Lessons learned from the Kroger-Albertsons merger case

Abstract

By synthesizing the findings and supporting evidence from the Kroger-Albertsons merger case—the largest proposed supermarket merger in history—and the Court's preliminary injunction ruling, this paper offers insights into the key drivers of supermarket competition today (circa 2025). We identify and explain the drivers of supermarket competition today using the preliminary injunction ruling as a guide. Supermarket competition has been heavily influenced by information technology and the resulting increases in retailer capabilities and consumers’ digital engagement, in addition to other brand and product factors, not all of which have been well studied. We also highlight changes in the drivers of supermarket competition from previous grocery retail studies, in particular changes that are not yet well documented in academic literature. The article concludes with proposed topics for future research in supermarket competition.