U.S. senator slams Kroger, Giant Eagle deal and two others

[Viable Food News Desk]

Publisher: Supermarket News
Published: October 8, 2026
Source: Read at Supermarket News
Category: Food Access

Sen. Elizabeth Warren asked the Department of Justice and Federal Trade Commission to scrutinize three proposed acquisitions: Kroger's $1.65 billion purchase of Giant Eagle, Sysco's $29.1 billion purchase of Restaurant Depot, and McCormick's proposed purchase of the majority of Unilever's food business. Kroger announced its deal in July 2026, and Warren said overlapping territories could reduce local competition and raise grocery prices. She said Sysco's acquisition could leave independent restaurants with fewer suppliers and greater dependence on the combined company. Warren also said McCormick's deal could reduce competition among pantry suppliers, leading to fewer choices and higher checkout prices.

Why this matters: If these deals advance, independent grocers and restaurants could face fewer supplier or brand choices and more pricing pressure. Food-access groups may also need to track how consolidation affects local competition, prices, and consumer choice.

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