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Oregon judge blocks Kroger purchase of Albertsons, citing threat to competition

An Oregon judge has blocked the proposed $24.6 billion acquisition of Albertsons by Kroger, citing significant threats to competition in the grocery market. The decision, issued by Multnomah County Circuit Judge Michael McShane, came after a lawsuit filed by Oregon Attorney General Ellen Rosenblum argued that the merger would lead to higher prices, reduced consumer choice, and potential job losses. The judge's ruling highlighted concerns over the combined company's market dominance, potentially creating a monopoly in several regions, and noted that the proposed divestitures to C&S Wholesale Grocers were insufficient to preserve competitive balance. This ruling marks a significant setback for the merger, which has faced scrutiny from multiple state attorneys general and federal regulators.

Read the Full Oregonian Article at:
[ https://www.oregonlive.com/business/2024/12/oregon-judge-blocks-kroger-purchase-of-albertsons-citing-threat-to-competition.html ]