Albertson’s to Lay Off Workers in Brea

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

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

Some employees may be rehired by grocery companies that are buying the stores Albertson’s is selling, Read said. Union officials could not be reached for comment.

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