Where Americans shop — and how much they pay — for groceries could hinge on the outcome of a trial starting Monday over whether the proposed merger of supermarket giants Kroger and Albertsons is likely to raise prices for consumers. The Federal Trade Commission in February filed suit to block the $24.6 billion deal, arguing it would reduce industry competition, hike grocery prices and worsen working conditions for workers.
Cincinnati, Ohio-based Kroger operates runs 2,800 stores in 35 states, including brands like Ralphs, Smith's and Harris Teeter. Boise, Idaho-based Albertsons operates 2,273 stores in 34 states, including brands like Safeway, Jewel Osco and Shaw's. Together, the companies employ around 710,000 people.'Albertsons Cos.