Antitrust enforcers go for the knockout punch on Kroger

Published On Sep 3, 2024, 11:02 AM

Kroger's $20 billion acquisition of Albertsons is facing significant resistance from the FTC, which is attempting to block the merger during a pivotal court case. The FTC argues that combining the two grocery giants would harm competition and lead to higher prices for consumers. Kroger intends to lower prices by $1 billion if the merger is approved, but the FTC presents expert testimony suggesting that prices may increase in the long run. A key point in the argument is whether C&S Wholesale Grocers, a proposed buyer for about 580 grocery stores, can effectively maintain competition. The trial continues with the FTC aiming to show the adverse consumer impacts of the merger.