To counter the critics, the companies are planning to divest some stores. And Albertsons said it was ready to spin off a standalone unit to its shareholders immediately before the deal’s close.
Despite the fear surrounding grocery price increases, executives for Kroger and Albertsons insist the deal would allow shoppers to save money in addition to allowing the newly combined supermarket to keep up with competitors like Amazon and Walmart.
Both companies believe they have a “clear path” toward regulatory approval. And expect the deal to close sometime in 2024.
Meanwhile stock for both Kroger and Albertson’s has consistently outperformed the market since news of the mega-merger was released in October.
