Brussels, Belgium, July 23, 2016 - Delhaize Group and Ahold have received regulatory clearance for their merger from the United States Federal Trade Commission (FTC). The companies subsequently completed the merger with the signing of the merger deed by Delhaize Group CEO Frans Muller and Ahold CEO Dick Boer today.

Mats Jansson, Chairman of Delhaize Group said: "Today is an historic day, as we are now really bringing together these two great companies, creating an even stronger international food retailer. We are completing this international transaction with great momentum and a high level of readiness."

Frans Muller, Delhaize Group CEO said: "We are pleased to complete our merger with Ahold today. I would like to thank our associates for all their work and dedication. The moment to merge has never been more right, and we are confident that we will deliver even more for customers, communities and investors." 

The merger will become effective on Sunday, July 24, 2016 at 00:01 a.m. CET. Ahold Delhaize shares will start trading on Euronext Amsterdam and Euronext Brussels on Monday, July 25 with ticker symbol AD. Ahold Delhaize American Depositary Receipts (ADRs) will trade over-the-counter in the United States and will be quoted on the OTCQX International marketplace.

Please visit www.delhaizegroup.com, www.ahold.com, or www.adcombined.com for more information.