ALBERTSONS INTRODUCES NEW NONFOOD PRIVATE LABELS 2004-09-27 (2)

BOISE, Idaho -- Albertsons here said it launched its new private-label line of health and beauty care products earlier this month, with the rollout of a new general merchandise private-label product line scheduled for next month. The new HBC line is called Equaline, and the GM line will be merchandised under the Home Life label, according to Felicia Thornton, executive vice president and chief financial officer, who mentioned the new lines in a speech last week in San Francisco at the 34th annual investment conference sponsored by Banc of America Securities. Albertsons officials contacted by SN said both lines will consist of new items and do not represent a relabeling of existing products. However, they declined to provide additional details.