Over the past few months, Cincinnati-based Kroger Co. BB #:100073 has pledged to lower prices, increase shelf space for local products, bring resources to associates, donate 10 billion meals, and more in a public relations campaign to support its merger with Boise-based Albertsons Cos. BB #:193326.
So far two states, Washington and Colorado, have sued to block the merger and a new Reuters report suggests the Federal Trade Commission will be next.
A lawsuit to block the merger is expected before a February 28 deadline between the FTC and the companies expires, according to the report.
Both companies say they are in discussions with the FTC and regulators. “This merger is the best thing for America’s consumers because it will lead to lower prices and more choices on the foods customers need, want, and love.” A Kroger spokesperson said, in the article.
On January 15, Kroger, Albertsons, and C&S Wholesale Grocers LLC BB #:137315 released a statement on the merger timeline to close, expecting it to close in the first half of Kroger’s fiscal 2024. Kroger’s fiscal second quarter closes August 17.
