Nevada Attorney General Aaron Ford met with local residents on Tuesday to discuss the proposed merger between Albertsons and Kroger. The merger, which would create the largest grocery retailer in the United States, has been met with concerns from some residents who worry that it could lead to higher prices and less competition.
Ford told the residents that his office is investigating the merger to determine if it would violate antitrust laws. He also said that he is open to hearing from residents about their concerns.
“I want to make sure that this merger is in the best interests of Nevadans,” Ford said. “I am committed to protecting competition and ensuring that consumers have access to affordable groceries.”
Some of the concerns raised by residents include the possibility that the merger could lead to higher prices, fewer choices, and job losses. Others are concerned that the merger could give the combined company too much power in the grocery market.
Kroger and Albertsons have said that the merger would create a more efficient company that can better compete with online retailers like Amazon. They have also said that the merger would not lead to job losses.
The merger is still subject to regulatory approval. The Federal Trade Commission (FTC) is expected to review the merger in the coming months.
The meeting with local residents was the latest in a series of public events that Ford has held to gather input on the merger. Ford has also met with grocery workers, small business owners, and other stakeholders.
Ford is expected to make a decision on whether to challenge the merger after the FTC completes its review.
In the meantime, the merger is likely to continue to be a source of debate in Nevada and other states.