U.S. Senators Lisa Murkowski and Dan Sullivan expressed concerns to the Federal Trade Commission (FTC) about the Albertsons-Kroger merger. The FTC is overseeing the potential deal. In a letter addressed to FTC Chair Lina Khan, the Senators identified their concerns with the possible compact, including how it would affect consumer prices, the state’s food security, and Alaskan employees and their union contracts.
In the letter, the Senators wrote, “We write to express our deep concerns about the agreement and the potential impacts the proposed merger will have on Alaskans. There are simply too many unanswered questions and unforeseen consequences over the horizon should this merger be approved. When reviewing this proposed merger, we ask that you and the Federal Trade Commission (FTC) set a very high approval bar and consider the following issues that are essential to Alaskans’ well-being.”
“Alaskans are justifiably concerned that this potential merger will mean fewer grocery stores with even more expensive groceries on the shelves,” said Senator Lisa Murkowski. “Alaskans need to be confident that these uncertainties about access and price will be addressed.”
“Given that the Biden administration’s inflation-inducing policies have been driving up the cost of food, energy and interest rates to 40-year highs, Alaskans need to be assured that the proposed merger won’t impact local competition and increase prices for hard-working families who are trying to make ends meet in the Biden economy,” said Senator Dan Sullivan.
Kroger announced on October 14, 2022, that it would acquire Albertsons for $24.6 billion. Earlier this month, Kroger announced a $1.9 billion divesture agreement, which proposes to sell 14 of 35 existing Carrs-Safeway stores in Alaska currently owned by Albertsons to C&S Wholesale, LLC.
It is estimated that the FTC will conclude their review of the merger in early 2024.