The merger also expands Kroger's presence in the Chicagoland area, where Roundy's operates 34 stores under the Mariano's banner. "We admire what Bob Mariano has done with the Mariano's banner in Chicago, where he has created an urban format that is resonating with customers and we expect to apply Roundy's experience to our stores in urban areas around the country," says McMullen. "Kroger's scale and strong financial position will enable Roundy's to reinvest in its home state of Wisconsin while continuing to grow in Chicago." Kroger plans to finance the transaction with debt and refinance Roundy's existing debt of $646 million. Together Kroger and Roundy's will operate 2,774 supermarkets and employ over 422,000 associates across 35 states and Washington, D.C.