Kroger Review: Why I Gave My First Visit an A Thanks to Three Standout Products

According to The Sun, A savvy shopper, TikToker Billy, recently ventured into Kroger for the first time and was pleasantly surprised by his experience in the aisles. Unlike Walmart and Target, which offer a variety of products, Kroger focuses primarily on groceries, allowing Billy to explore a range of tasty offerings.

Value in Product Dupes

During his visit, Billy employed an “air test,” a method he uses to assess how much product is actually contained in the packaging. He discovered that Kroger’s own brand of Frosted Flakes contained more cereal per box than Kellogg’s, all at the same price. He noted a similar trend with Kroger’s Raisin Bran and its mega bag of potato chips compared to Lay’s.

Billy concluded his review with a strong endorsement for Kroger, stating, “My review of Kroger’s, I gotta say it’s an A. There’s nothing really special about it apart from the fact that they don’t give a f***. And they sell you less air. Two dollars cheaper.”

Kroger’s Proposed Merger with Albertsons

This positive customer feedback comes amidst Kroger CEO Rodney McMullen’s defense of the company’s proposed $24.6 billion merger with rival Albertsons in federal court. McMullen argued that the merger would allow the combined grocery giants to lower prices and compete more effectively against major retailers like Walmart, Costco, and Amazon.

If approved, this merger would mark the largest grocery chain consolidation in U.S. history. However, it is currently under scrutiny, as the Federal Trade Commission (FTC) seeks to block the deal with a preliminary injunction. McMullen testified that “the day that we merge is the day that we will begin lowering prices.”

Concerns About Competition and Store Closures

During the hearing, McMullen addressed concerns about potential store closures resulting from the merger. He assured the court that Kroger would not immediately shut down any locations, though future adjustments might be made for optimal location management.

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The FTC’s challenge, filed earlier this year, claims that the merger could reduce competition and lead to higher food prices for consumers. Kroger operates 2,800 stores across 35 states, while Albertsons has 2,273 stores in 34 states. Together, they would combine a workforce of approximately 710,000 employees.

Countering FTC Claims

During the court proceedings, McMullen countered the FTC’s assertions by stating that Albertsons’ prices are typically 10-12% higher than Kroger’s. He emphasized that the merged entity would work to close this pricing gap to enhance customer retention and maintain competitiveness against Walmart, which holds about 22% of U.S. grocery sales.

The FTC supports its arguments with data showing that Kroger and Albertsons closely match each other in price, quality, and services, such as store pickup, in the 22 states where they currently compete. The commission contends that the merger would harm shoppers by eliminating competition that helps keep prices in check.