Albertsons.com Earns Consumer Reports' Stamp of Approval; Online Grocer Receives Accolades for Pick-up Service and Site Amenities.

Business/Assignment Editors

BELLEVUE, Wash.--(BUSINESS WIRE)--Sept. 26, 2000

Alberstons.com has online grocery shopping in the bag, according to Consumer Reports.

Findings from the publication's September issue rank Boise-based Albertsons.com at the top of the online food chain.

Titled "Food Fight 2000," the report rated six of the best-known grocery Web sites using criteria that ranged from product selection to delivery timing. More than 2,000 products were ordered, including perishables, and shipped to shoppers in eight different states. Scores were based on policies, usability, content, and shoppers' experiences.

Albertsons.com received an impressive "four" rating on a scale of one to five, with five being the highest, earning a second-place finish. The Web site was considered "easy to navigate" and the variety of products was deemed "wide and deep." Site niceties "Ask the Chef" and "Quick Fixins" were also mentioned, as well as the grocer's innovative in-store pick-up--a first in the industry. Overall, "shoppers were largely impressed with service and quality."

"Unsolicited endorsement by a trusted consumer publication of this caliber is certainly a testament to the high standards we've set for our service," said Matt Muta, vice president of e-commerce and Internet for Alberstons.com. "The growing competition in this marketplace is undeniable and this type of recognition is invaluable when vying to make a lasting impression on consumers."

Albertson's opened its first grocery store in 1939. Founder Joe Albertson changed the rules in the grocery business by introducing then unheard of services like a scratch bakery, magazine racks and homemade ice cream. The operation of his first store was based on the principles of providing high quality, good value and excellent service to every customer. Sixty years later, those same principles continue to guide the operation of every Albertson store. Albertson's Inc. is one of the largest retail food and drug chains in the United States. Based in Boise, Idaho, the Company currently operates almost 2,500 retail stores in 36 states across the United States.

Editor's Note: Copies of report available upon request