LOS ANGELES — Senators John Edwards and Barack Obama have endorsed the efforts of a local coalition calling on Tesco to follow through on its promise to open Fresh & Easy Neighborhood Markets in underserved areas — so-called “food deserts” — of Southern California. Tesco executives said here yesterday they are “actively pursuing” at least 18 stores in those areas, though the most heavily discussed location — at Central Ave. and Adams Blvd. — is part of a major redevelopment whose opening will be delayed indefinitely. The coalition, known as The Alliance for Healthy and Responsible Grocery Stores, is a mix of 25 labor, community, environmental and faith-based organizations that wants Tesco to sign a community benefits agreement pledging to keep its promise to develop stores in underserved areas, champion the environment and create good jobs. In his letter to the alliance, Obama said, “Only by working with communities can Tesco’s Fresh & Easy Markets be the ‘good neighbors’ they pledge to be.” Edwards said a partnership between the company and community leaders “would provide strong proof that Tesco will be a trustworthy partner and leader. This partnership process will create the strongest launch for your entry into these markets.”

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