Kroger, Albertsons announce stores that would be sold under merger

[IcyPeas]

Kroger and Albertsons Tuesday released a list of 579 stores that would be sold off under a proposed mega-merger of the grocery giants, including 63 locations in California.

The vast majority of the California locations are in Southern California.

The merger is being challenged by the Federal Trade Commission, which claims the proposed $24.6 billion merger would lead to higher grocery prices through a reduction in marketplace competition, and also potentially negatively affect workers.

Kroger has denied such claims, insisting that no stores, distribution centers or manufacturing facilities would be closed, and claiming that "customers will benefit from lower prices and more choices" through the merger.

The United Food and Commercial Workers union, which represents grocery workers, issued a statement Tuesday saying it continues to oppose the merger.

More here:

https://www.kpbs.org/news/economy/2024/07/09/kroger-albertsons-announce-stores-that-would-be-sold-under-merger

[hlthe2b]

1. Block this damned merger... That they are dumping all these stores shows there is no damned reason for the merger

except to raid the best of the best and discard the bones (and majorly dismantle the union).

AGs in nearly all affected states oppose. The FTC opposes this. Consumers oppose. So WTF is this moving forward?

[EYESORE 9001]

2. Can't speak to Albertsons, as I don't live in that region anymore

but I’ve been aware of Kroger’s union-busting and wanton disregard for neighborhoods when they buy and close stores.

[hlthe2b]

4. Safeway and Albertsons merged long ago in my area, but I have a great deal of "love" for Safeway... Not the cheapest

groceries, mind you, but the stores are always clean, organized, well -stocked and the food is fresh. King Soopers (Krogers for my area) are fine and I do shop there, but the aisles are so congested that even a few customers (especially with kid-friendly enormous carts) make it a miserable experience.

Safeway has been around forever, treats its employees pretty well, and abides by its union. Yes. I shop elsewhere too to seek better prices on some items, but if I had my druthers, I'd continue doing most of mine there.

I dread the thought of this merger and sell-off of stores. Colorado has a ton that they intend to unload. sigh...

[quaint]

3. Right, no one will be laid off.

How many times has this been claimed:

All employees are expected to be able to maintain their employment with C&S, officials have said.

[Jacson6]

5. There was a merger by Albertson's with another grocer years ago.

Albertson's sold some of their stores to another grocer to get the merger approved. The buyer promptly closed and sold the Albertson's store they bought.
What is a few billon dollars between CEO's?