Remember "Alphy", the Alpha Beta grocery store chain mascot? They were a California chain. My mom shopped there when I was young and Alphy was always there. Sometimes dressed like a cowboy and later as a more "mature" alphy in a blue suit.

In 1979, Skaggs Drug (an operation founded by the original Safeway founding family) purchased American Stores and assumed the American Stores name. Combined food and drug stores in Alpha Beta territory were re-branded Skaggs Alpha Beta during the next few years.

The demise of the Alpha Beta name began with the 1988 merger of American Stores with Lucky Stores. Significant antitrust wrangling ensued. Most Northern California units took the Lucky name. American ultimately sold many of the Alpha Beta stores to Yucaipa/Ralphs/Food4Less, but rebranded some under the Lucky name. Stores in other areas went to Certified Grocers, Albertson's, and other chains.

Learn more about the history of Alpha Beta and other grocery stores at

Groceteria.net

Many people look back fondly on the 70's and 80's and view it as a much safer and simpler time. The opioid and prescription drug epidemic we are experiencing today has affected the lives of many people. Even birth defects from prescription drugs and OTC drugs like NSAIDs have occurred which may make people long for the days of Skaggs Drug stores.

 

 

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