Jul 1, 2008 12:00 PM

Publix Super Markets Inc. has entered into an agreement to purchase 49 Florida stores from Albertson's LLC. The transaction is expected to close in September 2008 and includes store locations throughout the state with 15 locations in north Florida, 30 in central Florida, and four in south Florida.

Grand-opening dates for all locations will depend on the scope of the remodels. The acquisition will allow Publix to operate four stores in Escambia County, a new market area for the company.

Publix encourages impacted Albertson's employees with a passion for food and a commitment to customer service to apply for employment. To assist in this process, Publix will hold job fairs dedicated to Albertson's employees in the upcoming weeks.

Privately owned and operated by its 142,000 employees, Publix reported 2007 sales of $23 billion. It currently has 936 stores in Florida, Georgia, South Carolina, Alabama, and Tennessee.