Fresh & Easy Announces 19 Sites in Sacramento Region

SACRAMENTO, Calif., Feb. 28 /PRNewswire/ -- Fresh & Easy Neighborhood Market CEO Tim Mason was joined today by Sacramento Mayor Heather Fargo and Councilmember Ray Tretheway in announcing plans to bring fresh, wholesome food at affordable prices to the Sacramento region.

Nineteen store locations were announced outside a future Fresh & Easy Neighborhood Market at Northgate Blvd and San Juan Blvd in Sacramento. Other locations revealed during today's announcement include sites in south Sacramento, Oak Park, Citrus Heights, Elk Grove, Folsom, Rancho Cordova, Rocklin and Vacaville.

"The Sacramento region is a great fit for us -- it is vibrant, fast-growing and widely known as having one of the most diverse populations in the U.S.," said Mason. "We're looking forward to bringing fresh, wholesome food at affordable prices to all types of neighborhoods throughout the Sacramento area."

Mason also commented on the company's entry into the Western U.S., "We have been very encouraged by the response to our stores thus far. Every single week brings more good news as sales, customer numbers and repeat visits are all growing."

Fresh & Easy currently has 55 grocery markets open throughout Southern California and in Nevada and Arizona. The company is a subsidiary of U.K.-based Tesco, one of the world's largest international retailers, which has invested $2 billion over five years in Fresh & Easy.

At roughly 10,000 square feet, Fresh & Easy markets are smaller than the typical supermarket to give customers a faster, easier shopping experience. In addition to fresh, prepared meals and produce, Fresh & Easy offers everyone's favorite national brand products and household items, all at everyday low prices.

Fresh & Easy brand products have no artificial colors or flavors, no added trans fats, and only use preservatives where absolutely necessary. The company also offers a range of national brands and authentic products, as well as fresh, prepared meals.

Each store employs approximately 20 to 30 people. All Fresh & Easy employees work a minimum of 20 hours per week, which ensures everyone is eligible for comprehensive and affordable health care. Entry-level positions pay well over the minimum wage, starting at $10 an hour in California, and offer a quarterly bonus of up to 10%.

More information regarding Fresh & Easy Neighborhood Market can be found at http://www.freshandeasy.com.

Fresh & Easy Neighborhood Market

CONTACT: Brendan Wonnacott, +1-916-554-3466, Cell, +1-310-384-3833, for
Fresh & Easy

Web site: http://www.freshandeasy.com/