Washington, D.C. – The National Grocers Association, the trade association representing the independent supermarket industry, released the following statement regarding the proposed acquisition of Giant Eagle by Kroger:
“NGA urges regulators to conduct a robust review of this proposed acquisition, with particular attention to its impact on competition in those specific local markets. Where store divestitures will be required, independent grocers should be prioritized as buyers to ensure local communities benefit from a diverse marketplace. With 69% of U.S. grocery sales controlled by just four national chains, strong antitrust enforcement is more important than ever to protect consumer choice, preserve competitive markets, and maintain a level playing field for independent grocers, farmers, suppliers, and the communities they serve.”
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About the National Grocers Association
NGA is the nation’s leading trade association representing the retail and wholesale community grocers that comprise the independent sector of the food distribution industry. An independent retailer is a privately owned or controlled food retail company operating in a variety of formats. The independent grocery sector accounts for 2 percent of the nation’s overall economy and generates more than $557.5 billion in annual economic activity, 1.5 million jobs, $115 billion in wages, and $27 billion in taxes. NGA members include retail and wholesale grocers located in every congressional district across the country, as well as state grocers’ associations, manufacturers, and service suppliers.