Albertson's Selling Drugs in Nebraska

Albertsons Inc. (Boise, Idaho) has completed the dual-brand conversion of its Omaha, Neb.-area stores to Albertsons-Osco combination food and drug stores.

The conversion of seven traditional Albertsons food stores (including the complete renovation of three existing stores) and the addition of two new locations represented a total capital investment of approximately $30 million.

The company said the format, pioneered by its Jewel-Osco division (Chicago), combines its expertise as both a grocery and drug retailer. In the past year, Albertson's has expanded the format to three other markets — Tucson, Ariz.; Reno, Nev.; and Phoenix.

The Albertsons-Osco format doubles the general merchandise product selection and also offers: one-hour photo; expanded seasonal products; an expanded cosmetics and beauty care department (featuring cosmeticians); Krispy Kreme doughnuts; expanded dry and frozen Kosher foods selection; full-service deli, bakery and butcher; video shop; baby and pet care centers; and floral department.

The nation's second-largest food retailer (behind Kroger Co., Cincinnati), operates more than 2400 stores in 33 states under names such as Albertson's, Acme Markets and Jewel. More than half are now combination food-and-drug-stores, and more than 200 have gas stations. In addition, some 730 outlets are stand-alone drugstores operating under the Osco Drug and Sav-on flags.