Urge FTC to block Kroger-Albertsons merger

UFCW 367 calls on the community to contact the FTC, voice concerns over proposed megamerger

The following is from UFCW Local 367:

WASHINGTON, DC (July 27, 2023) — The United Food and Commercial Workers (UFCW) Local 367 announced a new campaign across Washington last week that will call on members of the public, in particular Kroger and Albertsons customers, to contact the Federal Trade Commission (FTC) to have their voices heard in opposition to the Kroger Albertsons merger and the disastrous consequences it could hold for Western Washington.

(In Washington state, Kroger operates as Fred Meyer and QFC, and Albertsons also operates as Safeway.)

UFCW Local 367 President Michael Hines said:

“The proposed Kroger Albertsons merger would be disastrous to our essential grocery store workers and the communities we serve. It would create one giant employer to negotiate against and could mean the end for the small independent stores throughout the six counties we represent. The FTC has the power to take action to block any corporate merger that would threaten competition and enable wide scale price gouging. Now is the time to stand together and demand the FTC protect consumers and block this harmful proposal before the deal goes through.

“If this merger goes through, hundreds of stores will be closed or sold off to private equity firms. Many of these targeted stores will be in neighborhoods lacking critical resources, resulting in food deserts. Washington families work hard to put food on their tables and deserve peace of mind instead of ever-increasing grocery prices. During record-high inflation and growing economic strain, the last thing our communities need is a corporate behemoth with unprecedented control over food prices and the working conditions of essential workers.”

“Send a message now to the FTC and tell them to block the Kroger Albertsons megamerger before it is too late.”

TAKE A STAND — Anyone hoping to voice their concerns about their opposition to the Kroger-Albertsons megamerger can email the FTC here. Please take a moment to send the FTC a message that this proposed megamerger spells disaster for consumers and essential workers everywhere.

PREVIOUSLY at The Stand:

Study: Kroger-Albertsons merger will cost workers over $300M (May 9)

Grocery unions decry proposed Kroger-Albertsons merger (Oct. 14, 2022)