management, are of a normal and recurring nature and are necessary for a fair statement of the results for the interim periods presented (in millions):
 
 
Fiscal 2018
 
 
52
Weeks
 
Last 12
Weeks
 
Third 12
Weeks
 
Second 12
Weeks
 
First 16
Weeks
Net sales and other revenue
 
$
60,534.5

 
$
14,016.6

 
$
13,840.4

 
$
14,024.1

 
$
18,653.4

Gross profit
 
16,894.6

 
4,058.7

 
3,852.4

 
3,812.8

 
5,170.7

Operating income
 
787.3

 
288.4

 
174.4

 
131.4

 
193.1

Income (loss) before income taxes
 
52.2

 
137.0

 
(19.8
)
 
(44.3
)
 
(20.7
)
Income tax (benefit) expense
 
(78.9
)
 
1.4

 
(65.4
)
 
(11.9
)
 
(3.0
)
Net income (loss)
 
$
131.1

 
$
135.6

 
$
45.6

 
$
(32.4
)
 
$
(17.7
)


Net income for the third quarter of fiscal 2018 includes the Company's provisional SAB 118 adjustment of $60.3 million related to the Tax Cuts and Jobs Act (the "Tax Act"). Net income for the second quarter of fiscal 2018 includes the Company's $135.8 million net gain on property dispositions, asset impairments and lease exit costs.



96



 
 
Fiscal 2017
 
 
52
Weeks
 
Last 12
Weeks
 
Third 12
Weeks
 
Second 12
Weeks
 
First 16
Weeks
Net sales and other revenue
 
$
59,924.6

 
$
14,033.7

 
$
13,599.2

 
$
13,831.7

 
$
18,460.0

Gross profit
 
16,361.1

 
3,948.3

 
3,624.6

 
3,729.7

 
5,058.5

Operating (loss) income (1)
 
(56.6
)
 
181.8

 
(101.0
)
 
(219.8
)
 
82.4

(Loss) income before income taxes
 
(917.5
)
 
15.3

 
(305.4
)
 
(422.9
)
 
(204.5
)
Income tax (benefit) expense
 
(963.8
)
 
(373.0
)
 
(523.5
)
 
(67.7
)
 
0.4

Net income (loss)
 
$
46.3

 
$
388.3

 
$
218.1

 
$
(355.2
)
 
$
(204.9
)
(1) Fiscal 2017 has been adjusted for the retrospective adoption of Accounting Standards Update ("ASU") 2017-07, "Compensation - Retirement Benefits (Topic 715) - Improving the Presentation of Net Periodic Pension Cost and Net Periodic Postretirement Benefit Cost" in the first quarter of fiscal 2018. We reclassified non-service pension and post-retirement cost components to Other income from Selling and administrative expenses. See Note 1 - Description of business, basis of presentation and summary of significant accounting policies.

Net loss for the second quarter of fiscal 2017 includes a goodwill impairment charge of $142.3 million. Net income during fiscal 2017 includes additional asset impairment charges of $100.9 million.

Net income in the third quarter of fiscal 2017 includes a non-cash income tax benefit of $359.0 million related to the release of a substantial portion of NALP's valuation allowance associated with the Reorganization Transactions. Fiscal 2017 reflects a net non-cash income tax benefit of $218.0 million related to the release of substantially all of NALP's valuation allowance, a difference of $141.0 million due to additional valuation allowance recorded for the first three quarters of fiscal 2017 through the date of the Reorganization Transactions. Net income for the fourth quarter of fiscal 2017 includes a net non-cash income tax benefit of $430.4 million as a result of the reduction in net deferred tax liabilities due to the lower corporate income tax rate from the enactment of the Tax Act, partially offset by an increase of $46.7 million in net deferred tax liabilities from the Company's limited liability companies related to the Reorganization Transactions.

Item 9 - Changes in and Disagreements with Accountants on Accounting and Financial Disclosure

Not applicable.

Item 9A - Controls and Procedures

Disclosure Controls and Procedures

We maintain a system of disclosure controls and procedures that are designed to ensure that information required to be disclosed in the Company's reports under the Securities Exchange Act of 1934, as amended (the "Exchange Act"), is recorded, processed, summarized and reported within the time periods specified in the SEC's rules and forms, and that such information is accumulated and communicated to management, including our Chief Executive Officer and Chief Financial Officer, as appropriate, to allow timely decisions regarding required disclosure. In designing and evaluating the disclosure controls and procedures, management recognizes that any controls and procedures, no matter how well designed and operated, can provide only reasonable assurance of achieving the desired control objectives.

Our management, with the participation of our Chief Executive Officer and Chief Financial Officer, has evaluated the effectiveness of our disclosure controls and procedures, as defined in Rule 13a-15(e) of the Exchange Act, as of February 23, 2019. Based on that evaluation, our Chief Executive Officer and Chief Financial Officer concluded that our disclosure controls and procedures were effective as of February 23, 2019.


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Table of Contents
Albertsons Companies, Inc. and Subsidiaries
Notes to Consolidated Financial Statements



Management's Report on Internal Control Over Financial Reporting

Our management is responsible for establishing and maintaining adequate internal control over financial reporting (as defined in Rules 13a-15(f) and 15d-15(f) under the Exchange Act). All internal control systems, no matter how well designed, have inherent limitations. Therefore, even those systems determined to be effective can provide only reasonable assurance with respect to financial statement preparation and presentation. Further, because of changes in conditions, the effectiveness of internal control over financial reporting may vary over time. Under the supervision and with the participation of our management, including our Chief Executive Officer and Chief Financial Officer, we conducted an evaluation of the effectiveness of our internal control over financial reporting based on the 2013 framework set forth in the report entitled Internal Control - Integrated Framework issued by the Committee of Sponsoring Organizations of the Treadway Commission.
 
Based on our evaluation under such framework, our management concluded that our internal control over financial reporting was effective as of February 23, 2019.
 
This Annual Report on Form 10-K does not include an attestation report of our independent registered public accounting firm regarding internal control over financial reporting. Our management's report was not subject to attestation by our independent registered public accounting firm pursuant to rules of the SEC that permit us to provide only management's report in this Annual Report on Form 10-K.

Changes in Internal Control Over Financial Reporting

There were no changes in our internal control over financial reporting during the fourth quarter of fiscal 2018 that have materially affected, or are reasonably likely to materially affect, our internal control over financial reporting.

Item 9B - Other Information
On March 29, 2019, the Company announced that Vivek Sankaran will become the President and Chief Executive Officer of the Company, effective April 25, 2019 (the "Commencement Date"). James L. Donald, the Company's current President and Chief Executive Officer, and Leonard Laufer, a current director of the Company, will become Co-Chairmen of the board of directors of the Company upon Mr. Sankaran joining the Company on the Commencement Date. Robert G. Miller will become Chairman Emeritus of the board of directors on the Commencement Date. In addition, the board of directors has agreed to nominate Mr. Sankaran to serve as a member of the board of directors effective as of the Commencement Date.

There is no arrangement or understanding with any person pursuant to which Mr. Sankaran is being appointed President, Chief Executive Officer and director. There are no family relationships between Mr. Sankaran and any director or executive officer of the Company, and Mr. Sankaran is not a party to any transaction requiring disclosure under Item 404(a) of Regulation S-K.


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Table of Contents


PART III

Item 10 - Directors, Executive Officers and Corporate Governance

The following table sets forth information regarding our board of directors and executive officers as of April 24, 2019:
Name
 
Age
 
Position
Robert G. Miller
 
75
 
Chairman
James L. Donald
 
65
 
President and Chief Executive Officer
Susan Morris
 
50
 
Executive Vice President and Chief Operations Officer
Shane Sampson
 
54
 
Chief Marketing and Merchandising Officer
Anuj Dhanda
 
56
 
Executive Vice President and Chief Information Officer
Robert B. Dimond
 
57
 
Executive Vice President and Chief Financial Officer
Justin Ewing
 
50
 
Executive Vice President, Corporate Development and Real Estate
Robert A. Gordon
 
67
 
Executive Vice President, General Counsel and Secretary
Jim Perkins
 
55
 
Executive Vice President, Retail Operations, Special Projects and President, Acme and Eastern Divisions
Andrew J. Scoggin
 
57
 
Executive Vice President, Human Resources, Labor Relations, Public Relations and Government Affairs
Mike Withers
 
59
 
Executive Vice President, Retail Operations, East Region
Dean S. Adler (a)
 
62
 
Director
Sharon L. Allen* (a)(b)
 
67
 
Director
Steven A. Davis* (d)(e)
 
60
 
Director
Kim Fennebresque* (b)(d)
 
69
 
Director
Allen M. Gibson*
 
53
 
Director
Hersch Klaff (e)
 
65
 
Director
Leonard Laufer (c)
 
53
 
Director
Jay L. Schottenstein
 
64
 
Director
Alan H. Schumacher* (d)
 
72
 
Director
Lenard B. Tessler (a)(b)
 
66
 
Lead Director
B. Kevin Turner (c)
 
54
 
Vice Chairman and Senior Advisor to the CEO
Scott Wille
 
38
 
Director
* Independent Director
(a) Member, Nominating and Corporate Governance Committee
(b) Member, Compensation Committee
(c) Member, Technology Committee
(d) Member, Audit and Risk Committee
(e) Member, Compliance Committee

Forthcoming Director and Chief Executive Officer Changes

On March 29, 2019, the Company announced that Vivek Sankaran will become the President and Chief Executive Officer of the Company, effective on the Commencement Date. James L. Donald, the Company's current President and Chief Executive Officer, and Leonard Laufer, a current director of the Company, will become Co-Chairmen of the board of directors of the Company upon Mr. Sankaran joining the Company on the Commencement Date. Robert G. Miller will become Chairman Emeritus of the board of directors on the Commencement Date. In addition, the board of directors has agreed to nominate Mr. Sankaran to serve as a member of the board of directors effective as of the Commencement Date.


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Table of Contents


EXECUTIVE OFFICERS AND DIRECTORS BIOGRAPHIES

Robert G. Miller, Chairman (Chairman Emeritus, expected to be effective April 25, 2019). Mr. Miller has served as our Chairman since April 2015 and has served as a member of our board of directors since 2006. Mr. Miller previously served as our Executive Chairman from January 2015 to April 2015, and as Chief Executive Officer from June 2006 to January 2015 and again from April 2015 to September 2018. Mr. Miller has over 50 years of retail food and grocery experience. Mr. Miller previously served as Chairman and Chief Executive Officer of Fred Meyer, Inc. and Rite Aid. He served as the Vice Chairman of Kroger from January 1999 to December 1999 and Chairman of Wild Oats Markets, Inc., a nationwide chain of natural and organic food markets from 2004 to 2006. Earlier in his career, Mr. Miller served as Executive Vice President of Operations of Albertson's, Inc. from 1988 to 1991. Mr. Miller has previously served as a board member of Nordstrom, Inc. from 2004 to 2016, JoAnn Fabrics from 2013 to 2015, Harrah's Entertainment Inc. from 1998 to 2006 and has served as a board member of the Jim Pattison Group, Inc., a diversified Canadian holding company, since 2006. Mr. Miller has detailed knowledge and valuable perspective and insights regarding our business and has responsibility for the development and implementation of our business strategy.

James L. Donald, President and Chief Executive Officer (Co-Chairman, expected to be effective April 25, 2019). Mr. Donald has served as our President and Chief Executive Officer since September 2018. Prior to that, Mr. Donald served as President and Chief Operating Officer since joining the Company in March 2018. Prior to that, Mr. Donald served as Chief Executive Officer and Director of Extended Stay America, Inc., a large North American owner and operator of hotels, and its subsidiary, ESH Hospitality, Inc. (together with Extended Stay America, Inc., "ESH"), from February 2012 to July 2015, and as Senior Advisor of ESH from August 2015 to December 2015. Prior to joining ESH, Mr. Donald served as President, Chief Executive Officer and Director of Starbucks Corporation, President and Chief Executive Officer of regional food and drug retailer Haggen Food & Pharmacy, Chairman, President and Chief Executive Officer of regional food and drug retailer Pathmark Stores, Inc., and in a variety of other senior and executive roles at Wal-Mart Stores, Inc., Safeway and Albertson's, Inc. Mr. Donald began his grocery and retail career in 1971 with Publix Super Markets, Inc. Mr. Donald has served on the Advisory Board of Jacobs Holding AG, a Switzerland-based global investment firm, since 2015, and as a member of the board of directors at Barry Callebaut AG, a Switzerland-based manufacturer of chocolate and cocoa, since 2008.

Vivek Sankaran, President, Chief Executive Officer and Director (expected to be effective April 25, 2019). Mr. Sankaran, 56, previously served from January 2019 to March 2019 as Chief Executive Officer of PepsiCo Foods North America, which includes Frito-Lay North America ("Frito-Lay"). There he led PepsiCo, Inc.'s ("PepsiCo") snack and convenient foods business. Prior to that, Mr. Sankaran served as President and Chief Operating Officer of Frito-Lay from April 2016 to December 2018; Chief Operating Officer of Frito-Lay from February 2016 to April 2016; Chief Commercial Officer, North America of PepsiCo from 2014 to February 2016, where he led PepsiCo's cross-divisional performance across its North American customers; Chief Customer Officer of Frito-Lay from 2012 to 2014; Senior Vice President and General Manager of Frito-Lay's South business unit from 2011 to 2012; and Senior Vice President, Corporate Strategy and Development of PepsiCo from 2009 to 2010. Before joining PepsiCo in 2009, Mr. Sankaran was a partner at McKinsey and Company, where he served various Fortune 100 companies, bringing a strong focus on strategy and operations. Mr. Sankaran co-led the firm's North American purchasing and supply management practice and was on the leadership team of the North American retail practice. Mr. Sankaran has an MBA from the University of Michigan, a master's degree in manufacturing from the Georgia Institute of Technology and a bachelor's degree in mechanical engineering from the Indian Institute of Technology in Chennai.

Susan Morris, Executive Vice President and Chief Operations Officer. Ms. Morris has been our Executive Vice President and Chief Operations Officer since January 2018. Previously, Ms. Morris served as our Executive Vice President, Retail Operations, West Region from April 2017 to January 2018. Ms. Morris also served as our Executive Vice President, Retail Operations, East Region from April 2016 to April 2017, as President of our Denver Division from March 2015 to March 2016 and as President of our Intermountain Division from March 2013 to March 2015. From June 2012 to February 2013, Ms. Morris served as our Vice President of Marketing and Merchandising, Southwest Division. From February 2010 to June 2012, Ms. Morris served as a Sales Manager in our Southwest Division. Prior

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to joining our Company, Ms. Morris served as Senior Vice President of Sales and Merchandising and Vice President of Customer Satisfaction at SuperValu. Ms. Morris also previously served as Vice President of Operations at Albertson's, Inc.

Shane Sampson, Chief Marketing and Merchandising Officer. Mr. Sampson has been our Chief Marketing and Merchandising Officer since April 2015. Previously, Mr. Sampson served as our Executive Vice President, Marketing and Merchandising from January 2015 to April 2015. He previously served as President of NALP's Jewel-Osco division from March 2014 to January 2015. Previously, in 2013, Mr. Sampson led NALP's Shaw's and Star Market's management team. Prior to joining NALP, Mr. Sampson served as Senior Vice President of Operations at Giant Food, a regional American supermarket chain and division of Ahold USA, from 2009 to January 2013. He has over 35 years of experience in the grocery industry at several chains, including roles as Vice President of Merchandising and Marketing and President of numerous Albertson's, Inc. divisions.

Anuj Dhanda, Executive Vice President and Chief Information Officer. Mr. Dhanda has been our Executive Vice President and Chief Information Officer since December 2015. Prior to joining our Company, Mr. Dhanda served as Senior Vice President of Digital Commerce of the Giant Eagle supermarket chain since March 2015, and as its Chief Information Officer since September 2013. Previously, Mr. Dhanda served at PNC Financial Services as Chief Information Officer from March 2008 to August 2013, after having served in other senior information technology positions at PNC Bank from 1995 to 2013.

Robert B. Dimond, Executive Vice President and Chief Financial Officer. Mr. Dimond has been our Chief Financial Officer since February 2014. Prior to joining our Company, Mr. Dimond previously served as Executive Vice President, Chief Financial Officer and Treasurer at Nash Finch Co., a food distributor, from 2007 to 2013. Mr. Dimond has over 30 years of financial and senior executive management experience in the retail food and distribution industry. Mr. Dimond has served as Chief Financial Officer and Senior Vice President of Wild Oats, Group Vice President and Chief Financial Officer for the western region of Kroger, Group Vice President and Chief Financial Officer of Fred Meyer, Inc. and as Vice President, Administration and Controller for Smith's Food and Drug Centers Inc., a regional supermarket chain. Mr. Dimond is a Certified Public Accountant.

Justin Ewing, Executive Vice President, Corporate Development and Real Estate. Mr. Ewing has been our Executive Vice President of Corporate Development and Real Estate since January 2015. Previously, Mr. Ewing had served as our Senior Vice President of Corporate Development and Real Estate since 2013, as Vice President of Real Estate and Development since 2011 and as Vice President of Corporate Development since 2006, when Mr. Ewing originally joined us from the operations group at Cerberus Capital Management, L.P. ("Cerberus"). Prior to his work with Cerberus, Mr. Ewing was with Trowbridge Group, a strategic sourcing firm. Mr. Ewing also spent over 13 years with PricewaterhouseCoopers LLP. Mr. Ewing is a Chartered Accountant with the Institute of Chartered Accountants of England and Wales.

Robert A. Gordon, Executive Vice President, General Counsel and Secretary. Mr. Gordon has been our Executive Vice President, General Counsel and Secretary since January 2015. Previously, he served as Safeway's General Counsel from June 2000 to January 2015 and as Chief Governance Officer since 2004, Safeway's Secretary since 2005 and as Safeway's Deputy General Counsel from 1999 to 2000. Prior to joining Safeway, Mr. Gordon was a partner at the law firm Pillsbury Winthrop Shaw Pittman LLP from 1984 to 1999.

Jim Perkins, Executive Vice President, Retail Operations Special Projects and President, Acme and Eastern Divisions. Mr. Perkins has been our Executive Vice President, Retail Operations Special Projects since April 2017. Since June 2017, he has also served as the President of our Acme and Eastern Divisions. He also served as our Executive Vice President, Retail Operations, West Region from April 2016 until April 2017, and our Executive Vice President, Retail Operations, East Region, from April 2015 to April 2016. He served as President of NALP's Acme Markets division from March 2013 to April 2015. Previously, he served as regional Vice President of Giant Food, a regional American supermarket chain, from 2009 to 2013. He began his career with Albertson's, Inc. as a clerk in 1982. Mr. Perkins served

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in roles of increasing responsibility, ultimately being named Vice President of Operations for Albertson's, Inc. In 2006, Mr. Perkins joined Albertson's LLC's southern division as Director of Operations.

Andrew J. Scoggin, Executive Vice President, Human Resources, Labor Relations, Public Relations and Government Affairs. Mr. Scoggin has served as our Executive Vice President, Human Resources, Labor Relations, Public Relations and Government Affairs since January 2015. Mr. Scoggin has also served as our Executive Vice President, Human Resources, Labor Relations and Public Relations since March 2013, and served as our Senior Vice President, Human Resources, Labor Relations and Public Relations from June 2006 to March 2013. Mr. Scoggin joined Albertson's, Inc. in the Labor Relations and Human Resources department in 1993. Prior to that time, Mr. Scoggin practiced law with a San Francisco Bay Area law firm.

Mike Withers, Executive Vice President, Retail Operations, East Region. Mr. Withers has served as our Executive Vice President, Retail Operations, East Region since April 2017. Mr. Withers began his career with Albertson's, Inc. in 1976. Mr. Withers served as district manager in both Washington and Florida and was promoted to Big Sky Division President with responsibilities for store operations in Montana and North Dakota, a role he also held in both the Florida and Portland divisions. Mr. Withers previously served as Vice President of Marketing and Merchandising for the Florida and Southern divisions, and President of the Southern and Jewel-Osco divisions.

Dean S. Adler, Director. Mr. Adler has been a member of our board of directors since 2006. Mr. Adler is CEO of Lubert-Adler, which he co-founded in 1997. Mr. Adler has served on the board of directors of Bed Bath & Beyond Inc., a nationwide retailer of domestic goods, since 2001, and previously served on the board of directors for Developers Diversified Realty Corp., a shopping center real estate investment trust, and Electronics Boutique, Inc., a mall retailer. Mr. Adler's extensive experience in the retail and real estate industries, as well as his extensive knowledge of our Company, provides valuable insight to our board of directors in industries critical to our operations.

Sharon L. Allen, Director. Ms. Allen has been a member of our board since June 2015. Ms. Allen served as U.S. Chairman of Deloitte LLP from 2003 to 2011, retiring from that position in May 2011. Ms. Allen was also a member of the Global Board of Directors, Chair of the Global Risk Committee and U.S. Representative of the Global Governance Committee of Deloitte Touche Tohmatsu Limited from 2003 to May 2011. Ms. Allen worked at Deloitte for nearly 40 years in various leadership roles, including partner and regional managing partner, and was previously responsible for audit and consulting services for a number of Fortune 500 and large private companies. Ms. Allen is currently an independent director of Bank of America Corporation. Ms. Allen has also served as a director of First Solar, Inc. since 2013. Ms. Allen is a Certified Public Accountant (Retired). Ms. Allen's extensive leadership, accounting and audit experience broadens the scope of our board of directors' oversight of our financial performance and reporting and provides our board of directors with valuable insight relevant to our business.

Steven A. Davis, Director. Mr. Davis has been a member of our board since June 2015. Mr. Davis is the former Chairman and Chief Executive Officer of Bob Evans Farms, Inc., a food service and consumer products company, where he served from May 2006 to December 2014. Mr. Davis has also served as a director of PPG Industries, Inc., a manufacturer and distributor of paints, coatings and specialty materials, since April 2019, Legacy Acquisition Corporation, an acquirer of companies in the public and restaurant sectors, since November 2017, Sonic Corp., the nation's largest chain of drive-in restaurants, since January 2017, Marathon Petroleum Corporation, a petroleum refiner, marketer, retailer and transporter, since 2013, Walgreens Boots Alliance, Inc. (formerly Walgreens Co.), a pharmacy-led wellbeing enterprise, from 2009 to 2015, and CenturyLink, Inc. (formerly Embarq Corporation), a provider of communication services, from 2006 to 2009. Prior to joining Bob Evans Farms, Inc. in 2006, Mr. Davis served in a variety of restaurant and consumer packaged goods leadership positions, including president of Long John Silver's LLC and A&W Restaurants, Inc. In addition, he held executive and operational positions at Yum! Brands, Inc.'s Pizza Hut division and at Kraft General Foods Inc. Mr. Davis has served as a member of the international board of directors for the Juvenile Diabetes Research Foundation since June 2016. Mr. Davis brings to our board of directors extensive leadership experience. In particular, Mr. Davis' leadership of retail and food service companies and pharmacies provides our board of directors with valuable insight relevant to our business.

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Kim Fennebresque, Director. Mr. Fennebresque has been a member of our board of directors since March 2015. Mr. Fennebresque has served as a senior advisor to Cowen Group Inc., a diversified financial services firm, since 2008, where he also served as its chairman, president and chief executive officer from 1999 to 2008. He has served on the boards of directors of Ally Financial Inc., a financial services company, since May 2009, BlueLinx Holdings Inc., a distributor of building products, since May 2013 and as Chairperson of BlueLinx Holdings Inc. since May 2016 and Ribbon Communications Inc., a provider of network communications solutions, since October 2017. Mr. Fennebresque has served as a member of the Supervisory Board of BAWAG P.S.K., one of Austria's largest banks, since 2017. Mr. Fennebresque served as a director of Delta Tucker Holdings, Inc. (the parent of DynCorp International, a provider of defense and technical services and government outsourced solutions) from May 2015 to July 2017. From 2010 to 2012, Mr. Fennebresque served as chairman of Dahlman Rose & Co., LLC, an investment bank. He has also served as head of the corporate finance and mergers and acquisitions departments at UBS and was a general partner and co-head of investment banking at Lazard Frères & Co. He has also held various positions at First Boston Corporation, an investment bank acquired by Credit Suisse. Mr. Fennebresque's extensive experience as a director of several public companies and history of leadership in the financial services industry brings corporate governance expertise and a diverse viewpoint to the deliberations of our board of directors.

Allen M. Gibson, Director. Mr. Gibson has been a member of our board of directors since October 2018. Mr. Gibson is currently the Chief Investment Officer of Centaurus Capital LP and Investment Manager for the Laura and John Arnold Foundation. Mr. Gibson has held both positions since April 2011. Centaurus Capital is a private investment partnership with interests in oil and gas, private equity, structured finance and the debt capital markets. Prior to Centaurus, Mr. Gibson was a Senior Vice President in institutional asset management at Royal Bank of Canada from February 2008 until April 2011. Mr. Gibson has served as a member of the board of directors of ARG Realty, a commercial real estate company based in Argentina, since April 2018, Global Atlantic Financial Group, Inc., a brokerage firm, since May 2013, Cell Site Solutions, LLC, a provider of telecom equipment, products and services since May 2014, and the Tony Hawk Foundation, a youth-oriented charitable foundation, since July 2016. Mr. Gibson also serves on the Advisory Committee of several investment funds, including Cerberus Investment Partners V and Cerberus Investment Partners VI. Centaurus is an investor in certain Cerberus funds. Mr. Gibson's knowledge of capital markets enhances the ability of the ACI board of directors to make prudent financial judgments.

Hersch Klaff, Director. Mr. Klaff has served as a member of our board of directors since 2010. Mr. Klaff is the Chief Executive Officer of Klaff Realty, which he formed in 1984. Mr. Klaff began his career as a Certified Public Accountant with the public accounting firm of Altschuler, Melvoin and Glasser in Chicago. Mr. Klaff's real estate expertise and accounting and investment experience, as well as his extensive knowledge of our Company, broadens the scope of our board of directors' oversight of our financial performance.

Leonard Laufer, Director (Co-Chairman, expected to be effective April 25, 2019). Mr. Laufer has been a member of our board of directors since October 2018. Mr. Laufer has served as Senior Managing Director at Cerberus and Chief Executive Officer of Cerberus Technology Solutions since May 2018. From March 2013 to May 2018, Mr. Laufer served as Managing Director and Head of Intelligent Solutions at JPMorgan Chase & Co. Prior to JPMorgan and from March 1997 to February 2013, Mr. Laufer co-founded and served as Chief Executive Officer and Managing Member of Argus Information and Advisory Services, LLC a provider of informational and analytical solutions to the payment industry that was purchased by Verisk Analytics in August 2012. Mr. Laufer's leadership roles at our largest beneficial owner and his knowledge of technology and information solutions provides critical skills for our board of directors to oversee our strategic planning and operations.

Jay L. Schottenstein, Director. Mr. Schottenstein has served as a member of our board of directors since 2006. Mr. Schottenstein has served as Chairman of the board of directors of American Eagle Outfitters, Inc., a global apparel and accessories retailer, since January 2014 and as Chief Executive Officer since January 2014, a position in which he previously served from March 1992 until December 2012. He has also served as Chairman of the Board and Chief Executive Officer of Schottenstein Stores since March 1992 and as president since 2001. Mr. Schottenstein also served

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as Chief Executive Officer of DSW, Inc., a footwear and accessories retailer, from March 2005 to April 2009, and as Chairman of the board of directors of DSW, Inc. since March 2005. Mr. Schottenstein's experience as a chief executive officer and a director of other major publicly-owned retailers, and his prior experience as a member of our board of directors, gives him and our board of directors valuable knowledge and insight to oversee our operations.

Alan H. Schumacher, Director. Alan H. Schumacher has served as a member of our board of directors since March 2015. He has also served on the board of Warrior Met Coal, Inc., a leading producer and exporter of metallurgical coal for the global steel industry, since its initial public offering in April 2017. He has currently or previously served as a director of BlueLinx Holdings Inc., a distributor of building products, Evertec Inc., a full-service transaction processing business in Latin America, School Bus Holdings Inc., an indirect parent of school-bus manufacturer Blue Bird Corporation, Quality Distribution Inc., a chemical bulk tank truck operator, and Noranda Aluminum Holding Corporation, a producer of aluminum. Mr. Schumacher was a member of the Federal Accounting Standards Advisory Board from 2002 through June 2012. The board of directors has determined that the simultaneous service on more than three audit committees of public companies by Mr. Schumacher does not impair his ability to serve on our audit and risk committee nor does it represent or in any way create a conflict of interest for our Company. Mr. Schumacher's experience as a board director of several public companies, and his deep understanding of accounting principles, provides our board of directors with experience to oversee our accounting and financial reporting.

Lenard B. Tessler, Lead Director. Mr. Tessler has served as a member of our board of directors since 2006. Mr. Tessler is currently Vice Chairman and Senior Managing Director at Cerberus, which he joined in 2001. Prior to joining Cerberus, Mr. Tessler served as Managing Partner of TGV Partners, a private equity firm that he founded, from 1990 to 2001. From 1987 to 1990, he was a founding partner of Levine, Tessler, Leichtman & Co. From 1982 to 1987, he was a founder, Director and Executive Vice President of Walker Energy Partners. Mr. Tessler is a member of the Cerberus Capital Management Investment Committee. Mr. Tessler has also served as a member of the board of directors of Keane Group, Inc., a provider of hydraulic fracturing, wireline technologies and drilling services, since October 2012, and as a Trustee of New York Presbyterian Hospital, where he also serves as member of the Investment Committee and the Budget and Finance Committee. Mr. Tessler's leadership roles at our largest beneficial owner, his board service and his extensive experience in financing and private equity investments and his in-depth knowledge of our Company and its acquisition strategy, provides critical skills for our board of directors to oversee our strategic planning and operations.

B. Kevin Turner, Vice Chairman and Senior Advisor to the CEO. Mr. Turner has served as Vice Chairman and Senior Advisor to the Chief Executive Officer and as a member of our board of directors since August 2017. Mr. Turner is currently a member of the board of directors of Nordstrom, Inc. Mr. Turner has served as President and Chief Executive Officer of Core Scientific, an emerging leader in blockchain and artificial intelligence infrastructure, hosting, transaction processing and application development, since July 2018. Mr. Turner was previously Chief Executive Officer of Citadel Securities and Vice Chairman of Citadel LLC, global financial institutions, from August 2016 to January 2017. He served as Chief Operating Officer of Microsoft Corporation from 2005 to 2016, and as Chief Executive Officer and President of Sam's Club, a subsidiary of Wal-Mart, from 2002 to 2005. Between 1985 and 2002, Mr. Turner held a number of positions of increasing responsibility with Wal-Mart, including Executive Vice President and Global Chief Information Officer from 2001 to 2002. Mr. Turner's strategic and operational leadership skills and expertise in online worldwide sales, global operations, supply chain, merchandising, branding, marketing, information technology and public relations provide our board of directors with valuable insight relevant to our business.

Scott Wille, Director. Mr. Wille has served as a member of our board of directors since January 2015. Mr. Wille is currently Co-Head of Private Equity and Senior Managing Director at Cerberus, which he joined in 2006. Prior to joining Cerberus, Mr. Wille worked in the leveraged finance group at Deutsche Bank Securities Inc. from 2004 to 2006. Mr. Wille has served as a director of Keane Group, Inc., a provider of hydraulic fracturing, wireline technologies and drilling services, since 2011. Mr. Wille previously served as a director of Remington Outdoor Company, Inc., a designer, manufacturer and marketer of firearms, ammunition and related products, from February 2014 to March 2018 and as a director of Tower International, Inc., a manufacturer of engineered structural metal components and assemblies,

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from September 2010 to October 2012. Mr. Wille serves as Senior Managing Director of our largest beneficial owner, and his experience in the financial and private equity industries, and his in-depth knowledge of our Company and its acquisition strategy, are valuable to our board of directors' understanding of our business and financial performance.

Family Relationships

None of our officers or directors has any family relationship with any director or other officer. "Family relationship" for this purpose means any relationship by blood, marriage or adoption, not more remote than first cousin.

Code of Business Conduct and Ethics

We have adopted a code of business conduct and ethics that applies to all of our employees, officers and directors, including those officers responsible for financial reporting. The code of business conduct and ethics was filed as Exhibit 14.1 to our Annual Report on Form 10-K for fiscal 2017 and is incorporated herein by reference. 

CORPORATE GOVERNANCE
Corporate Governance Guidelines

We have adopted corporate governance guidelines in accordance with the corporate governance rules of the NYSE, as applicable, that serve as a flexible framework within which our board of directors and its committees operate. These guidelines cover a number of areas, including the size and composition of the board, board membership criteria and director qualifications, director responsibilities, board agenda, roles of the Chairman of our board of directors and Chief Executive Officer, executive sessions, standing board committees, board member access to management and independent advisors, director communications with third parties, director compensation, director orientation and continuing education, evaluation of senior management and management succession planning.

Board Composition

Our business and affairs are currently managed by our board of directors. Our board of directors currently has 13 members, but is expected to increase to 15 members effective April 25, 2019. As presently situated, the board of directors is comprised of two members of management, six directors affiliated with the Sponsors (as defined herein) and five independent directors. Members of the board of directors will be elected at our annual meeting of stockholders to serve for a term of one year or until their successors have been elected and qualified, subject to prior death, resignation, retirement or removal from office.

Director Independence

Our board of directors has affirmatively determined that Sharon L. Allen, Steven A. Davis, Kim Fennebresque, Allen M. Gibson and Alan H. Schumacher are independent directors under the applicable rules of the NYSE and as such term is defined in Rule 10A-3(b)(1) under the Exchange Act.

Board Leadership Structure

Our board of directors does not have a formal policy on whether the roles of Chief Executive Officer and Chairman of the board of directors should be separate. Presently, James L. Donald serves as Chief Executive Officer and Robert G. Miller serves as Chairman. Our board of directors has considered its leadership structure and believes at this time that the Company and its stockholders are best served by having these positions divided. Dividing these roles allows for increased focus, as each person can devote their attention to one job, while fostering accountability and effective decision-making. By dividing these roles, each person is better able to successfully address both internal and external

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issues affecting the Company. Expected to be effective April 25, 2019, Vivek Sankaran will become our Chief Executive Officer, Mr. Donald and Leonard Laufer will become our Co-Chairmen and Mr. Miller will become our Chairman Emeritus. While the roles of Chief Executive Officer and Chairman will remain separate, having Co-Chairmen allows each to draw on their extensive knowledge and expertise to set the agenda for and ensure the appropriate focus on issues of concern to the board of directors.

Lenard B. Tessler currently serves as our Lead Director and is responsible for serving as a liaison between the Chairman and the non-management directors, approving meeting agendas and schedules for our board and presiding at executive sessions of the non-management directors and any other board meetings at which the Chairman is not present, among other responsibilities.

Our board of directors expects to periodically review its leadership structure to ensure that it continues to meet our needs.

Role of Board in Risk Oversight

While the full board of directors has the ultimate oversight responsibility for the risk management process, its committees oversee risk in certain specified areas. In particular, our audit and risk committee oversees management of enterprise risks as well as financial risks. Our compensation committee is responsible for overseeing the management of risks relating to our executive compensation plans and arrangements and the incentives created by the compensation awards it administers. Our technology committee is responsible for overseeing the management of our research and development and IT structure and risks associated with IT and cybersecurity. Our nominating and corporate governance committee oversees risks associated with corporate governance. Further, our compliance committee, which is partially comprised of board members, is responsible for overseeing the management of the compliance and regulatory risks we face and risks associated with business conduct and ethics. Pursuant to our board of directors' instruction, management regularly reports on applicable risks to the relevant committee or the full board of directors, as appropriate, with additional review or reporting on risks conducted as needed or as requested by our board of directors and its committees.

Board of Directors Meetings

During fiscal 2018, the board of directors met 17 times, the audit and risk committee met five times, the compensation committee met two times and the nominating and corporate governance committee did not meet. All of our directors attended at least 75% of all the board meetings in 2018 and a least 75% of all of the meetings of each committee on which the director served.

BOARD COMMITTEES

Our board of directors has assigned certain of its responsibilities to permanent committees consisting of board members appointed by it. Our board of directors has an audit and risk committee, compensation committee, technology committee and nominating and corporate governance committee, each of which have the responsibilities and composition described below:

Audit and Risk Committee

Our audit and risk committee consists of Kim Fennebresque, Alan H. Schumacher and Steven A. Davis, with Mr. Schumacher serving as chair of the committee. The committee assists the board in its oversight responsibilities relating to the integrity of our financial statements, our compliance with legal and regulatory requirements (to the extent not otherwise handled by our compliance committee), our independent auditor's qualifications and independence, and the establishment and performance of our internal audit function and the performance of the independent auditor. We have three independent directors serving on our audit and risk committee. Our board of directors has determined that Mr.

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Schumacher has the attributes necessary to qualify him as an "audit committee financial expert" as defined by applicable rules of the Securities and Exchange Commission ("SEC"). Our board of directors has adopted a written charter under which the audit and risk committee operates.

Compensation Committee

Our compensation committee consists of Kim Fennebresque, Lenard B. Tessler and Sharon L. Allen, with Mr. Fennebresque serving as chair of the committee. The compensation committee of the board of directors is authorized to review our compensation and benefits plans to ensure they meet our corporate objectives, approve the compensation structure of our executive officers and evaluate our executive officers' performance and advise on salary, bonus and other incentive and equity compensation.

Technology Committee

Our technology committee consists of Leonard Laufer and B. Kevin Turner, with both serving as co-chair of the committee. The purpose of the technology committee is to, among other things, meet with our science and technology leaders to review our internal research and technology development activities and provide input as it deems appropriate, review technologies that we consider for implementation, review our development of our technical goals and research and development strategies. Our board of directors has adopted a written charter under which the technology committee operates.

Nominating and Corporate Governance Committee

Our nominating and corporate governance committee consists of Dean S. Adler, Sharon L. Allen and Lenard B. Tessler, with Ms. Allen serving as chair of the committee. The nominating and corporate governance committee is primarily concerned with identifying individuals qualified to become members of our board of directors, selecting the director nominees for the next annual meeting of the stockholders, selection of the director candidates to fill any vacancies on our board of directors and the development of our corporate governance guidelines and principles. The nominating and corporate governance committee does not maintain a policy for considering nominees but believes the members of the committee have sufficient background and experience to review nominees competently. While the board of directors is solely responsible for the selection and nomination of directors, the nominating and corporate governance committee may consider nominees recommended by stockholders as deemed appropriate. The nominating and corporate governance committee evaluates each potential nominee in the same manner regardless of the source of the potential nominee's recommendation. Our board of directors has adopted a written charter under which the nominating and corporate governance committee operates.

Compensation Committee Interlocks and Insider Participation

None of the members of our compensation committee is or has at any time during the past year been an officer or employee of ours. None of our executive officers serves as a member of the compensation committee or board of directors of any other entity that has an executive officer serving as a member of our board of directors or compensation committee.

OTHER COMMITTEES

Compliance Committee

Our compliance committee (a non-board committee) consists of two directors, Hersch Klaff and Steven A. Davis, and two non-directors, Lisa A. Gray and Ronald Kravit, with Ms. Gray serving as chair of the committee. Ms. Gray serves as Vice Chairman of Cerberus Operations and Advisory Company, LLC ("COAC"), an affiliate of one of our Sponsors,

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Cerberus, and Mr. Kravit is currently a Senior Managing Director and head of real estate investing at Cerberus. The purpose of the compliance committee is to assist the Company in implementing and overseeing our compliance programs, policies and procedures that are designed to respond to the various compliance and regulatory risks facing our Company, and monitor our performance with respect to such programs, policies and procedures.

DIRECTOR COMPENSATION

Only our independent directors received compensation for their service on our board of directors or any board committees in fiscal 2018. We reimburse all of our directors for reasonable documented out-of-pocket expenses incurred by them in connection with attendance at board of directors and committee meetings.

For fiscal 2018, all of our independent directors received an annual cash fee in the amount of $125,000 and additional annual fees for serving as a committee chair and/or member as follows:
Name
 
Committee Position
 
Additional Annual Fee
Sharon L. Allen
 
Chair of Nominating and Governance Committee
 
$10,000
 
Member of Nominating and Governance Committee
 
$10,000
 
Member of Compensation Committee
 
$20,000
 
 
 
 
 
Steven A. Davis
 
Member of Audit and Risk Committee
 
$25,000
 
Member of Compliance Committee
 
$20,000
 
 
 
 
 
Kim Fennebresque
 
Chair of Compensation Committee
 
$20,000
 
Member of Compensation Committee
 
$20,000
 
Member of Audit and Risk Committee
 
$25,000
 
 
 
 
 
Alan H. Schumacher
 
Chair of Audit and Risk Committee
 
$25,000
 
Member of Audit and Risk Committee
 
$25,000

Messrs. Davis, Fennebresque and Schumacher each held an award of 2,068 Phantom Units having a grant date fair value of $125,000 which became 100% vested on February 23, 2019. In February 2018, ACI's board of directors approved awards of 3,930 Phantom Units to each of Messrs. Davis, Fennebresque and Schumacher and Ms. Allen with a grant date fair value of $125,000. These Phantom Units became 100% vested on February 23, 2019. On August 28, 2018, Messrs. Davis, Fennebresque and Schumacher were each awarded 4,018 Phantom Units which became 100% vested on the date of grant, and Ms. Allen was awarded 10,713 Phantom Units which became 100% vested on the date of grant.

See "Executive Compensation-Incentive Plans-Phantom Unit Plan" for additional information regarding the Phantom Unit Plan.


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Four members of ACI's board of directors, Sharon L. Allen, Steven A. Davis, Kim Fennebresque and Alan H. Schumacher, received compensation for their service on our board of directors during fiscal 2018, as set forth in the table below and as described in "-Director Compensation."
(in dollars)
Name
 
Fees earned or Paid in Cash($)
 
Unit Awards
($)(1)
 
Option Awards
 
Non-Equity Incentive Plan Compensation
 
Change in Pension Value and nonqualified Deferred Compensation Earnings
 
All Other Compensation
 
Total($)
Sharon L. Allen
 
165,000
 
496,862
 
—
 
—
 
—
 
—
 
661,862
Steven A. Davis
 
170,000
 
264,478
 
—
 
—
 
—
 
—
 
434,478
Kim Fennebresque
 
190,000
 
264,478
 
—
 
—
 
—
 
—
 
454,478
Alan H. Schumacher
 
175,000
 
264,478
 
—
 
—
 
—
 
—
 
439,478
(1) Reflects the grant date fair value calculated in accordance with Accounting Standards Codification 718, Compensation-Stock Compensation, ("ASC 718").

As of February 23, 2019, the aggregate number of outstanding vested and unvested Phantom Units held by each independent director was:
Name
 
Number of Vested Phantom Units
 
Number of Unvested Phantom Units
Sharon L. Allen
 
14,643
 
—
Steven A. Davis
 
10,016
 
—
Kim Fennebresque
 
10,016
 
—
Alan H. Schumacher
 
10,016
 
—


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Item 11 - Executive Compensation

COMPENSATION DISCUSSION AND ANALYSIS

This Compensation Discussion and Analysis is designed to provide an understanding of ACI's compensation philosophy and objectives, compensation-setting process, and the compensation of ACI's named executive officers during fiscal 2018 ("NEOs"). ACI's NEOs for fiscal 2018 are:

• Robert G. Miller, ACI's Chairman;
• James L. Donald, ACI's President and Chief Executive Officer;
• Robert B. Dimond, ACI's Executive Vice President and Chief Financial Officer;
• Shane Sampson, ACI's Chief Marketing and Merchandising Officer;
• Susan Morris, ACI's Executive Vice President and Chief Operations Officer; and
• Anuj Dhanda, ACI's Executive Vice President and Chief Information Officer.

Compensation Philosophy and Objectives

ACI's general compensation philosophy is to provide programs that attract, retain and motivate its executive officers who are critical to its long-term success. ACI strives to provide a competitive compensation package to its executive officers to reward achievement of its business objectives and align their interests with the interests of its equityholders. ACI has sought to accomplish these goals through a combination of short- and long-term compensation components that are linked to ACI's annual and long-term business objectives and strategies. To focus ACI's executive officers on the fulfillment of its business objectives, a significant portion of their compensation is performance-based.

The Role of the Compensation Committee

The compensation committee is responsible for determining the compensation of ACI's executive officers. The compensation committee's responsibilities include determining and approving the compensation of the Chief Executive Officer and reviewing and approving the compensation of all other executive officers.

Compensation Setting Process

ACI's compensation program has reflected its operations as a private company. In determining the compensation for its executive officers, ACI relied largely upon the experience of its management and its board of directors with input from its Chief Executive Officer.

ACI's board of directors has established a compensation committee to be responsible for administering its executive compensation programs. As part of the administration of ACI's executive compensation programs, the Chief Executive Officer provides the compensation committee with his assessment of the other NEOs' performance and other factors used in developing his recommendation for their compensation, including salary adjustments, cash incentives and equity grants.

ACI has engaged a compensation consultant to provide assistance in determining the compensation of its executive officers. Such assistance may include establishing a peer group and formal benchmarking process to ensure that its executive compensation program is competitive and offers the appropriate retention and performance incentives.


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Components of the NEO Compensation Program for Fiscal 2018

ACI uses various compensation elements to provide an overall competitive total compensation and benefits package to the NEOs that is tied to creating value and commensurate with ACI's results and aligns with its business strategy. Set forth below are the key elements of the compensation program for the NEOs for fiscal 2018:
•
base salary that reflects compensation for the NEO's role and responsibilities, experience, expertise and individual performance;
•
quarterly bonus based on division performance;
•
annual bonus based on ACI's financial performance for the fiscal year;
•
incentive compensation based on the value of ACI's equity;
•
severance protection; and
•
other benefits that are provided to all employees, including healthcare benefits, life insurance, retirement savings plans and disability plans.

Base Salary

ACI provides the NEOs with a base salary to compensate them for services rendered during the fiscal year. Base salaries for the NEOs are determined on the basis of each executive's role and responsibilities, experience, expertise and individual performance. The NEOs are not eligible for automatic annual salary increases. In fiscal 2018, ACI made the following adjustments to the base salary levels applicable to its NEOs from their base salaries in effect at the end of fiscal 2017:
Name
 
Fiscal 2017
Base Salary ($)
 
Fiscal 2018
Base Salary (effective
October 21, 2018) ($)
Robert G. Miller
 
2,000,000

 
2,000,000

James L. Donald (1)
 
—

 
1,500,000

Robert B. Dimond
 
775,000

 
850,000

Shane Sampson
 
900,000

 
900,000

Susan Morris
 
850,000

 
900,000

Anuj Dhanda
 
600,000

 
700,000

1.
Upon commencement of his employment, on March 1, 2018, Mr. Donald became entitled to receive an annual base salary of $1,000,000. Mr. Donald's base salary increased to $1,500,000 effective September 11, 2018.

Bonuses

Performance-Based Bonus Plans

ACI recognizes that its corporate management employees shoulder responsibility for supporting its operations and in achieving positive financial results. Therefore, ACI believes that a substantial percentage of each executive officer's annual compensation should be tied directly to the achievement of performance goals.

2018 Bonus Plan. All of the NEOs participated in the Corporate Management Bonus Plan established for fiscal 2018 (the "2018 Bonus Plan"). Consistent with ACI's bonus plan for fiscal 2017, the 2018 Bonus Plan provided for two components:

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•
a quarterly bonus component based on the performance achieved by each of ACI's divisions for each fiscal quarter in fiscal 2018 (each a "Quarterly Division Bonus"), other than ACI's United Supermarkets Division and Haggen stores; and
•
an annual bonus component based on performance for the full fiscal 2018 (the "Annual Corporate Bonus").

The goals set under the 2018 Bonus Plan were designed to be challenging and difficult to achieve, but still within a realizable range so that achievement was both uncertain and objective. ACI believes that this methodology created a strong link between its NEOs and its financial performance.

The Quarterly Division Bonus component and the Annual Corporate Bonus component each constituted 50% of each NEO's target bonus opportunity for fiscal 2018. Consistent with its bonus plan for fiscal 2017 and the Executive Employment Agreements (as defined below), ACI established the target bonus opportunity for fiscal 2018 under the 2018 Bonus Plan as 60% (50% for Mr. Dhanda and 100% for Mr. Donald) of the NEO's annual base salary. ACI believes that the target bonus opportunity for its NEOs is appropriate based on their positions and responsibilities, as well as their individual ability to impact its financial performance, and places a proportionately larger percentage of total annual pay for its NEOs at risk based on its performance.

Quarterly Division Bonus. The target bonus opportunity for each fiscal quarter in fiscal 2018 was calculated by dividing the NEO's target bonus opportunity for fiscal 2018 by 52 weeks and multiplying the result by the number of weeks in the applicable fiscal quarter, then dividing by half (each, a "Quarterly Bonus Target"). Higher and lower percentages of base salary could be earned for each fiscal quarter if minimum performance levels or performance levels above target were achieved. The maximum bonus opportunity for each fiscal quarter under the 2018 Bonus Plan was 200% of the applicable Quarterly Bonus Target. No amount would be payable for the applicable fiscal quarter if results fell below established threshold levels. ACI believes that having a maximum cap serves to promote good judgment by the NEOs, reduces the likelihood of windfalls and makes the maximum cost of the plan predictable.

At the beginning of each fiscal quarter, the management of each division participating in the 2018 Bonus Plan, with approval from ACI's corporate management, established the division's EBITDA goal for the applicable fiscal quarter with threshold, plan, target and maximum goals. After the end of the fiscal quarter, ACI's corporate finance team calculated the financial results for each retail division and reported the Quarterly Division Bonus percentage earned, if any. A division earned between 0% to 100% of its bonus target amount for achievement of EBITDA for the fiscal quarter between the threshold and target levels. If the division exceeded 100% of its target EBITDA for a fiscal quarter, the amount in excess of target EBITDA would be earned in proportion to the maximum goals, subject to a cap based on achievement of division sales goals for such fiscal quarter as follows:
Quarterly Sales Goal Percentage Achieved
 
Maximum Percentage of Quarterly Division Bonus Target Earned
Below 99%
 
100%
99%-99.99%
 
150%
100% or greater
 
200%

The bonuses earned by the NEOs for each fiscal quarter were determined by adding together the percentage of the quarterly division bonus target amounts earned for all of the divisions and dividing the sum by the number of ACI's divisions participating in the 2018 Bonus Plan for such quarter. 12 ACI divisions participated in the 2018 Bonus Plan during fiscal 2018. The actual amount of the bonus earned by an NEO for each fiscal quarter is approved by the compensation committee.

Annual Corporate Bonus. The Annual Corporate Bonus component was based on the level of achievement by ACI of an annual Adjusted EBITDA target for fiscal 2018 of $2,700.0 million. Amounts under the Annual Corporate Bonus could be earned above or below target level. The threshold level above which a percentage of the Annual Corporate Bonus could be earned was achievement above 90% of the Adjusted EBITDA target and 100% of the Annual Corporate Bonus could be earned at achievement of 100% of the Adjusted EBITDA target, with interim percentages earned for

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achievement between levels. If achievement exceeded 100% of the Adjusted EBITDA target, 10% of the excess Adjusted EBITDA would be added to the bonus pool, but payout was capped at 200% on the Annual Corporate Bonus component of the NEO's target bonus opportunity for fiscal 2018. Based on ACI's achievement of Adjusted EBITDA of $2,741.3 million in fiscal 2018, 102% of the target, the compensation committee determined that 120.95% of the Annual Corporate Bonus component of each NEO's fiscal 2018 target bonus opportunity was earned.
 
The NEOs earned the following amounts under the 2018 Bonus Plan:
Name
 
Aggregate Quarterly Division Bonus for Fiscal 2018 Earned
($)
 
Annual Corporate Bonus for Fiscal 2018 Earned
($)
 
Aggregate Bonus for Fiscal 2018 Earned
($)
Robert G. Miller
 
541,140

 
725,700

 
1,266,840

James L. Donald
 
485,760

 
614,054

 
1,099,814

Robert B. Dimond
 
218,045

 
290,629

 
508,674

Shane Sampson
 
243,513

 
326,565

 
570,078

Susan Morris
 
235,553

 
314,703

 
550,256

Anuj Dhanda
 
144,567

 
191,892

 
336,459


Special Bonuses

In addition to the annual cash incentive program, ACI may from time to time pay its NEOs discretionary bonuses as determined by the board of directors or the compensation committee to provide for additional retention or upon special circumstances. In connection with the commencement of their employment, Mr. Dimond received a retention bonus in the amount of $1,500,000 and Messrs. Sampson and Dhanda each received a retention bonus in the amount of $1,000,000. Upon his subsequent transfer to the position of Division President of Jewel-Osco and in recognition of his performance, in March 2014, Mr. Sampson's retention award was increased to $1,240,000. The final installments of Mr. Dimond's and Mr. Sampson's retention bonuses, in the amounts of $375,000 and $310,000, respectively, were paid on April 1, 2017. The second installment of Mr. Dhanda's retention bonus, in the amount of $250,000, was paid to him on February 26, 2017, the third installment was paid to him on February 26, 2018 and the fourth installment was paid on February 26, 2019. In addition, in 2015, Ms. Morris received a retention bonus of $87,500. The final installment of Ms. Morris's retention bonus, in the amount of $21,875, was paid to her on February 1, 2019.

Incentive Plans

Miller Incentive Units

In connection with the Safeway acquisition, Mr. Miller was granted a fully-vested equity award equal to a 1.0% interest in AB Acquisition on a fully participating basis, which consisted of 3,350,084 fully-vested and non-forfeitable investor incentive units of AB Acquisition. In connection with the Reorganization Transactions, such investor incentive units were exchanged for 1,109,347 investor incentive units of Albertsons Investor and 1,109,347 investor incentive units of KIM ACI.

Phantom Unit Plan

Mr. Dhanda was granted 82,785 Phantom Units on February 28, 2017, Mr. Sampson was granted 132,456 Phantom Units on July 19, 2017 and Ms. Morris was granted 132,456 Phantom Units on each of April 28, 2016 and January 11, 2018 (such grants of Phantom Units to the NEOs, the "2016-2017 NEO Phantom Unit Grants").

Fifty percent of the 2016-2017 NEO Phantom Unit Grants are time-based units that are subject to the NEO's continued service through each applicable vesting date. The remaining 50% of the 2016-2017 NEO Phantom Unit Grants are Performance Units that are subject to both the NEO's continued service through each applicable vesting date and to

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the achievement of annual performance targets. The portion of the Performance Units subject to vesting on February 23, 2019 were subject to ACI's achievement of an annual Adjusted EBITDA target for fiscal 2018 of $2,700.0 million. Based on ACI's achievement of Adjusted EBITDA of $2,741.3 million in fiscal 2018, all Performance Units subject to the achievement of performance targets for fiscal 2018 vested on February 23, 2019. The 2016-2017 NEO Phantom Unit Grants were granted with the right to receive a Tax Bonus that entitles the participant to receive a bonus equal to 4% of the fair value of the management incentive units paid to the participant in respect of vested Phantom Units.

Upon the commencement of his employment, on March 1, 2018, Mr. Donald was granted 214,219 Phantom Units. Fifty percent of such Phantom Units vested on the last day of fiscal 2018 and the remaining 50% of such Phantom Units will become vested on the last day of fiscal 2019, subject to Mr. Donald's continued employment through such date. Mr. Donald's award was granted with the right to receive a Tax Bonus that entitles Mr. Donald to receive a bonus equal to 4% of the fair value of the management incentive units paid to him in respect of vested Phantom Units.

On September 11, 2018, Mr. Donald was granted 125,000 Phantom Units, and on November 9, 2018, each of Messrs. Sampson and Dimond and Ms. Morris were granted 39,297 Phantom Units and Mr. Dhanda was granted 15,717 Phantom Units (the "2018 NEO Time-Based Phantom Unit Grants"). The 2018 NEO Time-Based Phantom Unit Grants vest in one-third increments on each of the next three anniversaries of the grant date. Additionally, on September 11, 2018, Mr. Donald was granted an award entitling him to earn a target number of 125,000 Phantom Units, and on November 9, 2018, each of Messrs. Sampson and Dimond and Ms. Morris were granted an award entitling him or her to earn a target number of 39,297 Phantom Units and Mr. Dhanda was granted an award entitling him to earn a target number of 15,717 Phantom Units, in each case subject to his or her continued service through the conclusion of ACI's 2022 fiscal year and based on the achievement of specified performance goals (the "2018 NEO Performance-Based Phantom Unit Grants"). Each award recipient may earn between 0% and 120% of one-third of the target number of Phantom Units each fiscal year based on ACI's achievement of its annual Adjusted EBITDA target for such fiscal year. For an award recipient to earn any Phantom Units in respect of a fiscal year, ACI must achieve at least 95% of its annual Adjusted EBITDA target for that fiscal year. Performance at 95% of ACI's annual Adjusted EBITDA target will entitle an award recipient to 75% of the target number of Phantom Units for such fiscal year. Any Phantom Units not earned at the end of a fiscal year are automatically forfeited. If an award recipient's employment terminates prior to the conclusion of ACI's 2021 fiscal year, all of the award recipient's 2018 NEO Performance-Based Phantom Unit Grants will be forfeited.

Employment Agreements

Employment Agreement with Robert G. Miller

Mr. Miller is party to an employment agreement with ACI, dated March 13, 2006, as amended (the "Miller Employment Agreement"). On January 12, 2018, ACI and Mr. Miller entered into a letter agreement, pursuant to which the term of Mr. Miller's employment under the Miller Employment Agreement was extended through January 30, 2019, and pursuant to another letter agreement dated March 25, 2019, the term of Mr. Miller's Employment Agreement was extended through April 25, 2019. Mr. Miller retired from the Chief Executive Officer position on September 12, 2018 and continues to serve as Chairman of ACI until his transition to Chairman Emeritus as described below.

The Miller Employment Agreement provides that Mr. Miller will serve as Chairman and Chief Executive Officer (which will be the senior most executive officer) and a voting member of the board of directors and of any executive or operating committee of the board of directors other than a committee required by the rules of the SEC or the applicable securities exchange to be made up of solely independent directors. Pursuant to the January 12, 2018 letter agreement, ACI may appoint a successor Chief Executive Officer, which will not constitute a Good Reason event so long as Mr. Miller continues to hold or share the position of Chairman. On September 12, 2018, ACI announced the appointment of Mr. Donald as its Chief Executive Officer and President, effective September 11, 2018. Mr. Donald succeeded Mr. Miller, who continues to serve as Chairman of ACI until his transition to Chairman Emeritus as described below.


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The Miller Employment Agreement provides that Mr. Miller will receive an annual base salary in the amount of $2,000,000 per year.

Pursuant to the Miller Employment Agreement, Mr. Miller is entitled to the use of corporate aircraft for up to 100 hours of personal use per year for himself, his family members and guests at no cost to him, other than to pay income tax on such usage at the lowest permissible rate. In addition, pursuant to the Miller Employment Agreement, ACI assigned $5.0 million of the key man life insurance policy that ACI had obtained on Mr. Miller's life to Mr. Miller in favor of one or more beneficiaries designated by him from time to time. ACI agreed to maintain such policy (or substitute equivalent policies) in effect through January 2025 (whether or not Mr. Miller remains employed with ACI).

For purposes of the Miller Employment Agreement, Cause generally means:

•
an act of fraud, embezzlement or misappropriation by Mr. Miller intended to result in substantial personal enrichment at the expense of ACI; or
•
Mr. Miller's willful or intentional failure to materially comply (to the best of his ability) with a specific, written direction of the board of directors that is consistent with normal business practice and not inconsistent with the Miller Employment Agreement and his responsibilities thereunder, and that within ten business days after the delivery of written notice of the failure is not cured to the best of his ability or that Mr. Miller has not provided notice that the failure was based on his good faith belief that the implementation of such direction would be unlawful or unethical.

For purposes of the Miller Employment Agreement, Good Reason generally means:

•
a change of control;
•
any material adverse alteration in Mr. Miller's titles, positions, duties, authorities, reporting relationships or responsibilities that is not cured within ten business days of notice from Mr. Miller, other than the appointment of a successor Chief Executive Officer to succeed (and replace) Mr. Miller as Chief Executive Officer if he continues to hold or share the position of Chairman; or
•
any material failure by ACI to comply with the Miller Employment Agreement that is not cured within ten business days of notice from Mr. Miller.

Effective April 25, 2019, Mr. Miller will transition from his current role as Chairman of the board of directors to Chairman Emeritus.

Pursuant to a chairman emeritus agreement with Mr. Miller, as Chairman Emeritus, Mr. Miller will be entitled to receive a quarterly fee of $300,000 per fiscal quarter until the earlier of the end of fiscal 2019 or the date Mr. Miller no longer serves as a member of ACI's board of directors. Following fiscal 2019, so long as Mr. Miller continues to serve on the board of directors, Mr. Miller will be entitled to receive director's fees to the same extent, and on the same basis, as the director's fees paid to directors appointed by the Sponsors. If Mr. Miller's service on the board of directors terminates prior to the end of fiscal 2019, Mr. Miller will receive a cash lump sum in an amount equal to the quarterly fees that he would have received through the end of fiscal 2019.

Employment Agreement with Vivek Sankaran

On March 29, 2019, ACI announced that Vivek Sankaran will become its President and Chief Executive Officer, effective on the Commencement Date. Mr. Sankaran's employment agreement with ACI (the "Sankaran Employment Agreement") provides for an initial term that will expire on the third anniversary of the Commencement Date, and thereafter automatically renew for additional one-year periods unless either party provides written notice at least one-hundred twenty days prior to the end of the then-current term.


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Pursuant to the Sankaran Employment Agreement, Mr. Sankaran will be entitled to receive an annual base salary of $1,500,000 on the Commencement Date and is eligible for an annual bonus targeted at 150% of his base salary. Mr. Sankaran will also receive a sign-on retention award of $10,000,000, payable in three installments as follows: (i) 50% on the Commencement Date; (ii) 25% on the one-year anniversary of the Commencement Date; and (iii) 25% on the two-year anniversary of the Commencement Date, subject to his continued employment with ACI on each such date.

On the Commencement Date, Mr. Sankaran also will be granted profits interests ("Units") in each of Albertsons Investor and KIM ACI. 50% of the Units will vest in installments on each of the first, second, third, fourth and fifth anniversaries of the Commencement Date, and 50% of the Units will vest in installments at the end of each of ACI's 2019, 2020, 2021, 2022 and 2023 fiscal years based on ACI's attainment of performance criteria for each such fiscal year, in each case subject to Mr. Sankaran's continued employment with ACI. The Units are subject to accelerated vesting upon a termination of employment as set forth in the respective grant agreements.

Employment Agreement with James L. Donald

In connection with his appointment as President and Chief Operating Officer, on March 1, 2018, Mr. Donald entered into an employment agreement that provided for substantially the same terms as the Executive Employment Agreements.

In connection with his appointment as Chief Executive Officer and President, Mr. Donald entered into a revised employment agreement, dated September 11, 2018 (the "Donald Employment Agreement"), that has a term ending September 11, 2021. Pursuant to the Donald Employment Agreement, Mr. Donald is eligible for an annual bonus targeted at 100% of his base salary, as well as annual equity grants valued at $8,000,000, subject to three-year ratable vesting and subject to any combination of time and/or performance conditions placed on such vesting by the board of directors or the compensation committee. In addition, pursuant to the Donald Employment Agreement, ACI assigned $5.0 million of the key man life insurance policy that ACI had obtained on Mr. Donald's life to Mr. Donald in favor of one or more beneficiaries designated by him from time to time. ACI agreed to maintain such policy (or substitute equivalent policies) through September 11, 2021.

Pursuant to the Donald Employment Agreement, Mr. Donald is entitled to the use of corporate aircraft for up to 50 hours of personal use per year for himself, his family members and guests at no cost to him, other than to pay income tax on such usage at the lowest permissible rate.

Effective April 25, 2019, Mr. Sankaran will succeed Mr. Donald as Chief Executive Officer and President, and, in accordance with the terms of the Donald Employment Agreement, Mr. Donald will be employed as Co-Chairman of the board of directors.
  
Employment Agreements with other Executives

During fiscal 2018, Messrs. Dimond, Sampson and Dhanda were each party to amended and restated employment agreements with ACI dated August 1, 2017, and Ms. Morris was party to an employment agreement with ACI dated August 1, 2017 (collectively, the "Executive Employment Agreements").
The term of each NEO's employment under his or her Executive Employment Agreement will continue through January 30, 2020. Each Executive Employment Agreement provides for an annual base salary and that the respective executive is eligible to receive an annual bonus targeted at 60% (50% for Mr. Dhanda) of his or her annual base salary.
If the executive's employment terminates due to his or her death or he or she is terminated due to disability, the executive or his or her legal representative, as appropriate, would be entitled to receive a lump sum payment in an amount equal to 25% of his or her base salary. If the executive's employment is terminated by ACI without Cause or by the executive for Good Reason, subject to his or her execution of a release, the executive would be entitled to a lump sum payment

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in an amount equal to 200% of the sum of his or her base salary plus target bonus, and reimbursement of the cost of continuation coverage of group health coverage for a period of 12 months.
For the purposes of each Executive Employment Agreement, Cause generally means:
•
conviction of a felony;
•
acts of intentional dishonesty resulting or intending to result in personal gain or enrichment at the expense of ACI, its subsidiaries or its affiliates;
•
a material breach of the executive's obligations under the applicable Executive Employment Agreement, including but not limited to breach of the restrictive covenants or fraudulent, unlawful or grossly negligent conduct by the executive in connection with his or her duties under the applicable Executive Employment Agreement;
•
Personal conduct by the executive which seriously discredits or damages ACI, its subsidiaries or its affiliates; or
•
contravention of specific lawful direction from the board of directors.

For the purposes of each Executive Employment Agreement, Good Reason generally means:
•
a reduction in the base salary or target bonus; or
•
without prior written consent, relocation of the executive's principal location of work to any location that is in excess of 50 miles from such location on the date of the applicable Executive Employment Agreement.

Deferred Compensation Plan

ACI's subsidiaries Albertson's LLC and NALP maintain the Albertson's LLC Makeup Plan and NALP Makeup Plan, respectively (which we refer to, collectively, as the "Makeup Plans"). The Makeup Plans are unfunded nonqualified deferred compensation arrangements. Designated employees may elect to defer the receipt of a portion of their base pay, bonus and incentive payments under the Makeup Plans. For fiscal 2018, Messrs. Miller, Dimond and Sampson and Ms. Morris were eligible to participate in the Albertson's LLC Makeup Plan. The amounts deferred are held in a book entry account and are deemed to have been invested by the participant in investment options designated by the participant from among the investment options made available by the committee under the Makeup Plans. Participants are vested in their accounts under the Makeup Plans to the same extent they are vested in their accounts under the 401(k) plan discussed below, except that accounts under the Makeup Plans will become fully vested upon a change of control. No deferral contributions for a year will be credited, however, until the participant has been credited with the maximum amount of elective deferrals permitted by the terms of the 401(k) plans and/or the limitations imposed by the Code. In addition, participants will be credited with an amount equal to the excess of the amount ACI would contribute to the 401(k) plans as a company contribution on the participant's behalf for the plan year without regard to any limitations imposed by the Code based on the participant's compensation over the amount of ACI's actual company contributions for the plan year. Generally, payment of the participant's account under the Makeup Plans will be made in a lump sum following the participant's separation from service. Participants may receive a distribution of up to 100% of their account during employment in the event of an emergency. Participants in the Makeup Plans are unsecured general creditors. Effective December 31, 2018, the Makeup Plans were frozen except for any deferrals from bonus payments earned during fiscal 2018 but paid in 2019, and replaced by the Albertsons Companies Deferred Compensation Plan effective January 1, 2019.
ACI's subsidiary Safeway maintains the Safeway Executive Deferred Compensation Program II (the "Safeway Plan" and, together with the Makeup Plans, the "Deferred Compensation Plans"). The Safeway Plan is an unfunded nonqualified deferred compensation arrangement. Designated employees may elect to defer the receipt of up to 100% of their base pay, bonus and incentive payments under the Safeway Plan. For fiscal 2018, Mr. Dhanda was eligible to participate in the Safeway Plan, but did not elect to participate. Effective December 31, 2018, the Safeway Plan was frozen and replaced by the Albertsons Companies Deferred Compensation Plan effective January 1, 2019.
See the table entitled "Nonqualified Deferred Compensation" below for information with regard to the participation of the NEOs in the Deferred Compensation Plans.

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401(k) Plan

Through December 31, 2017, Albertson's LLC, NALP and Safeway maintained 401(k) plans with terms that were substantially identical. Mr. Sampson was eligible to participate in the NALP 401(k) plan, Mr. Dhanda was eligible to participate in the Safeway 401(k) plan, and the other NEOs were eligible to participate in the Albertson's LLC 401(k) plan. Effective on January 1, 2018, these plans were merged into a single 401(k) plan named the "Albertsons Companies 401(k) Plan" (the "ACI 401(k) Plan"). The ACI 401(k) Plan permits eligible employees to make voluntary, pre-tax employee contributions up to a specified percentage of compensation, subject to applicable tax limitations. Commencing January 1, 2018, eligible employees are also permitted to make voluntary after-tax Roth contributions, up to a specified percentage of compensation, subject to applicable tax limitations. ACI may make a discretionary matching contribution equal to a pre-determined percentage of an employee's contributions, subject to applicable tax limitations. On December 30, 2018, ACI implemented a hard freeze of non-union benefits of employees of the Safeway pension plan. All future benefit accruals for non-union employees ceased as of this date. Instead, non-union Safeway pension plan participants will be offered retirement benefits under the ACI 401(k) Plan. Union participants in the Safeway pension plan are not eligible for matching contributions under the ACI 401(k) Plan. Eligible employees who elect to participate in the ACI 401(k) Plan are generally 50% vested after one year of service and 100% vested after three years of service in any matching contribution, and fully vested at all times in their employee contributions. The ACI 401(k) Plan is intended to be tax-qualified under Section 401(a) of the Code. Accordingly, contributions to the ACI 401(k) Plan and income earned on plan contributions are not taxable to employees until withdrawn, and ACI's contributions, if any, will be deductible by ACI when made. ACI's board of directors determines the matching contribution rate under the ACI 401(k) Plan for each year. For fiscal 2018, ACI's board of directors set a matching contribution rate equal to 50% of an employee's contribution up to 7% of base salary.

Other Benefits

The NEOs participate in the health and dental coverage, company-paid term life insurance, disability insurance, paid time off and paid holidays programs applicable to other employees in their locality. ACI also maintains a relocation policy applicable to employees who are required to relocate their residence. These benefits are designed to be competitive with overall market practices and are in place to attract and retain the necessary talent in the business.

Perquisites

The NEOs generally are not entitled to any perquisites that are not otherwise available to all of ACI's employees.

Under his employment agreement, Mr. Miller is entitled to the use of corporate aircraft for up to 100 hours per year for himself, his family members and guests at no cost to him, other than to pay income tax on such usage at the lowest permissible rate, and Mr. Donald is entitled to the use of corporate aircraft for up to 50 hours per year for himself, his family members and guests at no cost to him, other than to pay income tax on such usage at the lowest permissible rate. Other executives, generally those with the title of executive vice president or above, may request the personal use of a company-owned aircraft subject to availability.

For fiscal 2018, Messrs. Dimond, Sampson and Dhanda and Ms. Morris were eligible for financial and tax planning services up to a maximum annual amount of $8,000.

Risk Mitigation

ACI's compensation committee has assessed the risk associated with its compensation practices and policies for employees, including a consideration of the balance between risk-taking incentives and risk-mitigating factors in its practices and policies. The assessment determined that any risks arising from ACI's compensation practices and policies are not reasonably likely to have a material adverse effect on its business or financial condition.

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Impact of Accounting and Tax Matters

As a general matter, the compensation committee is responsible for reviewing and considering the various tax and accounting implications of compensation vehicles that ACI utilizes. With respect to accounting matters, the compensation committee examines the accounting cost associated with equity compensation in light of ASC 718.

SUMMARY COMPENSATION TABLE
Name and Principal Position
 
Year (1)
 
Salary
($)
 
Bonus ($)(2)
 
Unit Awards
($)(3)
 
Option Awards ($)
 
Non-Equity Incentive Plan Compensation ($)(4)
 
Change in Pension Value and Nonqualified Deferred Compensation Earnings
($)
 
All Other Compensation ($)(5)
 
Total
($)
(a)
 
(b)
 
(c)
 
(d)
 
(e)
 
(f)
 
(g)
 
(h)
 
(i)
 
(j)
Robert G. Miller
Chairman and Chief Executive Officer (6)
 
2018
 
2,000,000
 
—
 
—
 
—
 
1,266,840
 
—
 
481,919
 
3,748,759
 
2017
 
2,000,000
 
—
 
—
 
—
 
102,928
 
—
 
699,450
 
2,802,378
 
2016
 
2,000,000
 
—
 
—
 
—
 
439,800
 
—
 
1,052,343
 
3,492,143
James L. Donald
Chief Executive Officer and President (7)
 
2018
 
1,219,231
 
141,385
 
14,814,306
 
—
 
1,099,814
 
—
 
71,232
 
17,345,968
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
Robert B. Dimond
Executive Vice President and Chief Financial Officer
 
2018
 
800,962
 
76,495
 
2,515,008
 
—
 
508,674
 
—
 
52,200
 
3,953,339
 
2017
 
764,904
 
448,734
 
—
 
—
 
39,330
 
—
 
63,768
 
1,316,736
 
2016
 
700,000
 
470,200
 
—
 
—
 
153,930
 
—
 
53,616
 
1,377,746
Shane Sampson
Chief Marketing and Merchandising Officer
 
2018
 
900,000
 
146,457
 
2,515,008
 
—
 
570,078
 
—
 
56,229
 
4,187,772
 
2017
 
886,538
 
436,403
 
4,968,425
 
—
 
45,578
 
—
 
72,574
 
6,409,518
 
2016
 
800,000
 
473,200
 
—
 
—
 
175,920
 
—
 
31,934
 
1,481,054
Susan Morris
Executive Vice President and Chief Operations Officer
 
2018
 
867,308
 
131,151
 
2,515,008
 
—
 
550,256
 
—
 
41,276
 
4,104,999
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
Anuj Dhanda
Executive Vice President and Chief Information Officer
 
2018
 
634,615
 
293,709
 
1,005,888
 
—
 
336,459
 
—
 
32,163
 
2,302,834
 
2017
 
586,538
 
292,134
 
3,399,980
 
—
 
25,115
 
—
 
144
 
4,303,911
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
1.
Reflects a 52-week year ended February 23, 2019, February 24, 2018 and February 25, 2017.
2.
Reflects retention bonuses and tax bonuses paid to the NEOs, as set forth in the table below. The retention bonuses for fiscal 2018, fiscal 2017 and fiscal 2016 are further described in "—Compensation Discussion and Analysis." Tax bonuses for fiscal 2018 were paid to each of Messrs. Donald, Dimond, Sampson and Dhanda and Ms. Morris in connection with the vesting of NEO Phantom Units as described in "—Compensation Discussion and Analysis."

Name
 
Fiscal Year (1)
 
Retention Bonus ($)
 
Tax Bonus ($)
James L. Donald
 
2018
 
—
 
141,385
Robert B. Dimond
 
2018
 
—
 
76,495
 
2017
 
375,000
 
73,734
 
2016
 
375,000
 
95,200
Shane Sampson
 
2018
 
—
 
146,457
 
2017
 
310,000
 
126,403
 
2016
 
310,000
 
163,200
Susan Morris
 
2018
 
21,875
 
109,276
Anuj Dhanda
 
2018
 
250,000
 
43,709
 
2017
 
250,000
 
42,134

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3.
Reflects the grant date fair value calculated in accordance with ASC 718. Reflects the Phantom Units granted to Mr. Donald in fiscal 2018, to Mr. Dimond in fiscal 2018, fiscal 2017 and fiscal 2016, to Mr. Sampson in fiscal 2018, fiscal 2017 and fiscal 2016, to Ms. Morris in fiscal 2018, and to Mr. Dhanda in fiscal 2018 and fiscal 2017. The fair value of the Phantom Units is determined using an option pricing model, adjusted for lack of marketability and using an expected term or time to liquidity based on judgments made by management.
4.
Reflects amounts paid to the NEOs under ACI's bonus plan for the applicable fiscal year, as set forth in the table below:
Name
 
Fiscal Year (1)
 
Fiscal Quarterly Bonus ($)
 
Fiscal Year Annual Bonus ($)
Robert G. Miller
 
2018
 
541,140
 
725,700
 
2017
 
102,928
 
—
 
2016
 
263,400
 
176,400
James L. Donald
 
2018
 
485,760
 
614,054
Robert B. Dimond
 
2018
 
218,045
 
290,629
 
2017
 
39,330
 
—
 
2016
 
92,190
 
61,740
Shane Sampson
 
2018
 
243,513
 
326,565
 
2017
 
45,578
 
—
 
2016
 
105,360
 
70,560
Susan Morris
 
2018
 
235,553
 
314,703
Anuj Dhanda
 
2018
 
144,567
 
191,892
 
2017
 
25,115
 
—

5.    A detailed breakdown of "All Other Compensation" is provided in the table below:
Name
 
Fiscal Year
(1)
 
Aircraft
($)(a)
 
Relocation
($)
 
Life Insurance ($)(b)
 
Other Payments ($)
 
Financial/Tax Planning ($)
 
Makeup Plan Company Contribution ($)(c)
 
401(k) Plan Company Contribution ($)
 
Total
($)
Robert G. Miller
 
2018
 
270,758
 
—
 
125,000
 
—
 
—
 
76,911
 
9,250
 
481,919
 
2017
 
448,942
 
—
 
125,000
 
—
 
—
 
116,508
 
9,000
 
699,450
 
2016
 
320,830
 
—
 
125,000
 
—
 
—
 
597,513
 
9,000
 
1,052,343
James L. Donald
 
2018
 
71,232
 
—
 
—
 
—
 
—
 
—
 
—
 
71,232
Robert B. Dimond
 
2018
 
—
 
—
 
—
 
—
 
3,880
 
39,070
 
9,250
 
52,200
 
2017
 
—
 
—
 
—
 
—
 
6,715
 
48,053
 
9,000
 
63,768
 
2016
 
—
 
—
 
—
 
—
 
—
 
53,616
 
—
 
53,616
Shane Sampson
 
2018
 
1,203
 
—
 
—
 
—
 
4,300
 
41,476
 
9,250
 
56,229
 
2017
 
5,698
 
—
 
—
 
—
 
6,065
 
51,811
 
9,000
 
72,574
 
2016
 
18,684
 
—
 
—
 
—
 
4,250
 
—
 
9,000
 
31,934
Susan Morris
 
2018
 
—
 
—
 
—
 
—
 
4,400
 
27,626
 
9,250
 
41,276
Anuj Dhanda
 
2018
 
14,913
 
—
 
—
 
—
 
8,000
 
—
 
9,250
 
32,163
 
2017
 
—
 
—
 
—
 
—
 
—
 
—
 
144
 
144
(a)
Represents the aggregate incremental cost to ACI for personal use of ACI's aircraft.
(b)
Reflects ACI's payment of premiums for a life insurance policy ACI maintains for Mr. Miller.
(c)
Reflects ACI's contributions to the NEO's Deferred Compensation Plan account in an amount equal to the excess of the amount ACI would contribute to the ACI 401(k) Plan as a company contribution on the NEO's behalf for the plan year without regard to any limitations imposed by the Code based on the NEO's compensation over the amount of ACI's actual contributions to the ACI 401(k) Plan for the plan year.

6.
Mr. Miller served as Chief Executive Officer through September 11, 2018.
7.
Mr. Donald served as Chief Operating Officer and President from March 1, 2018 through September 11, 2018, and as Chief Executive Officer and President effective September 11, 2018.

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Grants of Plan Based Awards in Fiscal 2018
 
 
 
 
Estimated Future Payouts
Under Non-Equity Incentive
Plan Awards (1)
 
Estimated Future
Payouts Under Equity
Incentive Plan Awards (2)
 
All Other Unit Awards: Number of Units (#)
 
All Other Option Awards: Number of Securities Underlying Options
(#)
 
Exercise or Base Price of Option Awards
($/Unit)
 
Grant Date Fair Value of Unit and Option Awards
 ($)(3)
Name
 
Grant Date
 
Threshold
($)
 
Target ($)
 
Maximum ($)
 
Threshold
($)
 
Target
($)
 
Maximum ($)
 
 
 
 
Robert G. Miller
 

 
—
 
1,200,000
 
2,400,000
 
—
 
—
 
—
 
—
 
—
 
—
 
—
James L. Donald
 
 
 
 
 
1,500,000
 
3,000,000
 
—
 
—
 
—
 
—
 
—
 
—
 

 
3/1/2018
 
—
 
—
 
—
 
—
 
—
 
—
 
214,219
 
—
 
—
 
6,814,306
 
9/11/2018
 
—
 
—
 
—
 
—
 
4,000,000
 
4,800,000
 
—
 
—
 
—
 
4,000,000
 
9/11/2018
 
—
 
—
 
—
 
—
 
—
 
—
 
125,000
 
—
 
—
 
4,000,000
Robert B. Dimond
 
 
 
—
 
510,000
 
1,020,000
 
—
 
—
 
—
 
—
 
—
 
—
 
—
 
11/9/2018
 
—
 
—
 
—
 
—
 
1,257,504
 
1,509,005
 
—
 
—
 
—
 
1,257,504
 
11/9/2018
 
—
 
—
 
—
 
—
 
—
 
—
 
39,297
 
—
 
—
 
1,257,504
Shane Sampson
 
 
 
—
 
540,000
 
1,080,000
 
—
 
—
 
—
 
—
 
—
 
—
 
—
 
11/9/2018
 
—
 
—
 
—
 
—
 
1,257,504
 
1,509,005
 
—
 
—
 
—
 
1,257,504
 
11/9/2018
 

 
—
 
—
 
—
 
—
 
—
 
39,297
 
—
 
—
 
1,257,504
Susan Morris
 
 
 
—
 
540,000
 
1,080,000
 
—
 
—
 
—
 
—
 
—
 
—
 
—
 
11/9/2018
 
—
 
—
 
—
 
—
 
1,257,504
 
1,509,005
 
—
 
—
 
—
 
1,257,504
 
11/9/2018
 
—
 
—
 
—
 
—
 
—
 
—
 
39,297
 
—
 
—
 
1,257,504
Anuj Dhanda
 
 
 
—
 
350,000
 
700,000
 
—
 
—
 
—
 
—
 
—
 
—
 
—
 
11/9/2018
 
—
 
—
 
—
 
—
 
502,944
 
603,533
 
—
 
—
 
—
 
502,944
 
11/9/2018
 
—
 
—
 
—
 
—
 
—
 
—
 
15,717
 
—
 
—
 
502,944
1.
Amounts represent the range of annual cash incentive awards the NEO was potentially entitled to receive based on the achievement of performance goals for fiscal 2018 under ACI's 2018 Bonus Plan as more fully described in "—Compensation Discussion and Analysis." The amounts actually paid are reported in the Non-Equity Incentive Plan column of the Summary Compensation table. Pursuant to the 2018 Bonus Plan, performance below a specific threshold will result in no payment with respect to that performance goal. Performance at or above the threshold will result in a payment from $0 up to the maximum bonus amounts reflected in the table.
2.
Amounts represent the value of Phantom Units subject to performance-based Phantom Units granted to the NEOs as described in "—Compensation Discussion and Analysis-Incentive Plans."
3.
Reflects the grant date fair value of $31.81 per unit with respect to the Phantom Units granted to Mr. Donald on March 1, 2018 and $32.00 per unit with respect to the Phantom Units grants to Mr. Donald on September 11, 2018 and to Messrs. Dimond, Sampson and Dhanda and Ms. Morris on November 9, 2018, as calculated in accordance with ASC 718. The fair value of the Phantom Units is determined using an option pricing model, adjusted for lack of marketability and using an expected term or time to liquidity based on judgments made by management.
 


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Outstanding Equity Awards at February 23, 2019
 
 
Option Awards
 
Unit Awards
Name
 
Number of Securities Underlying Unexercised Options (#) Exercisable
 
Number of Securities Underlying Unexercised Options (#) Unexercisable
 
Equity Incentive Plan Awards: Number of Securities Underlying Unexercised Unearned Options (#)
 
Option Exercise Price ($)
 
Option Expiration Date
 
Number of Units That Have Not Vested (#)(1)
 
Fair Value of Units That Have Not Vested ($)(2)
 
Equity Incentive Plan Awards: Number of Unearned Units or Other Rights That Have Not Vested (#)(3)
 
Equity Incentive Plan Awards: Fair or Payout Value of Unearned Units or Other Rights That Have Not Vested
($)(2)
Robert G. Miller
 
—
 
—
 
—
 
—
 
—
 
—
 
 
—
 
—
 
—
James L. Donald
 
—
 
—
 
—
 
—
 
—
 
232,109
(4)
 
7,659,597
 
125,000
 
4,125,000
Robert B. Dimond
 
—
 
—
 
—
 
—
 
—
 
39,297
(5)
 
1,296,801
 
39,297
 
1,296,801
Shane Sampson
 
—
 
—
 
—
 
—
 
—
 
160,715
(6)
 
5,303,595
 
39,297
 
1,296,801
Susan Morris
 
—
 
—
 
—
 
—
 
—
 
171,753
(7)
 
5,667,849
 
39,297
 
1,296,801
Anuj Dhanda
 
—
 
—
 
—
 
—
 
—
 
57,110
(8)
 
1,884,630
 
15,717
 
518,661
1.
Reflects the number of unvested Phantom Units held by the NEO that will vest based on a combination of time and performance.
2.
Based on a per unit price of $33.00, the aggregate value of one investor incentive unit in each of Albertsons Investor and KIM ACI as of February 23, 2019.
3.
Reflects the target number of unvested Phantom Units held by the NEO that are subject to vesting on February 26, 2022 subject to the NEO's continued employment through such date and with the number of Phantom Units to vest on such date to be determined based on ACI's achievement of performance targets for fiscal 2019, fiscal 2020 and fiscal 2021.
4.
107,109 of Mr. Donald's Phantom Units are subject to vesting on February 29, 2020, subject to his continued employment through such date. 125,000 of Mr. Donald's Phantom Units will be subject to vesting in equal installments on each of September 11, 2019, September 11, 2020 and September 11, 2021, subject to his continued employment on each such date.
5.
39,297 of Mr. Dimond's Phantom Units will be subject to vesting in equal installments on each of November 9, 2019, November 9, 2020 and November 9, 2021, subject to his continued employment on each such date.
6.
39,297 of Mr. Sampson's Phantom Units will be subject to vesting in equal installments on each of November 9, 2019, November 9, 2020 and November 9, 2021, subject to his continued employment on each such date. 121,528 of Mr. Sampson's Phantom Units are subject to vesting on the dates set forth in the table below with respect to the number of Phantom Units indicated, in each case subject 50% to his continued employment through such date and 50% to both his continued employment through such date and ACI's achievement of performance targets for the fiscal year in which such date occurs:
Vesting Date
 
Number of Phantom Units Subject to Vesting
July 19, 2019
 
10,928
July 19, 2020
 
11,259
July 19, 2021
 
99,341

7.
39,297 of Ms. Morris's Phantom Units will be subject to vesting in equal installments on each of November 9, 2019, November 9, 2020 and November 9, 2021, subject to her continued employment on each such date. 132,456 of Ms. Morris's Phantom Units are subject to vesting on the dates set forth in the table below with respect to the number of Phantom Units indicated, in each case subject 50% to her continued employment through such date and

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50% to both her continued employment through such date and ACI's achievement of performance targets for the fiscal year in which such date occurs:
Vesting Date
 
Number of Phantom Units Subject to Vesting
February 29, 2020
 
66,228
February 27, 2021
 
33,114
February 26, 2022
 
33,114

8.
41,393 of Mr. Dhanda's Phantom Units will be subject to vesting in equal installments on February 29, 2020 and February 27, 2021, in each case subject 50% to his continued employment through such date and 50% to both his continued employment through such date and ACI's achievement of performance targets with respect to such fiscal year. 15,717 of Mr. Dhanda's Phantom Units will be subject to vesting in equal installments on each of November 9, 2019, November 9, 2020 and November 9, 2021, subject to his continued employment on each such date.

Option Exercises and Units Vested in Fiscal 2018
Name
 
Number of Shares Acquired on Exercise (#)
 
Value Realized on Exercise ($)
 
Number of Units Acquired on Vesting (#)(1)
 
Value Realized on Vesting ($)(2)
(a)
 
(b)
 
(c)
 
(d)
 
(e)
Robert G. Miller
 
—
 
—
 
—
 
—
James L. Donald
 
—
 
—
 
107,110
 
3,534,630
Robert B. Dimond
 
—
 
—
 
57,951
 
1,912,383
Shane Sampson
 
—
 
—
 
110,380
 
3,661,415
Susan Morris
 
—
 
—
 
82,785
 
2,731,905
Anuj Dhanda
 
—
 
—
 
33,113
 
1,092,729
1.
Reflects the vesting of Phantom Units on February 23, 2019, as described in "—Compensation Discussion and Analysis".
2.
The value realized upon vesting of the Phantom Units is based on a per unit price of one investor incentive unit in each of Albertsons Investor and KIM ACI on the vesting date.

Nonqualified Deferred Compensation

The following table shows the executive and company contributions, earnings and account balances for the NEOs under the Deferred Compensation Plans during fiscal 2018. The Deferred Compensation Plans are nonqualified deferred compensation arrangements intended to comply with Section 409A of the Code. See "—Compensation Discussion and Analysis" for a description of the terms and conditions of the Deferred Compensation Plans. The aggregate balance of each participant's account consists of amounts that have been deferred by the participant, company contributions, plus earnings (or minus losses). ACI does not deposit any amounts into any trust or other account for the benefit of plan participants. In accordance with tax requirements, the assets of the Deferred Compensation Plans are subject to claims of ACI's creditors.


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Name
 
Executive Contributions in Last FY
($)(1)
 
Registrant Contributions in Last FY
($)(2)
 
Aggregate Earnings in Last FY
($)(3)
 
Aggregate Withdrawals/Distributions
($)
 
Aggregate Balance at Last FYE
($)
(a)
 
(b)
 
(c)
 
(d)
 
(e)
 
(f)
Robert G. Miller
 
158,241
 
76,911
 
143,737
 
—
 
6,693,156
James L. Donald
 
—
 
—
 
—
 
—
 
—
Robert B. Dimond
 
69,838
 
39,070
 
10,682
 
—
 
651,309
Shane Sampson
 
61,681
 
41,476
 
6,891
 
—
 
369,039
Susan Morris
 
66,997
 
27,626
 
8,866
 
—
 
422,303
Anuj Dhanda
 
—
 
—
 
—
 
—
 
—
1.
All executive contributions represent amounts deferred by each NEO under a Deferred Compensation Plan and are included as compensation in the Summary Compensation Table under "Salary," "Bonus" and "Non-Equity Incentive Plan Compensation."
2.
All registrant contributions are reported under "All Other Compensation" in the Summary Compensation Table.
3.
These amounts are not reported in the Summary Compensation Table as none of the earnings are based on interest above the market rate.

Phantom Unit Plan

ACI's Phantom Unit Plan provides for grants of "Phantom Units" to employees, directors and consultants. Each Phantom Unit provides the participant with a contractual right to receive upon vesting one management incentive unit in Albertsons Investor and one management incentive unit in KIM ACI.

The Phantom Unit Plan provides that ACI may provide for a participant's Phantom Unit award to include a separate right to receive a Tax Bonus. A Tax Bonus entitles a participant to receive a bonus equal to 4% of the fair market value of the management incentive units paid to the participant in respect of vested Phantom Units. Tax Bonuses may be paid in cash, management incentive units or a combination thereof.

The Phantom Unit Plan provides that, unless otherwise provided in an award agreement, in the event of the termination of a participant's service for any reason, any unvested Phantom Units and any rights to a future Tax Bonus will be forfeited without the payment of consideration. In the event of the termination of a participant's service for Cause, unless otherwise provided in an award agreement, any management incentive units issued with respect to a vested Phantom Unit and any rights to a future Tax Bonus will be forfeited without the payment of consideration.

For purposes of the Phantom Unit Plan, Cause is as defined in a participant's employment agreement, or if not so defined, generally means:

•
the commission of a felony or a misdemeanor (excluding petty offenses) involving fraud, dishonesty or moral turpitude;
•
a participant's failure (other than as a result of incapacity due to mental or physical impairment) to perform his or her material duties;
•
acts of dishonesty resulting or intending to result in personal gain or enrichment at the expense of ACI, or its subsidiaries or affiliates;
•
a breach of any material written policy of ACI or its subsidiaries;
•
the failure to follow the lawful written directions of ACI's Chief Executive Officer, its Executive Chairman, the board of directors or the person to whom the participant reports;
•
conduct in connection with a participant's duties that is fraudulent, grossly negligent or otherwise materially injurious to ACI or its subsidiaries or affiliates; or
•
a breach of restrictive covenants under which the participant is subject.

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As of the date of this filing, 4,861,573 Phantom Units are reserved for future issuance under the Phantom Unit Plan.

Potential Payments Upon Termination or Change of Control

The tables below describe and estimate the amounts and benefits that the NEOs would have been entitled to receive upon a termination of their employment in certain circumstances or, if applicable, upon a change of control, assuming such events occurred as of February 23, 2019 (based on the plans and arrangements in effect on such date). The estimated payments are not necessarily indicative of the actual amounts any of the NEOs would have received in such circumstances. The tables exclude compensation amounts accrued through February 23, 2019 that would be paid in the normal course of continued employment, such as accrued but unpaid salary, payment for accrued but unused vacation and vested account balances under ACI's retirement plans that are generally available to all of its salaried employees.

Robert G. Miller
Payments and Benefits
 
Death ($)
 
For Any Reason ($)
 
Without Cause or for Good Reason ($)
Cash Payments
 
3,000,000
(1)
 
6,000,000
(2)
 
6,000,000
(3)
Total
 
3,000,000
 
 
6,000,000
 
 
6,000,000
 
(1)
Reflects cash payments of $25,000 per month to Mr. Miller's spouse payable for a period of ten years following his termination due to death. Such payments would cease upon the death of Mr. Miller's spouse.
(2)
Reflects cash payments of $50,000 per month to Mr. Miller payable for a period of ten years following his termination for any reason. In the event of his death following termination, such payments will cease and thereafter his surviving spouse will become entitled to cash payments of $25,000 per month through the earlier of her death and the ten-year anniversary of Mr. Miller's termination.
(3)
Reflects a lump sum cash payment equal to the sum of $50,000 per month to Mr. Miller payable for a period of ten years following his termination for any reason.

James L. Donald
Payments and Benefits
 
Death or Disability ($)
 
For Any Reason ($)
 
Without Cause or for Good Reason ($)
Cash Payments
 
375,000
(1)
 
—
 
 
6,000,000
(2)
Health Benefits
 
—
 
 
—
 
 
12,016
(3)
Total
 
375,000
 
 
—
 
 
6,012,016
 
(1)
Reflects a lump sum cash payment in an amount equal to 25% of Mr. Donald's base salary.
(2)
Reflects a lump sum cash payment equal to 200% of Mr. Donald's base salary plus target bonus.
(3)
Reflects the cost of reimbursement for up to 12 months of continuation health coverage.

Robert B. Dimond
Payments and Benefits
 
Death or Disability ($)
 
For Cause or Without Good Reason
 
Without Cause or for Good Reason ($)
Cash Payments
 
212,500
(1)
 
—
 
2,720,000
(2)
Health Benefits
 
—
 
 
—
 
12,016
(3)
Total
 
212,500
 
 
—
 
2,732,016
 
(1)
Reflects a lump sum cash payment in an amount equal to 25% of Mr. Dimond's base salary.
(2)
Reflects a lump sum cash payment equal to 200% of Mr. Dimond's base salary plus target annual bonus.
(3)
Reflects the cost of reimbursement for up to 12 months of continuation of health coverage.


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Shane Sampson
Payments and Benefits
 
Death or Disability ($)
 
For Cause or Without Good Reason
 
Without Cause or for Good Reason ($)
Cash Payments
 
225,000
(1)
 
—
 
2,880,000
(2)
Health Benefits
 
—
 
 
—
 
12,016
(3)
Total
 
225,000
 
 
—
 
2,892,016
 
(1)
Reflects a lump sum cash payment in an amount equal to 25% of Mr. Sampson's base salary.
(2)
Reflects a lump sum cash payment equal to 200% of Mr. Sampson's base salary plus target annual bonus.
(3)
Reflects the cost of reimbursement for up to 12 months of continuation of health coverage.

Susan Morris
Payments and Benefits
 
Death or Disability ($)
 
For Cause or Without Good Reason
 
Without Cause or for Good Reason ($)
Cash Payments
 
225,000
(1)
 
—
 
2,880,000
(2)
Health Benefits
 
—
 
 
—
 
7,017
(3)
Total
 
225,000
 
 
—
 
2,887,017
 
(1)
Reflects a lump sum cash payment in an amount equal to 25% of Ms. Morris's base salary.
(2)
Reflects a lump sum cash payment equal to 200% of Ms. Morris's base salary plus target annual bonus.
(3)
Reflects the cost of reimbursement for up to 12 months of continuation of health coverage.

Anuj Dhanda
Payments and Benefits
 
Death or Disability ($)
 
For Cause or Without Good Reason
 
Without Cause or for Good Reason ($)
Cash Payments
 
175,000
(1)
 
—
 
2,100,000
(2)
Health Benefits
 
—
 
 
—
 
15,336
(3)
Total
 
175,000
 
 
—
 
2,115,336
 
(1)
Reflects a lump sum cash payment in an amount equal to 25% of Mr. Dhanda's base salary.
(2)
Reflects a lump sum cash payment equal to 200% of Mr. Dhanda's base salary plus target annual bonus.
(3)
Reflects the cost of reimbursement for up to 12 months of continuation of health coverage.

In addition to the foregoing, each of Messrs. Donald, Dimond, Sampson and Dhanda and Ms. Morris would have been entitled to full vesting of his or her unvested Phantom Units in the amounts set forth in the table below (based on a per unit price of $33.00, the aggregate value of one incentive unit in each of Albertsons Investor and KIM ACI as of February 23, 2019) if following a change of control the respective NEO's employment terminated due to death or disability or by ACI without cause on February 23, 2019.
NEO
 
Number of Vesting Phantom Units
 
Value of Vesting Phantom Units ($)
 
Tax Bonus ($)
James L. Donald
 
357,109
 
11,784,597
 
141,384
Robert B. Dimond
 
78,594
 
2,593,602
 
—
Shane Sampson
 
200,012
 
6,600,396
 
160,272
Susan Morris
 
211,050
 
6,694,650
 
174,842
Anuj Dhanda
 
72,827
 
2,403,291
 
54,639


126


Item 12 - Security Ownership of Certain Beneficial Owners and Management, and Related Member Matters
The following table sets forth certain information, as of April 24, 2019, by (i) all persons who are known by us to beneficially own more than 5% of our outstanding shares of common stock, (ii) each director and NEO; and (iii) all executive officers and directors as a group. Beneficial ownership is calculated based on 277,882,010 shares of common stock issued and outstanding as of April 24, 2019. Unless otherwise stated below, each such person has sole voting and investment power with respect to all such shares. Under Rule 13d-3(d) of the Exchange Act, shares not outstanding which are subject to options, warrants, rights or conversion privileges exercisable within 60 days of April 24, 2019 are deemed outstanding for the purpose of calculating the number and percentage owned by such person, but are not deemed outstanding for the purpose of calculating the percentage owned by each other person listed.
 
 
Shares of Common Stock Beneficially Owned
Name of Beneficial Owner
 
Number of Shares
 
Percentage
5% Shareholders:
 
 
 
 
Albertsons Investor Holdings LLC (1)
 
250,641,657

 
90.2
%
KIM ACI, LLC(2)
 
27,240,353

 
9.8
%
 
 
 
 
 
Directors:
 
 
 
 
Robert G. Miller
 
—

 
—
%
Dean S. Adler
 
—

 
—
%
Sharon L. Allen
 
—

 
—
%
Steven A. Davis
 
—

 
—
%
Kim Fennebresque
 
—

 
—
%
Allen M. Gibson
 
—

 
—
%
Hersch Klaff
 
—

 
—
%
Leonard Laufer
 
—

 
—
%
Alan H. Schumacher
 
—

 
—
%
Jay L. Schottenstein
 
—

 
—
%
Lenard B. Tessler
 
—

 
—
%
B. Kevin Turner
 
—

 
—
%
Scott Wille
 
—

 
—
%
 
 
 
 
 
Named Executive Officers:
 
 
 
 
James L. Donald
 
—

 
—
%
Robert B. Dimond
 
—

 
—
%
Susan Morris
 
—

 
—
%
Shane Sampson
 
—

 
—
%
Anuj Dhanda
 
—

 
—
%
All directors and executive officers as a group (23 Persons)
 
—

 
—
%

(1)
Albertsons Investor is held by a private investor group, including affiliates of Cerberus, Klaff Realty, L.P., Schottenstein Stores Corp., Lubert-Adler Partners, L.P., Kimco Realty Corporation (collectively, the "Sponsors") and certain members of management. The address for Albertsons Investor is c/o Cerberus Capital Management, L.P., Attention: Lenard Tessler, Mark Neporent and Lisa Gray, 875 Third Avenue, New York, New York 10022.
(2)
KIM ACI is controlled indirectly by Kimco Realty Corporation. The address for KIM ACI is c/o Kimco Realty Corporation, Attention: Ray Edwards and Bruce Rubenstein, 3333 New Hyde Park Road, Suite 100, New Hyde Park, New York 11042.


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Item 13 - Certain Relationships and Related Transactions, and Director Independence

The following discussion is a brief summary of certain material arrangements, agreements and transactions we have with related parties. It does not include all of the provisions of our material arrangements, agreements and transactions with related parties, does not purport to be complete and is qualified in its entirety by reference to the arrangements, agreements and transactions described. We enter into transactions with our stockholders and other entities owned by, or affiliated with, our direct and indirect stockholders in the ordinary course of business. These transactions include, amongst others, professional advisory, consulting and other corporate services.

We paid COAC, an affiliate of Cerberus, fees totaling approximately $479,618, $490,693 and $515,229 for fiscal 2018, fiscal 2017 and fiscal 2016, respectively, for consulting services provided in connection with improving the Company's operations. We may retain COAC to provide similar services in the future.

Several of our board members are employees of our Sponsors (excluding Kimco Realty Corporation), and funds managed by one or more affiliates of our Sponsors indirectly own a substantial portion of our equity through their respective ownership of Albertsons Investor and KIM ACI.

On January 3, 2019, we closed a three-store sale and leaseback transaction with entities affiliated with Kimco Realty Corporation. We received gross sales proceeds of approximately $31 million and entered into lease agreements for each of the three stores for initial terms of 20 years with an initial annual rent payment for the properties of approximately $2 million.

On January 1, 2019, we terminated a store lease with an entity affiliated with Kimco Realty Corporation. We received a termination fee of $5.5 million and entered into a use restriction agreement that restricts use of the premises for a supermarket or grocery store until the earlier of August 31, 2027 or the date we no longer operate a supermarket or grocery store at two benefited properties for at least two years (excluding force majeure).

During fiscal 2018, the Company repurchased 1,772,018 shares of common stock allocable to certain current and former members of management (the "management holders") for $25.8 million in cash. The shares are classified as treasury stock on the Consolidated Balance Sheet. The shares repurchased represented a portion of the shares allocable to management. Proceeds from the repurchase were used by the management holders to repay outstanding loans of the management holders with a third party financial institution. As there is no current active market for shares of the Company's common stock, the shares were repurchased at a negotiated price between the Company and the management holders.

Effective April 14, 2017, Justin Dye, who served as our Chief Administrative Officer voluntarily resigned from the Company and, on April 19, 2017, entered into a separation agreement with NALP, AB Management Services Corp. and the Company (the "Dye Separation Agreement"). Pursuant to the Dye Separation Agreement, in consideration for Mr. Dye's release of claims, ACI agreed to treat Mr. Dye's resignation in the same manner as if he were terminated without Cause and to provide Mr. Dye with the severance payments and benefits under his Executive Employment Agreement. Pursuant to the Dye Separation Agreement, Mr. Dye acknowledged and agreed that he remains subject to the 24-month post-termination non-competition and non-solicitation provisions set forth in his Executive Employment Agreement.

During fiscal 2016, we acquired a store from Signature Northwest, LLC, for $2.8 million, plus the cost of inventory. Mark Miller, the son of our then Chief Executive Officer, Robert G. Miller, serves as the Chief Executive Officer of Signature Northwest, LLC. In addition, Robert G. Miller has a minority ownership interest in Signature Northwest, LLC.

The fourth amended and restated limited liability company agreement of AB Acquisition LLC (the "4th A&R AB LLC Agreement") dated January 2015, provided for the Cerberus-led consortium to receive annual management fees of

128

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$13.75 million from our Company over a 48-month period beginning on January 30, 2015. We paid management fees to the Cerberus-led consortium in an annual amount of $13.75 million for fiscal 2017, fiscal 2016 and fiscal 2015. In exchange for the management fees, the Cerberus-led consortium has provided strategic advice to management, including with respect to acquisitions and financings. In December 2018, the 4th A&R AB LLC Agreement was extended for one year and payment of a $13.75 million management fee for fiscal 2018 was made by the Company.

Our board of directors has adopted a written policy (the "Related Party Policy") and procedures for the review, approval or ratification of "Related Party Transactions" by the independent members of the audit and risk committee of our board of directors. For purposes of the Related Party Policy, a "Related Party Transaction" is any transaction, arrangement or relationship or series of similar transactions, arrangements or relationships (including the incurrence or issuance of any indebtedness or the guarantee of indebtedness) in which (1) the aggregate amount involved will or may be reasonably expected to exceed $120,000 in any fiscal year, (2) the Company or any of its subsidiaries is a participant and (3) any Related Party (as defined herein) has or will have a direct or indirect material interest.

Item 14 - Principal Accountant Fees and Services

Deloitte and Touche LLP has served as our independent auditor for the fiscal years ended February 23, 2019 and February 24, 2018, respectively. The following table sets forth the fees paid to Deloitte and Touche LLP for professional services rendered for fiscal 2018 and fiscal 2017 (in millions):
Audit Fees
Fiscal
2018
 
Fiscal
2017
Audit fees (1)
$
5.9

 
$
6.3

Audit-related fees (2)
0.8

 
3.9

Tax fees (3)
3.7

 
4.2

Other fees (4)
0.3

 
0.7

Total fees
$
10.7

 
$
15.1


(1) This category consists of fees for professional services rendered for the audit of the Company's consolidated annual financial statements and review of the interim consolidated financial statements included in quarterly reports. This category also includes audit services provided in connection with other statutory and regulatory filings.
(2) This category includes fees for mergers and acquisition due diligence, accounting consultations and employee benefit plan audits.
(3) This category relates to professional services rendered in connection with tax compliance and preparation relating to tax returns and tax audits, as well as for tax consulting and tax planning.
(4) This category consists of fees for services other than the services reported above.

The audit and risk committee must pre-approve all engagements of the Company's independent registered public accounting firm. The audit and risk committee is required to pre-approve all audit and non-audit services performed by the independent registered public accounting firm in order to ensure that the provision of such services will not impair its independence. During fiscal 2018, each new engagement of the independent registered public accounting firm was pre-approved.


129

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PART IV

Item 15 - Exhibits, Financial Statement Schedules
 
 
Page
(a)1.
Financial Statements:
 
 
46
 
47
 
48
 
49
 
51
 
52
 
 
 
(a)2.
Financial Statement Schedules:
 
 
There are no Financial Statement Schedules included in this filing for the reason that they are not applicable or are not required or the information is included elsewhere in this Form 10-K.

(a)3.&(b)
Exhibits:
 
 
 
 
Exhibit No.
Description
Filer
Date Filed
Form
Exhibit No.
3.1
Albertsons Companies, Inc.
4/6/2018
S-4
3.1
3.2
Albertsons Companies, Inc.
*
*
*
4.1
Albertsons Companies, Inc.
3/1/2018
8-K15D5
10.1
4.2
Albertsons Companies, LLC
5/19/2017
S-4
4.1
4.3
Albertsons Companies, LLC
5/19/2017
S-4
4.5
4.4
Albertsons Companies, Inc.
7/8/2015
S-1
4.3
4.5
Albertsons Companies, LLC
5/19/2017
S-4
4.6
4.6
Albertsons Companies, LLC
5/19/2017
S-4
4.7

130

Table of Contents


Exhibit No.
Description
Filer
Date Filed
Form
Exhibit No.
4.7
Albertsons Companies, Inc.
4/6/2018
S-4
4.10
4.8
Albertsons Companies, LLC
5/19/2017
S-4
4.11
4.9
Albertsons Companies, LLC
5/19/2017
S-4
4.17
4.9.1
Albertsons Companies, LLC
5/19/2017
S-4
4.19
4.9.2
Albertsons Companies, LLC
5/19/2017
S-4
4.21
4.9.3
Albertsons Companies, LLC
5/19/2017
S-4
4.23
4.9.4
Albertsons Companies, Inc.
4/6/2018
S-4
4.12.4
4.9.5
Albertsons Companies, Inc.
4/6/2018
S-4
4.12.5
4.9.6
Albertsons Companies, Inc.
*
*
*

131

Table of Contents


Exhibit No.
Description
Filer
Date Filed
Form
Exhibit No.
4.9.7
Albertsons Companies, Inc.
*
*
*
4.10
Albertsons Companies, LLC
5/19/2017
S-4
4.18
4.10.1
Albertsons Companies, LLC
5/19/2017
S-4
4.20
4.10.2
Albertsons Companies, LLC
5/19/2017
S-4
4.22
4.10.3
Albertsons Companies, LLC
5/19/2017
S-4
4.24
4.10.4
Albertsons Companies, Inc.
4/6/2018
S-4
4.13.4
4.10.5
Albertsons Companies, Inc.
4/6/2018
S-4
4.13.5
4.10.6

Albertsons Companies, Inc.
*
*
*
4.10.7
Albertsons Companies, Inc.
*
*
*
4.11
Albertsons Companies, Inc.
2/5/2019
8-K
4.1

132

Table of Contents


Exhibit No.
Description
Filer
Date Filed
Form
Exhibit No.
4.11.1
Albertsons Companies, Inc.
*
*
*
10.1
Albertsons Companies, Inc.
11/16/2018
8-K
10.2
10.2
Albertsons Companies, Inc.
11/16/2016
8-K
10.1
10.3
Albertsons Companies, LLC
5/19/2017
S-4
10.10
10.4†
Albertsons Companies, LLC
5/19/2017
S-4
10.15
10.5†
Albertsons Companies, LLC
5/19/2017
S-4
10.19
10.6†
Albertsons Companies, LLC
5/19/2017
S-4
10.20
10.7†
Albertsons Companies, Inc.
11/8/2017
S-1/A
10.25
10.8†
Albertsons Companies, Inc.
11/8/2017
S-1/A
10.26
10.9†
Albertsons Companies, Inc.
4/6/2018
S-4
10.23
10.10†
Albertsons Companies, Inc.
*
*
*
10.11†
Albertsons Companies, Inc.
3/7/2018
8-K
10.1
10.12
Albertsons Companies, LLC
2/20/2018
8-K
10.1
10.13
Albertsons Companies, LLC
9/29/2017
8-K
10.1
10.14†
Albertsons Companies, LLC
1/16/2018
10-Q
10.2

133

Table of Contents


Exhibit No.
Description
Filer
Date Filed
Form
Exhibit No.
10.15†
Albertsons Companies, Inc.
10/24/2018
8-K
10.1
10.16†
Albertsons Companies, Inc.
3/29/2019
8-K
10.1
10.17†
Albertsons Companies, Inc.
3/29/2019
8-K
10.2
14.1
Albertsons Companies, Inc.
5/11/2018
10-K
14.1
21.1
Albertsons Companies, Inc.
*
*
*
31.1
Albertsons Companies, Inc.
*
*
*
31.2
Albertsons Companies, Inc.
*
*
*
32.1
Albertsons Companies, Inc.
**
**
**
99.1
Albertsons Companies, Inc.
*
*
*
101.INS
XBRL Instance Document
Albertsons Companies, Inc.
*
*
*
101.SCH
XBRL Taxonomy Extension Schema Document
Albertsons Companies, Inc.
*
*
*
101.CAL
XBRL Taxonomy Extension Calculation Linkbase Document
Albertsons Companies, Inc.
*
*
*
101.DEF
XBRL Taxonomy Extension Definition Linkbase Document
Albertsons Companies, Inc.
*
*
*
101.LAB
XBRL Taxonomy Extension Label Linkbase Document
Albertsons Companies, Inc.
*
*
*
101.PRE
XBRL Taxonomy Extension Presentation Linkbase Document
Albertsons Companies, Inc.
*
*
*
*Filed herewith
** Furnished herewith
† Constitutes a compensatory plan or arrangement required to be filed with this Form 10-K.



134

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Item 16 - Summary
None.


135

Table of Contents


SIGNATURES

Pursuant to the requirements of Section 13 or 15(d) of the Securities Exchange Act of 1934, the registrant has duly caused this report to be signed on its behalf by the undersigned, thereunto duly authorized.
 
 
Albertsons Companies, Inc.
 
 
 
 
Date:
April 24, 2019
By:
/s/ James L. Donald
 
Name:
James L. Donald
 
Title:
Chief Executive Officer and President
(Principal Executive Officer)

Pursuant to the requirements of the Securities Exchange Act of 1934, this report has been signed below by the following persons on behalf of the registrant in the capacities and on the dates indicated.
Signature
Title
Date
 
 
 
/s/ James L. Donald
Chief Executive Officer and President
(Principal Executive Officer)
April 24, 2019
James L, Donald
 
 
 
 
/s/ Robert B. Dimond
Executive Vice President and Chief Financial Officer
(Principal Financial Officer)
April 24, 2019
Robert B. Dimond
 
 
 
 
/s/ Robert B. Larson
Senior Vice President, Chief Accounting Officer
(Principal Accounting Officer)
April 24, 2019
Robert B. Larson
 
 
 
 
/s/ Robert G. Miller
Chairman of the Board of Directors
April 24, 2019
Robert G. Miller
 
 
 
 
/s/ Dean S. Adler
Director
April 24, 2019
Dean S. Adler
 
 
 
 
/s/ Sharon L. Allen
Director
April 24, 2019
Sharon L. Allen
 
 
 
 
/s/ Steven A. Davis
Director
April 24, 2019
Steven A. Davis
 
 
 
 
/s/ Kim Fennebresque
Director
April 24, 2019
Kim Fennebresque
 
 
 
 
/s/ Allen M. Gibson
Director
April 24, 2019
Allen M. Gibson
 
 
 
 
/s/ Hersch Klaff
Director
April 24, 2019
Hersch Klaff
 
 
 
 

136

Table of Contents


Signature
Title
Date
/s/ Leonard Laufer
Director
April 24, 2019
Leonard Laufer
 
 
 
 
/s/ Jay L. Schottenstein
Director
April 24, 2019
Jay L. Schottenstein
 
 
 
 
/s/ Alan H. Schumacher
Director
April 24, 2019
Alan H. Schumacher
 
 
 
 
/s/ Lenard B. Tessler
Director
April 24, 2019
Lenard B. Tessler
 
 
 
 
/s/ B. Kevin Turner
Vice Chairman and Senior Advisor to the CEO
April 24, 2019
B. Kevin Turner
 
 
 
 
/s/ Scott Wille
Director
April 24, 2019
Scott Wille
 

137

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SUPPLEMENTAL INFORMATION TO BE FURNISHED WITH REPORTS FILED PURSUANT TO SECTION 15(d) OF THE ACT BY REGISTRANTS WHICH HAVE NOT REGISTERED SECURITIES PURSUANT TO SECTION 12 OF THE ACT

No annual report, proxy statement, form of proxy or other proxy soliciting material has been sent to the registrant's security holders during the period covered by this Annual Report on Form 10-K and the registrant does not intend to furnish such materials to security holders subsequent to the filing of this report.


138

Exhibit 3.2

AMENDED & RESTATED
BYLAWS
OF
ALBERTSONS COMPANIES, INC.
(Effective March 25, 2019)
ARTICLE I
DEFINITIONS

As used in these Bylaws of the Corporation, the terms set forth below shall have the meanings indicated, as follows:
"35% Trigger Date" shall mean the date upon which the ABS Control Group ceases to own, in the aggregate, at least 35% of the then-outstanding shares of Common Stock.
"50% Trigger Date" shall mean the date upon which the ABS Control Group ceases to own, in the aggregate, at least 50% of the then-outstanding shares of Common Stock.
"ABS Control Group" shall mean Albertsons Investor Holdings LLC, a Delaware limited liability company and KIM ACI LLC, a Delaware limited liability company, and their respective Affiliates (as defined in Rule 12b-2 of the Exchange Act), or any person who is an express assignee or designee of their respective rights under the Certificate of Incorporation (and such assignee's or designee's respective Affiliates).
"Board of Directors" or "Board" shall mean the board of directors of the Corporation.
"Bylaws" shall mean these Bylaws of the Corporation, as the same may be amended and/or restated from time to time.
"Certificate of Incorporation" shall mean the Certificate of Incorporation of the Corporation, as the same may be amended and/or restated from time to time.
"Common Stock" shall mean the common stock, par value $0.01 per share, of the Corporation.
"Corporation" shall mean Albertsons Companies, Inc., a Delaware corporation.
"Delaware Court" shall mean the Court of Chancery of the State of Delaware.
"Designated Controlling Stockholder" shall mean, of the entities in the ABS Control Group, the entity that is the beneficial owner of the largest number of shares of the Common Stock.
"DGCL" shall mean the General Corporation Law of the State of Delaware, as amended from time to time.

1

"Electronic Transmission" shall mean any form of communication, not directly involving the physical transmission of paper, that creates a record that may be retained, retrieved and reviewed by a recipient thereof, and that may be directly reproduced on paper form by such a recipient through an automatic process.
"Exchange Act" shall mean the Securities Exchange Act of 1934, as amended.
“Proposing Stockholder” shall mean any stockholder of record other than, prior to the 35% Trigger Date, the Designated Controlling Stockholder, provided that, on or after the 35% Trigger Date, the Designated Controlling Stockholder shall be included as a Proposing Stockholder.
"Secretary of State" shall mean the Secretary of State of the State of Delaware.
"Stockholders' Agreement" shall mean that certain Stockholders' Agreement, dated as of December 3, 2017, by and among the Corporation and the holders of stock of the Corporation signatory thereto, as the same may be amended and/or restated from time to time.
ARTICLE II
OFFICES
Section 2.01    Offices. The address of the registered office of the Corporation in the State of Delaware shall be as set forth in the Certificate of Incorporation.
The Corporation may also have offices at such other places both within and without the State of Delaware as the Board of Directors may from time to time determine or the business of the Corporation may require.
ARTICLE III

MEETINGS OF STOCKHOLDERS

Section 3.01    Place of Meeting. Meetings of stockholders shall be held at any place within or outside the State of Delaware designated by the Board of Directors. The Board of Directors may, in its sole discretion, determine that the meeting shall not be held at any place, but may instead be held solely by means of remote communication as provided under the DGCL. In the absence of any such designation, stockholders’ meetings shall be held at the principal executive office of the Corporation.
Section 3.02    Annual Meeting.
(a) The annual meeting of stockholders for the election of directors and for the transaction of such other business as shall have been properly brought before the meeting shall be held on such date and at such time and place, if any, as may be fixed by the Board of Directors and stated in the notice of the meeting. The Board of Directors may postpone, reschedule or cancel any previously scheduled annual meeting of stockholders. At an annual meeting of the stockholders, only such business shall be conducted as shall have been properly brought before the meeting. To be properly brought before an annual meeting, business (other than the nomination of a person for election of a director, which is governed by Section 4.01 of

2

these Bylaws) must be (i) specified in the notice of meeting (or any supplement thereto) given by or at the direction of the Board of Directors, including any committee thereof, (ii) otherwise properly brought before the meeting by or at the direction of the Board of Directors, including any committee thereof, or, prior to the 35% Trigger Date, the Designated Controlling Stockholder, or (iii) otherwise properly brought before the meeting by a Proposing Stockholder who (A) was a stockholder of record (and, with respect to any beneficial owner, if different, on whose behalf such business is proposed, only if such beneficial owner was the beneficial owner of shares of the Corporation) both at the time of giving the notice provided for in this Section 3.02 and at the time of the meeting, (B) is entitled to vote at the meeting and (C) complied with all of the notice procedures set forth in this Section 3.02 as to such business. Except for proposals made in accordance with Rule 14a-8 under the Exchange Act, and included in the notice of meeting given by or at the direction of the Board of Directors, the foregoing clause (iii) shall be the exclusive means for a Proposing Stockholder to propose business (other than the nomination of a person for election of a director, which is governed by Section 4.01 of these Bylaws) to be brought before an annual meeting of the stockholders. Proposing Stockholders seeking to nominate persons for election to the Board of Directors must comply with the notice procedures set forth in Section 4.01 of these Bylaws, and this Section 3.02 shall not be applicable to nominations except as expressly provided in Section 4.01 of these Bylaws.
(b) Without qualification, for business to be properly brought before an annual meeting by a Proposing Stockholder, such proposed business must constitute a proper matter for stockholder action and the Proposing Stockholder must (i) provide Timely Notice (as defined below) thereof in writing and in proper form to the Secretary of the Corporation and (ii) provide any updates or supplements to such notice at the times and in the forms required by this Section 3.02. To be timely, a Proposing Stockholder’s notice must be delivered to or mailed and received at the principal executive offices of the Corporation not less than 90 days nor more than 120 days prior to the first anniversary of the preceding year’s annual meeting (which date shall, for purposes of the Corporation's first annual meeting of stockholders after its shares of Common Stock are first publicly traded, be deemed to have occurred 120 days after the end of the last fiscal year concluded prior to the date on which shares of Common Stock are first publicly traded); provided, however, that in the event that the date of the annual meeting is more than 30 days before or more than 60 days after such anniversary date, notice by the Proposing Stockholder to be timely must be so delivered not earlier than the 120th day prior to such annual meeting and not later than the 90th day prior to such annual meeting or, if later, the 10th day following the day on which public disclosure of the date of such annual meeting was made (such notice within such time periods, “Timely Notice”). In no event shall any adjournment or postponement of an annual meeting or the announcement thereof commence a new time period (or extend any time period) for the giving of Timely Notice as described above.
(c) To be in proper form for purposes of this Section 3.02, a Proposing Stockholder’s notice to the Secretary pursuant to this Section 3.02 shall be required to set forth:
(i)    As to the Proposing Stockholder providing the notice and each other Proposing Person (as defined below), (A) the name and address of the Proposing Stockholder providing the notice, as they appear on the Corporation’s books, and each other Proposing Person and (B) the class or series and number of shares of the Corporation that are, directly or indirectly, owned of record or beneficially owned (as defined in Rule 13d-3 under the

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Exchange Act) by the Proposing Stockholder providing the notice and/or any other Proposing Persons, except that such Proposing Stockholder and/or such other Proposing Persons shall be deemed to beneficially own any shares of any class or series of the Corporation as to which such Proposing Stockholder and/or such other Proposing Person(s) has a right to acquire beneficial ownership at any time in the future;
(ii)    As to the Proposing Stockholder providing the notice (or, if different, the beneficial owner on whose behalf such business is proposed) and each other Proposing Person, (A) any derivative, swap or other transaction or series of transactions engaged in, directly or indirectly, by such Proposing Stockholder or beneficial owner, as applicable, and/or any other Proposing Person, the purpose or effect of which is to give such Proposing Stockholder or beneficial owner, as applicable, and/or such other Proposing Person economic risk similar to ownership of shares of any class or series of the Corporation, including due to the fact that the value of such derivative, swap or other transaction is determined by reference to the price, value or volatility of any shares of any class or series of the Corporation, or which derivative, swap or other transaction provides, directly or indirectly, the opportunity to profit from any increase in the price or value of shares of any class or series of the Corporation (“Synthetic Equity Interests”), which such Synthetic Equity Interests shall be disclosed without regard to whether (x) such derivative, swap or other transaction conveys any voting rights in such shares to such Proposing Stockholder or beneficial owner, as applicable, and/or such other Proposing Person, (y) the derivative, swap or other transaction is required to be, or is capable of being, settled through delivery of such shares or (z) such Proposing Stockholder or beneficial owner, as applicable, and/or such other Proposing Person may have entered into other transactions that hedge or mitigate the economic effect of such derivative, swap or other transaction, (B) any proxy (other than a revocable proxy given in response to a public proxy solicitation made pursuant to, and in accordance with, the Exchange Act), agreement, arrangement, understanding or relationship pursuant to which such Proposing Stockholder or beneficial owner, as applicable, and/or any other Proposing Person has or shares a right to vote any shares of any class or series of the Corporation, (C) any agreement, arrangement, understanding or relationship, including any repurchase or similar so-called “stock borrowing” agreement or arrangement, engaged in, directly or indirectly, by such Proposing Stockholder or beneficial owner, as applicable, and/or any other Proposing Person, the purpose or effect of which is to mitigate loss to, reduce the economic risk (of ownership or otherwise) of shares of any class or series of the Corporation by, manage the risk of share price changes for, or increase or decrease the voting power of, such Proposing Stockholder or beneficial owner, as applicable, and/or such other Proposing Person with respect to the shares of any class or series of the Corporation, or which provides, directly or indirectly, the opportunity to profit from any decrease in the price or value of the shares of any class or series of the Corporation (“Short Interests”), (D)(x) if such Proposing Stockholder or beneficial owner, as applicable, and/or any other Proposing Person is not a natural person, the identity of the natural person or persons associated with such Proposing Stockholder or beneficial owner, as applicable, and/or such other Proposing Person responsible for the formulation of and decision to propose the business to be brought before the meeting (such person or persons, the “Responsible Person”), the manner in which such Responsible Person was selected, any fiduciary duties owed by such Responsible Person to the equity holders or other beneficiaries of such Proposing Stockholder and/or beneficial owner, as applicable, and/or such other Proposing Person, the qualifications and background of such Responsible Person and any material interests or relationships of such Responsible Person that

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are not shared generally by the other stockholders of the Corporation and that reasonably could have influenced the decision of such Proposing Stockholder and/or beneficial owner, as applicable, and/or such other Proposing Person to propose such business to be brought before the meeting, and (y) if such Proposing Stockholder or beneficial owner, as applicable, and/or any other Proposing Person is a natural person, the qualifications and background of such natural person and any material interests or relationships of such natural person that are not shared generally by the other stockholders of the Corporation and that reasonably could have influenced the decision of such Proposing Stockholder and/or beneficial owner, as applicable, and/or such other Proposing Person to propose such business to be brought before the meeting, (E) any significant equity interests or any Synthetic Equity Interests or Short Interests in any principal competitor of the Corporation held by such Proposing Stockholder and/or beneficial owner, as applicable, and/or any other Proposing Persons, (F) any direct or indirect interest of such Proposing Stockholder and/or beneficial owner, as applicable, and/or any other Proposing Person in any contract with the Corporation, any affiliate of the Corporation (including any employment agreement, collective bargaining agreement or consulting agreement), or any principal competitor of the Corporation, (G) any pending or threatened litigation in which such Proposing Stockholder and/or beneficial owner, as applicable, and/or any other Proposing Person is a party or material participant involving the Corporation or any of its officers or directors, or any affiliate of the Corporation, (H) any material transaction occurring during the prior 12 months between such Proposing Stockholder and/or beneficial owner, as applicable, and/or any other Proposing Person, on the one hand, and the Corporation, any affiliate of the Corporation or any principal competitor of the Corporation, on the other hand, (I) any other information relating to such Proposing Stockholder and/or beneficial owner, as applicable, and/or any other Proposing Person that would be required to be disclosed in a proxy statement or other filing required to be made in connection with solicitations of proxies by such Proposing Stockholder or beneficial owner, as applicable, and/or such other Proposing Person in support of the business proposed to be brought before the meeting pursuant to Section 14 of the Exchange Act and the rules and regulations thereunder, (J) a representation that the Proposing Stockholder is a holder of record of stock of the Corporation entitled to vote at such meeting and intends to appear in person or by proxy at the meeting to propose such business and (K) a representation whether the Proposing Stockholder and/or beneficial owner, if any, and/or any other Proposing Person intends or is part of a group that intends (a) to deliver a proxy statement and/or form of proxy to holders of at least the percentage of the Corporation’s outstanding capital stock required to approve or adopt the proposal and/or (b) otherwise to solicit proxies from stockholders in support of such proposal (the disclosures to be made pursuant to the foregoing clauses (A) through (K) are referred to as “Disclosable Interests”); and
(iii)    As to each matter the Proposing Stockholder proposes to bring before the annual meeting, (A) a brief description of the business desired to be brought before the annual meeting, the text of the proposal or business (including the text of any resolutions proposed for consideration and, in the event that such business includes a proposal to amend these Bylaws, the language of the proposed amendment), the reasons for conducting such business at the annual meeting and any material interest in such business of the Proposing Stockholder providing the notice and/or any other Proposing Person and (B) a reasonably detailed description of all agreements, arrangements and understandings between or among the Proposing Stockholder providing the notice, any other Proposing Person and/or any other

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persons or entities (including their names) in connection with the proposal of such business by such Proposing Stockholder.
For purposes of this Section 3.02, the term “Proposing Person" shall mean (i) the Proposing Stockholder providing the notice of business proposed to be brought before an annual meeting, (ii) the beneficial owner or owners, if different, on whose behalf the business proposed to be brought before the annual meeting is made, (iii) any affiliate or associate (as such terms are defined in Rule 12b-2 under the Exchange Act) of such beneficial owner and (iv) any other person with whom such Proposing Stockholder or beneficial owner (or any of their respective affiliates or associates) is Acting in Concert (as defined below).
A person shall be deemed to be “Acting in Concert” with another person for purposes of these Bylaws if such person knowingly acts (whether or not pursuant to an express agreement, arrangement or understanding) in concert with, or towards a common goal relating to the management, governance or control of the Corporation in parallel with, such other person where (A) each person is conscious of the other person’s conduct or intent and this awareness is an element in their decision-making processes and (B) at least one additional factor suggests that such persons intend to act in concert or in parallel, which such additional factors may include, without limitation, exchanging information (whether publicly or privately), attending meetings, conducting discussions or making or soliciting invitations to act in concert or in parallel; provided, that a person shall not be deemed to be Acting in Concert with any other person solely as a result of the solicitation or receipt of revocable proxies from such other person in connection with a public proxy solicitation pursuant to, and in accordance with, the Exchange Act. A person which is Acting in Concert with another person shall be deemed to be Acting in Concert with any third party who is also acting in concert with such other person.
(d) A Proposing Stockholder providing notice of business proposed to be brought before an annual meeting shall further update and supplement such notice, if necessary, so that the information provided or required to be provided in such notice pursuant to this Section 3.02 shall be true and correct as of the record date for notice of the meeting and as of the date that is ten business days prior to the meeting or any adjournment or postponement thereof, and such update and supplement shall be delivered to or mailed and received by the Secretary at the principal executive offices of the Corporation not later than five business days after the record date for notice of the meeting (in the case of the update and supplement required to be made as of the record date for notice of the meeting), and not later than eight business days prior to the date for the meeting or any adjournment or postponement thereof (in the case of the update and supplement required to be made as of ten business days prior to the meeting or any adjournment or postponement thereof).
(e) Notwithstanding anything in these Bylaws to the contrary, no business shall be conducted at an annual meeting except in accordance with the procedures set forth in this Section 3.02 (including the requirement in the case of business to be brought before the meeting by a Proposing Stockholder that such Proposing Stockholder update and supplement the notice of proposed business set forth in clause (d) above). The person presiding over the annual meeting shall, if the facts warrant, determine that the business was not properly brought before the meeting in accordance with the provisions of this Section 3.02, and if he or she should so determine, he or she shall so declare to the meeting, and any such business not properly brought

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before the meeting shall not be transacted. Notwithstanding the foregoing provisions of this Section 3.02, unless otherwise required by law, if the Proposing Stockholder (or a qualified representative of the Proposing Stockholder) does not appear at the annual meeting of stockholders of the Corporation to present the proposed business, such proposed business shall not be transacted, notwithstanding that proxies in respect of such vote may have been received by the Corporation. For purposes of this Section 3.02, to be considered a qualified representative of the Proposing Stockholder, a person must be a duly authorized officer, manager or partner of such Proposing Stockholder or must be authorized by a writing executed by such Proposing Stockholder or an Electronic Transmission delivered by such Proposing Stockholder to act for such Proposing Stockholder as proxy at the meeting of stockholders and such person must produce such writing or Electronic Transmission, or a reliable reproduction of the writing or Electronic Transmission, at the meeting of stockholders.
(f) In addition to the requirements of this Section 3.02 with respect to any business proposed to be brought before an annual meeting, each Proposing Person shall comply with all applicable requirements of the Exchange Act and the rules and regulations thereunder with respect to any such business. This Section 3.02 shall not be deemed to affect the rights of stockholders to request inclusion of proposals in the Corporation’s proxy statement pursuant to Rule 14a-8 under the Exchange Act.
(g) For purposes of these Bylaws, “public disclosure” shall mean disclosure in a press release reported by a national news service or in a document publicly filed by the Corporation with the Securities and Exchange Commission pursuant to Sections 13, 14 or 15(d) of the Exchange Act and the rules and regulations thereunder.
Section 3.03    Quorum; Adjournments. A majority in voting power of the shares of capital stock of the Corporation issued and outstanding and entitled to vote at the meeting of stockholders, the holders of which are present in person, present by means of remote communication in a manner, if any, authorized by the Board of Directors in its sole discretion or represented by proxy, shall constitute a quorum for the transaction of business except as otherwise provided by law, by the Certificate of Incorporation or by these Bylaws. A quorum, once established, shall not be broken by the withdrawal of enough votes to leave less than a quorum. If, however, such quorum shall not be present or represented at any meeting of the stockholders, the person presiding at the meeting or, if directed to be voted on by the person presiding at the meeting, the stockholders present or represented by proxy at the meeting and entitled to vote thereon, although less than a quorum, may adjourn the meeting from time to time, without notice other than announcement at the meeting, until a quorum shall be present or represented. At such adjourned meeting at which a quorum shall be present or represented, any business may be transacted which might have been transacted at the original meeting. If the adjournment is for more than 30 days, a notice of the adjourned meeting shall be given to each stockholder of record entitled to vote at the meeting. If after the adjournment a new record date for determination of stockholders entitled to vote is required for the adjourned meeting, the Board of Directors shall fix the record date for determining stockholders entitled to notice of such adjourned meeting, and a notice of the adjourned meeting shall be given to each stockholder of record as of the record date so fixed for notice of such adjourned meeting.

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Section 3.04    Voting. Except as otherwise provided by the Certificate of Incorporation or applicable law, each stockholder shall have one vote for each share of stock having voting power, registered in such stockholder’s name on the books of the Corporation on the record date set by the Board of Directors for determining the stockholders entitled to vote at a meeting of stockholders as provided in Section 7.04 hereof. When a quorum is present at any meeting, a majority of the votes cast by the shares present or represented by proxy at the meeting and entitled to vote on the subject matter shall decide any questions brought before such meeting, unless the question is one upon which by express provisions of applicable law, regulation applicable to the Corporation or its securities, the rules or regulations of any stock exchange applicable to the Corporation or the Certificate of Incorporation or these Bylaws, a different vote is required, in which case such express provision shall govern and control the decision of such question. Except as otherwise provided by these Bylaws, at any meeting for the election of directors at which a quorum is present, each director of the Corporation shall be elected by the vote of a majority of the votes cast with respect to that director’s election by the shares present or represented by proxy at the meeting and entitled to vote on the election of directors. Notwithstanding the foregoing sentence, if, as of the tenth (10th) day preceding the date the Corporation first mails its notice of meeting for such meeting of stockholders, the number of nominees exceeds the number of directors to be elected (a “Contested Election”), the directors shall be elected by the vote of a plurality of the votes cast. In a Contested Election, stockholders shall be given the choice to cast “for” or “withhold” votes for the election of directors, and shall not have the ability to cast any other vote with respect to such election of directors. For purposes of this Section, a “majority of the votes cast” means that the number of votes cast “for” a proposal or a candidate for director must exceed the number of votes cast “against” that proposal or candidate for director (with “abstentions” and “broker non-votes” (i.e., shares held by a bank, broker or other nominee which are present or represented by proxy at the meeting, but with respect to which such bank, broker or nominee is not empowered to vote) not counted as votes cast either “for” or “against” such proposal or candidate for director).
Section 3.05    Proxies. Each stockholder having the right to vote at a meeting of stockholders or to express consent or dissent to corporate action in writing without a meeting may authorize another person or persons to act for such stockholder by proxy in a manner permitted by applicable law. No such proxy shall be voted or acted upon after three years from its date, unless the proxy provides for a longer period.
Section 3.06    Special Meetings. Unless otherwise provided by the Certificate of Incorporation, special meetings of the stockholders, for any purpose or purposes, (i) may be called at any time by the Board of Directors, and (ii) shall be called by the Secretary upon the written request of stockholders owning at least 25% in amount of the entire capital stock of the Corporation issued and outstanding, and entitled to vote at the special meeting. Such request shall set forth (i) if the purpose of the meeting relates to business other than the election or appointment of directors, all information as is required to be included in a notice delivered to the Corporation pursuant to Section 3.02(c) hereof (and, in such circumstance, the requirements of Section 3.02(d) hereof shall also apply) and (ii) if the purpose of the meeting includes the appointment or election of one or more members of the Board of Directors, all information as would be required to be included in a notice delivered to the Corporation pursuant to Section 4.01(d) hereof (and, in such circumstance, the requirements of Section 4.01(e) hereof shall also apply). The Board of Directors or, prior to the 35% Trigger Date, the Designated Controlling

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Stockholder, may bring business before a special meeting of stockholders called by the Secretary upon the request of the Stockholders. Business transacted at any special meeting of stockholders shall be limited to the purposes stated in the notice. The Board of Directors may postpone, reschedule or cancel any previously scheduled special meeting of stockholders, whether called by them or otherwise.
Section 3.07    Notice to Stockholders.
(a)    Whenever stockholders are required or permitted to take any action at a meeting, a written notice of the meeting shall be given which notice shall state the place, if any, date and hour of the meeting, the means of remote communications, if any, by which stockholders and proxy holders may be deemed to be present in person and vote at such meeting, the record date for determining stockholders entitled to vote at the meeting (if such date is different from the record date for stockholders entitled to notice of the meeting) and, in the case of a special meeting, the purpose or purposes for which the meeting is called. Except as otherwise provided by law, such written notice of any meeting shall be given to each stockholder entitled to vote at such meeting as of the record date for determining the stockholders entitled to notice of the meeting, not less than ten nor more than 60 days before the date of the meeting. If mailed, notice is deemed given when deposited in the United States mail, postage prepaid, directed to the stockholder at such stockholder's address as it appears on the records of the Corporation.
(b)    Except as otherwise prohibited by the DGCL and without limiting the foregoing, any notice to stockholders given by the Corporation under any provision of the DGCL, the Certificate of Incorporation or these Bylaws shall be effective if given by a form of Electronic Transmission consented to by the stockholder to whom the notice is given. Any such consent shall be revocable by the stockholder by written notice to the Corporation. Any such consent shall be deemed revoked if (i) the Corporation is unable to deliver by Electronic Transmission two consecutive notices given by the Corporation in accordance with such consent and (ii) such inability becomes known to the Secretary or an Assistant Secretary of the Corporation or to the transfer agent of the Corporation, or other person responsible for the giving of notice; provided, however, the inadvertent failure to treat such inability as a revocation shall not invalidate any meeting or other action. Any such notice shall be deemed given (i) if by facsimile telecommunication, when directed to a number at which the stockholder has consented to receive notice; (ii) if by electronic mail, when directed to an electronic mail address at which the stockholder has consented to receive notice; (iii) if by a posting on an electronic network together with separate notice to the stockholder of such specific posting, upon the later of (A) such posting and (B) the giving of such separate notice; and (iv) if by any other form of Electronic Transmission, when directed to the stockholder.
(c)    Except as otherwise prohibited under the DGCL and without limiting the manner by which notice otherwise may be given to stockholders, any notice to stockholders given by the Corporation under any provision of the DGCL, the Certificate of Incorporation or these Bylaws may be given by a single written notice to stockholders who share an address if consented to by the stockholders at that address to whom such notice is given. Such consent shall have been deemed to have been given if a stockholder fails to object in writing to the Corporation within 60 days of having been given written notice by the Corporation of its

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intention to send the single notice as set forth in this Section 3.07(c). Any such consent shall be revocable by the stockholders by written notice to the Corporation.
Section 3.08    List of Stockholders. The officer who has charge of the stock ledger of the Corporation shall prepare and make, at least ten days before every meeting of stockholders, a complete list of the stockholders entitled to vote at the meeting (provided, however, if the record date for determining the stockholders entitled to vote is less than ten days before the date of the meeting, the list shall reflect the stockholders entitled to vote as of the tenth day before the meeting date), arranged in alphabetical order, and showing the address of each stockholder and the number of shares registered in the name of each stockholder. Such list shall be open to the examination of any stockholder, for any purpose germane to the meeting, for a period of at least ten days prior to the meeting, (i) on a reasonably accessible electronic network, provided that the information required to gain access to such list is provided with the notice of the meeting, or (ii) during ordinary business hours, at the principal place of business of the Corporation. If the meeting is to be held at a place, then the list shall be produced and kept at the time and place of the meeting during the whole time thereof and may be inspected by any stockholder who is present. If the meeting is to be held solely by means of remote communication, then the list shall also be open to the examination of any stockholder during the whole time of the meeting on a reasonably accessible electronic network, and the information required to access such list shall be provided with the notice of the meeting. Except as otherwise provided by law, such list shall be the only evidence as to who are the stockholders entitled to examine the list of stockholders required by this Section 3.08 or to vote in person or by proxy at any meeting of the stockholders. The Corporation shall not be required to include electronic mail addresses or other electronic contact information on such list.
Section 3.09    Written Consent of Stockholders in Lieu of Meeting. Unless otherwise provided in the Certificate of Incorporation, at any time prior to the 50% Trigger Date, any action required or permitted by the DGCL to be taken at a stockholders’ meeting may be taken without a meeting and without prior notice in the manner provided in the Certificate of Incorporation and the DGCL.
Section 3.10    Conduct of Meetings.

(a)    Meetings of stockholders shall be presided over by the Chairperson of the Board of Directors (the “Chairperson”), if any, or in the Chairperson's absence by the Chief Executive Officer, or in the Chief Executive Officer's absence, by the President, or in the President's absence by a Vice President, or in the absence of all of the foregoing persons by a person designated by the Board of Directors. The Secretary shall act as secretary of the meeting, but in the Secretary's absence the person presiding over the meeting may appoint any person to act as secretary of the meeting.

(b)    The Board of Directors may adopt by resolution such rules, regulations and procedures for the conduct of any meeting of stockholders of the Corporation as it shall deem appropriate including, without limitation, such guidelines and procedures as it may deem appropriate regarding the presence and participation by means of remote communication of stockholders and proxy holders not physically present at a meeting. Except to the extent inconsistent with such rules, regulations and procedures as adopted by the Board of Directors,

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the person presiding over any meeting of stockholders shall have the right and authority to convene and (for any or no reason) to recess and/or adjourn the meeting, to prescribe such rules, regulations and procedures and to do all such acts as, in the judgment of such person, are appropriate for the proper conduct of the meeting. Such rules, regulations or procedures, whether adopted by the Board of Directors or prescribed by the person presiding over the meeting, may include, without limitation, the following: (i) the establishment of an agenda or order of business for the meeting; (ii) rules and procedures for maintaining order at the meeting and the safety of those present; (iii) limitations on attendance at or participation in the meeting to stockholders of record of the Corporation, their duly authorized and constituted proxies or such other persons as shall be determined; (iv) restrictions on entry to the meeting after the time fixed for the commencement thereof; and (v) limitations on the time allotted to questions or comments by participants. Unless and to the extent determined by the Board of Directors or the person presiding over the meeting, meetings of stockholders shall not be required to be held in accordance with the rules of parliamentary procedure.

(c)    The person presiding over the meeting shall announce at the meeting when the polls for each matter to be voted upon at the meeting will be opened and closed. After the polls close, no ballots, proxies or votes or any revocations or changes thereto may be accepted.

(d)    In advance of any meeting of stockholders, the Board of Directors, the Chairperson, the Chief Executive Officer or the President shall appoint one or more inspectors of election to act at the meeting and make a written report thereof. One or more other persons may be designated as alternate inspectors to replace any inspector who fails to act. If no inspector or alternate is present, ready and willing to act at a meeting of stockholders, the person presiding over the meeting shall appoint one or more inspectors to act at the meeting. Unless otherwise required by law, inspectors may be officers, employees or agents of the Corporation. Each inspector, before entering upon the discharge of such inspector's duties, shall take and sign an oath faithfully to execute the duties of inspector with strict impartiality and according to the best of such inspector's ability. The inspector shall have the duties prescribed by law and, when the vote is completed, shall make a certificate of the result of the vote taken and of such other facts as may be required by law. Every vote taken by ballots shall be counted by a duly appointed inspector or duly appointed inspectors.

ARTICLE IV
DIRECTORS
Section 4.01    Election of Directors.
(a)    The total number of directors constituting the Board of Directors shall be as fixed in, or be determined in the manner provided by, the Certificate of Incorporation. At each annual meeting of stockholders of the Corporation, all directors shall be elected for a one (1) year term and shall hold office until the next annual meeting of stockholders and until their successors shall be elected and shall qualify, subject, however, to prior death, resignation, retirement, disqualification or removal from office. Election of directors need not be by written ballot. The directors need not be stockholders.

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With respect to nominations by Proposing Stockholders, only persons who are nominated in accordance with the following procedures shall be eligible for election as directors. Nominations of persons for election to the Board of Directors at an annual meeting or at a special meeting (but only if the Board, or pursuant to Section 3.06 of these Bylaws, the stockholders, have first determined that directors are to be elected at such special meeting) may be made at such meeting (i) specified in the notice of meeting given by or at the direction of the Board of Directors, including any committee thereof, (ii) brought before the meeting by or at the direction of the Board of Directors, including any committee thereof or the Designated Controlling Stockholder, prior to the 35% Trigger Date, or (iii) by any Proposing Stockholder who (A) was a stockholder of record (and, with respect to any beneficial owner, if different, on whose behalf such nomination is proposed to be made, only if such beneficial owner was the beneficial owner of shares of the Corporation) both at the time of giving the notice provided for in this Section 4.01 and at the time of the meeting, (B) is entitled to vote at the meeting and (C) complied with the notice procedures set forth in this Section 4.01 as to such nomination. This Section 4.01 shall be the exclusive means for a Proposing Stockholder to propose any nomination of a person or persons for election to the Board to be considered by the stockholders at an annual meeting or special meeting.
Without qualification, for nominations to be made at an annual meeting by a Proposing Stockholder, the Proposing Stockholder must (i) provide Timely Notice (as defined in Section 3.02 of these Bylaws) thereof in writing and in proper form to the Secretary of the Corporation and (ii) provide any updates or supplements to such notice at the times and in the forms required by this Section 4.01. Without qualification, if the Board has first determined that directors are to be elected at such special meeting (or if a special meeting is called pursuant to Section 3.06 hereof and relates to the election or appointment of directors), then for nominations to be made at a special meeting by a Proposing Stockholder, the Proposing Stockholder must (i) provide timely notice thereof in writing and in proper form to the Secretary of the Corporation at the principal executive offices of the Corporation and (ii) provide any updates or supplements to such notice at the times and in the forms required by this Section 4.01. To be timely, a Proposing Stockholder’s notice for nominations to be made at a special meeting by a Proposing Stockholder must be delivered to or mailed and received at the principal executive offices of the Corporation not earlier than the 120th day prior to such special meeting and not later than the 90th day prior to such special meeting or, if later, the 10th day following the day on which public disclosure (as defined in Section 3.02 of these Bylaws) of the date of such special meeting was first made. In no event shall any adjournment or postponement of an annual meeting or special meeting or the announcement thereof commence a new time period (or extend any time period) for the giving of a stockholder’s notice as described above.
To be in proper form for purposes of this Section 4.01, a Proposing Stockholder’s notice to the Secretary pursuant to this Section 4.01 shall be required to set forth:
(i)    As to the Proposing Stockholder providing the notice and each other Proposing Person (as defined below), (A) the name and address of the Proposing Stockholder providing the notice, as they appear on the Corporation’s books, and of the other Proposing Persons, (B) a representation that the Proposing Stockholder is a holder of record of stock of the Corporation entitled to vote at such meeting and intends to appear in person or by proxy at the meeting to propose such nomination, (C) a representation whether the Proposing

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Stockholder or the beneficial owner, if any, and/or any other Proposing Person intends or is part of a group that intends (a) to deliver a proxy statement and/or form of proxy to holders of at least the percentage of the Corporation’s outstanding capital stock required to elect the nominee and/or (b) otherwise to solicit proxies from stockholders in support of such nomination, and (D) any Disclosable Interests (as defined in Section 3.02 of these Bylaws) of the Proposing Stockholder providing the notice (or, if different, the beneficial owner on whose behalf such notice is given) and/or each other Proposing Person;
(ii)    As to each person whom the Proposing Stockholder proposes to nominate for election as a director, (A) all information with respect to such proposed nominee that would be required to be set forth in a Proposing Stockholder’s notice pursuant to this Section 4.01 if such proposed nominee were a Proposing Person, (B) all information relating to such proposed nominee that is required to be disclosed in a proxy statement or other filings required to be made in connection with solicitations of proxies for election of directors in a contested election pursuant to Section 14 under the Exchange Act and the rules and regulations thereunder (including such proposed nominee’s written consent to being named in the proxy statement as a nominee and to serving as a director if elected) and (C) a description of all direct and indirect compensation and other material monetary agreements, arrangements and understandings during the past three years, and any other material relationships, between or among the Proposing Stockholder providing the notice (or, if different, the beneficial owner on whose behalf such notice is given) and/or any Proposing Person, on the one hand, and each proposed nominee, his or her respective affiliates and associates and any other persons with whom such proposed nominee (or any of his or her respective affiliates and associates) is Acting in Concert (as defined in Section 3.02 of these Bylaws), on the other hand, including, without limitation, all information that would be required to be disclosed pursuant to Item 404 under Regulation S-K if such Proposing Stockholder or beneficial owner, as applicable, and/or such Proposing Person were the “registrant” for purposes of such rule and the proposed nominee were a director or executive officer of such registrant; and
(iii)    The Corporation may require any proposed nominee to furnish such other information as may reasonably be required by the Corporation to determine the eligibility of such proposed nominee to serve as an independent director of the Corporation or that could be material to a reasonable stockholder’s understanding of the independence or lack of independence of such proposed nominee.
For purposes of this Section 4.01, the term “Proposing Person" shall mean (i) the Proposing Stockholder providing the notice of the nomination proposed to be made at the annual or special meeting, (ii) the beneficial owner or owners, if different, on whose behalf the nomination proposed to be made at the annual or special meeting is made, (iii) any affiliate or associate of such beneficial owner (as such terms are defined in Rule 12b-2 under the Exchange Act) and (iv) any other person with whom such Proposing Stockholder or such beneficial owner (or any of their respective affiliates or associates) is Acting in Concert.
A Proposing Stockholder providing notice of any nomination proposed to be made at an annual or special meeting shall further update and supplement such notice, if necessary, so that the information provided or required to be provided in such notice pursuant to this Section 4.01 shall be true and correct as of the record date for the annual or special meeting and as of the date

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that is ten business days prior to the meeting or any adjournment or postponement thereof, and such update and supplement shall be delivered to or mailed and received by the Secretary at the principal executive offices of the Corporation not later than five business days after the record date for the meeting (in the case of the update and supplement required to be made as of the record date), and not later than eight business days prior to the date for the meeting or any adjournment or postponement thereof (in the case of the update and supplement required to be made as of ten business days prior to the meeting or any adjournment or postponement thereof).
Notwithstanding anything in these Bylaws to the contrary, no person nominated by a Proposing Stockholder shall be eligible for election as a director of the Corporation unless nominated in accordance with the procedures set forth in this Section 4.01. The person presiding over the annual or special meeting shall, if the facts warrant, determine that a nomination was not properly made in accordance with the provisions of this Section 4.01 (including the requirement to update and supplement a Proposing Stockholder’s notice of any nomination set forth in clause (e) above), and if he or she should so determine, he or she shall so declare such determination to the meeting, and the defective nomination shall be disregarded. Notwithstanding the foregoing provisions of this Section 4.01, unless otherwise required by law, if the Proposing Stockholder (or a qualified representative of the Proposing Stockholder) does not appear at the annual or special meeting of stockholders of the Corporation to present a nomination, such nomination shall be disregarded, notwithstanding that proxies in respect of such vote may have been received by the Corporation. For purposes of this Section 4.01, to be considered a qualified representative of the Proposing Stockholder, a person must be a duly authorized officer, manager or partner of such Proposing Stockholder or must be authorized by a writing executed by such Proposing Stockholder or an Electronic Transmission delivered by such Proposing Stockholder to act for such Proposing Stockholder as proxy at the meeting of stockholders and such person must produce such writing or Electronic Transmission, or a reliable reproduction of the writing or Electronic Transmission, at the meeting of stockholders.
This Section 4.01 is expressly intended to apply to any nomination by a Proposing Stockholder proposed to be brought before an annual or special meeting. In addition to the requirements of this Section 4.01 with respect to any nomination by a Proposing Stockholder proposed to be made at an annual or special meeting, each Proposing Person shall comply with all applicable requirements of the Exchange Act and the rules and regulations thereunder with respect to any such nominations. Nothing in this Section 4.01 shall be deemed to affect any rights of the holders of any series of preferred stock to elect directors pursuant to any applicable provisions of the Certificate of Incorporation or the rights of the Designated Controlling Stockholder as agreed with the Corporation.
Section 4.02    Vacancies. Vacancies on the Board of Directors by reason of death, resignation, retirement, disqualification, removal from office, or otherwise, and newly created directorships resulting from any increase in the authorized number of directors, shall be filled as provided in the Certificate of Incorporation. A director elected to fill a vacancy or a newly created directorship shall hold office until the next annual meeting of stockholders and until his or her successor shall be elected and shall qualify, subject, however, to prior death, resignation, retirement, disqualification or removal from office.

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Section 4.03    Removal. Any director or the entire Board of Directors may be removed from office in the manner provided in the Certificate of Incorporation.
Section 4.04    General Powers. Except as otherwise provided by law or the Certificate of Incorporation, the business and affairs of the Corporation shall be managed by or under the direction of its Board of Directors.
Section 4.05    Place of Meeting. The Board may hold its meetings at such place or places within or without the State of Delaware as it may from time to time determine.
Section 4.06    Regular Meetings. Regular meetings of the Board of Directors may be held without notice at such time and place as shall from time to time be determined by the Board.
Section 4.07    Special Meetings. Special meetings of the Board of Directors may be called by the Chairperson. Special meetings also shall be called by the Secretary on the written request of any two directors unless the Board consists of only one director, in which case special meetings shall be called by the Secretary on the written request of the sole director. Notice of the time, date and place of such meeting shall be given, orally or in writing, by the person or persons calling or requesting the meeting to all directors at least four days before the meeting if the notice is mailed, or at least 24 hours before the meeting if such notice is given by telephone, hand delivery, overnight express courier, facsimile, electronic mail or other Electronic Transmission. Unless otherwise indicated in the notice, any and all business may be transacted at a special meeting, provided that notice of the special meeting shall state the purpose or purposes of the special meeting. The notice shall be deemed given:
(i)    in the case of hand delivery or notice by telephone, when received by the director to whom notice is to be given or by any person accepting such notice on behalf of such director,
(ii)    in the case of delivery by mail, upon deposit in the United States mail, postage prepaid, directed to the director to whom notice is being given at such director’s address as it appears on the records of the Corporation,
(iii)    in the case of delivery by overnight express courier, on the first business day after such notice is dispatched, and
(iv)    in the case of delivery via facsimile, electronic mail or other Electronic Transmission, when sent to the director to whom notice is to be given at such director’s facsimile number or electronic mail address, as the case may be, as shown on the Corporation’s records.
Section 4.08    Quorum; Adjournments. At all meetings of the Board of Directors a majority of the authorized number of directors shall be necessary and sufficient to constitute a quorum for the transaction of business, and the vote of a majority of the directors present at any meeting at which there is a quorum, shall be the act of the Board of Directors, except as may be otherwise specifically provided by statute, by the Certificate of Incorporation or by these Bylaws. If a quorum shall not be present at any meeting of the Board of Directors the directors

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present thereat may adjourn the meeting from time to time, without notice other than announcement at the meeting, until a quorum shall be present. If only one director is authorized, such sole director shall constitute a quorum.
Section 4.09    Unanimous Action in Lieu of a Meeting. Unless otherwise restricted by the Certificate of Incorporation or these Bylaws, any action required or permitted to be taken at any meeting of the Board of Directors or of any committee thereof may be taken without a meeting, if all members of the Board or committee, as the case may be, consent thereto in writing, or by Electronic Transmission, and the writing or writings or Electronic Transmission or transmissions are filed with the minutes of proceedings of the Board or committee, respectively. Such filing shall be in paper form if the minutes are maintained in paper form and shall be in electronic form if the minutes are maintained in electronic form.
Section 4.10    Conference Call Meetings. Unless otherwise restricted by the Certificate of Incorporation or these Bylaws, members of the Board of Directors, or any committee designated by the Board of Directors, may participate in a meeting of the Board of Directors, or any committee, by means of conference telephone or similar communications equipment by means of which all persons participating in the meeting can hear each other, and such participation in a meeting shall constitute presence in person at such meeting.
Section 4.11    Committees. The Board of Directors may designate one or more committees, each such committee to consist of one or more of the directors of the Corporation. The Board may designate one or more directors as alternate members of any committee, who may replace any absent or disqualified member at any meeting of the committee. In the absence or disqualification of a member of a committee, the member or members thereof present at any meeting and not disqualified from voting, whether or not he, she or they constitute a quorum, may unanimously appoint another member of the Board of Directors to act at the meeting in the place of any such absent or disqualified member. Any such committee, to the extent provided in the resolution of the Board of Directors, shall have and may exercise all the powers and authority of the Board of Directors in the management of the business and affairs of the Corporation, and may authorize the seal of the Corporation to be affixed to all papers which may require it; but no such committee shall have the power or authority in reference to approving or adopting, or recommending to the stockholders, any action or matter (other than the election or removal of directors) expressly required by the DGCL to be submitted to stockholders for approval or adopting, amending or repealing these Bylaws.
Each committee shall keep regular minutes of its meetings and report the same to the Board of Directors when required.
Section 4.12    Compensation. Unless otherwise restricted by the Certificate of Incorporation or these Bylaws, the Board of Directors shall have the authority to fix the compensation of directors, including the granting of equity interests (which may include profits interests and Synthetic Equity Interests) of the Corporation to the directors. The directors may be paid their expenses, if any, of attendance at each meeting of the Board of Directors and may be paid a fixed sum for attendance at each meeting of the Board of Directors or a stated salary as director. No such payment shall preclude any director from serving the Corporation in any other capacity and receiving compensation therefor. Members of special or standing committees may

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be allowed like compensation for attending committee meetings or a stated salary as a committee member. The terms of any compensation (including the granting of equity interests of the Corporation) paid to directors shall be as determined by the Board of Directors.
ARTICLE V
OFFICERS
Section 5.01    Generally. The Board of Directors shall from time to time elect or appoint such officers as it shall deem necessary or appropriate to the management and operation of the Corporation, including, without limitation, a President (which may be the Chief Executive Officer ("CEO"), a Secretary and a Treasurer (which may be the Chief Financial Officer). The Board of Directors or the CEO shall have the power and authority to appoint as officers one or more Executive Vice Presidents, Senior Vice Presidents, Vice Presidents, a Chief Operating Officer, a Chief Administrative Officer and a Chief Marketing Officer. The officers of the Corporation shall exercise such powers and perform such duties as are specified in these Bylaws, in a resolution of the Board of Directors or, in the case of an officer appointed by the CEO, as specified by the CEO. Any person may hold two or more offices simultaneously, and no officer need be a stockholder of the Corporation.
In addition to the authority of the CEO to appoint officers as set forth above, if so provided by resolution of the Board, any officer may be delegated the authority to appoint one or more officers or assistant officers, which appointed officers or assistant officers shall have the duties and powers specified in the resolution of the Board or as determined by such officer.
Section 5.02    Compensation. The officers of the Corporation shall be entitled to such salaries, compensation or reimbursement as shall be fixed or allowed from time to time by the Board of Directors or any duly authorized committee thereof. In fixing the salaries, compensation and reimbursement of the officers of the Company other than the CEO, the Board of Directors may, among other things, take into account the recommendation of the CEO.
Section 5.03    Term; Removal. Each officer shall hold office until such officer’s successor is elected or appointed and qualified or until such officer’s earlier resignation or removal. Any officer may be removed at any time, with or without cause, by the Board of Directors. Any officer appointed by the CEO may be removed at any time by the CEO. If the office of any officer or officers becomes vacant for any reason, the vacancy shall be filled by the Board of Directors or by the CEO.
Section 5.04    Duties.
(a)    Chairperson of the Board of Directors. The Chairperson shall, if present, preside at all meetings of the stockholders and of the Board. The Chairperson shall also perform such other duties and may exercise such other powers as may be assigned by these Bylaws or prescribed by the Board from time to time. If there is no President, the Chairperson shall in addition be the CEO and shall have the powers and duties prescribed in paragraph (c) of this Section 5.04. The Board of Directors may designate two persons to serve as Co-Chairpersons of the Board of Directors (each, a “Co-Chairperson”). Any reference to the Chairperson in these

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Bylaws shall be deemed to mean, if there are Co-Chairpersons, either Co-Chairperson, each of whom may exercise the full powers and authorities of the office.
(b)    President, Chief Executive Officer. The President shall be the CEO of the Corporation. The CEO shall be the principal executive officer of the Corporation and shall have such other title or titles designated by the Board. Subject to the control of the Board, the CEO shall in general manage, supervise and control all of the business and affairs of the Corporation. He or she shall have authority to conduct all ordinary business on behalf of the Corporation and may execute and deliver on behalf of the Corporation any contract, conveyance or similar document; and in general shall perform all duties incident to the office of the CEO of a corporation and such other duties as may be prescribed by the Board or these Bylaws from time to time. The President shall perform such other duties and shall have such other powers as the Board or the CEO (if the President is not the CEO) may from time to time prescribe.
(c)    Treasurer. The Treasurer (who shall have any other title or titles designated by the Board or the CEO, including without limitation, in the Board’s or the CEO’s discretion, “Chief Financial Officer”) shall have the custody of the corporate funds and securities and shall keep full and accurate accounts of receipts and disbursements in books belonging to the Corporation and shall deposit all moneys, and other valuable effects in the name and to the credit of the Corporation, in such depositories as may be designated by the Board. He or she shall disburse the funds of the corporation as may be ordered by the Board, taking proper vouchers for such disbursements, and shall render to the Board, at its regular meetings, or when the Board so requires, an account of all his or her transactions as Treasurer and of the financial condition of the Corporation. If required by the Board, he or she shall give the Corporation a bond, in such sum and with such surety or sureties as shall be satisfactory to the Board, for the faithful performance of the duties of his or her office and for the restoration to the Corporation, in case of his or her death, resignation, retirement or removal from office, of all books, papers, vouchers, money and other property of whatever kind in his or her possession or under his or her control belonging to the Corporation. The Treasurer in general shall perform all duties incident to the office of the Treasurer of a corporation and such other duties as may be prescribed by the Board, the CEO or these Bylaws from time to time.
(d)    Secretary. The Secretary shall: (1) attend and keep the minutes of the stockholders' meetings and of the Board's meetings in one or more books provided for that purpose, and perform like duties for the standing committees of the Board when required by the Board; (2) see that all notices are duly given in accordance with the provisions of these Bylaws or as otherwise required by law or the provisions of the Certificate of Incorporation; (3) be custodian of the corporate records and of the seal of the Corporation and see that the seal of the Corporation is affixed to all documents, the execution of which on behalf of the Corporation under its seal is duly authorized; (4) maintain, or cause an agent designated by the Board to maintain, a record of the Corporation's stockholders in a form that permits the preparation of a list of the names and addresses of all stockholders in alphabetical order by class of shares, showing the number and class of shares held by each; (5) have general charge of the stock transfer books of the Corporation or responsibility for supervision, on behalf of the Corporation, of any agent to which stock transfer responsibility has been delegated by the Board; (6) have responsibility for the custody, maintenance and preservation of those corporate records which the Corporation is required by the DGCL or otherwise to create, maintain or preserve; and (7) in

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general perform all duties incident to the office of Secretary of a corporation and such other duties as may be assigned by the Board, the CEO or these Bylaws from time to time.
(e)    Deputy Officers. The Board may create one or more deputy officers whose duties shall be, among any other designated thereto by the Board, to perform the duties of the officer to which such office has been deputized in the event of the unavailability, death or inability or refusal of such officer to act. Deputy officers may hold such titles as designated therefor by the Board; however, any office designated with the prefix "Vice" or "Deputy" shall be, unless otherwise specified by resolution of the Board, automatically a deputy officer to the office with the title of which the prefix term is conjoined. Deputy officers shall have such other duties as prescribed by the Board or the CEO from time to time.
(f)    Assistant Officers. The Board may appoint one or more officers who shall be assistants to principal officers of the Corporation, or their deputies, and who shall have such duties as shall be delegated to such assistant officers by the Board or such principal officers, including the authority to perform such functions of those principal officers in the place of and with full authority of such principal officers as shall be designated by the Board or (if so authorized) by such principal officers. The Board may by resolution authorize appointment of assistant officers by those principal officers to which such appointed officers will serve as assistants.
ARTICLE VI
INDEMNIFICATION

Section 6.01    Indemnification.

(a)    The Corporation shall indemnify and hold harmless to the full extent permitted by law (as now or hereafter in effect) any person who was or is a party or is threatened to be made a party to any threatened, pending or completed action, suit or proceeding, whether civil, criminal, administrative or investigative (other than an action by or in the right of the Corporation) by reason of the fact that he or she is or was a director, officer, employee or agent of the Corporation, or, while serving as a director, officer, employee or agent of the Corporation, is or was serving at the request of the Corporation, any other corporation, partnership, joint venture, trust or other enterprise in any capacity, against expenses (including attorneys’ fees), judgments, fines and amounts paid in settlement actually and reasonably incurred by him or her in connection with such action, suit or proceeding if he or she acted in good faith and in a manner he or she reasonably believed to be in or not opposed to the best interests of the Corporation, and, with respect to any criminal action or proceeding, had no reasonable cause to believe his or her conduct was unlawful. The termination of any action, suit or proceeding by judgment, order, settlement, conviction, or upon a plea of nolo contendere or its equivalent, shall not, of itself, create a presumption that the person did not act in good faith and in a manner which he or she reasonably believed to be in or not opposed to the best interests of the Corporation, and, with respect to any criminal action or proceeding, had reasonable cause to believe that his or her conduct was unlawful. Notwithstanding this Section 6.01(a) or the provisions of Section 6.01(b) hereof, except as otherwise provided in Section 6.01(f) hereof, the Corporation shall be required to indemnify a covered person in connection with a proceeding (or part thereof) commenced by

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such covered person only if the commencement of such proceeding (or part thereof) by the covered person was authorized in the specific case by the Board of Directors of the Corporation.

(b)    The Corporation shall indemnify and hold harmless to the full extent permitted by law (as now or hereafter in effect) any person who was or is a party or is threatened to be made a party to any threatened, pending or completed action or suit by or in the right of the Corporation to procure a judgment in its favor by reason of the fact that he or she is or was a director, officer, employee or agent of the Corporation, or, while serving as a director, officer, employee or agent of the Corporation, is or was serving at the request of the Corporation another corporation, partnership, joint venture, trust or other enterprise in any capacity against expenses (including attorneys’ fees) actually and reasonably incurred by him or her in connection with the defense or settlement of such action or suit if he or she acted in good faith and in a manner he or she reasonably believed to be in or not opposed to the best interests of the Corporation and except that no such indemnification shall be made in respect of any claim, issue or matter as to which such person shall have been adjudged to be liable to the Corporation unless and only to the extent that the Delaware Court or the court in which such action or suit was brought shall determine upon application that, despite the adjudication of liability but in view of all the circumstances of the case, such person is fairly and reasonably entitled to indemnity for such expenses which such Delaware Court or such other court shall deem proper.

(c)    To the extent that a present or former director, officer, employee or agent of the Corporation shall be successful on the merits or otherwise in defense of any action, suit or proceeding referred to in paragraphs (a) and (b), or in defense of any claim, issue or matter therein, he or she shall be indemnified against expenses (including attorneys’ fees) actually and reasonably incurred by him or her in connection therewith.

(d)    Any indemnification under paragraphs (a) and (b) (unless ordered by a court) shall be made by the Corporation only as authorized in the specific case upon a determination that indemnification of the present or former director, officer, employee or agent is proper in the circumstances because he or she has met the applicable standard of conduct set forth in paragraphs (a) and (b). Such determination shall be made, with respect to a person who is a director, officer, employee or agent at the time of such determination, (1) by a majority vote of the directors who are not parties to such action, suit or proceeding, even though less than a quorum, or (2) by a committee of such directors designated by majority vote of such directors, even though less than a quorum, or (3) if there are no such directors, or if such directors so direct, by independent legal counsel in a written opinion, or (4) by the stockholders.

(e)    Expenses incurred by an officer or director in defending a civil or criminal action, suit or proceeding shall be paid by the Corporation to the fullest extent permitted by law in advance of the final disposition of such action, suit or proceeding upon receipt of an undertaking by or on behalf of such director or officer to repay such amount if it shall ultimately be determined that he or she is not entitled to be indemnified by the Corporation as authorized in this Section 6.01. Such expenses incurred by former directors and officers or other employees and agents may be so paid upon such terms and conditions, if any, as the Corporation deems appropriate.


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(f)    The indemnification and advancement of expenses provided by, or granted pursuant to, the other paragraphs of this Section 6.01 shall not be deemed exclusive of any other rights to which those seeking indemnification or advancement of expenses may be entitled under any Bylaw, agreement, vote of stockholders or disinterested directors or otherwise, both as to action in his or her official capacity and as to action in another capacity while holding such office. The provisions of this Section 6.01 shall not be deemed to preclude the indemnification of (or advancement of expenses to) any person who is not specified in Section 6.01(a) or Section 6.01(b) but whom the Corporation has the power or obligation to indemnity under the provisions of the DGCL, or otherwise.

(g)    If a claim for indemnification (following the final disposition of a proceeding) or advancement of expenses under this Section 6.01 is not paid in full within 90 days after a written claim therefor has been received by the Corporation, the claimant may file suit to recover the unpaid amount of such claim and, if successful in whole or in part, shall be entitled to be paid the expense of prosecuting such claim to the fullest extent permitted by law. In any such action the Corporation shall have the burden of proving that the claimant was not entitled to the requested indemnification or advancement of expenses under applicable law.

(g)    The Board of Directors may authorize, by a vote of a majority of a quorum of the Board of Directors, the Corporation to purchase and maintain insurance on behalf of any person who is or was a director, officer, employee or agent of the Corporation, or is or was serving at the request of the Corporation another corporation, partnership, joint venture, trust or other enterprise in any capacity against any liability asserted against him or her and incurred by him or her in any such capacity, or arising out of his or her status as such, whether or not the Corporation would have the power to indemnify him or her against such liability under the provisions of this Section 6.01.

(h)    The Board of Directors may authorize the Corporation to enter into a contract with any person who is or was a director, officer, employee or agent of the Corporation or is or was serving at the request of the Corporation as a director, officer, employee or agent of another corporation, partnership, joint venture, trust or other enterprise providing for indemnification rights equivalent to or, if the Board of Directors so determines, greater than those provided in Section 6.01.

(i)    For the purposes of this Section 6.01, references to “the Corporation” shall include, in addition to the resulting corporation, any constituent corporation (including any constituent of a constituent) absorbed in a consolidation or merger which, if its separate existence had continued, would have had power and authority to indemnify its directors, officers, employees or agents, so that any person who is or was a director, officer, employee or agent of such constituent corporation, or is or was serving at the request of such constituent corporation as a director, officer, employee or agent of another corporation, partnership, joint venture, trust or other enterprise, shall stand in the same position under the provisions of this Section 6.01 with respect to the resulting or surviving corporation as he or she would have with respect to such constituent corporation if its separate existence had continued.


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(j)    For purposes of this Section 6.01, references to “other enterprises” shall include employee benefit plans; references to “fines” shall include any excise taxes assessed on a person with respect to an employee benefit plan; and references to “serving at the request of the Corporation” shall include service as a director, officer, employee or agent of the Corporation which imposes duties on, or involves services by, such director, officer, employee or agent with respect to an employee benefit plan, its participants or beneficiaries; and a person who acted in good faith and in a manner he or she reasonably believed to be in the interest of the participants and beneficiaries of an employee benefit plan shall be deemed to have acted in a manner “not opposed to the best interest of the Corporation” as referred to in this section.

(k)    The indemnification and advancement of expenses provided by, or granted pursuant to, this Section 6.01 shall, unless otherwise provided when authorized or ratified, continue as to a person who has ceased to be a director, officer, employee or agent and shall inure to the benefit of the heirs, executors and administrators of such a person.

(l)    The Corporation’s obligation, if any, to indemnify or to advance expenses to any person who was or is serving at its request another corporation, partnership, joint venture, trust or other enterprise in any capacity shall be reduced by any amount such person may collect as indemnification or advancement of expenses from such other corporation, partnership, joint venture, trust or other enterprise.

(m)    Any repeal or modification of the foregoing provisions of this Section 6.01 shall not adversely affect any right or protection hereunder of any person in respect of any proceeding (regardless of when such proceeding is first threatened, commenced or completed) arising out of, or related to, any act or omission occurring prior to the time of such repeal or modification.
ARTICLE VII
CERTIFICATES OF STOCK
Section 7.01    Certificates. The shares of the Corporation shall be represented by certificates, provided that the Board of Directors may provide by resolution or resolutions that some or all of any or all classes or series of the Corporation’s stock shall be uncertificated shares. Any such resolution shall not apply to shares represented by a certificate until such certificate is surrendered to the Corporation. Every holder of stock represented by certificates shall be entitled to have a certificate signed by, or in the name of the Corporation by, the Chairperson, or the President or a Vice President, and by the Secretary or an Assistant Secretary, or the Treasurer or an Assistant Treasurer of the Corporation, representing the number of shares registered in certificate form. Any or all of the signatures on the certificate may be a facsimile. In case any officer, transfer agent, or registrar who has signed or whose facsimile signature has been placed upon a certificate shall have ceased to be such officer, transfer agent, or registrar before such certificate is issued, it may be issued by the Corporation with the same effect as if he or she were such officer, transfer agent, or registrar at the date of issue.
Section 7.02    Transfer. The issue, transfer, conversion and registration of stock certificates or uncertificated shares shall be governed by such other regulations as the Board of Directors may establish.

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Section 7.03    Lost, Stolen or Destroyed Certificates. The Corporation may issue a new certificate of stock or uncertificated shares in the place of any certificate previously issued by it, alleged to have been lost, stolen or destroyed, and the Corporation may require the owner of the lost, stolen or destroyed certificate, or such owner’s legal representative, to agree to indemnify the Corporation and/or to give the Corporation a bond sufficient to indemnify it, against any claim that may be made against it on account of the alleged loss, theft or destruction of any such certificate or the issuance of such new certificate or uncertificated shares.
Section 7.04    Fixing the Record Date.
(a)    In order that the Corporation may determine the stockholders entitled to notice of any meeting of stockholders or any adjournment thereof, the Board of Directors may fix a record date, which record date shall not precede the date upon which the resolution fixing the record date is adopted by the Board of Directors, and which record date shall, unless otherwise required by law, not be more than sixty (60) nor less than ten (10) days before the date of such meeting. If the Board of Directors so fixes a date, such date shall also be the record date for determining the stockholders entitled to vote at such meeting unless the Board of Directors determines, at the time it fixes such record date, that a later date on or before the date of the meeting shall be the date for making such determination. If no record date is fixed by the Board of Directors, the record date for determining stockholders entitled to notice of or to vote at a meeting of stockholders shall be at the close of business on the day next preceding the day on which notice is given, or, if notice is waived, at the close of business on the day next preceding the day on which the meeting is held. A determination of stockholders of record entitled to notice of or to vote at a meeting of stockholders shall apply to any adjournment of the meeting; provided, however, that the Board of Directors may fix a new record date for determination of stockholders entitled to vote at the adjourned meeting, and in such case shall also fix as the record date for stockholders entitled to notice of such adjourned meeting the same or an earlier date as that fixed for determination of stockholders entitled to vote in accordance herewith at the adjourned meeting.
(b)    In order that the Corporation may determine the stockholders entitled to receive payment of any dividend or other distribution or allotment of any rights, or entitled to exercise any rights in respect of any change, conversion or exchange of stock or for the purpose of any other lawful action, the Board of Directors may fix a record date, which record date shall not precede the date upon which the resolution fixing the record date is adopted, and which record date shall not be more than sixty (60) days prior to such action. If no such record date is fixed, the record date for determining stockholders for any such purpose shall be at the close of business on the day on which the Board of Directors adopts the resolution relating thereto.
(c)    In order that the Corporation may determine the stockholders entitled to express consent to corporate action in writing without a meeting at any time prior to the 50% Trigger Date, the Board of Directors may fix a record date, which record date shall not precede the date upon which the resolution fixing the record date is adopted by the Board of Directors, and which record date shall not be more than ten (10) days after the date upon which the resolution fixing the record date is adopted by the Board of Directors. If no record date for determining stockholders entitled to express consent to corporate action in writing without a meeting is fixed by the Board of Directors, (i) when no prior action of the Board of Directors is

23

required by law, the record date for such purpose shall be the first date on which a signed written consent setting forth the action taken or proposed to be taken is delivered to the corporation in accordance with applicable law, and (ii) if prior action by the Board of Directors is required by law, the record date for such purpose shall be at the close of business on the day on which the Board of Directors adopts the resolution taking such prior action.
Section 7.05    Registered Stockholders. The Corporation shall be entitled to treat the holder of record of any share or shares of stock as the holder in fact thereof and accordingly shall not be bound to recognize any equitable or other claim or interest in such share on the part of any other person, whether or not it shall have express or other notice thereof, save as expressly provided by the laws of the State of Delaware.

ARTICLE VIII
GENERAL PROVISIONS
Section 8.01    Dividends. Dividends upon the capital stock of the Corporation, subject to the provisions of the Certificate of Incorporation, if any, may be declared by the Board of Directors at any regular or special meeting, pursuant to law. Dividends may be paid in cash, in property, or in shares of the capital stock, subject to the provisions of the Certificate of Incorporation.
Before payment of any dividend there may be set aside out of any funds of the Corporation available for dividends such sum or sums as the directors from time to time, in their absolute discretion, think proper as a reserve fund to meet contingencies, or for equalizing dividends, or for repairing or maintaining any property of the Corporation, or for such other purpose as the directors shall think conducive to the interests of the Corporation, and the directors may abolish any such reserve.
Section 8.02    Checks. All checks or demands for money and notes of the Corporation shall be signed by such officer or officers as the Board of Directors may from time to time designate.
Section 8.03    Fiscal Year. The fiscal year of the Corporation shall be fixed by resolution of the Board of Directors.
Section 8.04    Seal. The Board of Directors may provide for a corporate seal, which shall have the name of the Corporation inscribed thereon and shall otherwise be in such form as may be approved from time to time by the Board of Directors. Said seal may be used by causing it or a facsimile thereof to be impressed or affixed or reproduced or otherwise.
Section 8.05    Waiver of Notice. Whenever any notice is required to be given under applicable law or the Certificate of Incorporation or these Bylaws, a waiver thereof in writing, signed by the person or persons entitled to said notice, or a waiver by Electronic Transmission by the person entitled to notice, whether before or after the time stated therein, shall be deemed equivalent thereto. Neither the business to be transacted at, nor the purpose of, any regular or special meeting of the stockholders, directors or members of a committee of directors need be specified in any written waiver of notice or any waiver by Electronic

24

Transmission, unless so required by the Certificate of Incorporation. Attendance of a person at a meeting shall constitute a waiver of notice of such meeting, except when the person attends a meeting for the express purpose of objecting, at the beginning of the meeting, to the transaction of any business because the meeting is not lawfully called or convened.
ARTICLE IX
AMENDMENTS
Section 9.01    Amendments. These Bylaws may be amended or repealed, in whole or in part, or new Bylaws may be adopted by the Board or by the stockholders as expressly provided in the Certificate of Incorporation.
ARTICLE X
EXCLUSIVE FORUM
Section 10.01    Exclusive Forum. Unless the Corporation consents in writing to the selection of an alternative forum, the Delaware Court shall, to the fullest extent permitted by law, be the sole and exclusive forum for (i) any derivative action or proceeding brought on behalf of the Corporation, (ii) any action asserting a claim of breach of a fiduciary duty owed by any director or officer of the Corporation to the Corporation or the Corporation’s stockholders, (iii) any action asserting a claim arising pursuant to any provision of the DGCL or these Bylaws or the Certificate of Incorporation or (iv) any action governed by the internal affairs doctrine. Any person or entity purchasing or otherwise acquiring any interest in shares of capital stock of the Corporation shall be deemed to have notice of and consented to the provisions of this Section 10.01.


25
Exhibit 4.9.6

EXECUTION COPY
SIXTH SUPPLEMENTAL INDENTURE

SIXTH SUPPLEMENTAL INDENTURE (this “Supplemental Indenture”) dated as of November 16, 2018 (the “Effective Date”), among ALBERTSONS COMPANIES, INC., a Delaware corporation (the “Company”), NEW ALBERTSONS L.P., a Delaware limited partnership (“NALP”), SAFEWAY INC., a Delaware corporation (“Safeway”) and ALBERTSON’S LLC, a Delaware limited liability company (“Albertsons”, together with the Company, Safeway and NALP, collectively, the “Lead Issuers"), the Existing Additional Issuers and Existing Subsidiary Guarantors that are signatories hereto under the heading Existing Additional Issuers and Existing Subsidiary Guarantors (each, a “Existing Subsidiary Note Party,” and collectively, the “Existing Subsidiary Note Parties”), the New Additional Issuer and New Subsidiary Guarantor signatory hereto under the heading New Additional Issuer and New Subsidiary Guarantor (the “New Subsidiary Note Party”) and WILMINGTON TRUST, NATIONAL ASSOCIATION, a national banking association, as trustee (in such capacity, together with its successors and assigns in such capacity, the “Trustee”).
W I T N E S S E T H :
WHEREAS the Lead Issuers and the Existing Subsidiary Note Parties have executed and delivered to the Trustee an indenture (as amended, supplemented or otherwise modified, the “Indenture”) dated as May 31, 2016, providing for the issuance of the Issuers’ 6.625% Senior Notes due 2024 (the “Securities”), initially in the aggregate principal amount of $1,250,000,000; and
WHEREAS pursuant to Section 9.01 of the Indenture, the Trustee and the Company are authorized to execute and deliver this Supplemental Indenture;
NOW THEREFORE, in consideration of the foregoing and for other good and valuable consideration, the receipt of which is hereby acknowledged, the Company and the Trustee mutually covenant and agree for the equal and ratable benefit of the Holders of the Securities as follows:
1.    Defined Terms. As used in this Supplemental Indenture, terms defined in the Indenture or in the preamble or recital hereto are used herein as therein defined. The words “herein,” “hereof” and hereby and other words of similar import used in this Supplemental Indenture refer to this Supplemental Indenture as a whole and not to any particular section hereof.
2.    Subsidiary Guarantee.
(a) Each Existing Subsidiary Note Party, as a Subsidiary Guarantor, hereby confirms, jointly and severally, that its Guarantee shall apply to the Issuers' Obligations under the Securities and the Indenture on the terms and subject to the conditions set forth in Article X of the Indenture and will continue to be bound by all other applicable provisions of the Indenture and the Securities and to perform all of the obligations and agreements of a Guarantor under the Indenture.
(b) The New Subsidiary Note Party, as a Subsidiary Guarantor, hereby agrees, jointly and severally with all existing Guarantors, to unconditionally guarantee the Issuers’ obligations under the Securities on the terms and subject to the conditions set forth in Article X of the Indenture and to be



bound by all other applicable provisions of the Indenture and the Securities and to perform all of the obligations and agreements of a Guarantor under the Indenture.
3.    Agreement to Assume Issuer Obligations.
(a)     The New Subsidiary Note Party, as an Additional Issuer, hereby agrees, to unconditionally assume, jointly and severally with the Lead Issuers, the Obligations under the Securities and the Indenture as an Issuer (as defined in the Indenture) under the Indenture.
(b)    Each Lead Issuer, joint and severally, confirms that nothing in this Supplemental Indenture relieves any Lead Issuer of its Obligations under the Securities and the Indenture.
4.    Ratification of Indenture; Supplemental Indentures Part of Indenture. Except as expressly amended hereby, the Indenture is in all respects ratified and confirmed and all the terms, conditions and provisions thereof shall remain in full force and effect. This Supplemental Indenture shall form a part of the Indenture for all purposes, and every Holder of Securities heretofore or hereafter authenticated and delivered shall be bound hereby.
5.    Governing Law. THIS SUPPLEMENTAL INDENTURE SHALL BE GOVERNED BY, AND CONSTRUED IN ACCORDANCE WITH, THE LAWS OF THE STATE OF NEW YORK.
6.    Trustee Makes No Representation. The Trustee makes no representation as to the recitals or the validity or sufficiency of this Supplemental Indenture.
7.    Counterparts. The parties may sign any number of copies of this Supplemental Indenture. Each signed copy shall be an original, but all of them together represent the same agreement.
8.    Effect of Headings. The Section headings herein are for convenience only and shall not affect the construction thereof.


[Remainder of Page Intentionally Left Blank]

 
2
 



IN WITNESS WHEREOF, the parties hereto have caused this Supplemental Indenture to be duly executed as of the date first above written.
Lead Issuers
 
ALBERTSONS COMPANIES, INC.
 
By:
/s/ Robert B. Dimond
 
 
Name:
Robert B. Dimond
 
 
Title:
Executive Vice President & Chief Financial Officer
 
ALBERTSON’S LLC
 
By:
/s/ Robert B. Dimond
 
 
Name:
Robert B. Dimond
 
 
Title:
Executive Vice President & Chief Financial Officer

 
NEW ALBERTSONS L.P.
 
By:
/s/ Robert B. Dimond
 
 
Name:
Robert B. Dimond
 
 
Title:
Executive Vice President & Chief Financial Officer
 
SAFEWAY INC.
 
By:
/s/ Robert Gordon
 
 
Name:
Robert Gordon
 
 
Title:
Executive Vice President, General Counsel & Secretary


 
 
 
[Sixth Supplemental Indenture (2024 Notes)]
        


Existing Additional Issuers and Existing Subsidiary Guarantors

 
UNITED SUPERMARKETS, L.L.C.

 
By:
/s/ Bradley R. Beckstrom
 
 
Name:
Bradley R. Beckstrom
 
 
Title:
Group Vice President, Real Estate & Business Law & Assistant Secretary


 
SPIRIT ACQUISITION HOLDINGS LLC
 
By:
/s/ Bradley R. Beckstrom
 
 
Name:
Bradley R. Beckstrom
 
 
Title:
Group Vice President, Real Estate & Business Law & Assistant Secretary


 
 
 
[Sixth Supplemental Indenture (2024 Notes)]


 
ABS FINANCE CO., INC.
ACME MARKETS, INC.
AMERICAN DRUG STORES LLC
AMERICAN PARTNERS, L.P.
AMERICAN PROCUREMENT AND LOGISTICS COMPANY LLC
AMERICAN STORES COMPANY, LLC
APLC PROCUREMENT, INC.
ASC MEDIA SERVICES, INC.
ASP REALTY, LLC
CLIFFORD W. PERHAM, INC.
JETCO PROPERTIES, INC.
JEWEL COMPANIES, INC.
JEWEL FOOD STORES, INC.
LUCKY STORES LLC
OAKBROOK BEVERAGE CENTERS, INC.
SHAW’S REALTY CO.
SHAW’S SUPERMARKETS, INC.
SSM HOLDINGS COMPANY
STAR MARKETS COMPANY, INC.
STAR MARKETS HOLDINGS, INC.
WILDCAT MARKETS OPCO LLC
NAI SATURN EASTERN LLC
COLLINGTON SERVICES LLC
GIANT OF SALISBURY, INC.
ALBERTSONS COMPANIES SPECIALTY CARE, LLC
MEDCART SPECIALTY CARE, LLC

 
By:
/s/ Gary Morton
 
 
Name:
Gary Morton
 
 
Title:
Vice President, Treasurer & Assistant Secretary

 
SHAW’S REALTY TRUST
 
By:
/s/ Gary Morton
 
 
Name:
Gary Morton

 
 
Title:
Trustee


 
 
 
[Sixth Supplemental Indenture (2024 Notes)]



 

FRESH HOLDINGS LLC
AMERICAN FOOD AND DRUG LLC
EXTREME LLC
NEWCO INVESTMENTS, LLC
NHI INVESTMENT PARTNERS, LP
AMERICAN STORES PROPERTIES LLC
JEWEL OSCO SOUTHWEST LLC
SUNRICH MERCANTILE LLC
ABS REAL ESTATE HOLDINGS LLC
ABS REAL ESTATE INVESTOR HOLDINGS
      LLC
ABS REAL ESTATE OWNER HOLDINGS LLC
ABS MEZZANINE I LLC
ABS TX INVESTOR GP LLC
ABS FLA INVESTOR LLC
ABS TX INVESTOR LP
ABS SW INVESTOR LLC
ABS RM INVESTOR LLC
ABS DFW INVESTOR LLC
ASP SW INVESTOR LLC
ABS TX LEASE INVESTOR GP LLC
ABS FLA LEASE INVESTOR LLC
ABS TX LEASE INVESTOR LP
ABS SW LEASE INVESTOR LLC
ABS RM LEASE INVESTOR LLC
ASP SW LEASE INVESTOR LLC
AFDI NOCAL LEASE INVESTOR LLC
ABS NOCAL LEASE INVESTOR LLC
ASR TX INVESTOR GP LLC
ASR TX INVESTOR LP
ABS REALTY INVESTOR LLC
ASR LEASE INVESTOR LLC

 
By:
/s/ Bradley R. Beckstrom
 
 
Name:
Bradley R. Beckstrom
 
 
Title:
Group Vice President, Real Estate & Business Law, and Assistant Secretary













[Sixth Supplemental Indenture (2024 Notes)]



 
GOOD SPIRITS LLC

 
By:
/s/ Bradley R. Beckstrom
 
 
Name:
Bradley R. Beckstrom
 
 
Title:
Group Vice President, Real Estate & Business Law & Assistant Secretary




[Sixth Supplemental Indenture (2024 Notes)]



 
ABS REALTY LEASE INVESTOR LLC
ABS MEZZANINE II LLC
ABS TX OWNER GP LLC
ABS FLA OWNER LLC
ABS TX OWNER LP
ABS TX LEASE OWNER GP LLC
ABS TX LEASE OWNER LP
ABS SW OWNER LLC
ABS SW LEASE OWNER LLC
LUCKY (DEL) LEASE OWNER LLC
SHORTCO OWNER LLC
ABS NOCAL LEASE OWNER LLC
LSP LEASE LLC
ABS RM OWNER LLC
ABS RM LEASE OWNER LLC
ABS DFW OWNER LLC
ASP SW OWNER LLC
ASP SW LEASE OWNER LLC
NHI TX OWNER GP LLC
EXT OWNER LLC
NHI TX OWNER LP
SUNRICH OWNER LLC
NHI TX LEASE OWNER GP LLC
ASR OWNER LLC
EXT LEASE OWNER LLC
NHI TX LEASE OWNER LP
ASR TX LEASE OWNER GP LLC
ASR TX LEASE OWNER LP
ABS MEZZANINE III LLC
ABS CA-O LLC
ABS CA-GL LLC
ABS ID-O LLC
ABS ID-GL LLC
ABS MT-O LLC
ABS MT-GL LLC
ABS NV-O LLC
ABS NV-GL LLC

 
By:
/s/ Bradley R. Beckstrom
 
 
Name:
Bradley R. Beckstrom
 
 
Title:
Group Vice President, Real Estate & Business Law & Assistant
Secretary




[Sixth Supplemental Indenture (2024 Notes)]



 
ABS OR-O LLC
ABS OR-GL LLC
ABS UT-O LLC
ABS UT-GL LLC
ABS WA-O LLC
ABS WA-GL LLC
ABS WY-O LLC
ABS WY-GL LLC
ABS CA-O DC1 LLC
ABS CA-O DC2 LLC
ABS ID-O DC LLC
ABS OR-O DC LLC
ABS UT-O DC LLC
ABS DFW LEASE OWNER LLC

 
By:
/s/ Bradley R. Beckstrom
 
 
Name:
Bradley R. Beckstrom
 
 
Title:
Group Vice President, Real Estate & Business Law & Assistant
Secretary




 
 
 
[Sixth Supplemental Indenture (2024 Notes)]


 
USM MANUFACTURING L.L.C.
LLANO LOGISTICS, INC.
 
By:
/s/ Bradley R. Beckstrom
 
 
Name:
Bradley R. Beckstrom
 
 
Title:
Group Vice President, Real Estate & Business Law & Assistant Secretary




 
 
 
[Sixth Supplemental Indenture (2024 Notes)]


 
SAFEWAY NEW CANADA, INC.
SAFEWAY CORPORATE, INC.
SAFEWAY STORES 67, INC.
SAFEWAY DALLAS, INC.
SAFEWAY STORES 78, INC.
SAFEWAY STORES 79, INC.
SAFEWAY STORES 80, INC.
SAFEWAY STORES 85, INC.
SAFEWAY STORES 86, INC.
SAFEWAY STORES 87, INC.
SAFEWAY STORES 88, INC.
SAFEWAY STORES 89, INC.
SAFEWAY STORES 90, INC.
SAFEWAY STORES 91, INC.
SAFEWAY STORES 92, INC.
SAFEWAY STORES 96, INC.
SAFEWAY STORES 97, INC.
SAFEWAY STORES 98, INC.
SAFEWAY DENVER, INC.
SAFEWAY STORES 44, INC.
SAFEWAY STORES 45, INC.
SAFEWAY STORES 46, INC.
SAFEWAY STORES 47, INC.
SAFEWAY STORES 48, INC.
SAFEWAY STORES 49, INC.
SAFEWAY STORES 58, INC.
SAFEWAY SOUTHERN CALIFORNIA, INC.
SAFEWAY STORES 28, INC.
SAFEWAY STORES 42, INC.
SAFEWAY STORES 71, INC.
SAFEWAY STORES 72, INC.
SSI – AK HOLDINGS, INC.
DOMINICK’S SUPERMARKETS, LLC
DOMINICK’S FINER FOODS, LLC
RANDALL’S FOOD MARKETS, INC.
SAFEWAY GIFT CARDS, LLC
SAFEWAY HOLDINGS I, LLC
GROCERYWORKS.COM, LLC

 
By:
/s/ Laura A. Donald
 
 
Name:
Laura A. Donald
 
 
Title:
Vice President & Assistant Secretary



 
 
 
[Sixth Supplemental Indenture (2024 Notes)]


 
GROCERYWORKS.COM OPERATING COMPANY, LLC
THE VONS COMPANIES, INC.
STRATEGIC GLOBAL SOURCING, LLC
GFM HOLDINGS LLC
RANDALL’S HOLDINGS, INC.
SAFEWAY AUSTRALIA HOLDINGS, INC.
SAFEWAY CANADA HOLDINGS, INC.
AVIA PARTNERS, INC.
SAFEWAY PHILTECH HOLDINGS, INC.
CONSOLIDATED PROCUREMENT SERVICES, INC.
CARR-GOTTSTEIN FOODS CO.
SAFEWAY HEALTH INC.
LUCERNE FOODS, INC.
EATING RIGHT LLC
LUCERNE DAIRY PRODUCTS LLC
LUCERNE NORTH AMERICA LLC
O ORGANICS LLC
DIVARIO VENTURES LLC
CAYAM ENERGY, LLC
GFM HOLDINGS I, INC.

 
By:
/s/ Laura A. Donald
 
 
Name:
Laura A. Donald
 
 
Title:
Vice President & Assistant Secretary



 
 
[Sixth Supplemental Indenture (2024 Notes)]


 
GENUARDI’S FAMILY MARKETS LP
 
By:
GFM HOLDINGS, its general partner
 
By:
/s/ Laura A. Donald
 
 
Name:
Laura A. Donald
 
 
Title:
Vice President & Assistant Secretary




 
 
 
[Sixth Supplemental Indenture (2024 Notes)]


 
RANDALL’S FOOD & DRUGS LP
 
By:
RANDALL’S FOOD MARKETS, INC., its general partner
 
By:
/s/ Laura A. Donald
 
 
Name:
Laura A. Donald
 
 
Title:
Vice President & Assistant Secretary



 
 
 
[Sixth Supplemental Indenture (2024 Notes)]





 
RANDALL’S MANAGEMENT COMPANY,
INC.
RANDALL’S BEVERAGE COMPANY, INC.
 
By:
/s/ Gary Owen
 
 
Name:
Gary Owen
 
 
Title:
Vice President




 
 
[Sixth Supplemental Indenture (2024 Notes)]





 
RANDALL’S INVESTMENTS, INC.
 
By:
/s/ Elizabeth A. Harris
 
 
Name:
Elizabeth A. Harris
 
 
Title:
Vice President & Secretary


 
 
[Sixth Supplemental Indenture (2024 Notes)]





 
ALBERTSON’S STORES SUB LLC
 
By:
/s/ Bradley Beckstrom
 
 
Name:
Bradley Beckstrom
 
 
Title:
Group Vice President, Real Estate & Business Law & Assistant Secretary


 
 
 
[Sixth Supplemental Indenture (2024 Notes)]




 
AB MANAGEMENT SERVICES CORP.
 
By:
/s/ Robert B. Dimond
 
 
Name:
Robert B. Dimond
 
 
Title:
Executive Vice President & Chief Financial Officer


 
 
 
[Sixth Supplemental Indenture (2024 Notes)]




 
ABS REAL ESTATE COMPANY LLC
 
By:
/s/ Robert Gordon
 
 
Name:
Robert Gordon
 
 
Title:
Executive Vice President, General Counsel & Secretary

 
 
 
[Sixth Supplemental Indenture (2024 Notes)]




 
ALBERTSONS STORE’S SUB HOLDINGS LLC
 
By:
/s/ Bradley R. Beckstrom
 
 
Name:
Bradley R. Beckstrom
 
 
Title:
Group Vice President, Real Estate & Business Law & Assistant Secretary



 
AB ACQUISITION LLC
 
By:
/s/ Bradley R. Beckstrom
 
 
Name:
Bradley R. Beckstrom
 
 
Title:
Group Vice President, Real Estate & Business Law & Assistant Secretary


 
 
 
[Sixth Supplemental Indenture (2024 Notes)]





 
NAI HOLDINGS GP LLC
 
By:
/s/ Robert B. Dimond
 
 
Name:
Robert B. Dimond
 
 
Title:
Executive Vice President &
Chief Financial Officer


 
 
 
[Sixth Supplemental Indenture (2024 Notes)]





 
DINEINFRESH, INC.
 
By:
/s/ Laura A. Donald
 
 
Name:
Laura A. Donald
 
 
Title:
Vice President, Corporate Law & Assistant Secretary

 
 
 
[Sixth Supplemental Indenture (2024 Notes)]



New Additional Issuer and New Subsidiary Guarantor

 
INFINITE AISLE LLC
 
By:
/s/ Laura A. Donald
 
 
Name:
Laura A. Donald
 
 
Title:
Vice President & Assistant Secretary


 
 
 
[Sixth Supplemental Indenture (2024 Notes)]




 
WILMINGTON TRUST, NATIONAL ASSOCIATION, as Trustee
 
By:
/s/ Hallie E. Field
 
 
Name:
Hallie E. Field
 
 
Title:
Assistant Vice President


 
 
 
[Sixth Supplemental Indenture (2024 Notes)]
Exhibit 4.9.7

EXECUTION COPY

SEVENTH SUPPLEMENTAL INDENTURE

SEVENTH SUPPLEMENTAL INDENTURE (this “Supplemental Indenture”) dated as of April 17, 2019 (the “Effective Date”), among ALBERTSONS COMPANIES, INC., a Delaware corporation (the “Company”), NEW ALBERTSONS L.P., a Delaware limited partnership (“NALP”), SAFEWAY INC., a Delaware corporation (“Safeway”) and ALBERTSON’S LLC, a Delaware limited liability company (“Albertsons”, together with the Company, Safeway and NALP, collectively, the “Lead Issuers"), the Existing Additional Issuers and Existing Subsidiary Guarantors that are signatories hereto under the heading Existing Additional Issuers and Existing Subsidiary Guarantors (each, an “Existing Subsidiary Note Party,” and collectively, the “Existing Subsidiary Note Parties”), the New Additional Issuer and New Subsidiary Guarantor signatory hereto under the heading New Additional Issuer and New Subsidiary Guarantor (the “New Subsidiary Note Party”) and WILMINGTON TRUST, NATIONAL ASSOCIATION, a national banking association, as trustee (in such capacity, together with its successors and assigns in such capacity, the “Trustee”).
W I T N E S S E T H :
WHEREAS the Lead Issuers and the Existing Subsidiary Note Parties have executed and delivered to the Trustee an indenture (as amended, supplemented or otherwise modified, the Indenture”) dated as May 31, 2016, providing for the issuance of the Lead Issuers’ 6.625% Senior Notes due 2024 (the “Securities”), initially in the aggregate principal amount of $1,250,000,000; and
WHEREAS pursuant to Section 9.01 of the Indenture, the Trustee and the Company are authorized to execute and deliver this Supplemental Indenture;
NOW THEREFORE, in consideration of the foregoing and for other good and valuable consideration, the receipt of which is hereby acknowledged, the Company and the Trustee mutually covenant and agree for the equal and ratable benefit of the Holders of the Securities as follows:
1.    Defined Terms. As used in this Supplemental Indenture, terms defined in the Indenture or in the preamble or recital hereto are used herein as therein defined. The words “herein,” “hereof” and hereby and other words of similar import used in this Supplemental Indenture refer to this Supplemental Indenture as a whole and not to any particular section hereof.
2.    Subsidiary Guarantee.
(a) Each Existing Subsidiary Note Party, as a Subsidiary Guarantor, hereby confirms, jointly and severally, that its Guarantee shall apply to the Lead Issuers’ Obligations under the Securities and the Indenture on the terms and subject to the conditions set forth in Article X of the Indenture and will continue to be bound by all other applicable provisions of the Indenture and the Securities and to perform all of the obligations and agreements of a Guarantor under the Indenture.
(b) The New Subsidiary Note Party, as a Subsidiary Guarantor, hereby agrees, jointly and severally with all existing Guarantors, to unconditionally guarantee the Lead Issuers’ Obligations under the Securities on the terms and subject to the conditions set forth in Article X of the Indenture and to be


bound by all other applicable provisions of the Indenture and the Securities and to perform all of the obligations and agreements of a Guarantor under the Indenture.

3.    Agreement to Assume Issuer Obligations.
(a)     The New Subsidiary Note Party, as an Additional Issuer, hereby agrees, to unconditionally assume, jointly and severally with the Lead Issuers, the Obligations under the Securities and the Indenture as an Issuer (as defined in the Indenture) under the Indenture.
(b)    Each Lead Issuer, joint and severally, confirms that nothing in this Supplemental Indenture relieves any Lead Issuer of its Obligations under the Securities and the Indenture.
4.    Ratification of Indenture; Supplemental Indentures Part of Indenture. Except as expressly amended hereby, the Indenture is in all respects ratified and confirmed and all the terms, conditions and provisions thereof shall remain in full force and effect. This Supplemental Indenture shall form a part of the Indenture for all purposes, and every Holder of Securities heretofore or hereafter authenticated and delivered shall be bound hereby.
5.    Governing Law. THIS SUPPLEMENTAL INDENTURE SHALL BE GOVERNED BY, AND CONSTRUED IN ACCORDANCE WITH, THE LAWS OF THE STATE OF NEW YORK.
6.    Trustee Makes No Representation. The Trustee makes no representation as to the recitals or the validity or sufficiency of this Supplemental Indenture.
7.    Counterparts. The parties may sign any number of copies of this Supplemental Indenture. Each signed copy shall be an original, but all of them together represent the same agreement.
8.    Effect of Headings. The Section headings herein are for convenience only and shall not affect the construction thereof.


[Remainder of Page Intentionally Left Blank]

 
2
 



IN WITNESS WHEREOF, the parties hereto have caused this Supplemental Indenture to be duly executed as of the date first above written.
Lead Issuers
ALBERTSONS COMPANIES, INC.
By: /s/ Robert B. Dimond    
Name:     Robert B. Dimond
Title:  
Executive Vice President & Chief Financial Officer

ALBERTSON’S LLC


By:
/s/ Robert B. Dimond                
Name:    Robert B. Dimond
Title:
Executive Vice President & Chief Financial Officer
NEW ALBERTSONS L.P.
By: Robert B. Dimond    
Name:
Robert B. Dimond
Title:
Executive Vice President & Chief Financial Officer
SAFEWAY INC.
By: /s/ Robert Gordon    
Name:     Robert Gordon
Title:  
Executive Vice President, General Counsel & Secretary










 
 
 
[Seventh Supplemental Indenture (2024 Notes)]
        


Existing Additional Issuers and Existing Subsidiary Guarantors

UNITED SUPERMARKETS, L.L.C.


By:    /s/ Bradley R. Beckstrom            
    Name:    Bradley R. Beckstrom
    Title:    Group Vice President, Real Estate &
        Business Law & Assistant Secretary


SPIRIT ACQUISITION HOLDINGS LLC
By:    /s/ Bradley R. Beckstrom        
Name:    Bradley R. Beckstrom
Title:    Group Vice President, Real Estate &
    Business Law & Assistant Secretary


 
 
 
[Seventh Supplemental Indenture (2024 Notes)]


ABS FINANCE CO., INC.
ACME MARKETS, INC.
AMERICAN DRUG STORES LLC
AMERICAN PARTNERS, L.P.
AMERICAN PROCUREMENT AND LOGISTICS COMPANY LLC
AMERICAN STORES COMPANY, LLC
APLC PROCUREMENT, INC.
ASC MEDIA SERVICES, INC.
ASP REALTY, LLC
CLIFFORD W. PERHAM, INC.
JETCO PROPERTIES, INC.
JEWEL COMPANIES, INC.
JEWEL FOOD STORES, INC.
LUCKY STORES LLC
OAKBROOK BEVERAGE CENTERS, INC.
SHAW’S REALTY CO.
SHAW’S SUPERMARKETS, INC.
SSM HOLDINGS COMPANY
STAR MARKETS COMPANY, INC.
STAR MARKETS HOLDINGS, INC.
WILDCAT MARKETS OPCO LLC
NAI SATURN EASTERN LLC
COLLINGTON SERVICES LLC
GIANT OF SALISBURY, INC.
ALBERTSONS COMPANIES SPECIALTY CARE, LLC
MEDCART SPECIALTY CARE, LLC


By:    /s/ Gary Morton    
Name:     Gary Morton
Title:
Vice President, Treasurer &
Assistant Secretary

SHAW’S REALTY TRUST
By:    /s/ Gary Morton    
Name:    Gary Morton
Title:
Trustee

 
 
 
[Seventh Supplemental Indenture (2024 Notes)]




FRESH HOLDINGS LLC
AMERICAN FOOD AND DRUG LLC
EXTREME LLC
NEWCO INVESTMENTS, LLC
NHI INVESTMENT PARTNERS, LP
AMERICAN STORES PROPERTIES LLC
JEWEL OSCO SOUTHWEST LLC
SUNRICH MERCANTILE LLC
ABS REAL ESTATE HOLDINGS LLC
ABS REAL ESTATE INVESTOR HOLDINGS
LLC
ABS REAL ESTATE OWNER HOLDINGS LLC
ABS MEZZANINE I LLC
ABS TX INVESTOR GP LLC
ABS FLA INVESTOR LLC
ABS TX INVESTOR LP
ABS SW INVESTOR LLC
ABS RM INVESTOR LLC
ABS DFW INVESTOR LLC
ASP SW INVESTOR LLC
ABS TX LEASE INVESTOR GP LLC
ABS FLA LEASE INVESTOR LLC
ABS TX LEASE INVESTOR LP
ABS SW LEASE INVESTOR LLC
ABS RM LEASE INVESTOR LLC
ASP SW LEASE INVESTOR LLC
AFDI NOCAL LEASE INVESTOR LLC
ABS NOCAL LEASE INVESTOR LLC
ASR TX INVESTOR GP LLC
ASR TX INVESTOR LP
ABS REALTY INVESTOR LLC
ASR LEASE INVESTOR LLC


By:    /s/ Bradley R. Beckstrom            
Name:    Bradley R. Beckstrom
Title:
Group Vice President, Real Estate & Business Law, & Assistant Secretary



    

 
 
 
[Seventh Supplemental Indenture (2024 Notes)]





GOOD SPIRITS LLC


By:    /s/ Bradley R. Beckstrom            
    Name:    Bradley R. Beckstrom
Title:    Group Vice President, Real Estate Business Law & Assistant Secretary

 
 
 
[Seventh Supplemental Indenture (2024 Notes)]




ABS REALTY LEASE INVESTOR LLC
ABS MEZZANINE II LLC
ABS TX OWNER GP LLC
ABS FLA OWNER LLC
ABS TX OWNER LP
ABS TX LEASE OWNER GP LLC
ABS TX LEASE OWNER LP
ABS SW OWNER LLC
ABS SW LEASE OWNER LLC
LUCKY (DEL) LEASE OWNER LLC
SHORTCO OWNER LLC
ABS NOCAL LEASE OWNER LLC
LSP LEASE LLC
ABS RM OWNER LLC
ABS RM LEASE OWNER LLC
ABS DFW OWNER LLC
ASP SW OWNER LLC
ASP SW LEASE OWNER LLC
NHI TX OWNER GP LLC
EXT OWNER LLC
NHI TX OWNER LP
SUNRICH OWNER LLC
NHI TX LEASE OWNER GP LLC
ASR OWNER LLC
EXT LEASE OWNER LLC
NHI TX LEASE OWNER LP
ASR TX LEASE OWNER GP LLC
ASR TX LEASE OWNER LP
ABS MEZZANINE III LLC
ABS CA-O LLC
ABS CA-GL LLC
ABS ID-O LLC
ABS ID-GL LLC
ABS MT-O LLC
ABS MT-GL LLC
ABS NV-O LLC
ABS NV-GL LLC


By:    /s/ Bradley R. Beckstrom            
Name: Bradley R. Beckstrom
Title:
Group Vice President, Real Estate & Business Law, & Assistant Secretary


 
 
 
[Seventh Supplemental Indenture (2024 Notes)]



ABS OR-O LLC
ABS OR-GL LLC
ABS UT-O LLC
ABS UT-GL LLC
ABS WA-O LLC
ABS WA-GL LLC
ABS WY-O LLC
ABS WY-GL LLC
ABS CA-O DC1 LLC
ABS CA-O DC2 LLC
ABS ID-O DC LLC
ABS OR-O DC LLC
ABS UT-O DC LLC
ABS DFW LEASE OWNER LLC


By:    /s/ Bradley R. Beckstrom            
Name:    Bradley R. Beckstrom
Title:
Group Vice President, Real Estate & Business Law, & Assistant Secretary




 
 
 
[Seventh Supplemental Indenture (2024 Notes)]


USM MANUFACTURING L.L.C.
LLANO LOGISTICS, INC.

By:    /s/ Bradley R. Beckstrom            
    Name:    Bradley R. Beckstrom
    Title:    Group Vice President, Real Estate &
        Business Law & Assistant Secretary

    



 
 
 
[Seventh Supplemental Indenture (2024 Notes)]


SAFEWAY NEW CANADA, INC.
SAFEWAY CORPORATE, INC.
SAFEWAY STORES 67, INC.
SAFEWAY DALLAS, INC.
SAFEWAY STORES 78, INC.
SAFEWAY STORES 79, INC.
SAFEWAY STORES 80, INC.
SAFEWAY STORES 85, INC.
SAFEWAY STORES 86, INC.
SAFEWAY STORES 87, INC.
SAFEWAY STORES 88, INC.
SAFEWAY STORES 89, INC.
SAFEWAY STORES 90, INC.
SAFEWAY STORES 91, INC.
SAFEWAY STORES 92, INC.
SAFEWAY STORES 96, INC.
SAFEWAY STORES 97, INC.
SAFEWAY STORES 98, INC.
SAFEWAY DENVER, INC.
SAFEWAY STORES 44, INC.
SAFEWAY STORES 45, INC.
SAFEWAY STORES 46, INC.
SAFEWAY STORES 47, INC.
SAFEWAY STORES 48, INC.
SAFEWAY STORES 49, INC.
SAFEWAY STORES 58, INC.
SAFEWAY SOUTHERN CALIFORNIA, INC.
SAFEWAY STORES 28, INC.
SAFEWAY STORES 42, INC.
SAFEWAY STORES 71, INC.
SAFEWAY STORES 72, INC.
SSI – AK HOLDINGS, INC.
DOMINICK’S SUPERMARKETS, LLC
DOMINICK’S FINER FOODS, LLC
RANDALL’S FOOD MARKETS, INC.
SAFEWAY GIFT CARDS, LLC
SAFEWAY HOLDINGS I, LLC
GROCERYWORKS.COM, LLC


By:    /s/ Laura A. Donald                
                            Name:    Laura A. Donald
Title:    Vice President & Assistant Secretary



 
 
 
[Seventh Supplemental Indenture (2024 Notes)]


GROCERYWORKS.COM OPERATING COMPANY, LLC
THE VONS COMPANIES, INC.
STRATEGIC GLOBAL SOURCING, LLC
GFM HOLDINGS LLC
RANDALL’S HOLDINGS, INC.
SAFEWAY AUSTRALIA HOLDINGS, INC.
SAFEWAY CANADA HOLDINGS, INC.
AVIA PARTNERS, INC.
SAFEWAY PHILTECH HOLDINGS, INC.
CONSOLIDATED PROCUREMENT SERVICES, INC.
CARR-GOTTSTEIN FOODS CO.
SAFEWAY HEALTH INC.
LUCERNE FOODS, INC.
EATING RIGHT LLC
LUCERNE DAIRY PRODUCTS LLC
LUCERNE NORTH AMERICA LLC
O ORGANICS LLC
DIVARIO VENTURES LLC
CAYAM ENERGY, LLC
GFM HOLDINGS I, INC.


By:    /s/ Laura A. Donald                
                            Name:    Laura A. Donald
Title:    Vice President & Assistant Secretary



 
 
[Seventh Supplemental Indenture (2024 Notes)]


GENUARDI’S FAMILY MARKETS LP


By: GFM HOLDINGS LLC, its general partner


By:    /s/ Laura A. Donald                
Name:    Laura A. Donald
Title:
Vice President & Assistant Secretary



 
 
 
[Seventh Supplemental Indenture (2024 Notes)]


RANDALL’S FOOD & DRUGS LP

By: RANDALL’S FOOD MARKETS, INC., its general partner


By:    /s/ Laura A. Donald                
Name:    Laura A. Donald
Title:    Vice President & Assistant Secretary


 
 
 
[Seventh Supplemental Indenture (2024 Notes)]





RANDALL’S MANAGEMENT COMPANY, INC.
RANDALL’S BEVERAGE COMPANY, INC.


By:    /s/ Gary Owen                    
Name:    Gary Owen
Title:
Vice President



 
 
[Seventh Supplemental Indenture (2024 Notes)]





RANDALL’S INVESTMENTS, INC.


By:    /s/ Elizabeth A. Harris                
    Name:     Elizabeth A. Harris
     Title:    Vice President & Secretary

 
 
[Seventh Supplemental Indenture (2024 Notes)]





ALBERTSON’S STORES SUB LLC

By:    /s/ Bradley Beckstrom        
    Name:    Bradley Beckstrom
    Title:    Group Vice President, Real Estate &         Business Law & Assistant Secretary

 
 
 
[Seventh Supplemental Indenture (2024 Notes)]




AB MANAGEMENT SERVICES CORP.

By:    /s/ Robert Dimond        
    Name:    Robert Dimond
    Title:    Executive Vice President & Chief
        Financial Officer

 
 
 
[Seventh Supplemental Indenture (2024 Notes)]




ABS REAL ESTATE COMPANY LLC
By:    /s/ Robert A. Gordon        
    Name:    Robert A. Gordon
    Title:    Executive Vice President, General
        Counsel & Secretary

 
 
 
[Seventh Supplemental Indenture (2024 Notes)]



ALBERTSON’S STORES SUB HOLDINGS LLC


By:    /s/ Bradley Beckstrom                
    Name:    Bradley Beckstrom
    Title:    Group Vice President, Real Estate &         Business Law & Assistant Secretary



AB ACQUISITION LLC


By:    /s/ Bradley Beckstrom                
        Name:    Bradley Beckstrom
        Title:    Group Vice President, Real Estate &             Business Law & Assistant Secretary

 
 
 
[Seventh Supplemental Indenture (2024 Notes)]





NAI HOLDINGS GP LLC

By:
    /s/ Robert Dimond    
Name:    Robert Dimond
Title:    Executive Vice President &
Chief Financial Officer

 
 
 
[Seventh Supplemental Indenture (2024 Notes)]





DINEINFRESH, INC.

By:    /s/ Laura A. Donald                
Name:    Laura A. Donald
        Title:    Vice President, Corporate Law &             Assistant Secretary

 
 
 
[Seventh Supplemental Indenture (2024 Notes)]




INFINITE AISLE LLC

By:    /s/ Laura A. Donald                
Name:    Laura A. Donald
    Title:    Vice President & Assistant Secretary

 
 
 
[Seventh Supplemental Indenture (2024 Notes)]





New Additional Issuer and New Subsidiary Guarantor

JA PROCUREMENT LLC

By:    /s/ Laura A. Donald                
Name:    Laura A. Donald
Title:    Group Vice President, Corporate
Law & Assistant Secretary

 
 
 
[Seventh Supplemental Indenture (2024 Notes)]




WILMINGTON TRUST, NATIONAL ASSOCIATION, as Trustee
By:    /s/ Hallie E. Field_____________________
    Name:    Hallie E. Field
    Title: Assistant Vice President

 
 
 
[Seventh Supplemental Indenture (2024 Notes)]
Exhibit 4.10.6

EXECUTION COPY
SIXTH SUPPLEMENTAL INDENTURE

SIXTH SUPPLEMENTAL INDENTURE (this “Supplemental Indenture”) dated as of November 16, 2018 (the “Effective Date"), among ALBERTSONS COMPANIES, INC., a Delaware corporation (the “Company”), NEW ALBERTSONS L.P., a Delaware limited partnership (“NALP”), SAFEWAY INC., a Delaware corporation (“Safeway”) and ALBERTSON’S LLC, a Delaware limited liability company (“Albertsons”, together with the Company, Safeway and NALP, collectively, the “Lead Issuers"), the Existing Additional Issuers and Existing Subsidiary Guarantors that are signatories hereto under the heading Existing Additional Issuers and Existing Subsidiary Guarantors (each, a “Existing Subsidiary Note Party,” and collectively, the “Existing Subsidiary Note Parties”), the New Additional Issuer and New Subsidiary Guarantor signatory hereto under the heading New Additional Issuer and New Subsidiary Guarantor (the “New Subsidiary Note Party”) and WILMINGTON TRUST, NATIONAL ASSOCIATION, a national banking association, as trustee (in such capacity, together with its successors and assigns in such capacity, the “Trustee”).
W I T N E S S E T H :
WHEREAS the Lead Issuers and the Existing Subsidiary Note Parties have executed and delivered to the Trustee an indenture (as amended, supplemented or otherwise modified, the “Indenture”) dated as August 9, 2016, providing for the issuance of the Issuers’ 5.750% Senior Notes due 2025 (the “Securities”), initially in the aggregate principal amount of $1,250,000,000; and
WHEREAS pursuant to Section 9.01 of the Indenture, the Trustee and the Company are authorized to execute and deliver this Supplemental Indenture;
NOW THEREFORE, in consideration of the foregoing and for other good and valuable consideration, the receipt of which is hereby acknowledged, the Company and the Trustee mutually covenant and agree for the equal and ratable benefit of the Holders of the Securities as follows:
1.    Defined Terms. As used in this Supplemental Indenture, terms defined in the Indenture or in the preamble or recital hereto are used herein as therein defined. The words “herein,” “hereof” and hereby and other words of similar import used in this Supplemental Indenture refer to this Supplemental Indenture as a whole and not to any particular section hereof.
2.    Subsidiary Guarantee.
(a) Each Existing Subsidiary Note Party, as a Subsidiary Guarantor, hereby confirms, jointly and severally, that its Guarantee shall apply to the Issuers' Obligations under the Securities and the Indenture on the terms and subject to the conditions set forth in Article X of the Indenture and will continue to be bound by all other applicable provisions of the Indenture and the Securities and to perform all of the obligations and agreements of a Guarantor under the Indenture.
(b) The New Subsidiary Note Party, as a Subsidiary Guarantor, hereby agrees, jointly and severally with all existing Guarantors, to unconditionally guarantee the Issuers’ obligations under the Securities on the terms and subject to the conditions set forth in Article X of the Indenture and to be bound by all other applicable provisions of the Indenture and the Securities and to perform all of the obligations and agreements of a Guarantor under the Indenture.
3.    Agreement to Assume Issuer Obligations.


(a)     The New Subsidiary Note Party, as an Additional Issuer, hereby agrees, to unconditionally assume, jointly and severally with the Lead Issuers, the Obligations under the Securities and the Indenture as an Issuer (as defined in the Indenture) under the Indenture.
(b)    Each Lead Issuer, joint and severally, confirms that nothing in this Supplemental Indenture relieves any Lead Issuer of its Obligations under the Securities and the Indenture.
4.    Ratification of Indenture; Supplemental Indentures Part of Indenture. Except as expressly amended hereby, the Indenture is in all respects ratified and confirmed and all the terms, conditions and provisions thereof shall remain in full force and effect. This Supplemental Indenture shall form a part of the Indenture for all purposes, and every Holder of Securities heretofore or hereafter authenticated and delivered shall be bound hereby.
5.    Governing Law. THIS SUPPLEMENTAL INDENTURE SHALL BE GOVERNED BY, AND CONSTRUED IN ACCORDANCE WITH, THE LAWS OF THE STATE OF NEW YORK.
6.    Trustee Makes No Representation. The Trustee makes no representation as to the recitals or the validity or sufficiency of this Supplemental Indenture.
7.    Counterparts. The parties may sign any number of copies of this Supplemental Indenture. Each signed copy shall be an original, but all of them together represent the same agreement.
8.    Effect of Headings. The Section headings herein are for convenience only and shall not affect the construction thereof.


[Remainder of Page Intentionally Left Blank]

 
2
 



IN WITNESS WHEREOF, the parties hereto have caused this Supplemental Indenture to be duly executed as of the date first above written.
Lead Issuers
 
ALBERTSONS COMPANIES, INC.
 
By:
/s/ Robert B. Dimond
 
 
Name:
Robert B. Dimond
 
 
Title:
Executive Vice President & Chief Financial Officer


 
ALBERTSON’S LLC
 
By:
/s/ Robert B. Dimond
 
 
Name:
Robert B. Dimond
 
 
Title:
Executive Vice President & Chief Financial Officer

 
NEW ALBERTSONS L.P.

 
By:
/s/ Robert B. Dimond
 
 
Name:
Robert B. Dimond
 
 
Title:
Executive Vice President & Chief Financial Officer
 
SAFEWAY INC.
 
By:
/s/ Robert Gordon
 
 
Name:
Robert Gordon
 
 
Title:
Executive Vice President, General Counsel & Secretary






[Sixth Supplemental Indenture (2025 Notes)]
        


Existing Additional Issuers and Existing Subsidiary Guarantors

 
UNITED SUPERMARKETS, L.L.C.
 
By:
/s/ Bradley R. Beckstrom
 
 
Name:
Bradley R. Beckstrom
 
 
Title:
Group Vice President, Real Estate &  Business Law & Assistant Secretary


 
SPIRIT ACQUISITION HOLDINGS LLC
 
By:
/s/ Bradley R. Beckstrom
 
 
Name:
Bradley R. Beckstrom
 
 
Title:
Group Vice President, Real Estate & Business Law & Assistant Secretary




[Sixth Supplemental Indenture (2025 Notes)]


 
ABS FINANCE CO., INC.
ACME MARKETS, INC.
AMERICAN DRUG STORES LLC
AMERICAN PARTNERS, L.P.
AMERICAN PROCUREMENT AND LOGISTICS COMPANY LLC
AMERICAN STORES COMPANY, LLC
APLC PROCUREMENT, INC.
ASC MEDIA SERVICES, INC.
ASP REALTY, LLC
CLIFFORD W. PERHAM, INC.
JETCO PROPERTIES, INC.
JEWEL COMPANIES, INC.
JEWEL FOOD STORES, INC.
LUCKY STORES LLC
OAKBROOK BEVERAGE CENTERS, INC.
SHAW’S REALTY CO.
SHAW’S SUPERMARKETS, INC.
SSM HOLDINGS COMPANY
STAR MARKETS COMPANY, INC.
STAR MARKETS HOLDINGS, INC.
WILDCAT MARKETS OPCO LLC
NAI SATURN EASTERN LLC
COLLINGTON SERVICES LLC
GIANT OF SALISBURY, INC.
ALBERTSONS COMPANIES SPECIALTY CARE, LLC
MEDCART SPECIALTY CARE, LLC
 
By:
/s/ Gary Morton
 
 
Name:
Gary Morton
 
 
Title:
Vice President, Treasurer & Assistant Secretary

 
SHAW’S REALTY TRUST
 
By:
/s/ Gary Morton
 
 
Name:
Gary Morton
 
 
Title:
Trustee



 
 
 
[Sixth Supplemental Indenture (2025 Notes)]



 
FRESH HOLDINGS LLC
AMERICAN FOOD AND DRUG LLC
EXTREME LLC
NEWCO INVESTMENTS, LLC
NHI INVESTMENT PARTNERS, LP
AMERICAN STORES PROPERTIES LLC
JEWEL OSCO SOUTHWEST LLC
SUNRICH MERCANTILE LLC
ABS REAL ESTATE HOLDINGS LLC
ABS REAL ESTATE INVESTOR HOLDINGS
     LLC
ABS REAL ESTATE OWNER HOLDINGS LLC
ABS MEZZANINE I LLC
ABS TX INVESTOR GP LLC
ABS FLA INVESTOR LLC
ABS TX INVESTOR LP
ABS SW INVESTOR LLC
ABS RM INVESTOR LLC
ABS DFW INVESTOR LLC
ASP SW INVESTOR LLC
ABS TX LEASE INVESTOR GP LLC
ABS FLA LEASE INVESTOR LLC
ABS TX LEASE INVESTOR LP
ABS SW LEASE INVESTOR LLC
ABS RM LEASE INVESTOR LLC
ASP SW LEASE INVESTOR LLC
AFDI NOCAL LEASE INVESTOR LLC
ABS NOCAL LEASE INVESTOR LLC
ASR TX INVESTOR GP LLC
ASR TX INVESTOR LP
ABS REALTY INVESTOR LLC
ASR LEASE INVESTOR LLC
 
By:
/s/ Bradley R. Beckstrom
 
 
Name:
Bradley R. Beckstrom
 
 
Title:
Group Vice President, Real Estate & Business Law & Assistant
Secretary



 
 
 
[Sixth Supplemental Indenture (2025 Notes)]



 
GOOD SPIRITS LLC
 
By:
/s/ Bradley R. Beckstrom
 
 
Name:
Bradley R. Beckstrom
 
 
Title:
Group Vice President, Real Estate Business
 Law & Assistant Secretary


 
 
 
[Sixth Supplemental Indenture (2025 Notes)]



 
ABS REALTY LEASE INVESTOR LLC
ABS MEZZANINE II LLC
ABS TX OWNER GP LLC
ABS FLA OWNER LLC
ABS TX OWNER LP
ABS TX LEASE OWNER GP LLC
ABS TX LEASE OWNER LP
ABS SW OWNER LLC
ABS SW LEASE OWNER LLC
LUCKY (DEL) LEASE OWNER LLC
SHORTCO OWNER LLC
ABS NOCAL LEASE OWNER LLC
LSP LEASE LLC
ABS RM OWNER LLC
ABS RM LEASE OWNER LLC
ABS DFW OWNER LLC
ASP SW OWNER LLC
ASP SW LEASE OWNER LLC
NHI TX OWNER GP LLC
EXT OWNER LLC
NHI TX OWNER LP
SUNRICH OWNER LLC
NHI TX LEASE OWNER GP LLC
ASR OWNER LLC
EXT LEASE OWNER LLC
NHI TX LEASE OWNER LP
ASR TX LEASE OWNER GP LLC
ASR TX LEASE OWNER LP
ABS MEZZANINE III LLC
ABS CA-O LLC
ABS CA-GL LLC
ABS ID-O LLC
ABS ID-GL LLC
ABS MT-O LLC
ABS MT-GL LLC
ABS NV-O LLC
ABS NV-GL LLC
 
By:
/s/ Bradley R. Beckstrom
 
 
Name:
Bradley R. Beckstrom
 
 
Title:
Group Vice President, Real Estate & Business Law & Assistant
Secretary



 
 
 
[Sixth Supplemental Indenture (2025 Notes)]



 
ABS OR-O LLC
ABS OR-GL LLC
ABS UT-O LLC
ABS UT-GL LLC
ABS WA-O LLC
ABS WA-GL LLC
ABS WY-O LLC
ABS WY-GL LLC
ABS CA-O DC1 LLC
ABS CA-O DC2 LLC
ABS ID-O DC LLC
ABS OR-O DC LLC
ABS UT-O DC LLC
ABS DFW LEASE OWNER LLC
 
By:
/s/ Bradley R. Beckstrom
 
 
Name:
Bradley R. Beckstrom
 
 
Title:
Group Vice President, Real Estate & Business Law & Assistant
Secretary





 
 
 
[Sixth Supplemental Indenture (2025 Notes)]


 
USM MANUFACTURING L.L.C.
LLANO LOGISTICS, INC.
 
By:
/s/ Bradley R. Beckstrom
 
 
Name:
Bradley R. Beckstrom
 
 
Title:
Group Vice President, Real Estate & Business Law & Assistant Secretary




 
 
 
[Sixth Supplemental Indenture (2025 Notes)]


 
SAFEWAY NEW CANADA, INC.
SAFEWAY CORPORATE, INC.
SAFEWAY STORES 67, INC.
SAFEWAY DALLAS, INC.
SAFEWAY STORES 78, INC.
SAFEWAY STORES 79, INC.
SAFEWAY STORES 80, INC.
SAFEWAY STORES 85, INC.
SAFEWAY STORES 86, INC.
SAFEWAY STORES 87, INC.
SAFEWAY STORES 88, INC.
SAFEWAY STORES 89, INC.
SAFEWAY STORES 90, INC.
SAFEWAY STORES 91, INC.
SAFEWAY STORES 92, INC.
SAFEWAY STORES 96, INC.
SAFEWAY STORES 97, INC.
SAFEWAY STORES 98, INC.
SAFEWAY DENVER, INC.
SAFEWAY STORES 44, INC.
SAFEWAY STORES 45, INC.
SAFEWAY STORES 46, INC.
SAFEWAY STORES 47, INC.
SAFEWAY STORES 48, INC.
SAFEWAY STORES 49, INC.
SAFEWAY STORES 58, INC.
SAFEWAY SOUTHERN CALIFORNIA, INC.
SAFEWAY STORES 28, INC.
SAFEWAY STORES 42, INC.
SAFEWAY STORES 71, INC.
SAFEWAY STORES 72, INC.
SSI – AK HOLDINGS, INC.
DOMINICK’S SUPERMARKETS, LLC
DOMINICK’S FINER FOODS, LLC
RANDALL’S FOOD MARKETS, INC.
SAFEWAY GIFT CARDS, LLC
SAFEWAY HOLDINGS I, LLC
GROCERYWORKS.COM, LLC
 
By:
/s/ Laura A. Donald
 
 
Name:
Laura A. Donald
 
 
Title:
Vice President & Assistant Secretary



 
 
 
[Sixth Supplemental Indenture (2025 Notes)]


 
GROCERYWORKS.COM OPERATING COMPANY, LLC
THE VONS COMPANIES, INC.
STRATEGIC GLOBAL SOURCING, LLC
GFM HOLDINGS LLC
RANDALL’S HOLDINGS, INC.
SAFEWAY AUSTRALIA HOLDINGS, INC.
SAFEWAY CANADA HOLDINGS, INC.
AVIA PARTNERS, INC.
SAFEWAY PHILTECH HOLDINGS, INC.
CONSOLIDATED PROCUREMENT SERVICES, INC.
CARR-GOTTSTEIN FOODS CO.
SAFEWAY HEALTH INC.
LUCERNE FOODS, INC.
EATING RIGHT LLC
LUCERNE DAIRY PRODUCTS LLC
LUCERNE NORTH AMERICA LLC
O ORGANICS LLC
DIVARIO VENTURES LLC
CAYAM ENERGY, LLC
GFM HOLDINGS I, INC.
 
By:
/s/ Laura A. Donald
 
 
Name:
Laura A. Donald
 
 
Title:
Vice President & Assistant Secretary


 
 
[Sixth Supplemental Indenture (2025 Notes)]


 
GENUARDI’S FAMILY MARKETS LP
 
By:
GFM HOLDINGS, its general partner
 
By:
/s/ Laura A. Donald
 
 
Name:
Laura A. Donald
 
 
Title:
Vice President & Assistant Secretary



 
 
 
[Sixth Supplemental Indenture (2025 Notes)]


 
RANDALL’S FOOD & DRUGS LP
 
By:
RANDALL’S FOOD MARKETS, INC., its general partner
 
By:
/s/ Laura A. Donald
 
 
Name:
Laura A. Donald
 
 
Title:
Vice President & Assistant Secretary


 
 
 
[Sixth Supplemental Indenture (2025 Notes)]





 
RANDALL’S MANAGEMENT COMPANY, INC.
RANDALL’S BEVERAGE COMPANY, INC.
 
By:
/s/ Gary Owen
 
 
Name:
Gary Owen
 
 
Title:
Vice President




 
 
[Sixth Supplemental Indenture (2025 Notes)]





 
RANDALL’S INVESTMENTS, INC.
 
By:
/s/ Elizabeth A. Harris
 
 
Name:
Elizabeth A. Harris
 
 
Title:
Vice President & Secretary


 
 
[Sixth Supplemental Indenture (2025 Notes)]



 
ALBERTSON’S STORES SUB LLC
 
By:
/s/ Bradley Beckstrom
 
 
Name:
Bradley Beckstrom
 
 
Title:
Group Vice President, Real Estate & Business Law & Assistant Secretary


 
 
 
[Sixth Supplemental Indenture (2025 Notes)]




 
AB MANAGEMENT SERVICES CORP.
 
By:
/s/ Robert B. Dimond
 
 
Name:
Robert B. Dimond
 
 
Title:
Executive Vice President & Chief Financial Officer


 
 
 
[Sixth Supplemental Indenture (2025 Notes)]




 
ABS REAL ESTATE COMPANY LLC 
 
By:
/s/ Robert Gordon
 
 
Name:
Robert Gordon
 
 
Title:
Executive Vice President, General Counsel & Secretary


 
 
 
[Sixth Supplemental Indenture (2025 Notes)]



 
ALBERTSONS STORE’S SUB HOLDINGS LLC
 
By:
/s/ Bradley R. Beckstrom
 
 
Name:
Bradley R. Beckstrom
 
 
Title:
Group Vice President, Real Estate & Business Law & Assistant Secretary




 
AB ACQUISITION LLC
 
By:
/s/ Bradley R. Beckstrom
 
 
Name:
Bradley R. Beckstrom
 
 
Title:
Group Vice President, Real Estate & Business Law & Assistant Secretary


 
 
 
[Sixth Supplemental Indenture (2025 Notes)]





 
NAI HOLDINGS GP LLC
 
By:
/s/ Robert B. Dimond
 
 
Name:
Robert B. Dimond
 
 
Title:
Executive Vice President &
Chief Financial Officer


 
 
 
[Sixth Supplemental Indenture (2025 Notes)]




 
DINEINFRESH, INC.
 
By:
/s/ Laura A. Donald
 
 
Name:
Laura A. Donald
 
 
Title:
Vice President, Corporate Law & Assistant Secretary



 
 
 
[Sixth Supplemental Indenture (2025 Notes)]




New Additional Issuer and New Subsidiary Guarantor

 
INFINITE AISLE LLC
 
By:
/s/ Laura A. Donald
 
 
Name:
Laura A. Donald
 
 
Title:
Vice President & Assistant Secretary


 
 
 
[Sixth Supplemental Indenture (2025 Notes)]




 
WILMINGTON TRUST, NATIONAL ASSOCIATION, as Trustee
 
By:
/s/ Hallie E. Field
 
 
Name:
Hallie E. Field
 
 
Title:
Assistant Vice President


 
 
 
[Sixth Supplemental Indenture (2025 Notes)]
Exhibit 4.10.7

EXECUTION COPY

SEVENTH SUPPLEMENTAL INDENTURE

SEVENTH SUPPLEMENTAL INDENTURE (this “Supplemental Indenture”) dated as of April 17, 2019 (the “Effective Date”), among ALBERTSONS COMPANIES, INC., a Delaware corporation (the “Company”), NEW ALBERTSONS L.P., a Delaware limited partnership (“NALP”), SAFEWAY INC., a Delaware corporation (“Safeway”) and ALBERTSON’S LLC, a Delaware limited liability company (“Albertsons”, together with the Company, Safeway and NALP, collectively, the “Lead Issuers"), the Existing Additional Issuers and Existing Subsidiary Guarantors that are signatories hereto under the heading Existing Additional Issuers and Existing Subsidiary Guarantors (each, an “Existing Subsidiary Note Party,” and collectively, the “Existing Subsidiary Note Parties”), the New Additional Issuer and New Subsidiary Guarantor signatory hereto under the heading New Additional Issuer and New Subsidiary Guarantor (the “New Subsidiary Note Party”) and WILMINGTON TRUST, NATIONAL ASSOCIATION, a national banking association, as trustee (in such capacity, together with its successors and assigns in such capacity, the “Trustee”).
W I T N E S S E T H :
WHEREAS the Lead Issuers and the Existing Subsidiary Note Parties have executed and delivered to the Trustee an indenture (as amended, supplemented or otherwise modified, the “Indenture”) dated as August 9, 2016, providing for the issuance of the Lead Issuers’ 5.750% Senior Notes due 2025 (the “Securities”), initially in the aggregate principal amount of $1,250,000,000; and
WHEREAS pursuant to Section 9.01 of the Indenture, the Trustee and the Company are authorized to execute and deliver this Supplemental Indenture;
NOW THEREFORE, in consideration of the foregoing and for other good and valuable consideration, the receipt of which is hereby acknowledged, the Company and the Trustee mutually covenant and agree for the equal and ratable benefit of the Holders of the Securities as follows:
1.    Defined Terms. As used in this Supplemental Indenture, terms defined in the Indenture or in the preamble or recital hereto are used herein as therein defined. The words “herein,” “hereof” and hereby and other words of similar import used in this Supplemental Indenture refer to this Supplemental Indenture as a whole and not to any particular section hereof.
2.    Subsidiary Guarantee.
(a) Each Existing Subsidiary Note Party, as a Subsidiary Guarantor, hereby confirms, jointly and severally, that its Guarantee shall apply to the Lead Issuers’ Obligations under the Securities and the Indenture on the terms and subject to the conditions set forth in Article X of the Indenture and will continue to be bound by all other applicable provisions of the Indenture and the Securities and to perform all of the obligations and agreements of a Guarantor under the Indenture.
(b) The New Subsidiary Note Party, as a Subsidiary Guarantor, hereby agrees, jointly and severally with all existing Guarantors, to unconditionally guarantee the Lead Issuers’ Obligations under the Securities on the terms and subject to the conditions set forth in Article X of the Indenture and to be



bound by all other applicable provisions of the Indenture and the Securities and to perform all of the obligations and agreements of a Guarantor under the Indenture.
3.    Agreement to Assume Issuer Obligations.
(a)     The New Subsidiary Note Party, as an Additional Issuer, hereby agrees, to unconditionally assume, jointly and severally with the Lead Issuers, the Obligations under the Securities and the Indenture as an Issuer (as defined in the Indenture) under the Indenture.
(b)    Each Lead Issuer, joint and severally, confirms that nothing in this Supplemental Indenture relieves any Lead Issuer of its Obligations under the Securities and the Indenture.
4.    Ratification of Indenture; Supplemental Indentures Part of Indenture. Except as expressly amended hereby, the Indenture is in all respects ratified and confirmed and all the terms, conditions and provisions thereof shall remain in full force and effect. This Supplemental Indenture shall form a part of the Indenture for all purposes, and every Holder of Securities heretofore or hereafter authenticated and delivered shall be bound hereby.
5.    Governing Law. THIS SUPPLEMENTAL INDENTURE SHALL BE GOVERNED BY, AND CONSTRUED IN ACCORDANCE WITH, THE LAWS OF THE STATE OF NEW YORK.
6.    Trustee Makes No Representation. The Trustee makes no representation as to the recitals or the validity or sufficiency of this Supplemental Indenture.
7.    Counterparts. The parties may sign any number of copies of this Supplemental Indenture. Each signed copy shall be an original, but all of them together represent the same agreement.
8.    Effect of Headings. The Section headings herein are for convenience only and shall not affect the construction thereof.


[Remainder of Page Intentionally Left Blank]

 
2
 



IN WITNESS WHEREOF, the parties hereto have caused this Supplemental Indenture to be duly executed as of the date first above written.
Lead Issuers
ALBERTSONS COMPANIES, INC.
By: /s/ Robert B. Dimond    
Name:     Robert B. Dimond
Title:  
Executive Vice President & Chief Financial Officer

ALBERTSON’S LLC


By:
/s/ Robert B. Dimond                
Name:    Robert B. Dimond
Title:
Executive Vice President & Chief Financial Officer
NEW ALBERTSONS L.P.
By: /s/ Robert B. Dimond    
Name:
Robert B. Dimond
Title:
Executive Vice President & Chief Financial Officer
SAFEWAY INC.
By: /s/ Robert Gordon    
Name:     Robert Gordon
Title:  
Executive Vice President, General Counsel & Secretary










 
 
 
[Seventh Supplemental Indenture (2025 Notes)]
        


Existing Additional Issuers and Existing Subsidiary Guarantors

UNITED SUPERMARKETS, L.L.C.


By:    /s/ Bradley R. Beckstrom            
    Name:    Bradley R. Beckstrom
    Title:    Group Vice President, Real Estate &
        Business Law & Assistant Secretary


SPIRIT ACQUISITION HOLDINGS LLC
By:    /s/ Bradley R. Beckstrom        
Name:    Bradley R. Beckstrom
Title:    Group Vice President, Real Estate &
    Business Law & Assistant Secretary


 
 
 
[Seventh Supplemental Indenture (2025 Notes)]


ABS FINANCE CO., INC.
ACME MARKETS, INC.
AMERICAN DRUG STORES LLC
AMERICAN PARTNERS, L.P.
AMERICAN PROCUREMENT AND LOGISTICS COMPANY LLC
AMERICAN STORES COMPANY, LLC
APLC PROCUREMENT, INC.
ASC MEDIA SERVICES, INC.
ASP REALTY, LLC
CLIFFORD W. PERHAM, INC.
JETCO PROPERTIES, INC.
JEWEL COMPANIES, INC.
JEWEL FOOD STORES, INC.
LUCKY STORES LLC
OAKBROOK BEVERAGE CENTERS, INC.
SHAW’S REALTY CO.
SHAW’S SUPERMARKETS, INC.
SSM HOLDINGS COMPANY
STAR MARKETS COMPANY, INC.
STAR MARKETS HOLDINGS, INC.
WILDCAT MARKETS OPCO LLC
NAI SATURN EASTERN LLC
COLLINGTON SERVICES LLC
GIANT OF SALISBURY, INC.
ALBERTSONS COMPANIES SPECIALTY CARE, LLC
MEDCART SPECIALTY CARE, LLC


By:    /s/ Gary Morton    
Name:     Gary Morton
Title:
Vice President, Treasurer &
Assistant Secretary

SHAW’S REALTY TRUST
By:    /s/ Gary Morton    
Name:    Gary Morton
Title:
Trustee

 
 
 
[Seventh Supplemental Indenture (2025 Notes)]




FRESH HOLDINGS LLC
AMERICAN FOOD AND DRUG LLC
EXTREME LLC
NEWCO INVESTMENTS, LLC
NHI INVESTMENT PARTNERS, LP
AMERICAN STORES PROPERTIES LLC
JEWEL OSCO SOUTHWEST LLC
SUNRICH MERCANTILE LLC
ABS REAL ESTATE HOLDINGS LLC
ABS REAL ESTATE INVESTOR HOLDINGS
LLC
ABS REAL ESTATE OWNER HOLDINGS LLC
ABS MEZZANINE I LLC
ABS TX INVESTOR GP LLC
ABS FLA INVESTOR LLC
ABS TX INVESTOR LP
ABS SW INVESTOR LLC
ABS RM INVESTOR LLC
ABS DFW INVESTOR LLC
ASP SW INVESTOR LLC
ABS TX LEASE INVESTOR GP LLC
ABS FLA LEASE INVESTOR LLC
ABS TX LEASE INVESTOR LP
ABS SW LEASE INVESTOR LLC
ABS RM LEASE INVESTOR LLC
ASP SW LEASE INVESTOR LLC
AFDI NOCAL LEASE INVESTOR LLC
ABS NOCAL LEASE INVESTOR LLC
ASR TX INVESTOR GP LLC
ASR TX INVESTOR LP
ABS REALTY INVESTOR LLC
ASR LEASE INVESTOR LLC


By:    /s/ Bradley R. Beckstrom            
Name:    Bradley R. Beckstrom
Title:
Group Vice President, Real Estate & Business Law, & Assistant Secretary


 
 
 
[Seventh Supplemental Indenture (2025 Notes)]




GOOD SPIRITS LLC


By:    /s/ Bradley R. Beckstrom            
    Name:    Bradley R. Beckstrom
Title:    Group Vice President, Real Estate Business Law & Assistant Secretary

 
 
 
[Seventh Supplemental Indenture (2025 Notes)]




ABS REALTY LEASE INVESTOR LLC
ABS MEZZANINE II LLC
ABS TX OWNER GP LLC
ABS FLA OWNER LLC
ABS TX OWNER LP
ABS TX LEASE OWNER GP LLC
ABS TX LEASE OWNER LP
ABS SW OWNER LLC
ABS SW LEASE OWNER LLC
LUCKY (DEL) LEASE OWNER LLC
SHORTCO OWNER LLC
ABS NOCAL LEASE OWNER LLC
LSP LEASE LLC
ABS RM OWNER LLC
ABS RM LEASE OWNER LLC
ABS DFW OWNER LLC
ASP SW OWNER LLC
ASP SW LEASE OWNER LLC
NHI TX OWNER GP LLC
EXT OWNER LLC
NHI TX OWNER LP
SUNRICH OWNER LLC
NHI TX LEASE OWNER GP LLC
ASR OWNER LLC
EXT LEASE OWNER LLC
NHI TX LEASE OWNER LP
ASR TX LEASE OWNER GP LLC
ASR TX LEASE OWNER LP
ABS MEZZANINE III LLC
ABS CA-O LLC
ABS CA-GL LLC
ABS ID-O LLC
ABS ID-GL LLC
ABS MT-O LLC
ABS MT-GL LLC
ABS NV-O LLC
ABS NV-GL LLC


By:    /s/ Bradley R. Beckstrom            
Name: Bradley R. Beckstrom
Title:
Group Vice President, Real Estate & Business Law, & Assistant Secretary


 
 
 
[Seventh Supplemental Indenture (2025 Notes)]



ABS OR-O LLC
ABS OR-GL LLC
ABS UT-O LLC
ABS UT-GL LLC
ABS WA-O LLC
ABS WA-GL LLC
ABS WY-O LLC
ABS WY-GL LLC
ABS CA-O DC1 LLC
ABS CA-O DC2 LLC
ABS ID-O DC LLC
ABS OR-O DC LLC
ABS UT-O DC LLC
ABS DFW LEASE OWNER LLC


By:    /s/ Bradley R. Beckstrom            
Name:    Bradley R. Beckstrom
Title:
Group Vice President, Real Estate & Business Law, & Assistant Secretary




 
 
 
[Seventh Supplemental Indenture (2025 Notes)]


USM MANUFACTURING L.L.C.
LLANO LOGISTICS, INC.

By:    /s/ Bradley R., Beckstrom            
    Name:    Bradley R. Beckstrom
    Title:    Group Vice President, Real Estate &
        Business Law & Assistant Secretary

    



 
 
 
[Seventh Supplemental Indenture (2025 Notes)]


SAFEWAY NEW CANADA, INC.
SAFEWAY CORPORATE, INC.
SAFEWAY STORES 67, INC.
SAFEWAY DALLAS, INC.
SAFEWAY STORES 78, INC.
SAFEWAY STORES 79, INC.
SAFEWAY STORES 80, INC.
SAFEWAY STORES 85, INC.
SAFEWAY STORES 86, INC.
SAFEWAY STORES 87, INC.
SAFEWAY STORES 88, INC.
SAFEWAY STORES 89, INC.
SAFEWAY STORES 90, INC.
SAFEWAY STORES 91, INC.
SAFEWAY STORES 92, INC.
SAFEWAY STORES 96, INC.
SAFEWAY STORES 97, INC.
SAFEWAY STORES 98, INC.
SAFEWAY DENVER, INC.
SAFEWAY STORES 44, INC.
SAFEWAY STORES 45, INC.
SAFEWAY STORES 46, INC.
SAFEWAY STORES 47, INC.
SAFEWAY STORES 48, INC.
SAFEWAY STORES 49, INC.
SAFEWAY STORES 58, INC.
SAFEWAY SOUTHERN CALIFORNIA, INC.
SAFEWAY STORES 28, INC.
SAFEWAY STORES 42, INC.
SAFEWAY STORES 71, INC.
SAFEWAY STORES 72, INC.
SSI – AK HOLDINGS, INC.
DOMINICK’S SUPERMARKETS, LLC
DOMINICK’S FINER FOODS, LLC
RANDALL’S FOOD MARKETS, INC.
SAFEWAY GIFT CARDS, LLC
SAFEWAY HOLDINGS I, LLC
GROCERYWORKS.COM, LLC


By:    /s/ Laura A. Donald                
                            Name:    Laura A. Donald
Title:    Vice President & Assistant Secretary



 
 
 
[Seventh Supplemental Indenture (2025 Notes)]


GROCERYWORKS.COM OPERATING COMPANY, LLC
THE VONS COMPANIES, INC.
STRATEGIC GLOBAL SOURCING, LLC
GFM HOLDINGS LLC
RANDALL’S HOLDINGS, INC.
SAFEWAY AUSTRALIA HOLDINGS, INC.
SAFEWAY CANADA HOLDINGS, INC.
AVIA PARTNERS, INC.
SAFEWAY PHILTECH HOLDINGS, INC.
CONSOLIDATED PROCUREMENT SERVICES, INC.
CARR-GOTTSTEIN FOODS CO.
SAFEWAY HEALTH INC.
LUCERNE FOODS, INC.
EATING RIGHT LLC
LUCERNE DAIRY PRODUCTS LLC
LUCERNE NORTH AMERICA LLC
O ORGANICS LLC
DIVARIO VENTURES LLC
CAYAM ENERGY, LLC
GFM HOLDINGS I, INC.


By:    /s/ Laura A. Donald                
                            Name:    Laura A. Donald
Title:    Vice President & Assistant Secretary



 
 
[Seventh Supplemental Indenture (2025 Notes)]


GENUARDI’S FAMILY MARKETS LP


By: GFM HOLDINGS LLC, its general partner


By:    /s/ Laura A. Donald                
Name:    Laura A. Donald
Title:
Vice President & Assistant Secretary



 
 
 
[Seventh Supplemental Indenture (2025 Notes)]


RANDALL’S FOOD & DRUGS LP

By: RANDALL’S FOOD MARKETS, INC., its general partner


By:    /s/ Laura A. Donald                
Name:    Laura A. Donald
Title:    Vice President & Assistant Secretary


 
 
 
[Seventh Supplemental Indenture (2025 Notes)]





RANDALL’S MANAGEMENT COMPANY, INC.
RANDALL’S BEVERAGE COMPANY, INC.


By:    Gary Owen                    
Name:    Gary Owen
Title:
Vice President



 
 
[Seventh Supplemental Indenture (2025 Notes)]





RANDALL’S INVESTMENTS, INC.


By:    /s/ Elizabeth A. Harris                
    Name:     Elizabeth A. Harris
     Title:    Vice President & Secretary

 
 
[Seventh Supplemental Indenture (2025 Notes)]





ALBERTSON’S STORES SUB LLC

By:    /s/ Bradley Beckstrom        
    Name:    Bradley Beckstrom
    Title:    Group Vice President, Real Estate &         Business Law & Assistant Secretary

 
 
 
[Seventh Supplemental Indenture (2025 Notes)]




AB MANAGEMENT SERVICES CORP.

By:    /s/ Robert Dimond        
    Name:    Robert Dimond
    Title:    Executive Vice President & Chief
        Financial Officer

 
 
 
[Seventh Supplemental Indenture (2025 Notes)]




ABS REAL ESTATE COMPANY LLC
By:    /s/ Robert A. Gordon        
    Name:    Robert A. Gordon
    Title:    Executive Vice President, General
        Counsel & Secretary

 
 
 
[Seventh Supplemental Indenture (2025 Notes)]



ALBERTSON’S STORES SUB HOLDINGS LLC


By:    /s/ Bradley Beckstrom                
    Name:    Bradley Beckstrom
    Title:    Group Vice President, Real Estate &             Business Law & Assistant Secretary



AB ACQUISITION LLC


By:    /s/ Bradley Beckstrom                
        Name:    Bradley Beckstrom
        Title:    Group Vice President, Real Estate &             Business Law & Assistant Secretary

 
 
 
[Seventh Supplemental Indenture (2025 Notes)]





NAI HOLDINGS GP LLC

By:
    /s/ Robert Dimond    
Name:    Robert Dimond
Title:    Executive Vice President &
Chief Financial Officer

 
 
 
[Seventh Supplemental Indenture (2025 Notes)]





DINEINFRESH, INC.

By:    /s/ Laura A. Donald                
Name:    Laura A. Donald
        Title:    Vice President, Corporate Law &             Assistant Secretary

 
 
 
[Seventh Supplemental Indenture (2025 Notes)]





INFINITE AISLE LLC

By:    /s/ Laura A. Donald                    
Name:    Laura A. Donald
                        Title:    Vice President & Assistant Secretary

 
 
 
[Seventh Supplemental Indenture (2025 Notes)]






New Additional Issuer and New Subsidiary Guarantor

JA PROCUREMENT LLC

By:    /s/ Laura A. Donald                
Name:    Laura A. Donald
Title:    Group Vice President, Corporate
Law & Assistant Secretary

 
 
 
[Seventh Supplemental Indenture (2025 Notes)]




WILMINGTON TRUST, NATIONAL ASSOCIATION, as Trustee
By:    /s/ Hallie E. Field_____________________
    Name:    Hallie E. Field
    Title: Assistant Vice President

 
 
 
[Seventh Supplemental Indenture (2025 Notes)]
Exhibit 4.11.1

EXECUTION COPY

FIRST SUPPLEMENTAL INDENTURE

FIRST SUPPLEMENTAL INDENTURE (this “Supplemental Indenture”) dated as of April 17, 2019 (the “Effective Date”), among ALBERTSONS COMPANIES, INC., a Delaware corporation (the “Company”), NEW ALBERTSONS L.P., a Delaware limited partnership (“NALP”), SAFEWAY INC., a Delaware corporation (“Safeway”) and ALBERTSON’S LLC, a Delaware limited liability company (“Albertsons”, together with the Company, Safeway and NALP, collectively, the “Issuers"), the Existing Guarantors that are signatories hereto under the heading Existing Guarantors (each, an “Existing Guarantor,” and collectively, the “Existing Guarantors”), the New Guarantor signatory hereto under the heading New Guarantor (the “New Guarantor”) and WILMINGTON TRUST, NATIONAL ASSOCIATION, a national banking association, as trustee (in such capacity, together with its successors and assigns in such capacity, the “Trustee”).
W I T N E S S E T H :
WHEREAS the Issuers and the Existing Guarantors have executed and delivered to the Trustee an indenture (as amended, supplemented or otherwise modified, the “Indenture”) dated as February 5, 2019, providing for the issuance of the Issuers’ 7.5% Senior Notes due 2026 (the “Securities”), initially in the aggregate principal amount of $600,000,000; and
WHEREAS pursuant to Section 9.01 of the Indenture, the Trustee and the Company are authorized to execute and deliver this Supplemental Indenture;
NOW THEREFORE, in consideration of the foregoing and for other good and valuable consideration, the receipt of which is hereby acknowledged, the Company and the Trustee mutually covenant and agree for the equal and ratable benefit of the Holders of the Securities as follows:
1.    Defined Terms. As used in this Supplemental Indenture, terms defined in the Indenture or in the preamble or recital hereto are used herein as therein defined. The words “herein,” “hereof” and hereby and other words of similar import used in this Supplemental Indenture refer to this Supplemental Indenture as a whole and not to any particular section hereof.
2.    Subsidiary Guarantee.
(a) Each Existing Guarantor, hereby confirms, jointly and severally, that its Guarantee shall apply to the Issuers’ Obligations under the Securities and the Indenture on the terms and subject to the conditions set forth in Article X of the Indenture and will continue to be bound by all other applicable provisions of the Indenture and the Securities and to perform all of the obligations and agreements of a Guarantor under the Indenture.
(b) The New Guarantor, hereby agrees, jointly and severally with all Existing Guarantors, to unconditionally guarantee the Issuers’ Obligations under the Securities on the terms and subject to the conditions set forth in Article X of the Indenture and to be bound by all other applicable provisions of the Indenture and the Securities and to perform all of the obligations and agreements of a Guarantor under the Indenture.




3.    Ratification of Indenture; Supplemental Indentures Part of Indenture. Except as expressly amended hereby, the Indenture is in all respects ratified and confirmed and all the terms, conditions and provisions thereof shall remain in full force and effect. This Supplemental Indenture shall form a part of the Indenture for all purposes, and every Holder of Securities heretofore or hereafter authenticated and delivered shall be bound hereby.
4.    Governing Law. THIS SUPPLEMENTAL INDENTURE SHALL BE GOVERNED BY, AND CONSTRUED IN ACCORDANCE WITH, THE LAWS OF THE STATE OF NEW YORK.
5.    Trustee Makes No Representation. The Trustee makes no representation as to the recitals or the validity or sufficiency of this Supplemental Indenture.
6.    Counterparts. The parties may sign any number of copies of this Supplemental Indenture. Each signed copy shall be an original, but all of them together represent the same agreement.
7.    Effect of Headings. The Section headings herein are for convenience only and shall not affect the construction thereof.


[Remainder of Page Intentionally Left Blank]

 
2
 



IN WITNESS WHEREOF, the parties hereto have caused this Supplemental Indenture to be duly executed as of the date first above written.
Issuers
ALBERTSONS COMPANIES, INC.
By: /s/ Robert B. Dimond    
Name:     Robert B. Dimond
Title:  
Executive Vice President & Chief Financial Officer

ALBERTSON’S LLC


By:
/s/ Robert B. Dimond                
Name:    Robert B. Dimond
Title:
Executive Vice President & Chief Financial Officer
NEW ALBERTSONS L.P.
By: /s/ Robert B. Dimond    
Name:
Robert B. Dimond
Title:
Executive Vice President & Chief Financial Officer
SAFEWAY INC.
By: /s/ Robert Gordon    
Name:     Robert Gordon
Title:  
Executive Vice President, General Counsel & Secretary










 
 
 
[First Supplemental Indenture (2026 Notes)]
        


Existing Guarantors

UNITED SUPERMARKETS, L.L.C.


By:    /s/ Bradley R. Beckstrom            
    Name:    Bradley R. Beckstrom
    Title:    Group Vice President, Real Estate &
        Business Law & Assistant Secretary


SPIRIT ACQUISITION HOLDINGS LLC
By:    /s/ Bradley R. Beckstrom        
Name:    Bradley R. Beckstrom
Title:    Group Vice President, Real Estate &
    Business Law & Assistant Secretary


 
 
 
[First Supplemental Indenture (2026 Notes)]


ABS FINANCE CO., INC.
ACME MARKETS, INC.
AMERICAN DRUG STORES LLC
AMERICAN PARTNERS, L.P.
AMERICAN PROCUREMENT AND LOGISTICS COMPANY LLC
AMERICAN STORES COMPANY, LLC
APLC PROCUREMENT, INC.
ASC MEDIA SERVICES, INC.
ASP REALTY, LLC
CLIFFORD W. PERHAM, INC.
JETCO PROPERTIES, INC.
JEWEL COMPANIES, INC.
JEWEL FOOD STORES, INC.
LUCKY STORES LLC
OAKBROOK BEVERAGE CENTERS, INC.
SHAW’S REALTY CO.
SHAW’S SUPERMARKETS, INC.
SSM HOLDINGS COMPANY
STAR MARKETS COMPANY, INC.
STAR MARKETS HOLDINGS, INC.
WILDCAT MARKETS OPCO LLC
NAI SATURN EASTERN LLC
COLLINGTON SERVICES LLC
GIANT OF SALISBURY, INC.
ALBERTSONS COMPANIES SPECIALTY CARE, LLC
MEDCART SPECIALTY CARE, LLC


By:    /s/ Gary Morton    
Name:     Gary Morton
Title:
Vice President, Treasurer &
Assistant Secretary

SHAW’S REALTY TRUST
By:    /s/ Gary Morton    
Name:    Gary Morton
Title:
Trustee

 
 
 
[First Supplemental Indenture (2026 Notes)]




FRESH HOLDINGS LLC
AMERICAN FOOD AND DRUG LLC
EXTREME LLC
NEWCO INVESTMENTS, LLC
NHI INVESTMENT PARTNERS, LP
AMERICAN STORES PROPERTIES LLC
JEWEL OSCO SOUTHWEST LLC
SUNRICH MERCANTILE LLC
ABS REAL ESTATE HOLDINGS LLC
ABS REAL ESTATE INVESTOR HOLDINGS
LLC
ABS REAL ESTATE OWNER HOLDINGS LLC
ABS MEZZANINE I LLC
ABS TX INVESTOR GP LLC
ABS FLA INVESTOR LLC
ABS TX INVESTOR LP
ABS SW INVESTOR LLC
ABS RM INVESTOR LLC
ABS DFW INVESTOR LLC
ASP SW INVESTOR LLC
ABS TX LEASE INVESTOR GP LLC
ABS FLA LEASE INVESTOR LLC
ABS TX LEASE INVESTOR LP
ABS SW LEASE INVESTOR LLC
ABS RM LEASE INVESTOR LLC
ASP SW LEASE INVESTOR LLC
AFDI NOCAL LEASE INVESTOR LLC
ABS NOCAL LEASE INVESTOR LLC
ASR TX INVESTOR GP LLC
ASR TX INVESTOR LP
ABS REALTY INVESTOR LLC
ASR LEASE INVESTOR LLC


By:    /s/ Bradley R. Beckstrom            
Name:    Bradley R. Beckstrom
Title:
Group Vice President, Real Estate & Business Law, & Assistant Secretary



    

 
 
 
[First Supplemental Indenture (2026 Notes)]





GOOD SPIRITS LLC


By:    /s/ Bradley R. Beckstrom            
    Name:    Bradley R. Beckstrom
Title:    Group Vice President, Real Estate Business Law & Assistant Secretary

 
 
 
[First Supplemental Indenture (2026 Notes)]




ABS REALTY LEASE INVESTOR LLC
ABS MEZZANINE II LLC
ABS TX OWNER GP LLC
ABS FLA OWNER LLC
ABS TX OWNER LP
ABS TX LEASE OWNER GP LLC
ABS TX LEASE OWNER LP
ABS SW OWNER LLC
ABS SW LEASE OWNER LLC
LUCKY (DEL) LEASE OWNER LLC
SHORTCO OWNER LLC
ABS NOCAL LEASE OWNER LLC
LSP LEASE LLC
ABS RM OWNER LLC
ABS RM LEASE OWNER LLC
ABS DFW OWNER LLC
ASP SW OWNER LLC
ASP SW LEASE OWNER LLC
NHI TX OWNER GP LLC
EXT OWNER LLC
NHI TX OWNER LP
SUNRICH OWNER LLC
NHI TX LEASE OWNER GP LLC
ASR OWNER LLC
EXT LEASE OWNER LLC
NHI TX LEASE OWNER LP
ASR TX LEASE OWNER GP LLC
ASR TX LEASE OWNER LP
ABS MEZZANINE III LLC
ABS CA-O LLC
ABS CA-GL LLC
ABS ID-O LLC
ABS ID-GL LLC
ABS MT-O LLC
ABS MT-GL LLC
ABS NV-O LLC
ABS NV-GL LLC


By:    /s/ Bradley R. Beckstrom            
Name: Bradley R. Beckstrom
Title:
Group Vice President, Real Estate & Business Law, & Assistant Secretary


 
 
 
[First Supplemental Indenture (2026 Notes)]



ABS OR-O LLC
ABS OR-GL LLC
ABS UT-O LLC
ABS UT-GL LLC
ABS WA-O LLC
ABS WA-GL LLC
ABS WY-O LLC
ABS WY-GL LLC
ABS CA-O DC1 LLC
ABS CA-O DC2 LLC
ABS ID-O DC LLC
ABS OR-O DC LLC
ABS UT-O DC LLC
ABS DFW LEASE OWNER LLC


By:    /s/ Bradley R. Beckstrom            
Name:    Bradley R. Beckstrom
Title:
Group Vice President, Real Estate & Business Law, & Assistant Secretary




 
 
 
[First Supplemental Indenture (2026 Notes)]


USM MANUFACTURING L.L.C.
LLANO LOGISTICS, INC.

By:    /s/ Bradley R. Beckstrom            
    Name:    Bradley R. Beckstrom
    Title:    Group Vice President, Real Estate &
        Business Law & Assistant Secretary

    



 
 
 
[First Supplemental Indenture (2026 Notes)]


SAFEWAY NEW CANADA, INC.
SAFEWAY CORPORATE, INC.
SAFEWAY STORES 67, INC.
SAFEWAY DALLAS, INC.
SAFEWAY STORES 78, INC.
SAFEWAY STORES 79, INC.
SAFEWAY STORES 80, INC.
SAFEWAY STORES 85, INC.
SAFEWAY STORES 86, INC.
SAFEWAY STORES 87, INC.
SAFEWAY STORES 88, INC.
SAFEWAY STORES 89, INC.
SAFEWAY STORES 90, INC.
SAFEWAY STORES 91, INC.
SAFEWAY STORES 92, INC.
SAFEWAY STORES 96, INC.
SAFEWAY STORES 97, INC.
SAFEWAY STORES 98, INC.
SAFEWAY DENVER, INC.
SAFEWAY STORES 44, INC.
SAFEWAY STORES 45, INC.
SAFEWAY STORES 46, INC.
SAFEWAY STORES 47, INC.
SAFEWAY STORES 48, INC.
SAFEWAY STORES 49, INC.
SAFEWAY STORES 58, INC.
SAFEWAY SOUTHERN CALIFORNIA, INC.
SAFEWAY STORES 28, INC.
SAFEWAY STORES 42, INC.
SAFEWAY STORES 71, INC.
SAFEWAY STORES 72, INC.
SSI – AK HOLDINGS, INC.
DOMINICK’S SUPERMARKETS, LLC
DOMINICK’S FINER FOODS, LLC
RANDALL’S FOOD MARKETS, INC.
SAFEWAY GIFT CARDS, LLC
SAFEWAY HOLDINGS I, LLC
GROCERYWORKS.COM, LLC


By:    /s/ Laura A. Donald                
                            Name:    Laura A. Donald
Title:    Vice President & Assistant Secretary



 
 
 
[First Supplemental Indenture (2026 Notes)]


GROCERYWORKS.COM OPERATING COMPANY, LLC
THE VONS COMPANIES, INC.
STRATEGIC GLOBAL SOURCING, LLC
GFM HOLDINGS LLC
RANDALL’S HOLDINGS, INC.
SAFEWAY AUSTRALIA HOLDINGS, INC.
SAFEWAY CANADA HOLDINGS, INC.
AVIA PARTNERS, INC.
SAFEWAY PHILTECH HOLDINGS, INC.
CONSOLIDATED PROCUREMENT SERVICES, INC.
CARR-GOTTSTEIN FOODS CO.
SAFEWAY HEALTH INC.
LUCERNE FOODS, INC.
EATING RIGHT LLC
LUCERNE DAIRY PRODUCTS LLC
LUCERNE NORTH AMERICA LLC
O ORGANICS LLC
DIVARIO VENTURES LLC
CAYAM ENERGY, LLC
GFM HOLDINGS I, INC.


By:    /s/ Laura A. Donald                
                            Name:    Laura A. Donald
Title:    Vice President & Assistant Secretary



 
 
[First Supplemental Indenture (2026 Notes)]


GENUARDI’S FAMILY MARKETS LP


By: GFM HOLDINGS LLC, its general partner


By:    /s/ Laura A. Donald                
Name:    Laura A. Donald
Title:
Vice President & Assistant Secretary



 
 
 
[First Supplemental Indenture (2026 Notes)]


RANDALL’S FOOD & DRUGS LP

By: RANDALL’S FOOD MARKETS, INC., its general partner


By:    /s/ Laura A. Donald                
Name:    Laura A. Donald
Title:    Vice President & Assistant Secretary


 
 
 
[First Supplemental Indenture (2026 Notes)]





RANDALL’S MANAGEMENT COMPANY, INC.
RANDALL’S BEVERAGE COMPANY, INC.


By:    /s/ Gary Owen                    
Name:    Gary Owen
Title:
Vice President



 
 
[First Supplemental Indenture (2026 Notes)]





RANDALL’S INVESTMENTS, INC.


By:    /s/ Elizabeth A. Harris                
    Name:     Elizabeth A. Harris
     Title:    Vice President & Secretary

 
 
[First Supplemental Indenture (2026 Notes)]





ALBERTSON’S STORES SUB LLC

By:    /s/ Bradley Beckstrom        
    Name:    Bradley Beckstrom
    Title:    Group Vice President, Real Estate &         Business Law & Assistant Secretary

 
 
 
[First Supplemental Indenture (2026 Notes)]




AB MANAGEMENT SERVICES CORP.

By:    /s/ Robert Dimond        
    Name:    Robert Dimond
    Title:    Executive Vice President & Chief
        Financial Officer

 
 
 
[First Supplemental Indenture (2026 Notes)]




ABS REAL ESTATE COMPANY LLC
By:    /s/ Robert A. Gordon        
    Name:    Robert A. Gordon
    Title:    Executive Vice President, General
        Counsel & Secretary

 
 
 
[First Supplemental Indenture (2026 Notes)]



ALBERTSON’S STORES SUB HOLDINGS LLC


By:    /s/ Bradley Beckstrom                
    Name:    Bradley Beckstrom
    Title:    Group Vice President, Real Estate &         Business Law & Assistant Secretary



AB ACQUISITION LLC


By:    /s/ Bradley Beckstrom                
        Name:    Bradley Beckstrom
        Title:    Group Vice President, Real Estate &             Business Law & Assistant Secretary

 
 
 
[First Supplemental Indenture (2026 Notes)]





NAI HOLDINGS GP LLC

By:
    /s/ Robert Dimond    
Name:    Robert Dimond
Title:    Executive Vice President &
Chief Financial Officer

 
 
 
[First Supplemental Indenture (2026 Notes)]





DINEINFRESH, INC.

By:    /s/ Laura A. Donald                
Name:    Laura A. Donald
    Title:    Vice President, Corporate Law &
        Assistant Secretary

 
 
 
[First Supplemental Indenture (2026 Notes)]




INFINITE AISLE LLC

By:    /s/ Laura A. Donald                
Name:    Laura A. Donald
    Title:    Vice President & Assistant Secretary

 
 
 
[First Supplemental Indenture (2026 Notes)]




New Guarantor

JA PROCUREMENT LLC

By:    /s/ Laura A. Donald                
Name:    Laura A. Donald
Title:    Group Vice President, Corporate
Law & Assistant Secretary

 
 
 
[First Supplemental Indenture (2026 Notes)]




WILMINGTON TRUST, NATIONAL ASSOCIATION, as Trustee
By:    /s/ Hallie E. Field _____________
    Name:    Hallie E. Field
    Title: Assistant Vice President

 
 
 
[First Supplemental Indenture (2026 Notes)]
Exhibit 10.10

EMPLOYMENT AGREEMENT
THIS EMPLOYMENT AGREEMENT (this “Agreement”), dated as of August 1, 2017 (the “Effective Date”), between AB Management Services Corp., a Delaware corporation (the “Company”), and Susan Morris (the “Executive,” and together with the Company, the “Parties”).
WHEREAS, the Executive is currently employed by the Company; and
WHEREAS, the Parties desire to set forth the terms and conditions of the Executive’s continued employment with the Company under this Agreement.
NOW THEREFORE, in consideration of the foregoing and of the mutual covenants and agreements set forth herein and other good and valuable consideration, the Parties agree to the following:
1.    Employment and Acceptance. The Company shall continue to employ the Executive, and the Executive shall accept employment with the Company, subject to the terms of this Agreement effective on the Effective Date.
2.    Term. Subject to earlier termination pursuant to Section 5 of this Agreement, this Agreement and the employment relationship hereunder shall continue from the Effective Date until January 30, 2020 (the “Term Date”). As used in this Agreement, the “Term” shall refer to the period beginning on the Effective Date and ending on the date the Executive’s employment hereunder terminates in accordance with this Section 2 or Section 5. In the event that the Executive’s employment with the Company terminates (such date, the “Termination Date”) prior to the Term Date, the Company’s obligation to continue to pay all base salary, as adjusted, bonus and other benefits then accrued shall terminate except as may be provided for in Section 5 of this Agreement.
3.    Duties and Title.
3.1    Title. The Executive shall be employed to render exclusive and full-time services to the Company and its subsidiaries and affiliates. The Executive shall serve in the capacity of Executive Vice President Retail Operations - West.
3.2    Duties. The Executive shall have such authority and responsibilities and shall perform such executive duties customarily performed by a similarly titled executive of a company in similar lines of business as the Company, its subsidiaries and its affiliates or as may be assigned to the Executive by the Chief Operating Officer of the Company (the “COO”). The Executive shall devote all of the Executive’s full working-time and best efforts to the performance of such duties and to the promotion of the business and interests of the Company, its subsidiaries and its affiliates. Notwithstanding the foregoing, during the Term, subject to disclosure to, and approval by, the Board of Directors of the Company (the “Board”) or the COO, the Executive may (a) continue to serve on any boards of directors upon which the Executive serves as of the Effective Date, and (b) serve on other corporate, industry, civic or charitable boards and committees, provided that with respect to (a) and (b), (x) such activities, in the Board’s or COO’s discretion, do not materially interfere with and are not inconsistent with


the Executive’s performance of the Executive’s duties under this Agreement and (y) any such entity does not engage in the “Business” (as defined below).
4.    Compensation and Benefits by the Company.
4.1    Base Salary. During the Term, the Company shall pay to the Executive an annual base salary of $700,000, payable in accordance with the customary payroll practices of the Company (“Base Salary”). The Executive shall be entitled to such increases, if any, in Base Salary as may be determined from time to time by the Board or the compensation committee of the Board (the “Compensation Committee”).
4.2    Bonuses. During the Term, the Executive shall be eligible to receive a bonus or bonuses (collectively, the “Bonus”) for each fiscal year of the Company subject to a plan (or plans) established by the Company (the “Bonus Plan”) in an amount determined by the Board (or the Compensation Committee) based upon achievement of performance measures derived from the business plan presented by management and approved by the Board (or the Compensation Committee). The target amount of the Executive’s Bonus for each fiscal year shall be 60% of the Base Salary (the “Target Bonus”). If such performance measures are only partially achieved or not achieved, the Executive shall only be entitled to such Bonus, if any, as provided under the applicable Bonus Plan or as otherwise determined in the sole discretion of the Board (or the Compensation Committee).
4.3    Participation in Employee Benefit Plans. The Executive shall be entitled, if and to the extent eligible, to participate in all of the applicable benefit plans of the Company or its affiliates, which may be available to other senior executives of the Company, on the same terms as such other executives. The Company or its affiliates may at any time or from time to time amend, modify, suspend or terminate any employee benefit plan, program or arrangement for any reason without the Executive’s consent if such amendment, modification, suspension or termination is consistent with the amendment, modification, suspension or termination for other similarly-situated employees of the Company and its affiliates.
4.4    Expense Reimbursement. The Executive shall be entitled to receive reimbursement for all of the Executive’s appropriate business expenses incurred in connection with the Executive’s duties under this Agreement in accordance with the policies of the Company as in effect from time to time, as well as reimbursement for the costs incurred by the Executive in connection with the preparation of the Executive’s applicable tax returns, up to a maximum of $8,000 annually.
5.    Termination of Employment.
5.1    By the Company for Cause or by the Executive Without Good Reason. If: (i) the Company terminates the Executive’s employment with the Company for “Cause” (as defined below); or (ii) the Executive voluntarily terminates the Executive’s employment without “Good Reason” (as defined below), the Executive shall be entitled to receive the following:
(a)    payment for accrued but unused vacation days, payable in accordance with Company policy;


(b)    the Executive’s accrued but unpaid Base Salary and vested benefits, if any, through the Termination Date;
(c)    the earned but unpaid portion of any Bonus earned in respect of any completed performance period prior to the Termination Date; and
(d)    expenses reimbursable under Section 4.4 incurred but not yet reimbursed to the Executive through the Termination Date (Sections 5.1(a), 5.1(b), 5.1(c) and 5.1(d), collectively, the “Accrued Benefits”).
For the purposes of this Agreement, “Cause” means, as determined by the Board (or its designee), with respect to conduct during the Executive’s employment with the Company, whether or not committed during the Term, (i) conviction of a felony by the Executive; (ii) acts of intentional dishonesty by the Executive resulting or intending to result in personal gain or enrichment at the expense of the Company, its subsidiaries or its affiliates; (iii) the Executive’s material breach of the Executive’s obligations under this Agreement; (iv) conduct by the Executive in connection with the Executive’s duties hereunder that is fraudulent, unlawful or grossly negligent; (v) engaging in personal conduct by the Executive (including but not limited to employee harassment or discrimination, the use or possession at work of any illegal controlled substance) which seriously discredits or damages the Company, its subsidiaries or its affiliates; (vi) contravention of specific lawful direction from the Board or (vii) breach of the Executive’s covenants set forth in Section 6 below before termination of employment. The Executive shall have fifteen (15) business days after notice from the Company to cure the deficiency leading to the Cause determination (except with respect to (i) above), if curable. A termination for “Cause” shall be effective immediately (or on such other date set forth by the Company).
For the purposes of this Agreement, “Good Reason” means the occurrence of one or more of the following events (regardless of whether any other reason, other than Cause, for such termination exists or has occurred): (i) a reduction in the Executive’s Base Salary or Target Bonus, provided that, the Company may at any time or from time to time amend, modify, suspend or terminate any bonus, incentive compensation or other benefit plan or program provided to the Executive for any reason and without the Executive’s consent if such modification, suspension or termination (x) is a result of the underperformance of the Company under its business plan, or (y) is consistent with an “across the board” reduction for all senior executives of the Company, and, in each case, is undertaken in the Board’s reasonable business judgment, acting in good faith, and engaging in fair dealing with the Executive; or (ii) without the Executive’s prior written consent, relocation of the Executive’s principal location of work to any location that is in excess of fifty (50) miles from the location thereof on the Effective Date.
The Company shall have fifteen (15) business days after receipt from the Executive of a written notice specifying the deficiency to cure the deficiency that would result in Good Reason.
5.2    Due to Death or Disability. If either: (a) the Executive’s employment terminates due to the Executive’s death; or (b) the Company terminates the Executive’s employment with the Company due to the Executive’s “Disability” (as defined below), the Executive or the Executive’s beneficiaries (in the case of the Executive’s death), shall be entitled


to receive (i) the Accrued Benefits and (ii) subject to Section 5.4, a lump sum payment in an amount equal twenty-five percent (25%) of the Executive’s then Base Salary.
For the purposes of this Agreement, “Disability” means a determination by the Company in accordance with applicable law that as a result of a physical or mental injury or illness, the Executive is unable to perform the essential functions of the Executive’s job with or without reasonable accommodation for a period of (i) ninety (90) consecutive days; or (ii) one hundred eighty (180) days in any one (1) year period.
The Company shall have no obligation to provide the benefits set forth above (other than the Accrued Benefits) in the event that the Executive breaches the provisions of Section 6.
5.3    By the Company Without Cause or By the Executive for Good Reason. If the Company terminates the Executive’s employment without Cause or the Executive the Executive voluntarily terminates the Executive’s employment for Good Reason, the Executive shall be entitled to receive the Accrued Benefits and, subject to Section 5.4:
(a)    a lump sum payment in an amount equal to two hundred percent (200%) of the sum of (i) the Base Salary, plus (ii) the Target Bonus, each based on the then Base Salary; and
(b)    reimbursement on a monthly basis of the cost of continuation coverage of group health coverage (including family coverage) for twelve (12) months; provided that the Executive elects continuation coverage under a policy, plan, program or arrangement of the Company or its affiliate pursuant to COBRA. The twelve (12) month period shall include, and run concurrently with, the maximum continuation coverage period pursuant to COBRA. If, and to the extent, that any benefit described in this Section 5.3(c) cannot be paid or provided under any policy, plan, program or arrangement of the Company, then the Company itself shall pay or provide for the payment to the Executive, the Executive’s dependents, eligible family members and beneficiaries, of such benefits, along with, in the case of any benefit described in this Section 5.3(c) which is subject to tax because it is not or cannot be paid or provided under any such policy, plan, program or arrangement of the Company, an additional amount such that after payment by the Executive, or the Executive’s dependents, eligible family members or beneficiaries, as the case may be, of all taxes so imposed, the recipient retains an amount equal to such taxes. Notwithstanding the foregoing, benefits under this Section 5.3(c) shall cease when the Executive is covered under another group health plan.
5.4    Continued Compliance and Release. The Company shall have no obligation to provide the payments and benefits provided in Section 5.2 and Section 5.3 (other than the Accrued Benefits) (the “Severance Benefits”) in the event (a) the Executive breaches the provisions of Section 6 of this Agreement and (b) unless the Executive signs, and does not revoke, a valid release agreement in a form reasonably acceptable to the Company (the “Release”), not later than sixty (60) days following the Termination Date. If the Severance Benefits are subject to Section 409A of the Internal Revenue Code of 1986, as amended (the “Code”), such Severance Benefits shall begin (or be paid, as applicable) on the first pay period following the date that is sixty (60) days after the Termination Date. If the Severance Benefits


are not otherwise subject to Section 409A of the Code, they shall begin (or be paid, as applicable) on the first pay period after the Release becomes effective.
5.5    No Mitigation. The obligations of the Company to the Executive which arise upon the termination of the Executive’s employment pursuant to this Section 5 shall not be subject to mitigation or offset.
5.6    Removal from any Boards and Position. If the Executive’s employment is terminated for any reason under this Agreement, the Executive shall be deemed to resign (i) if a member, from the Board or board of directors of any subsidiary or affiliate of the Company or any other board to which the Executive has been appointed or nominated by or on behalf of the Company and (ii) from any position with the Company or any subsidiary or affiliate of the Company, including, but not limited to, as an officer of the Company and any of its subsidiaries.
5.7    Continued Employment Beyond the Expiration of the Term. Unless the Company and the Executive otherwise agree in writing, continuation of the Executive’s employment with the Company beyond the expiration of the Term shall be deemed an employment at-will and shall not be deemed to extend any of the provisions of this Agreement and the Executive’s employment may thereafter be terminated at will by either the Executive or the Company; provided that Sections 6, 7, 8, 9.7 and 9.12 of this Agreement shall survive any termination of this Agreement or the termination of the Executive’s employment hereunder.
6.    Restrictions and Obligations of the Executive.
6.1    Confidentiality.
(a)    During the course of the Executive’s employment by the Company and its affiliates (prior to, during, and if applicable, after, the Term), the Executive has had and shall have access to certain trade secrets and confidential information relating to the Company, its subsidiaries and its affiliates (the “Protected Parties”) which is not readily available from sources outside the Protected Parties. The confidential and proprietary information and, in any material respect, trade secrets of the Protected Parties are among their most valuable assets, including but not limited to, their customer, supplier and vendor lists, databases, competitive strategies, computer programs, frameworks, or models, their marketing programs, their sales, financial, marketing, training and technical information, their product development (and proprietary product data) and any other information, whether communicated orally, electronically, in writing or in other tangible forms concerning how the Protected Parties create, develop, acquire or maintain their products and marketing plans, target their potential customers and operate their retail and other businesses. The Protected Parties invested, and continue to invest, considerable amounts of time and money in their process, technology, know-how, obtaining and developing the goodwill of their customers, their other external relationships, their data systems and data bases, and all the information described above (hereinafter collectively referred to as “Confidential Information”), and any misappropriation or unauthorized disclosure of Confidential Information in any form would irreparably harm the Protected Parties. The Executive acknowledges that such Confidential Information constitutes valuable, highly confidential, special and unique property of the Protected Parties. The Executive shall hold in a fiduciary capacity for the benefit of the Protected Parties all Confidential Information relating to


the Protected Parties and their businesses, which shall have been obtained by the Executive during the Executive’s employment by the Company or its affiliates and which shall not be or become public knowledge (other than by acts by the Executive or representatives of the Executive in violation of this Agreement). Except as required by law or an order of a court or governmental agency with jurisdiction, the Executive shall not, during the period the Executive is employed by the Company, its subsidiaries or its affiliates, or at any time thereafter disclose any Confidential Information, directly or indirectly, to any person or entity, nor shall the Executive use it in any way, except in the course of the Executive’s employment with, and for the benefit of, the Protected Parties or to enforce any rights or defend any claims hereunder or under any other agreement to which the Executive is a party, provided that such disclosure is relevant to the enforcement of such rights or defense of such claims and is only disclosed in the formal proceedings related thereto. The Executive shall take all reasonable steps to safeguard the Confidential Information and to protect it against disclosure, misuse, espionage, loss and theft. The Executive understands and agrees that the Executive shall acquire no rights to any such Confidential Information.
(b)    All files, records, documents, drawings, specifications, data, computer programs, evaluation mechanisms and analytics and similar items relating thereto or to the Business, as well as all customer lists, specific customer information, compilations of product research and marketing techniques of the Company and its affiliates, whether prepared by the Executive or otherwise coming into the Executive’s possession, shall remain the exclusive property of the Company, its subsidiaries and its affiliates, and the Executive shall not remove any such items from the premises of the Company, its subsidiaries and its affiliates, except in furtherance of the Executive’s duties under any employment agreement.
(c)    It is understood that while employed by the Company, its subsidiaries or its affiliates, the Executive shall promptly disclose to it, and assign to it the Executive’s interest in any invention, improvement or discovery made or conceived by the Executive, either alone or jointly with others, which arises out of the Executive’s employment. At the Company’s request and expense, the Executive shall assist the Company, its subsidiaries and its affiliates during the period of the Executive’s employment by the Company, its subsidiaries and its affiliates and thereafter in connection with any controversy or legal proceeding relating to such invention, improvement or discovery and in obtaining domestic and foreign patent or other protection covering the same.
(d)    As requested by the Company and at the Company’s expense, from time to time and upon the termination of the Executive’s employment with the Company for any reason, the Executive shall promptly deliver to the Company, its subsidiaries and its affiliates all copies and embodiments, in whatever form, of all Confidential Information in the Executive’s possession or within the Executive’s control (including, but not limited to, memoranda, records, notes, plans, photographs, manuals, notebooks, documentation, program listings, flow charts, magnetic media, disks, diskettes, tapes and all other materials containing any Confidential Information) irrespective of the location or form of such material. If requested by the Company, the Executive shall provide the Company with written confirmation that all such materials have been delivered to the Company as provided herein.


(e)    The Executive understands that nothing contained in this Agreement limits the Executive’s ability to file a charge or complaint with the Equal Employment Opportunity Commission, the National Labor Relations Board, the Securities and Exchange Commission or any other federal, state or local governmental agency or commission (each, a “Government Agency”). The Executive further understands that this Agreement does not limit the Executive’s ability to communicate with any Government Agency, including to report possible violations of federal law or regulation or making other disclosures that are protected under the whistleblower provisions of federal law or regulation, or otherwise participate in any investigation or proceeding that may be conducted by any Government Agency, including providing documents or other information, without notice to the Company.
(f)    This Agreement does not limit the Executive’s right to receive an award for information provided to any Government Agency. The Executive will not be criminally or civilly liable under any federal or state trade secret law for the disclosure of a trade secret that (i) is made (x) in confidence to a federal, state, or local government official, either directly or indirectly, or to an attorney; and (y) solely for the purpose of reporting or investigating a suspected violation of law; or (ii) is made in a complaint or other document filed in a lawsuit or other proceeding, if such filing is made under seal.
6.2    Non-Solicitation or Hire. During the term and for the “Restricted Period”
(as defined below) following the termination of the Executive’s employment for any reason, the Executive shall not directly or indirectly solicit or attempt to solicit or induce, directly or indirectly, (a) any supplier, vendor or service provider to the Company, its subsidiaries or its affiliates to terminate, reduce or alter negatively its relationship with the Company, its subsidiaries or its affiliates or in any manner interfere with any agreement or contract between the Company, its subsidiaries or its affiliates and such supplier, vendor or service provider; or (b) any employee of the Company, its subsidiaries or its affiliates or any person who was an employee of the Company, its subsidiaries or its affiliates during the twelve (12) month period immediately prior to the date the Executive’s employment terminates to terminate such employee’s employment relationship with the Protected Parties in order, in either case, to enter into a similar relationship with the Executive, or any other person or any entity in competition with the Business.
For the purposes of this Agreement, “Restricted Period” means a period equal to the period of severance under Section 5.3(a).
6.3    Non-Competition. During the Term and for the Restricted Period following the termination of the Executive’s employment (for any reason), the Executive shall not, whether individually, as a director, manager, member, stockholder, partner, owner, employee, consultant or agent of any business, or in any other capacity, other than on behalf of the Company, its subsidiaries or its affiliates, organize, establish, own, operate, manage, control, engage in, participate in, invest in, permit the Executive’s name to be used by, act as a consultant or advisor to, render services for (alone or in association with any person, firm, corporation or business organization), or otherwise assist any person or entity that engages in or owns, invests in, operates, manages or controls any venture or enterprise which engages or proposes to engage in any business conducted by the Company, its subsidiaries or its affiliates on the Termination Date or within twelve (12) months of the Executive’s termination of employment in the


geographic locations where the Company, its subsidiaries or its affiliates engage or, to the Executive’s knowledge, propose to engage in such business (the “Business”). Notwithstanding the foregoing, nothing in this Agreement shall prevent the Executive from owning for passive investment purposes not intended to circumvent this Agreement, less than five percent (5%) of the publicly traded common equity securities of any company engaged in the Business (so long as the Executive has no power to manage, operate, advise, consult with or control the competing enterprise and no power, alone or in conjunction with other affiliated parties, to select a director, manager, general partner, or similar governing official of the competing enterprise other than in connection with the normal and customary voting powers afforded the Executive in connection with any permissible equity ownership).
6.4    Property. The Executive acknowledges that all originals and copies of materials, records and documents generated by the Executive or coming into the Executive’s possession during the Executive’s employment by the Company, its subsidiaries or its affiliates are the sole property of the Company, its subsidiaries and its affiliates (“Company Property”). During the Term, and at all times thereafter, the Executive shall not remove, or cause to be removed, from the premises of the Company, its subsidiaries or its affiliates copies of any record, file, memorandum, document, computer related information or equipment, or any other item relating to the business of the Company, its subsidiaries or its affiliates, except in furtherance of the Executive’s duties under this Agreement. When the Executive’s employment with the Company terminates, or upon request of the Company at any time, the Executive shall promptly deliver to the Company all copies of Company Property in the Executive’s possession or control.
6.5    Nondisparagement. The Executive agrees that the Executive shall not at any time (whether during or after the Term) publish or communicate to any person or entity any “Disparaging” (as defined below) remarks, comments or statements concerning the Company, Cerberus Capital Management, L.P., their parents, subsidiaries and affiliates, and their respective present and former members, partners, directors, officers, shareholders, employees, agents, attorneys, successors and assigns. “Disparaging” remarks, comments or statements are those that impugn the character, honesty, integrity or morality or business acumen or abilities in connection with any aspect of the operation of business of the individual or entity being disparaged.
7.    Remedies; Specific Performance. The Company and the Executive acknowledge and agree that the Executive’s breach or threatened breach of any of the restrictions set forth in Section 6 shall result in irreparable and continuing damage to the Protected Parties for which there may be no adequate remedy at law and that the Protected Parties shall be entitled to equitable relief, including specific performance and injunctive relief as remedies for any such breach or threatened or attempted breach. The Executive hereby consents to the grant of an injunction (temporary or otherwise) against the Executive or the entry of any other court order against the Executive prohibiting and enjoining the Executive from violating, or directing the Executive to comply with any provision of Section 6. The Executive also agrees that such remedies shall be in addition to any and all remedies, including damages, available to the Protected Parties against the Executive for such breaches or threatened or attempted breaches. In addition, without limiting the Protected Parties’ remedies for any breach of any restriction on the Executive set forth in Section 6, except as required by law, the Executive shall not be entitled to any Severance Benefits if the Executive has breached the covenants applicable to the Executive contained in Section 6, the Executive shall immediately return to the Protected Parties any such


Severance Benefits previously received, upon such a breach, and, in the event of such breach, the Protected Parties shall have no obligation to pay any of the amounts that remain payable by the Company under Section 5.3.
8.    Indemnification. The Company agrees, to the extent permitted by applicable law and its organizational documents, to indemnify, defend and hold harmless the Executive from and against any and all losses, suits, actions, causes of action, judgments, damages, liabilities, penalties, fines, costs or claims of any kind or nature (“Indemnified Claim”), including reasonable legal fees and related costs incurred by the Executive in connection with the preparation for or defense of any Indemnified Claim, whether or not resulting in any liability, to which the Executive may become subject or liable or which may be incurred by or assessed against the Executive, relating to or arising out of the Executive’s employment by the Company or the services to be performed pursuant to this Agreement, provided that the Company shall only defend, but not indemnify or hold the Executive harmless, from and against an Indemnified Claim in the event there is a final, non-appealable, determination that the Executive’s liability with respect to such Indemnified Claim resulted from the Executive’s willful misconduct or gross negligence. The Company’s obligations under this section shall be in addition to any other right, remedy or indemnification which the Executive may have or be entitled to at common law or otherwise.
9.    Other Provisions.
9.1    Notices. Any notice or other communication required or which may be given hereunder shall be in writing and shall be delivered personally, telegraphed, telexed, sent by facsimile transmission or sent by certified, registered or express mail, postage prepaid or overnight mail and shall be deemed given when so delivered personally, telegraphed, telexed, or sent by facsimile transmission or, if mailed, four (4) days after the date of mailing or one (1) day after overnight mail, as follows:
(a)    If the Company, to:
AB Management Services Corp.
Attention: Andrew J. Scoggin
Telephone: (208) 395-5785
(b)    If the Executive, to the Executive’s home address reflected in the Company’s records.
9.2    Entire Agreement. This Agreement contains the entire agreement between the Parties with respect to the subject matter hereof and supersedes all prior agreements, written or oral, with respect thereto.
9.3    Limitation on Payments and Benefits. Notwithstanding any provision of this Agreement to the contrary, if any amount or benefit to be paid or provided under this Agreement would be an “Excess Parachute Payment,” within the meaning of Section 280G of the Code, but for the application of this sentence, then the payments and benefits to be paid or provided under this Agreement shall be reduced to the minimum extent necessary (but in no


event to less than zero) so that no portion of any such payment or benefit, as so reduced, constitutes an Excess Parachute Payment; provided, however, that the foregoing reduction shall be made only if and to the extent that such reduction would result in an increase in the aggregate payment and benefits to be provided, determined on an after-tax basis (taking into account the excise tax imposed pursuant to Section 4999 of the Code, any tax imposed by any comparable provision of state law, and any applicable federal, state and local income and employment taxes). Whether requested by the Executive or the Company, the determination of whether any reduction in such payments or benefits to be provided under this Agreement or otherwise is required pursuant to the preceding sentence shall be made at the expense of the Company by the Company’s independent accountant. The fact that the Executive’s right to payments or benefits may be reduced by reason of the limitations contained in this Section 9.3 shall not of itself limit or otherwise affect any other rights of the Executive other than pursuant to this Agreement. In the event that any payment or benefit intended to be provided under this Agreement or otherwise is required to be reduced pursuant to this Section 9.3, cash Severance Benefits payable hereunder shall be reduced first, then other cash payments that qualify as Excess Parachute Payments payable to the Executive, then non-cash benefits shall be reduced, as determined by the Company.
9.4    Representations and Warranties by the Executive. The Executive represents and warrants that the Executive is not a party to or subject to any restrictive covenants, legal restrictions or other agreements in favor of any entity or person which would in any way preclude, inhibit, impair or limit the Executive’s ability to perform the Executive’s obligations under this Agreement, including, but not limited to, non-competition agreements, non-solicitation agreements or confidentiality agreements.
9.5    Waiver and Amendments. This Agreement may be amended, modified, superseded, canceled, renewed or extended, and the terms and conditions hereof may be waived, only by a written instrument signed by the Parties or, in the case of a waiver, by the Party waiving compliance. No delay on the part of any Party in exercising any right, power or privilege hereunder shall operate as a waiver thereof, nor shall any waiver on the part of any right, power or privilege hereunder, nor any single or partial exercise of any right, power or privilege hereunder, preclude any other or further exercise thereof or the exercise of any other right, power or privilege hereunder.
9.6    Section 409A. The Company and the Executive intend that the payments and benefits provided for in this Agreement either be exempt from Section 409A of the Code, or be provided in a manner that complies with Section 409A of the Code, and any ambiguity herein shall be interpreted so as to be consistent with the intent of this Section 9.6. Notwithstanding anything contained herein to the contrary, to the extent that any Severance Benefits constitute “nonqualified deferred compensation” subject to Section 409A of the Code, all such Severance Benefits shall be paid or provided only upon the Executive’s “separation from service” within the meaning of Section 409A of the Code and the regulations and guidance promulgated thereunder (determined after applying the presumptions set forth in Treas. Reg. Section 1.409A -1(h)(1)). Further, if as of the Executive’s Termination Date, the Executive is a “specified employee” as defined in Section 409A of the Code as determined by the Company in accordance with Section 409A of the Code, and the deferral of the commencement of any payments or benefits otherwise payable hereunder as a result of such termination of employment is necessary


in order to prevent any accelerated or additional tax under Section 409A of the Code, then the Company shall defer the commencement of the payment of any such payments or benefits hereunder (without any reduction in payments or benefits ultimately paid or provided to the Executive) until the date that is at least six (6) months following the Executive’s Termination Date (or the earliest date permitted under Section 409A of the Code), whereupon the Company shall pay the Executive a lump-sum amount equal to the cumulative amounts that would have otherwise been previously paid to the Executive under this Agreement during the period in which such payments or benefits were deferred. Thereafter, payments shall resume in accordance with this Agreement.
Notwithstanding anything to the contrary in this Agreement, in-kind benefits and reimbursements provided under this Agreement during any calendar year shall not affect in-kind benefits or reimbursements to be provided in any other calendar year, other than an arrangement providing for the reimbursement of medical expenses referred to in Section 105(b) of the Code, and are not subject to liquidation or exchange for another benefit. Notwithstanding anything to the contrary in this Agreement, reimbursement requests must be timely submitted by the Executive and, if timely submitted, reimbursement payments shall be promptly made to the Executive following such submission, but in no event later than December 31st of the calendar year following the calendar year in which the expense was incurred. In no event shall the Executive be entitled to any reimbursement payments after December 31st of the calendar year following the calendar year in which the expense was incurred. This paragraph shall only apply to in-kind benefits and reimbursements that would result in taxable compensation income to the Executive.
Additionally, in the event that following the date hereof the Company or the Executive reasonably determines that any compensation or benefits payable under this Agreement may be subject to Section 409A of the Code, the Company and the Executive shall work together to adopt such amendments to this Agreement or adopt other policies or procedures (including amendments, policies and procedures with retroactive effect), or take any other commercially reasonable actions necessary or appropriate to (x) exempt the compensation and benefits payable under this Agreement from Section 409A of the Code and/or preserve the intended tax treatment of the compensation and benefits provided with respect to this Agreement or (y) comply with the requirements of Section 409A of the Code and related Department of Treasury guidance.
9.7    Governing Law, Dispute Resolution and Venue. This Agreement shall be governed and construed in accordance with the laws of the State of Idaho applicable to agreements made and not to be performed entirely within such state, without regard to conflicts of laws principles.
9.8    Assignability by the Company and the Executive. This Agreement, and the rights and obligations hereunder, may not be assigned by the Company or the Executive without written consent signed by the other Party; provided that the Company may assign this Agreement to any successor that continues the business of the Company.
9.9    Counterparts. This Agreement may be executed in counterparts, each of which shall be deemed an original but all of which shall constitute one and the same instrument.


9.10    Headings. The headings in this Agreement are for convenience of reference only and shall not limit or otherwise affect the meaning of terms contained herein.
9.11    Severability. If any term, provision, covenant or restriction of this Agreement, or any part thereof, is held by a court of competent jurisdiction of any foreign, federal, state, county or local government or any other governmental, regulatory or administrative agency or authority to be invalid, void, unenforceable or against public policy for any reason, the remainder of the terms, provisions, covenants and restrictions of this Agreement shall remain in full force and effect and shall in no way be affected or impaired or invalidated. The Executive acknowledges that the restrictive covenants contained in Section 6 are a condition of this Agreement and are reasonable and valid in temporal scope and in all other respects.
9.12    Judicial Modification. If any court determines that any of the covenants in Section 6, or any part of any of them, is invalid or unenforceable, the remainder of such covenants and parts thereof shall not thereby be affected and shall be given full effect, without regard to the invalid portion. If any court determines that any of such covenants, or any part thereof, is invalid or unenforceable because of the geographic or temporal scope of such provision, such court shall reduce such scope to the minimum extent necessary to make such covenants valid and enforceable.
9.13    Tax Withholding. The Company or other payor is authorized to withhold from any benefit provided or payment due hereunder, the amount of withholding taxes due any federal, state or local authority in respect of such benefit or payment and to take such other action as may be necessary in the opinion of the Board to satisfy all obligations for the payment of such withholding taxes.



IN WITNESS WHEREOF, the Parties hereto, intending to be legally bound hereby, have executed this Agreement as of the day and year first above mentioned.

EXECUTIVE


/s/ Susan Morris    
Susan Morris


AB MANAGEMENT SERVICES CORP.


By:/s/ Andrew J. Scoggin    
Name: Andrew J. Scoggin
Title: Executive Vice President Human Resources, Labor Relations, Public Relations and Government Affairs

Exhibit 21.1

ALBERTSONS COMPANIES, INC.


SCHEDULE OF SUBSIDIARIES

The following is a list of the Company’s subsidiaries and includes all subsidiaries deemed significant. The jurisdiction of each company is listed in parentheses. Thirty-nine (39) companies are not listed because they are not actively conducting business, they are maintained solely for the purpose of holding licenses, they hold no assets or because they are less than majority owned.

Albertson’s Stores Sub Holdings LLC and its subsidiary: (DE)
        AB Acquisition LLC and its subsidiary: (DE) (99% owned by Albertsons Companies,
Inc. and 1% owned by Albertson’s Stores Sub Holdings LLC)
Albertson’s Stores Sub LLC (DE)
AB Management Services Corp. (DE)
Albertson's LLC and its subsidiaries: (DE)
ABS Real Estate Holdings LLC and its subsidiaries: (DE)
ABS Mezzanine III LLC and its subsidiaries: (DE)
ABS CA-GL LLC (DE)
ABS CA-O DC1 LLC (DE)
ABS CA-O DC2 LLC (DE)
ABS CA-O LLC (DE)
ABS ID-GL LLC (DE)
ABS ID-O DC LLC (DE)
ABS ID-O LLC and its subsidiary: (DE)
Warm Springs Development, LLC and its subsidiary: (ID)
Warm Springs & 10th LLC (ID)
ABS MT-GL LLC (DE)
ABS MT-O LLC (DE)
ABS NV-GL LLC (DE)
ABS NV-O LLC (DE)
ABS OR-GL LLC (DE)
ABS OR-O DC LLC (DE)
ABS OR-O LLC (DE)
ABS Surplus-O LLC (DE)
ABS UT-GL LLC (DE)
ABS UT-O DC LLC (DE)
ABS UT-O LLC (DE)
ABS WA-GL LLC (DE)
ABS WA-O LLC (DE)
ABS WY-GL LLC (DE)
ABS WY-O LLC (DE)
ABS Real Estate Company LLC (DE)
ABS Real Estate Investor Holdings LLC and its subsidiary: (DE)
ABS Mezzanine I LLC and its subsidiaries: (DE)
ABS DFW Investor LLC and its subsidiary: (DE)

1

SCHEDULE OF SUBSIDIARIES, Continued


ABS DFW Lease Investor LLC (DE)
ABS FLA Investor LLC and its subsidiary: (DE)
ABS FLA Lease Investor LLC (DE)
ABS Realty Investor LLC (DE)
ABS RM Investor LLC and its subsidiary: (DE)
ABS RM Lease Investor LLC (DE)
ABS SW Investor LLC and its subsidiary: (DE)
ABS SW Lease Investor LLC (DE)
ABS TX Investor GP LLC (DE)
ABS TX Investor LP and its subsidiaries: (TX)
ABS TX Lease Investor GP LLC (DE)
ABS TX Lease Investor LP (TX)
ASP SW Investor LLC (DE)
ASR TX Investor GP LLC (DE)
ASR TX Investor LP and its subsidiary: (TX)
ASR Lease Investor LLC (DE)
ABS Real Estate Owner Holdings LLC and its subsidiary: (DE)
ABS Mezzanine II LLC and its subsidiaries: (DE)
ABS DFW Owner LLC and its subsidiary: (DE)
ABS DFW Lease Owner LLC (DE)
ABS FLA Owner LLC and its subsidiary: (DE)
ABS FLA Lease Owner LLC (DE)
ABS RM Owner LLC and its subsidiary: (DE)
ABS RM Lease Owner LLC (DE)
ABS SW Owner LLC and its subsidiaries: (DE)
ABS NoCal Lease Owner LLC (DE)
ABS SW Lease Owner LLC (DE)
ASP NoCal Lease Owner LLC (DE)
Lucky (Del) Lease Owner LLC (DE)
ABS TX Owner GP LLC (DE)
ABS TX Owner LP and its subsidiaries: (TX)
ABS TX Lease Owner GP LLC (DE)
ABS TX Lease Owner LP (TX)
ASP SW Owner LLC and its subsidiary: (DE)
ASP SW Lease Owner LLC (DE)
ASR Owner LLC and its subsidiary: (DE)
ASR TX Lease Owner GP LLC (TX)
ASR TX Lease Owner LP (TX)
EXT Owner LLC and its subsidiary: (DE)
EXT Lease Owner LLC (DE)
NHI TX Owner GP LLC (DE)
NHI TX Owner LP and its subsidiaries: (TX)
NHI TX Lease Owner GP LLC (TX)
NHI TX Lease Owner LP (TX)
Albertson's Liquors, Inc. (WY)


2

SCHEDULE OF SUBSIDIARIES, Continued


American Food and Drug LLC and its subsidiaries: (DE)
American Stores Properties LLC (DE)
Jewel Osco Southwest LLC (IL)
Sunrich Mercantile LLC (CA)
American Stores Realty Company, LLC (DE)
Fresh Holdings LLC and its subsidiary: (DE)
Extreme LLC and its subsidiaries: (DE)
Newco Investments, LLC (DE)
NHI Investment Partners, LP (DE)
Good Spirits LLC (TX)
Malin Acquisitions, LLC (DE)
Spirit Acquisition Holdings LLC and its subsidiary: (DE)
United Supermarkets, L.L.C. and its subsidiary: (TX)
LLano Logistics, Inc. (DE)
Ink Holdings, LLC (DE)
Safeway Inc. and its subsidiaries: (DE)
Better Living Brands LLC (DE)
Casa Ley Services, Inc. (DE)
Cayam Energy, LLC (DE)
DineInFresh, Inc. (DE)
Divario Ventures LLC (DE)
Dominick’s Supermarkets, LLC and its subsidiary: (DE)
Dominick’s Finer Foods, LLC and its subsidiary: (DE)
Dominick’s Finer Foods, Inc. of Illinois (IL)
Eureka Land Management LLC and its subsidiary: (WA)
Eureka Development LLC (WA)
GFM Holdings I, Inc. and its subsidiary: (DE)
GFM Holdings LLC and its subsidiary: (DE)
Genuardi’s Family Markets LP (DE)
Lehua Insurance Company, Inc. (HI)
Lucerne Foods, Inc. and its subsidiaries: (DE)
Eating Right LLC (DE)
Lucerne Dairy Products LLC (DE)
Lucerne North America LLC (DE)
O Organics LLC (DE)
Milford Insurance Brokerage Services, Inc. (DE)
Milford Insurance Ltd. (Bermuda)
NAI Holdings GP LLC (DE)
New Albertsons L.P. and its subsidiaries: (DE) (NAI Holdings GP LLC 5%
General Partner and Safeway Inc. 95% Limited Partner)
ABS Finance Co., Inc. (DE)
Albertsons Companies Specialty Care, LLC (DE)
American Stores Company, LLC and its subsidiaries: (DE)
American Drug Stores LLC and its subsidiary: (DE)
American Partners, L.P. (IN)
American Procurement and Logistics Company LLC and its subsidiary:

3

SCHEDULE OF SUBSIDIARIES, Continued


(DE)
APLC Procurement, Inc. (UT)
ASC Media Services, Inc. and its subsidiary: (UT)
U.S. Satellite Corporation (UT)
ASP Realty, LLC (DE)
Beryl American Corporation (VT)
Jewel Companies, Inc. and its subsidiaries: (DE)
Acme Markets, Inc. and its subsidiary: (DE)
Giant of Salisbury, Inc. (MD)
Jewel Food Stores, Inc. and its subsidiary: (OH)
Jetco Properties, Inc. (DE)
Lucky Stores LLC (OH)
Scolari's Stores LLC (CA)
Medcart Specialty Care, LLC (DE)
NAI Saturn Eastern LLC and its subsidiary: (DE)
Collington Services LLC (DE)
SSM Holdings Company and its subsidiary: (DE)
Shaw's Supermarkets, Inc. and its subsidiaries: (MA)
28 Pond Street Realty, LLC (NH)
300 Main Street Realty, LLC (NH)
360 Chauncy Street Realty Trust (MA)
675 Randolph Realty Trust (MA)
693 Randolph Avenue LLC (MA)
739 Realty Trust (MA)
861 Edgell Road LLC (MA)
99 Water Street LLC (MA)
Adrian Realty Trust (MA)
Border Street Realty Trust (MA)
BP Realty, LLC (MA)
CH Project LLC (MA)
Clifford W. Perham, Inc. (ME)
Gorham Markets, LLC (NH)
Hayward Street Investment Trust and its subsidiary: (MA)
DLS Realty Trust (MA)
Heath Street, LLC (MA)
HNHP Realty, LLC (NH)
K&J Realty Trust (MA)
Keene Realty Trust (NH)
LRT Realty Trust (MA)
Mashpee Realty LLC (MA)
Michael's Realty Trust and its subsidiary: (MA)
EP Realty LLC (MA)
Milford Realty LLC (MA)
MK Investments LLC (MA)
PNHP Realty LLC (NH)
Shaw's Realty Co. and its subsidiary: (ME)

4

SCHEDULE OF SUBSIDIARIES, Continued


Arles, LLC (NH)
Shaw's Realty Trust and its subsidiary: (MA)
Galway Realty Trust (MA)
SNH Realty, LLC (MA)
SRA REALTY LLC (MA)
Star Markets Holdings, Inc. and its subsidiary: (MA)
Star Markets Company, Inc. (MA)
WP Properties, LLC (RI)
Wildcat Acquisition Holdings LLC and its subsidiary: (DE)
Vons REIT, Inc. and its subsidiary: (DE)
Wildcat Markets Opco LLC (DE)
Oakland Property Brokerage Inc. (DE)
Pak ’N Save, Inc. (CA)
Paradise Development LLC and its subsidiaries: (WA)
Paradise Real Property LLC and its subsidiary: (WA)
Boulder Investco LLC (DE)
Randall’s Holdings, Inc. and its subsidiaries: (DE)
Randall’s Finance Company, Inc. (DE)
Randall’s Food Markets, Inc. and its subsidiary: (DE)
Randall’s Food & Drugs LP and its subsidiary: (DE)
Randall’s Management Company, Inc. and its subsidiary:    (DE)
Randall’s Beverage Company, Inc. (TX)
Randall’s Investments, Inc. (DE)
Safeway #0638 Exchange, LLC (OR)
Safeway Australia Holdings, Inc. (DE)
Safeway Canada Holdings, Inc. and its subsidiary: (DE)
Safeway New Canada, Inc. and its subsidiary: (DE)
CSL IT Services ULC (formerly Canada Safeway Limited) and its
subsidiaries: (British Columbia)
0984093 B.C. Unlimited Liability Company (British Columbia)
0984354 B.C. Unlimited Liability Company (formerly Canada
Safeway Liquor Stores ULC) (British Columbia)
Safeway Corporate, Inc. and its subsidiaries: (DE)
Safeway Stores 67, Inc. (DE)
Safeway Stores 68, Inc. (DE)
Safeway Stores 69, Inc. (DE)
Safeway Stores 70, Inc. (DE)
Safeway Dallas, Inc. and its subsidiaries: (DE)
Avia Partners, Inc. (DE)
Safeway Stores 78, Inc. (DE)
Safeway Stores 79, Inc. (DE)
Safeway Stores 80, Inc. (DE)
Safeway Stores 82, Inc. (DE)
Safeway Stores 85, Inc. (DE)
Safeway Stores 86, Inc. (DE)
Safeway Stores 87, Inc. (DE)

5

SCHEDULE OF SUBSIDIARIES, Continued


Safeway Stores 88, Inc. (DE)
Safeway Stores 89, Inc. (DE)
Safeway Stores 90, Inc. (DE)
Safeway Stores 91, Inc. (DE)
Safeway Stores 92, Inc. (DE)
Safeway Stores 96, Inc. (DE)
Safeway Stores 97, Inc. (DE)
Safeway Stores 98, Inc. (DE)
Safeway Denver, Inc. and its subsidiaries: (DE)
Safeway Stores 44, Inc. (DE)
Safeway Stores 45, Inc. (DE)
Safeway Stores 46, Inc. (DE)
Safeway Stores 47, Inc. (DE)
Safeway Stores 48, Inc. (DE)
Safeway Stores 49, Inc. (DE)
Safeway Stores 50, Inc. (DE)
Safeway Gift Cards, LLC (AZ)
Safeway Holdings I, LLC and its subsidiary: (DE)
Groceryworks.com, LLC and its subsidiary: (DE)
Groceryworks.com Operating Company, LLC (DE)
        Safeway Leasing, Inc. (DE)
Safeway Philtech Holdings, Inc. and its subsidiary: (DE)
Safeway Philtech Inc. (Philippines)
Safeway Richmond, Inc. and its subsidiary: (DE)
Safeway Stores 58, Inc. and its subsidiary: (DE)
Safelease, Inc. (DE)
Safeway Select Gift Source, Inc. (DE)
Safeway Southern California, Inc. and its subsidiaries: (DE)
Safeway Stores 18, Inc. (DE)
Safeway Stores 26, Inc. (DE)
Safeway Stores 28, Inc. (DE)
Safeway Stores 31, Inc. (DE)
The Vons Companies, Inc. and its subsidiary: (MI)
Vons Sherman Oaks, LLC (OR)
Safeway Stores 42, Inc. (DE)
Safeway Stores 43, Inc. (DE)
Safeway Supply, Inc. and its subsidiaries: (DE)
Consolidated Procurement Services, Inc. (DE)
Safeway Stores 71, Inc. (DE)
Safeway Stores 72, Inc. (DE)
Safeway Stores 73, Inc. (DE)
Safeway Stores 74, Inc. (DE)
Safeway Stores 75, Inc. (DE)
Safeway Stores 76, Inc. (DE)
Safeway Stores 77, Inc. (DE)
Safeway Trucking, Inc. (DE)

6

SCHEDULE OF SUBSIDIARIES, Continued


Saturn Development I, Inc. (DE)
Saturn Development LLC (DE)
SRG, Inc. (DE)
SSI – AK Holdings, Inc. and its subsidiary: (DE)
Carr-Gottstein Foods Co. and its subsidiaries: (DE)
AOL Express, Inc. (AK)
APR Forwarders, Inc. (AK)
Stoneridge Holdings, LLC and its subsidiary: (DE)
Safeway Health Inc. (DE)
Strategic Global Sourcing, LLC (DE)
Taylor Properties, Inc. (DE)

7



Exhibit 31.1
Certification of the Principal Executive Officer pursuant
to Section 302 of the Sarbanes-Oxley Act of 2002

 

I, James L. Donald, certify that:


1.
I have reviewed this Annual Report on Form 10-K of Albertsons Companies, Inc.;
2.
Based on my knowledge, this report does not contain any untrue statement of a material fact or omit to state a material fact necessary to make the statements made, in light of the circumstances under which such statements were made, not misleading with respect to the period covered by this report;
3.
Based on my knowledge, the financial statements, and other financial information included in this report, fairly present in all material respects the financial condition, results of operations and cash flows of the registrant as of, and for, the periods presented in this report;
4.
The registrant’s other certifying officer and I are responsible for establishing and maintaining disclosure controls and procedures (as defined in Exchange Act Rules 13a-15(e) and 15d-15(e)) and internal control over financial reporting (as defined in Exchange Act Rules 13a-15(f) and 15d-15(f)) for the registrant and have:
 
a)
Designed such disclosure controls and procedures, or caused such disclosure controls and procedures to be designed under our supervision, to ensure that material information relating to the registrant, including its consolidated subsidiaries, is made known to us by others within those entities, particularly during the period in which this report is being prepared;
 
b)
Designed such internal control over financial reporting, or caused such internal control over financial reporting to be designed under our supervision, to provide reasonable assurance regarding the reliability of financial reporting and the preparation of financial statements for external purposes in accordance with generally accepted accounting principles;
 
c)
Evaluated the effectiveness of the registrant’s disclosure controls and procedures and presented in this report our conclusions about the effectiveness of the disclosure controls and procedures, as of the end of the period covered by this report based on such evaluation; and
 
d)
Disclosed in this report any change in the registrant’s internal control over financial reporting that occurred during the registrant’s most recent fiscal quarter (the registrant’s fourth fiscal quarter in the case of an annual report) that has materially affected, or is reasonably likely to materially affect, the registrant’s internal control over financial reporting; and
5.
The registrant’s other certifying officer and I have disclosed, based on our most recent evaluation of internal control over financial reporting, to the registrant’s auditors and the audit committee of the registrant’s board of directors (or persons performing the equivalent functions):
 
a)
All significant deficiencies and material weaknesses in the design or operation of internal control over financial reporting, which are reasonably likely to adversely affect the registrant’s ability to record, process, summarize and report financial information; and
 
b)
Any fraud, whether or not material, that involves management or other employees who have a significant role in the registrant’s internal control over financial reporting.
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
Date:
April 24, 2019
 
/s/ James L. Donald
 
 
 
James L. Donald
 
 
 
President and Chief Executive Officer (Principal Executive Officer)




Exhibit 31.2
Certification of the Principal Financial Officer pursuant
to Section 302 of the Sarbanes-Oxley Act of 2002

 

I, Robert B. Dimond, certify that:


1.
I have reviewed this Annual Report on Form 10-K of Albertsons Companies, Inc.;
2.
Based on my knowledge, this report does not contain any untrue statement of a material fact or omit to state a material fact necessary to make the statements made, in light of the circumstances under which such statements were made, not misleading with respect to the period covered by this report;
3.
Based on my knowledge, the financial statements, and other financial information included in this report, fairly present in all material respects the financial condition, results of operations and cash flows of the registrant as of, and for, the periods presented in this report;
4.
The registrant’s other certifying officer and I are responsible for establishing and maintaining disclosure controls and procedures (as defined in Exchange Act Rules 13a-15(e) and 15d-15(e)) and internal control over financial reporting (as defined in Exchange Act Rules 13a-15(f) and 15d-15(f)) for the registrant and have:
 
a)
Designed such disclosure controls and procedures, or caused such disclosure controls and procedures to be designed under our supervision, to ensure that material information relating to the registrant, including its consolidated subsidiaries, is made known to us by others within those entities, particularly during the period in which this report is being prepared;
 
b)
Designed such internal control over financial reporting, or caused such internal control over financial reporting to be designed under our supervision, to provide reasonable assurance regarding the reliability of financial reporting and the preparation of financial statements for external purposes in accordance with generally accepted accounting principles;
 
c)
Evaluated the effectiveness of the registrant’s disclosure controls and procedures and presented in this report our conclusions about the effectiveness of the disclosure controls and procedures, as of the end of the period covered by this report based on such evaluation; and
 
d)
Disclosed in this report any change in the registrant’s internal control over financial reporting that occurred during the registrant’s most recent fiscal quarter (the registrant’s fourth fiscal quarter in the case of an annual report) that has materially affected, or is reasonably likely to materially affect, the registrant’s internal control over financial reporting; and
5.
The registrant’s other certifying officer and I have disclosed, based on our most recent evaluation of internal control over financial reporting, to the registrant’s auditors and the audit committee of the registrant’s board of directors (or persons performing the equivalent functions):
 
a)
All significant deficiencies and material weaknesses in the design or operation of internal control over financial reporting, which are reasonably likely to adversely affect the registrant’s ability to record, process, summarize and report financial information; and
 
b)
Any fraud, whether or not material, that involves management or other employees who have a significant role in the registrant’s internal control over financial reporting.
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
Date:
April 24, 2019
 
/s/ Robert B. Dimond
 
 
 
Robert B. Dimond
 
 
 
Executive Vice President and Chief Financial Officer (Principal Financial Officer)




Exhibit 32.1

Certification Pursuant to 18 U.S.C. Section 1350,
as adopted pursuant to Section 906 of the Sarbanes-Oxley Act of 2002
In connection with the Annual Report of Albertsons Companies, Inc. (the “Company”) on Form 10-K for the period ended February 23, 2019 as filed with the Securities and Exchange Commission on the date hereof (the “Report”), each of the undersigned certifies, pursuant to 18 U.S.C. §1350, as adopted pursuant to §906 of the Sarbanes-Oxley Act of 2002, that:
1.
The Report fully complies with the requirements of section 13(a) or 15(d) of the Securities Exchange Act of 1934; and
2.
The information contained in the Report fairly presents, in all material respects, the financial condition and results of operations of the Company.
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
Date:
April 24, 2019
 
/s/ James L. Donald
 
 
 
James L. Donald
 
 
 
President and Chief Executive Officer (Principal Executive Officer)
 
 
 
 

 
 
 
 
 
/s/ Robert B. Dimond
 
 
Robert B. Dimond
 
 
Executive Vice President and Chief Financial Officer (Principal Financial Officer)
 
 
 
 
 
 




Exhibit 99.1




Albertsons Companies, Inc. and Subsidiaries
Computation of Ratio of Earnings to Fixed Charges
(in millions, except ratio)
(unaudited)
 
 
Fiscal
2018
 
Fiscal
2017
 
Fiscal
2016
 
Fiscal
2015
 
Fiscal
2014
Earnings:
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
Pre-tax income (loss)
$
52.2

 
$
(917.5
)
 
$
(463.6
)
 
$
(541.8
)
 
$
(1,378.6
)
Income from unconsolidated affiliate (1)
0.1

 
13.3

 
17.5

 
14.4

 
1.1

Income (loss) before tax and unconsolidated affiliate
52.1

 
(930.8
)
 
(481.1
)
 
(556.2
)
 
(1,379.7
)
Plus: fixed charges
 
 
 

 
 

 
 

 
 

Interest expense, net (2)
830.8

 
874.8

 
1,003.8

 
950.5

 
633.2

Capitalized interest
12.7

 
6.4

 
7.8

 
2.1

 
0.5

Portion of rent expense deemed to be interest
287.9

 
281.2

 
268.5

 
260.4

 
125.3

Interest income
19.7

 
6.8

 
3.9

 
7.4

 
1.4

Charges related to guarantee obligations
—

 
—

 
1.6

 
30.6

 
—

Total fixed charges
1,151.1

 
1,169.2

 
1,285.6

 
1,251.0

 
760.4

Less: capitalized interest
(12.7
)
 
(6.4
)
 
(7.8
)
 
(2.1
)
 
(0.5
)
Earnings:
$
1,190.5

 
$
232.0

 
$
796.7

 
$
692.7

 
$
(619.8
)
Fixed Charges:
$
1,151.1

 
$
1,169.2

 
$
1,285.6

 
$
1,251.0

 
$
760.4

Ratio of earnings to fixed charges (3)
1.0

 
—

 
—

 
—

 
—

(1) Represents earnings related to the Company’s equity method investments.
(2) Interest expense, net does not include interest relating to liabilities for uncertain tax positions, which the Company records as a component of income tax expense.
(3) Due to the Company’s losses during fiscal 2017, fiscal 2016, fiscal 2015 and fiscal 2014, the ratio coverage was less than 1:1 in each of those periods. The Company would have needed to generate additional earnings of $937.2 million, $488.9 million, $558.3 million and $1,380.2 million during fiscal 2017, fiscal 2016, fiscal 2015 and fiscal 2014, respectively, in order to achieve a coverage ratio of 1:1 during those periods.