Kroger and Albertsons Merger Faces Opposition from UFCW

The United Food and Commercial Workers International Union (UFCW) has opposed the proposed $20bn merger between Kroger ($KR@US) and Albertsons ($ACI@US), adding to tensions around the deal. The UFCW, the largest US union representing grocery workers, has criticized the lack of information provided by the companies and expressed concerns about potential store divestitures and concerns about the viability of stores that could be sold. Kroger said it is working with regulators to ensure that any divested locations are sold to qualified operators. The company won’t close any stores or lay off frontline workers from stores that might need to be impacted by the deal. UFCW plans to discuss its concerns with legislators and the Federal Trade Commission and lobby the companies for more information. The merger has drawn opposition from some elected officials, independent retailers, and suppliers, who have warned about its potential impact on industry competition, consumer food prices, and workers’ jobs.