By Dean Seal


Kroger Co. said Tuesday the U.S. Federal Trade Commission is seeking more information about its planned $24.6 billion purchase of rival Albertsons Cos. Inc.

The grocery giant said the request was expected as regulators continue to poke around a deal that would merge two of the biggest names in the U.S. grocery industry.

The request extends the 30-day waiting period, established under the Hart-Scott-Rodino Antitrust Improvements Act of 1976, that federal antitrust regulators have to challenge a merger. The window will now remain open until 30 days after both Kroger and Albertsons have complied with the requests, unless the FTC elects to close it sooner.

Kroger said it still expects the deal to close in early 2024.


Write to Dean Seal at dean.seal@wsj.com


(END) Dow Jones Newswires

12-06-22 0840ET