The Harris Texas Stock Option and Stock Award Plan is a comprehensive program implemented by the American Stores Company to incentivize and reward its employees through stock options and stock awards. This plan aims to attract, retain, and motivate talented individuals by providing them with opportunities to participate in the company's success and potentially benefit from its growth. Under this plan, employees are offered two different types of stock-based compensation: stock options and stock awards. Stock options grant employees the right to purchase a specified number of company shares at a predetermined exercise price within a defined timeframe. This allows employees to potentially profit from the appreciation of the company's stock value over time. On the other hand, stock awards are grants of actual shares of the company's stock given to employees as a reward for their performance or as an incentive to achieve specific goals. The Harris Texas Stock Option and Stock Award Plan of American Stores Company not only encourages employee participation in the company's growth but also aligns their interests with those of the shareholders. By having a stake in the company's success, employees will be motivated to work towards achieving exceptional results and contributing to the long-term success of American Stores. The specific types of stock options and stock awards offered under this plan may vary depending on several factors, such as an employee's position within the company, their performance level, and the overall objectives of the plan. Some potential types of stock options and stock awards that may be available include: 1. Incentive Stock Options (SOS): These options provide certain tax advantages to employees. If certain requirements are met, employees can enjoy favorable tax treatment upon exercising the options. 2. Non-Qualified Stock Options (SOS): Unlike SOS, SOS do not have to meet specific criteria to enjoy favorable tax treatment. However, they still offer employees the opportunity to purchase company stock at a predetermined price within a defined timeframe. 3. Restricted Stock Units (RSS): RSS are stock awards that are granted to employees subject to certain vesting conditions, such as a specific period of employment or achievement of performance goals. Once the conditions are met, the shares are released to the employee. 4. Performance Stock Units (Plus): Plus are similar to RSS but are granted based on the achievement of specific performance goals or targets. If the goals are met, the employee receives the allocated shares. It is essential for employees to carefully review the terms and conditions of the Harris Texas Stock Option and Stock Award Plan to fully understand the details of their stock-based compensation. This plan provides a valuable opportunity for employees of American Stores Company to share in the company's success and potentially build wealth through stock ownership.