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Albertsons names Meg Whitman executive chair

Albertsons adds Meg Whitman as Executive Chair, expands its board, and details her compensation package and advisory role to the CEO.

(High)
(Neutral)
Form Type
8-K

Rhea-AI Filing Summary

Albertsons Companies, Inc. (ACI) appointed Margaret (Meg) Whitman to its Board of Directors effective September 8, 2026, for a term running through the 2027 annual meeting, and expanded the Board from 10 to 11 members. Whitman was also elected to the newly created role of Executive Chair, while Kim Fennebresque transitioned from Chair to Lead Independent Director. Because Whitman is an employee, the Board determined she is not an independent director under New York Stock Exchange rules. Her compensation includes an annual base salary of $100,000 and time-based restricted stock units with a grant date value of $8.9 million, vesting in one year subject to continued employment. Albertsons highlights Whitman’s extensive prior CEO and board experience and states she will act as an operations and strategic advisor to CEO Susan Morris and the senior team.

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Filing Explained

The filing adds that Margaret Whitman has no Board committee assignment and that Albertsons disclosed no selection arrangement, family relationship, or related-party transaction requiring Item 404(a) disclosure.

Item 5.02 Departure of Directors or Certain Officers; Election of Directors; Appointment of Certain Officers Governance
Key personnel changes including departures, elections, or appointments of directors and executive officers.
Item 9.01 Financial Statements and Exhibits Exhibits
Financial statements, pro forma financial information, or exhibit attachments filed with this report.
Executive Chair base salary $100,000 per year Annual base salary for Meg Whitman as Executive Chair
RSU grant value $8.9 million Time-based restricted stock units for Meg Whitman, vesting in one year
Board size after appointment 11 directors Board expanded from 10 to 11 members with Meg Whitman’s appointment
Retail stores operated 2,240 stores Albertsons Companies’ store count as of June 20, 2026
In-store pharmacies 1,708 pharmacies Operating within Albertsons Companies’ retail stores as of June 20, 2026
Fuel centers 408 fuel centers Associated fuel centers operated as of June 20, 2026
Community and disaster support in 2025 $497 million Food and financial support contributed in 2025 with Albertsons Companies Foundation
Nourishing Neighbors Program contribution $56 million Portion of 2025 giving through the Nourishing Neighbors Program
Executive Chair financial
"appointed to the newly created role of Executive Chair of the company's Board"
An executive chair is the board chairperson who also takes an active, hands-on role in company management, typically working closely with the CEO and senior team to shape strategy and major decisions. For investors it matters because this blend of oversight and operational power can accelerate strategic moves and provide steady leadership—like a coach who also calls plays—but it can also concentrate authority and create governance or succession risks if too much depends on one person.
Lead Independent Director financial
"Kim Fennebresque has transitioned from Chair to Lead Independent Director"
A lead independent director is a board member who is not part of company management and is chosen to coordinate and represent the other independent directors, often running sessions without the CEO, helping set meeting agendas, and serving as a liaison between shareholders and the board. For investors, this role signals stronger, more balanced oversight—like a neutral referee who helps ensure decisions are fair, transparent and focused on protecting shareholder interests.
time-based restricted stock units financial
"time-based restricted stock units with a grant date value of $8.9 million"
Time-based restricted stock units are a form of employee compensation where individuals are granted company shares that are earned over a set period, often as a reward for staying with the company. These shares typically become fully owned and transferable only after passing specific time milestones, encouraging long-term commitment. For investors, they highlight a company's focus on employee retention and can influence future stock supply and company stability.
forward-looking statements regulatory
"This press release includes "forward-looking statements" within the meaning"
Forward-looking statements are predictions or plans that companies share about what they expect to happen in the future, like estimating sales or profits. They matter because they help investors understand a company's outlook, but since they are based on guesses and assumptions, they can sometimes be wrong.
Risk Factors regulatory
"carefully consider the risks and uncertainties more fully described in the "Risk Factors" section"
Risk factors are elements or conditions that could cause an investment's value to decrease or lead to potential losses. They are like warning signs or obstacles that can affect the success of an investment, making it uncertain or more unpredictable. Recognizing risk factors helps investors understand the possible challenges and make more informed decisions.

FAQ

What board changes did Albertsons Companies (ACI) announce in this 8-K?

Albertsons Companies announced that Meg Whitman joined its Board of Directors and was elected Executive Chair. The Board expanded from 10 to 11 members, and Kim Fennebresque moved from Chair to Lead Independent Director.

What is Meg Whitman’s compensation as Executive Chair at Albertsons (ACI)?

Meg Whitman will receive an annual base salary of $100,000 and time-based restricted stock units with a grant date value of $8.9 million, vesting in one year, subject to continued employment.

Is Meg Whitman considered an independent director under NYSE rules at Albertsons (ACI)?

No. Because Meg Whitman is an employee of Albertsons Companies, the Board determined that she is not an independent director under the rules of the New York Stock Exchange.

What role will Meg Whitman play alongside Albertsons (ACI) CEO Susan Morris?

Meg Whitman, as Executive Chair, will serve as an operations and strategic advisor to CEO Susan Morris and the senior team, supporting efforts to sharpen strategy, strengthen execution and increase profitable growth, including initiatives around AI technologies and customer experience.

How large is Albertsons Companies’ (ACI) retail footprint as described in the filing?

As of June 20, 2026, Albertsons Companies operated 2,240 retail stores, 1,708 in-store pharmacies, 408 fuel centers, 22 distribution centers and 19 manufacturing facilities across 35 states and the District of Columbia under 22 banners.

What community support did Albertsons Companies (ACI) and its foundation provide in 2025?

In 2025, Albertsons Companies and the Albertsons Companies Foundation contributed $497 million in food and financial support, including $56 million through its Nourishing Neighbors Program, to help ensure people in its communities have enough to eat.

AI-generated analysis. How Rhea-AI works. Not financial advice.

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Learn about SEC filing dates
0001646972False00016469722026-09-092026-09-09

UNITED STATES
SECURITIES AND EXCHANGE COMMISSION
WASHINGTON, D. C. 20549
 
FORM 8-K
 
CURRENT REPORT
Pursuant to Section 13 or 15(d) of the
Securities Exchange Act of 1934
Date of Report (Date of earliest event reported):
September 8, 2026
 
Albertsons Companies, Inc.
(Exact Name of Registrant as Specified in Charter)
 
Delaware001-3935047-4376911
(State or Other Jurisdiction of Incorporation)(Commission File Number)(IRS Employer Identification No.)
 
250 Parkcenter Blvd.
Boise, Idaho 83706
(Address of principal executive office and zip code)
(208) 395-6200
(Registrant’s telephone number, including area code)
Not Applicable
(Former Name or Former Address, if Changed Since Last Report)

Check the appropriate box below if the Form 8-K filing is intended to simultaneously satisfy the filing obligation of the registrant under any of the following provisions:
Written communications pursuant to Rule 425 under the Securities Act (17 CFR 230.425)
Soliciting material pursuant to Rule 14a-12 under the Exchange Act (17 CFR 240.14a-12)
Pre-commencement communications pursuant to Rule 14d-2(b) under the Exchange Act (17 CFR 240.14d-2(b))
Pre-commencement communications pursuant to Rule 13e-4(c) under the Exchange Act (17 CFR 240.13e-4(c))

Securities registered pursuant to Section 12(b) of the Act:
Title of each classTrading Symbol(s)Name of each exchange on which registered
Class A common stock, $0.01 par valueACINew York Stock Exchange
Indicate by check mark whether the registrant is an emerging growth company as defined in Rule 405 of the Securities Act of 1933 (§230.405 of this chapter) or Rule 12b-2 of the Securities Exchange Act of 1934 (§240.12b-2 of this chapter).
Emerging growth company
If an emerging growth company, indicate by check mark if the registrant has elected not to use the extended transition period for complying with any new or revised financial accounting standards provided pursuant to Section 13(a) of the Exchange Act.




Item 5.02Departure of Directors or Certain Officers; Election of Directors; Appointment of Certain Officers; Compensatory Arrangements of Certain Officers.

Effective, September 8, 2026, Margaret Whitman was appointed as a member of the Board of Directors (the "Board") of Albertsons Companies, Inc. (the "Company") for a term expiring at the Company's 2027 annual meeting of stockholders or until a successor is duly elected and qualified. In connection with Ms. Whitman's appointment, the Board will expand from 10 to 11 directors.

In addition, the Board announced that Ms. Whitman has been elected to serve as Executive Chair of the Board and Kim Fennebresque, who has served as Chair of the Board since September 2025, has been appointed as the Board's Lead Independent Director. Ms. Whitman has not been appointed to any committee of the Board.

Because Ms. Whitman is an employee, the Board has determined that Ms. Whitman is not an independent director under the rules of the New York Stock Exchange. Ms. Whitman will receive an annual base salary of $100,000 and time-based restricted stock units with a grant date value of $8.9 million vesting in one year, subject to continued employment. There are no arrangements or understanding between Ms. Whitman and any other person pursuant to which Ms. Whitman was selected as a director, nor are there any family relationships between Ms. Whitman and any director or executive officer of the Company or any person nominated or chosen by the Company to become a director or executive officer. Ms. Whitman is not party to any transaction with the Company that would require disclosure under Item 404(a) of Regulation S-K.

A copy of the press release announcing these updates is attached to this report as Exhibit 99.1 and is incorporated by reference herein.

Item 9.01Financial Statements and Exhibits.
(d) Exhibits. The following exhibits are being filed herewith:
99.1
Press Release dated September 9, 2026
104
Cover Page Interactive Data File (embedded within the Inline XBRL document)
    




SIGNATURES
Pursuant to the requirements of the Securities Exchange Act of 1934, as amended, the registrant has duly caused this report to be signed on its behalf by the undersigned hereunto duly authorized.
 
Albertsons Companies, Inc.
(Registrant)
September 9, 2026By:/s/ Thomas Moriarty
Name:Thomas Moriarty
Title:Executive Vice President, M&A and Corporate Affairs



Exhibit 99.1

Albertsons® Companies, Inc. Appoints Meg Whitman as Executive Chair
Kim Fennebresque named Lead Independent Director

Whitman brings over 40 years of business, technology and strategic innovation experience to Albertsons Cos. as the retailer embarks on a defining period in its history

BOISE, Idaho – September 9, 2026 – Albertsons® Companies, Inc. (NYSE: ACI) today announced that Meg Whitman has been appointed to the newly created role of Executive Chair of the company's Board of Directors. With Whitman's appointment, Kim Fennebresque has transitioned from Chair to Lead Independent Director, and the board has expanded from 10 to 11 members. Whitman will work to support Susan Morris, CEO of Albertsons Cos., and her entire senior team.

"Meg is an ideal leader to join Albertsons' Board of Directors," said Fennebresque. "Her appointment underscores the board's commitment to bring proven technology expertise and transformation leadership to all aspects of the business. Meg's role as Executive Chair complements Susan's leadership abilities as the company accelerates plans to compete and win."

Whitman has been building and reimagining companies for more than 40 years. She served as President and Chief Executive Officer of eBay, Inc. from 1998 to 2008, as the company grew from $30 million to more than $8 billion in annual revenue and defined personal e-commerce. From 2011 to 2018, Whitman led Hewlett-Packard (HP) and transformed the company's performance in computing and information technology services. During her tenure at HP, Whitman reconnected the company to its customers, unlocked significant shareholder value and ensured that the HP brand would thrive well into the future.

Whitman also has extensive director experience, having served on several corporate boards over the years, including Procter & Gamble and General Motors. She is currently on the corporate boards of CoreWeave, Inc., Motive Technologies and Fervo Energy.

In addition to leading the Albertsons Cos. board, Whitman will serve as an operations and strategic advisor to Morris and her senior team. Whitman will provide support as Morris sharpens strategy, strengthens execution and increases profitable growth throughout all parts of the business. Whitman's experience will be particularly relevant as Morris continues to streamline the operating structure around AI technologies and a more consistent customer experience across stores and digital channels. Whitman will also work with Morris to refine the company's long-term strategy.

"At this pivotal moment, I'm thrilled Meg is joining our board as Executive Chair," said Morris. "Meg has a remarkable track record of helping companies strengthen execution, accelerate growth and create long-term value. As we focus on moving faster and competing more effectively, Meg's strategic judgment, operating discipline and technology expertise will be invaluable. I look forward to partnering closely in the months and years ahead. I'm also grateful to Kim Fennebresque for his leadership as Chair and pleased we will continue to benefit from his experience as Lead Independent Director."

"Albertsons has a rich history serving customers and communities across the country," said Whitman. "Susan is a talented leader who has dedicated her career to the company. I am honored to work with her, the entire management team and my fellow directors as we build on the company's strengths and deliver meaningful value for customers, associates, communities and shareholders."





Meg Whitman Biography

Meg Whitman served as United States Ambassador to Kenya from July 2022 until November 2024. From March 2018 until February 2021, Whitman served as the Chief Executive Officer of Quibi, a Los Angeles-based entertainment startup.

From June 2017 to February 2018, Whitman was Chief Executive Officer for Hewlett Packard Enterprise (HPE), a multinational enterprise information technology company. She was the company's President and Chief Executive Officer from November 2015 to June 2017. From July 2014 to November 2015, Whitman served as President, Chief Executive Officer and Chair for Hewlett-Packard Company (HP), the former parent of HPE. Beginning in September 2011, as President and Chief Executive Officer of HP, Whitman engineered the groundbreaking and successful turnaround of the company. HPE and HP, Inc., the standalone companies created from that transformation, continue to thrive today.

Important Notice Regarding Forward-Looking Statements

This press release includes "forward-looking statements" within the meaning of the federal securities laws. The "forward-looking statements" include our current expectations, assumptions, perspectives and projections about our business and our industry. You can identify forward-looking statements by the use of words such as "outlook," "may," "should," "could," "estimates," "predicts," "potential," "continue," "anticipates," "believes," "plans," "expects," "future" and "intends" and similar expressions which are intended to identify forward-looking statements. The forward-looking statements are based on the Company’s current expectations and involve risks and uncertainties which are beyond our control and difficult to predict and could cause actual results to differ materially from the results expressed or implied by the statements. In evaluating our forward-looking statements, you should carefully consider the risks and uncertainties more fully described in the "Risk Factors" section or other sections in our reports filed with the SEC including the most recent annual report on Form 10-K and any subsequent periodic reports on Form 10-Q and current reports on Form 8-K and available at the SEC’s website at www.sec.gov.

About Albertsons Companies

Albertsons Companies is a leading food and drug retailer in the United States. As of June 20, 2026, the Company operated 2,240 retail stores with 1,708 in-store pharmacies, 408 associated fuel centers, 22 dedicated distribution centers and 19 manufacturing facilities. The Company operates stores across 35 states and the District of Columbia under 22 well known banners including Albertsons, Safeway, Vons, Jewel-Osco, Shaw's, ACME, Tom Thumb, Randalls, United Supermarkets, Pavilions, Star Market, Haggen, Carrs, Kings Food Markets and Balducci's Food Lovers Market. The Company is committed to helping people across the country live better lives by making a meaningful difference, neighborhood by neighborhood. In 2025, along with the Albertsons Companies Foundation, the Company contributed $497 million in food and financial support, including $56 million through its Nourishing Neighbors Program, to ensure those living in its communities and those impacted by disasters have enough to eat.

Albertsons, Safeway, Vons, Jewel-Osco, Tom Thumb, Randalls, United Supermarkets, Pavilions, Haggen and Balducci's Food Lovers Market are registered trademarks of Albertsons Companies Inc. or its subsidiaries. ACME, Carrs, Kings Food Markets, Shaw's, and Star Market are trademarks of Albertsons Companies Inc. or its subsidiaries. Albertsons associated logos, product names and services are trademarks of Albertsons Companies, Inc. All other trademarks are the property of their respective owners.





Contacts

media@albertsons.com



Filing Exhibits & Attachments

4 documents

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