Kroger this week said that once its proposed $24.6 billion acquisition of Albertsons has been approved by federal regulators and closed, it will extend its commitment to "make more local products available to its customers … Post-close, the combined company will increase the number of local products in its stores by 10%, which equates to at least of 30 new local products in each store."
"Local farmers, bakers and producers are important parts of our Fresh for Everyone brand promise," said Rodney McMullen, Kroger's chairman & CEO, in a prepared statement. "Every local product we stock has a unique producer with their own story standing behind it. Since the beginning, this merger has been about growth – and we look forward to inviting our local suppliers to grow alongside us. We are dedicated to supporting the innovation that only a small business owner can create."
- KC's View:
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Just one question. If expanding local products will be good business post-merger, shouldn't it be good business even if it gets rejected?
