Albertsons launches in-store media network

04/26/2005

Albertson’s, Inc. (NYSE: ABS) announced today that it is installing a new media system in key shopping areas in its stores to enhance the shopping experience for customers. The new system, which features 15-inch flat-panel LCD screens at each checkout lane and 42-inch plasma screens in select areas within the store, will roll out this spring in Albertsons stores in San Francisco, Jewel-Osco stores in Chicago, and Shaw’s and Star Market stores in Boston. Other markets will follow throughout 2005.

“We are always looking for new vehicles through which we can build stronger relationships with our customers,” said Paul Gannon, Albertsons Chief Marketing Officer. “This new storewide media system will help make our customers’ lives easier by providing them with relevant information and solutions throughout their visits to our stores.”

The Albertsons media network will be driven by two systems. The network in the checkout lanes will be installed and managed by in-store media provider Premier Retail Networks (PRN). PRN will provide programming and sell advertising on the network, which will be broadcast on eye-level screens that customers can watch while waiting in line. Programming will include integrated information and advertising focused on health, home, and family.

The 42-inch plasma screens located along the perimeter of the store will be installed and managed by SignStorey, Inc. (SSI), a supplier of in-store digital advertising networks to the supermarket industry. SignStorey will provide programming and sell advertising on this network.

“Today’s shoppers want more information where and when they are making their purchasing decisions,” said Virginia Cargill, SignStorey CEO. “SignStorey’s programming will provide shoppers with specific information about Albertsons as well as food preparation tips, entertaining ideas, health and wellness advice and more.”

“The combined networks are truly a relationship marketing vehicle that connects with consumers via sight, sound and motion across the store,” said Natalie Egleston, General Manager of PRN’s Supermarket Network. “The system is also an excellent way for Albertsons to be able to reach customers as they are shopping or leaving the store, to remind them of all the great services that Albertsons offers to customers.”

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Albertsons is one of the world's largest food and drug retailers. The company's divisions and subsidiaries operate more than 2,500 stores in 37 states across the U.S. and employ more than 240,000 associates. Its banners include Albertsons, Acme, Shaw's, Jewel-Osco, Sav-on Drugs, Osco Drug, and Star Market, and Super Saver and Bristol Farms, which are operated independently.

About PRN Corporation
Founded in 1992, the PRN Corporation operates the PRN Network, the largest in-store television network in the United States based on the number of consumers reached each month. Through the PRN Network, PRN enables national and local advertisers to reach consumers in over 5,000 leading retail stores in all of the 210 media markets designated by AC Nielsen in the United States. PRN works with retailers and advertisers to create in-store television programming that includes entertainment, news, product information, advertising and community content. PRN's headquarters are in San Francisco, California. For more information, please visit www.prn.com.

About SignStorey, Inc. (SSI)
Founded in 2000, SignStorey is a leading supplier of in-store digital advertising networks to the grocery industry. SignStorey installs and manages its networks and also provides programming and advertising sales. The programming includes shopper information, news and customized messaging from each retailer. SignStorey’s digital signage is individually addressable providing maximum messaging flexibility to its retailers and advertisers. SignStorey’s headquarters is located in Fairfield, CT. For more information, visit Signstorey.com.