FTC attempts to block Kroger's acquisition of Albertsons
UC economics professor tells WLWT it's uncertain whether the merger would lower costs for consumers
Kroger's attempt to purchase rival grocery chain Albertsons is in limbo, with the Federal Trade Commission attempting to block the proposed merger, WLWT reported.
David Brasington, PhD, James C. and Caroline Kautz Chair in Political Economy and professor of economics
The FTC has filed a federal lawsuit and launched an administrative proceeding against the deal, arguing it would “substantially lessen competition” and lead to higher grocery prices.
“The environment for businesses is that you really have to fight the FTC to have a merger,” said David Brasington, PhD, the James C. and Caroline Kautz Chair in Political Economy and economics professor in the University of Cincinnati's Carl H. Lindner College of Business.
While the government said the consolidation would lead to higher prices for consumers, Cincinnati-based Kroger said the company plans to reduce prices and increase wages and benefits for its employees after the deal is closed.
Whether the larger company would actually cut costs is uncertain, Brasington said.
“So, will the Kroger and Albertsons merger lead to economies of scale? And the promised cost cuttings — the price cuttings that Kroger has said? It's an empirical question,” he said. “We don't know yet.”
Featured image at top: Exterior of a Kroger store. Photo/Andrew Higley/UC Marketing + Brand
Impact Lives Here
The University of Cincinnati is leading public urban universities into a new era of innovation and impact. Our faculty, staff and students are saving lives, changing outcomes and bending the future in our city's direction. Next Lives Here.
Related Stories
Ohio nurses weigh in on proposed federal loan rule
December 12, 2025
Spectrum News journalist Javari Burnett spoke with UC Dean Alicia Ribar and UC nursing students Megan Romero and Nevaeh Haskins about proposed new federal student loan rules. Romero and Haskins, both seniors, were filmed in the College of Nursing’s Simulation Lab.
Bearcat Mascot, Cheer Team and scholarships help celebrate Decision Day
December 12, 2025
Cincinnati media organization provided news coverage of Decision Day activities at the University of Cincinnati on Dec. 10, 2025. Surprise announcements of the 2026 Marian Spencer Scholarship recipient occurred during the day.
UC awarded nearly $1 million to help fight infant obesity spike
December 12, 2025
University of Cincinnati researcher Cathy Stough spoke with Spectrum News1 about a nearly $1 million National Institutes of Health grant awarded to UC to help prevent infant obesity through early nutrition support and family-based interventions.