OTTAWA — Shareholders of discount retail chain Family Dollar adjourned their meeting Tuesday without voting on a proposed $8.5 billion merger deal with smaller discounter Dollar Tree. By an overwhelming vote, stockholders postponed the vote to Jan. 22. The delay could give new life to a hostile $9.1 billion takeover of Family Dollar by rival discounter Dollar General. Executives of Family Dollar and Dollar Tree have declined to comment publicly on the delay. However, Dollar General said it remains committed to its effort to acquire Family Dollar. Family Dollar executives have refused to engage in discussions with Dollar General, in part because of anti-trust concerns and that Dollar General might eliminate their jobs. Some Family Dollar shareholders have unsuccessfully sued, trying to force the company to negotiate with Dollar General. Dollar General said it will continue to work with federal reglators to get approval for its deal. All three discounters have stores in the area.
Wednesday, Dec. 24, 3 p.m.
