Retail analysts and consumer groups believe the pending merger between massive U.S. grocery chains Kroger and Albertsons could negatively impact seafood suppliers and shoppers, warning that, if approved, it would result in fewer options for consumers, higher prices, less competition, and the possible shuttering of smaller grocery chains.
The proposed USD 24.6 billion (EUR 22.8 billion) merger, announced last October between Boise, Idaho, U.S.A.-based Albertsons and Cincinnati, Ohio, U.S.A.-based Kroger, would combine the forces of two companies that together operate 4,996 stores, 66 distribution centers, 52 manufacturing plants, 3,972 pharmacies, and 2,015 fuel centers across the U.S.
“The combination creates a premier seamless ecosystem across 48 states and the District of Columbia [Washington, D.C.], providing customers with a best-in-class shopping experience across both stores and digital channels,” the two retailers stated in a press release at the time…