The Vermont Stock Option and Stock Award Plan is an important aspect of the American Stores Company's employee benefits program. It provides employees with the opportunity to acquire ownership in the company through stock options and stock awards. This plan promotes employee retention, motivation, and aligns their interests with the company's success. One type of stock option available under the Vermont Stock Option and Stock Award Plan is the Non-Qualified Stock Option (NO). These options are generally granted at a predetermined exercise price and can be exercised after a certain vesting period. Nests provide employees with the opportunity to purchase company stock at a discounted price, enabling them to benefit from any increase in stock value. Another type of stock option available is the Incentive Stock Option (ISO). SOS are granted to key employees and have special tax advantages. To qualify for these options, employees must meet specific criteria outlined by the Internal Revenue Service (IRS), including holding the options for a certain period before exercising them. Additionally, the Vermont Stock Option and Stock Award Plan includes stock awards, which are a form of direct equity grants to employees. Stock awards give employees actual ownership in the company, typically awarded either as restricted stock units (RSS) or performance shares. RSS grant employees the right to receive shares in the future after meeting specific conditions, such as continued employment or achieving certain performance goals. The Vermont Stock Option and Stock Award Plan aims to reward and retain high-performing employees, encourage long-term commitment, and provide employees with a sense of ownership and alignment with the company's goals. The Plan's structure offers flexibility to meet different employee needs, offer tax advantages, and promote loyalty and dedication among employees. In conclusion, the Vermont Stock Option and Stock Award Plan provided by the American Stores Company offers various types of stock options, including Non-Qualified Stock Options and Incentive Stock Options, as well as stock awards like Restricted Stock Units. By granting these options and awards, the company encourages employee ownership and incentivizes top performance, cultivating a strong and motivated workforce.