Whole Foods Market (WFM) acquired by Amazon.com (AMZN)

Albertsons Cos Inc is exploring a takeover of high-end grocer Whole Foods Market Inc (WFM), the Financial Times reported on Monday, citing people familiar with the matter.

April 27, 2017: Another big investor is calling on Whole Foods Market Inc. to explore a sale. Mutual-fund manager Neuberger Berman, which owns a 2.7% stake in the organic grocery chain, sent a letter to the company’s board this week urging it to “immediately engage advisors” to review options including a sale or joint venture.

June 16, 2017: Amazon.com Inc. (AMZN) said on Friday it would buy Whole Foods Market Inc. (WFM) for $13.7 billion, including debt, instantly transforming the online giant into a major player in the bricks-and-mortar retail sector it has spent years upending.

June 16, 2017: Amazon (AMZN) and Whole Foods Market, Inc.  (WFM) today announced that they have entered into a definitive merger agreement under which Amazon will acquire Whole Foods Market for $42 per share in an all-cash transaction valued at approximately $13.7 billion, including Whole Foods Market’s net debt.