AHOLD COMPLETES ACQUISITION OF DISCO

ZAANDAM, Netherlands -- As expected, Ahold here said it had acquired full control of Disco Ahold Holdings, which previously was a joint venture between Ahold and Velox Retail Holdings, for $490 million. The international retailer and food-service operator, which operates the Giant Food, Bruno's, Tops Friendly Markets, Bi-Lo and Stop & Shop banners in the United States, said it would take a charge of 350 million to 450 million euros ($362 million to $465 million U.S.) in the second quarter to account for the difference between the purchase price and the fair value of the shares. Ahold was required to take over the company after Velox defaulted on certain debts. Disco operates 350 supermarkets in Argentina, Chile, Peru and Paraguay.