UNITED STATES - An update regarding the merger between Kroger and Albertsons occurred yesterday afternoon. Kroger released a list of stores it plans to divest to secure regulatory approval for its proposed merger with Albertsons. This list includes stores, distribution centers, and plants.

According to a report from Bloomberg, citing a memo written by Chief Executive Officer Rodney McMullen, the companies at the affected locations have now begun to notify staff.

A copy of the store divestiture plan outlined the stores affected and the states in which they reside.

The states most impacted by the divestitures include Washington with 124 stores, Arizona with 101 stores, Colorado with 91 stores, California with 63 stores, and Oregon with 62. The total store count divested is 579 stores across 18 states.

The merger is currently being challenged by the Federal Trade Commission. The FTC trial is set for next month.

Keep reading AndNowUKnow as we cover the latest on this merger.