BENSON, Ariz. — Rural opposition is coming together to a proposal to merge the Fry’s and Safeway grocery chains. The plan would have a nationwide impact because grocery brands in many states are part of the parent companies Kroger and Albertsons/Safeway.
John Rogers drove his ‘49 Dodge to the Safeway in Benson. He says Walmart is the only other grocery in Benson. He’d like to learn what it would mean for Safeway if Safeway’s parent company is approved to merge with the company behind Fry’s.---and if that means the Benson Safeway might close. Sierra Vista Mayor Clea McCaa says with one Safeway and one Fry's half of his city could become a food desert if the stores consolidate and one closes. He’s afraid of reduced competition, higher prices, and reduced access to other critical services like pharmacies.
Congressman Ruben Gallego is teaming up with rural mayors to send a letter to the Federal Trade Commission urging the FTC to reject the merger.