FTC Challenges Kroger-Albertsons Merger Over Antitrust Concerns

The $25 billion deal, if approved, would create the largest supermarket merger in US history, affecting over 4,000 stores nationwide.

Kroger and Albertsons argue the merger is necessary to compete with Walmart and Amazon.
The FTC contends the merger would reduce competition and raise grocery prices.
Eight states and Washington DC have joined the FTC's lawsuit to block the deal.
The companies have pledged $1 billion to reduce prices and another $1 billion for worker benefits if the merger proceeds.
A federal court hearing in Oregon will determine the merger's fate over the next three weeks.