in May that it opposed the merger, citing a lack of transparency, in addition to threats to workers livelihoods’ that arise from mergers in general, and this one in particular.vice president of the United Food and Commercial Worker’s Union Local 1496, said a merger could lead to fewer stores in Alaska, hurting jobs and wages. He said the Alaska local represents 2,500 workers in the state, including many grocery store employees.
“If there’s one grocery store, you’d see more neglect for employees and less protections for employees,” he said.He echoed concerns that a newly merged company, if it’s allowed to occur, would not recognize existing union contracts. Brian Albrecht, an economist with the International Center for Law and Economics, a think tank in Portland, Oregon, said the two chains face anti-competition concerns primarily in some areas of the western U.S., but not across most of the U.S. where their brands’He said regulators will be looking closely at individual markets such as the one in Alaska and can make sure the deal addresses antitrust issues, worker concerns and the state’s unique logistical challenges.
Sen. Lisa Murkowski, R-Alaska, has previously said the FTC has responsibility to prevent the merger from happening if it will cause higher prices, reduced competition or negative workforce impacts.