USA: Kroger announces it will not pursue purchase of 74 Winn-Dixie Stores in Texas and Oklahoma

The Kroger Co. yesterday said it has reached a mutual agreement with Winn-Dixie Stores, Inc. to terminate previously announced plans for Kroger to purchase 74 Winn-Dixie stores in Texas and Oklahoma. The announcement follows a decision by the Federal Trade Commission earlier this month to withhold approval of the planned purchase. After thoroughly reviewing our legal options, Kroger has decided not to pursue our planned purchase of these Winn-Dixie stores," said Joseph A. Pichler, Kroger chairman and chief executive officer. "Our decision today has no impact on Kroger's future earnings expectations." The Company declined further comment.Headquartered in Cincinnati, Ohio, Kroger is the nation's largest retail grocery chain. The Company currently operates 2,319 supermarkets and multi-department stores in 31 states under more than a dozen banners, including Kroger, Fred Meyer, Ralphs, Smith's, King Soopers, Dillon, Fry's, City Market, Food 4 Less and Quality Food Centers. Kroger also operates 792 convenience stores, 397 fine jewelry stores and 42 food processing plants.