The Riverside Press-Enterprise
Fight crime, not a grocery merger
California Attorney General Rob Bonta claims to be a champion of consumer interests, often spouting rhetoric about protecting vulnerable communities. However, his recent intention to sue over the Albertsons-kroger merger raises new questions about his priorities. In recent news coverage of the proposed merger, Bonta expressed concerns about speculative price hikes and labor issues resulting from the merger. However, Kroger itself has committed to lowering prices for customers and protecting each entity’s unionized workforce.
Kroger has committed to investing $500 million to lower prices and $1.3 million to enhance the customer experience. Additionally, the company has assured the protection of the unionized workforce of both entities involved in the merger. Kroger employs one of America’s largest unionized workforces and this merger secures the longterm future of union jobs by establishing a more competitive alternative to large, nonunion retailers. These commitments reflect Kroger’s dedication to improving conditions for both consumers and employees.
Unsurprisingly, the attorney general disregards the merger’s potential benefits to customers, employees and California’s economy. The $500 million investment in lowering prices could directly benefit consumers,
particularly those facing economic challenges. Lowering prices on essential goods, such as groceries, can alleviate financial burdens on households, especially those with lower incomes.
Kroger’s commitment to investing in enhancing the customer experience is a proactive approach to addressing concerns about the merger. This investment not only aims to improve service quality but also signals the merged entity’s intention to prioritize customer satisfaction. A better customer experience can lead to increased loyalty and patronage, benefiting both the business and consumers.
The decision of the attorney general to oppose the merger that would have positive implications
for California’s economy, and to go so far as to threaten to sue Kroger raises questions about his priorities.
Rather than using California tax dollars to hinder a merger between two private companies, Bonta should redirect his efforts toward addressing more pressing issues facing the state. California is currently grappling with a significant crime and homelessness crisis, particularly in major cities.
Middle-class families are struggling to make ends meet due to higher living expenses in the Golden State.
Businesses are leaving California due to unaffordable housing, high cost of living, high taxes and a regulatory environment that is not conducive to business growth.
Redirecting resources and attention to combat these challenges could have a more immediate and impactful effect on the lives of the state’s residents.
Addressing the crime and homelessness crisis aligns with Bonta’s commitment to protecting vulnerable populations and would contribute to the overall well-being of the community. Kroger is committed to investing in California and its workers. Kroger’s combination with Albertsons will mean lower prices and more choices for California consumers. Public officials should prioritize the most pressing challenges facing their constituents.
Addressing crime and homelessness and supporting opportunities to lower the cost of living could be a more immediate and impactful way for the attorney general to serve the people of California.
Bonta should stop playing politics and start thinking about what’s best for California. His opposition to the Albertsons-kroger merger overlooks the benefits of this collaboration. The merger would enable Kroger to operate more effectively in the highly competitive and constantly evolving grocery industry.
Rather than using this merger to further his political agenda, he should redirect his efforts toward addressing pressing issues such as crime and homelessness in the state.