Opportunities to give input on proposed Kroger-Albertsons merger
August 10, 2023
Kroger and Albertsons announced a potential $24.6 billion supermarket merger last fall, which would affect consumers, workers, farmers, and suppliers across the nation and in Colorado. Combined, they operate more than 250 King Soopers, City Market, Safeway, and Albertsons grocery stores across the state. They hope to finalize the merger in early 2024 if approved by state and federal regulators.
Colorado Attorney General Phil Weiser and the Colorado Department of Law are leading a multi-state investigation to ensure the proposed merger is lawful, does not undermine competition, and is fair to all impacted. They’re currently seeking public comment and consumer opinion on the merger. You can fill out the online survey or attend one of the upcoming listening sessions happening across the state.
Members of the Blueprint’s network and Federal Policy Committee have expressed concerns about potential impacts like store closures and lack of food access, increased prices for consumers, job losses, and farmers and suppliers being unable to sell their products. They voted to submit a collective letter to Colorado’s Attorney General opposing the merger this week, in addition to signing on to an opposition letter led by a national union of food and commercial workers. The committee also previously submitted comments to the Federal Trade Commission.
If you’re interested in engaging in these efforts and the Federal Policy Committee, please contact Greta Allen, the Blueprint’s Policy Manager.