FTC Throws A Wrench Into The Kroger Albertsons Merger

In this episode: What's it like to stay in a Eggo-themed pancake house in rural Tennessee? Why is the Federal Trade Commission (FTC) challenging the Kroger/Albertsons merger? What is yaupon? Why is Mason Dixie betting consumers want more clean comfort food? This week the BevNET and Nosh team dive into all these topics and more.  Show Highlights: 0:45 - It might look like the setting for a bad horror movie, but Eggo's short-term rental "pancake house" marketing stunt is probably a satisfying place to spend a weekend. 2:20 - In the latest wrinkle in the potential mega-merger between Kroger and Albertsons, the FTC this week sided with nine attorneys general on the grounds that the deal would reduce competition in the grocery landscape. The team discusses the implications of the federal government's involvement and why this will slow the possible merger down. 6:00 - Senior reporter Brad Avery explains why yaupon is one of the newest clean caffeine ingredients and how pre-launch beverage brand Sacred Energy is banking on its proprietary mix of the plant-based extract to carve out a niche in energy drinks. 10:00 - Nosh managing editor Monica Watrous tells the team about her recent conversation with Mason Dixie founder and CEO Ayeshah Abuelhiga on why the brand is going deeper on breakfast comfort food. About the CPG Week CPG Week is the podcast that explores the latest happenings in the consumer packaged goods industry. Join our seasoned reporting team as they dish out the week's stories in quick, easy-to-digest episodes. Catch up on the top headlines of the week, dive into exclusive insights with the BevNET and Nosh teams, and set yourself up to make more informed business decisions. Tune in to stay up-to-date on the latest developments in the dynamic world of packaged food and beverage. New episodes are released every week. Send us comments and suggestions anytime to [email protected]. Subscribe on Apple Podcasts