Comment: Move to block Kroger-Albertsons deal by Washington state highlights concerns over divestiture buyers
By Ben Brody ( January 16, 2024, 21:59 GMT | Comment) -- Washington state says the loss of head-to-head competition between local stores as a result of the proposed Kroger-Albertsons merger would likely increase the price of food and other products, and the grocers’ proposed divestiture isn’t expected to resolve concerns by the state, which is challenging the deal. The state said the proposed buyer, C&S Wholesale Grocers, doesn't have enough experience running grocery stores in the state or enough history holding on to divested assets it has purchased to ensure the storefronts continue to provide robust competition. The FTC’s current timeline for evaluating the deal is still fluid, but is likely to extend at least until February, MLex has learned.Washington state says the loss of head-to-head competition between local stores as a result of the proposed Kroger-Albertsons merger would likely increase the price of food and other products, and the grocers’ proposed divestiture isn’t expected to resolve concerns by the state, which is challenging the deal. The state said the proposed buyer, C&S Wholesale Grocers, doesn't have enough experience running grocery stores in the state or enough history holding on to divested assets it has purchased to ensure the storefronts continue to provide robust competition. ...
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