Kroger-Albertsons Merger Threatens Idaho Jobs And Traditions

Despite the Federal Trade Commission's and several state attorney generals' oppositions, along with the voices of thousands of employees and millions of customers, the proponents of the Kroger/Albertsons merger persist. The detrimental effects of this merger on workers and consumers, particularly in Idaho, are clear to anyone.

The BoiseDev exclusively reported the ten Albertsons stores on the Kroger hit list. The Ohioans tell us the stores will be spun off into good hands—perhaps a Piggly Wiggly or some other concoction of nonsense.

The list of targeted stores reveals the disconnect of those making decisions from the reality on the ground. Unlike most supermarket chains, Albertsons employees are not just workers, they are friends. Their long tenure and friendly service make them an integral part of the community, and their loss would be deeply felt.

A correction to this story as I had originally reported the first State Street store would be one of the stores spun off. That was not the case and I apologize for the mistake. The 36^th and State, Store #189, will be spun off. 

Representatives who are in favor of the merger continue to say no jobs will be lost because of the merger. Opponents believe it will hurt consumers and workers.

Thankfully one of the best properties, the Cherry Lane Albertsons, is not one of the ten stores that will be sold off. The employees of that store love their Meridian neighbors and provide service second to none. Let's hope these three special stores will not be spun off to Piggly Wiggly.

We'll continue to update you on this story as it develops.