The Georgia Stock Option and Stock Award Plan is an incentive program provided by the American Stores Company that allows employees to own a stake in the company through stock options and stock awards. This plan aims to motivate and reward employees for their contributions to the company's growth and success. Under this plan, employees have the opportunity to purchase stock options at a predetermined price, known as the exercise price, within a specified period. These stock options give employees the right to buy company shares in the future at the exercise price regardless of the current market value. This allows employees to potentially benefit from the company's value appreciation. The Georgia Stock Option and Stock Award Plan also includes stock awards, where employees are offered company shares outright as a form of compensation or recognition. These stock awards are usually granted based on the employee's performance, contribution to the company, or specific achievements. One of the variations of the American Stores Company's Georgia Stock Option and Stock Award Plan is the Non-Qualified Stock Option Plan. This plan provides employees with stock options that are, as the name suggests, not qualified for certain tax benefits. These non-qualified stock options are more flexible in terms of exercise timing and can be offered to a broader range of employees. Another type of plan is the Incentive Stock Option Plan, which provides employees with stock options that qualify for specific tax advantages. This plan is subject to strict rules and requirements outlined by the Internal Revenue Service (IRS). The Georgia Stock Option and Stock Award Plan is designed to align employees' interests with the company's long-term performance and growth. By offering employees the opportunity to purchase company stock or receive stock awards, it not only incentivizes them but also creates a sense of ownership and loyalty. This plan plays a vital role in attracting and retaining talented individuals within the American Stores Company while fostering a culture of shared success.