Question

Recently, a food retailer called Whole Foods sought to purchase Wild Oats, a competitor in the market for organic foods. When the Federal Trade Commission (FTC) sought to block this merger on antitrust grounds, FTC officials argued that such a merger would dramatically increase concentration in the market for "premium organic foods." Whole Foods' counterargument was that it considered itself to be part of the broadly defined supermarket industry that includes retailers such as Albert sons, Kroger, and Safeway. What key issue of antitrust regulation was involved in this dispute? Explain.

Short answer

As a conclusion, the main contention is whether a broad industry or a specific product should be included. The Federal Trade Commission would prevent the acquisition of competing firms if the organic food market is considered a single market.

Step-by-step solution

Introduction.

Preventing fraud, dishonesty, and unfair business practices to safeguard consumers.

Given Data.

Broad industry consideration, mergers in a single market, and criteria used to evaluate market concentration were the key concerns in the dispute between the Department Of Commerce and Whole Foods. Whole Markets' acquisition of Wild Oats, according to FTC officials, is likely to increase market structure, resulting in the development of a monopoly in the relevant market.

Explanation.

Market anxiety According to Whole Items officials, organic foods fall under the broad definition of a supermarket, and such mergers would not increase concentration. As a result, the key area of disagreement is whether the entire sector or a single market should be included. If the organic produce industry is considered a single market, the Ftc will deny acquisitions of competitors.