What you think about: The Kroger, Albertsons federal trial

The FTC / Kroger, Albertsons merger trial in Portland, Ore. wrapped up at the end of September. The trial centered around a question of the definition of competition. The FTC argues that a merger between Kroger and Albertsons would only further hurt mid-tier grocers already suffering under the dominance of retail giants like Walmart. 

Attorneys for Kroger and Albertsons say consolidation is exactly what’s needed to survive the Amazons and Walmarts of the world.

So far, analysts we spoke with largely think the FTC came out as the “winner” during the federal Kroger, Albertsons trial. 

Who is going to come away as the winner of the federal Kroger, Albertsons trial? Here’s what you had to say: 

Paul Hill, Director Of Facilities at Heinen’s Grocery Store

It’s certainly an interesting case to follow, and the outcome will have significant implications for the retail and grocery landscape. If analysts are pointing to the FTC as the “winner,” it could reflect a successful effort to challenge large-scale consolidation, particularly in an industry that impacts consumers directly. However, it’s important to consider the long-term effects this may have on competition, pricing, and market accessibility. Ultimately, a balanced approach that protects consumers while fostering healthy competition would be the best outcome for all parties involved.

Alex Walker, Assistant Sales Manager (Business Manager) at United Supermarkets, LLC

Walmart, Costco, Amazon, etc. are the winners. They get to continue as usual with the FTC protecting them from the only viable competition. Kroger, Albertsons, C&S, the laborers and the consumers all suffer.

Michael M., Prep Cook, Plating Cook

I’ve always found it interesting to note that most “capitalists” ultimate goal is to become a monopolist. I side with the decades of proof that has spawned volumes of antitrust legislation showing that monopolies ultimately hurt the consumer. Would Walmart have the hundreds of price “rollbacks” going on right now in their stores if they had more monopoly power? probably not. In the long term, the consumer is the winner. My business law professor would probably also agree. History proves Kroger’s CEO wrong when he stated that prices would be lower if the merger went through about a week ago…
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