BALTIMORE, MD—The Kroger Company and Albertsons Companies are facing a lawsuit from the Maryland Attorney General’s office over their proposed merger.

The lawsuit claims that the merger violates the Clayton Act, which prohibits the merger of businesses that would substantially reduce competition or create a monopoly. The merging of the two companies would create the largest national supermarket chain in the country, with more than 80 stores in Maryland.

The lawsuit argues that the merger would lead to higher prices for consumers, reduced quality and quantity of products, and lower customer service. The merger could also lead to reduced labor market competition, which may lower wages or slow wage growth, worsen benefits or working conditions, and otherwise lower workplace quality.

The Maryland Office of the Attorney General surveyed Marylanders in August 2023 about their concerns about the Kroger/Albertsons merger. Nearly 60% of respondents said they were concerned about the merger, citing concerns about decreased competition, lower quality, less product diversity, and avoiding havoc on pricing and food availability.

Attorney General Anthony G. Brown is one of eight attorneys general who filed the lawsuit. Brown has also issued a statement that states: “Americans spend more of their income on food than they have in decades. As Attorney General, I will not hesitate legal action to ensure Maryland families have access to affordable prices, a wide selection, and high-quality groceries.”

Marylanders can continue providing their feedback regarding the merger by clicking here and completing the Kroger/Albertsons merger survey featured online here.

More in the video below.

This article was written with the assistance of AI and reviewed by a human editor.