Washington State Sues to Block Kroger-Albertsons Merger

Attorney General alleges the $25 billion deal would limit competition and raise prices, while companies argue the merger would lower prices and increase choices for consumers.

Washington state Attorney General Bob Ferguson has filed a lawsuit to block the proposed $25 billion merger between supermarket giants Kroger and Albertsons, alleging it would harm consumers and hike up prices.
The lawsuit argues that the merger would severely limit grocery store options for Washington residents and eliminate vital competition between the two chains.
Kroger and Albertsons have more than 300 locations in Washington and are responsible for more than half of the state’s grocery sales.
The companies argue that the merger will result in lower prices and more choices for consumers, and help them compete more effectively against rivals like Walmart and Amazon.
The merger, initially set to take place early 2024, has been delayed and is now expected to be finalized in the first half of Kroger's fiscal 2024.