How a grocery merger could expand a surveillance network

Kroger's proposed $1.65 billion acquisition of Giant Eagle could lead to a vast surveillance network expansion, including Flock cameras, raising concerns about customer tracking and profiling. AELP, a competition policy reform advocate, warns that the merger could decrease competition and increase prices, and urges the FTC and Ohio attorney general to block the deal. The acquisition would bring Kroger new data, in addition to physical storefronts, and could further reduce options for customers in places like Columbus, Ohio. This is a concern, given the growing unease about surveillance technologies like Flock cameras and the fact that this is happening during a midterm election focused on affordability issues.