Kroger-Albertsons merger a step toward empowering veterans

OPINION – Veterans bring perseverance, endurance, tenacity, and strength to every challenge they face, whether on the battlefield or in their communities. These qualities are invaluable assets that can drive success when they return home, especially in the workforce.

As the Head of Military for a national company connecting veterans with job opportunities, a combat veteran, and a nonprofit leader dedicated to connecting veterans and enhancing their wellbeing, I see daily how employment reinforces the dignity and pride of returning service members. However, veterans face unique challenges when they come home to California—challenges that are solvable if our political leaders choose to prioritize solutions.

California is home to over 250,000 veteran-owned businesses, but the state’s overbearing regulations, high taxes, and failure to address crime are major reasons why CEO Magazine consistently ranks California as the worst state in the nation for business. These issues contribute to the exodus of businesses and the jobs they provide, making it even harder for veterans and working Californians to thrive.

One glaring example of misplaced priorities is the campaign against the proposed Kroger-Albertsons merger by Governor Gavin Newsom and Attorney General Rob Bonta. This merger, rather than harming our communities, has the potential to protect jobs and keep stores open. If the merger is blocked, we risk store closures, job losses, and the exacerbation of “food deserts” in underserved areas—outcomes that would hurt working Californians, including veterans.

There has been confusion surrounding the concept of “divestiture,” which simply means that after the merger, some stores will be rebranded under a different company, C&S Wholesale Grocers—the parent company of the Piggly Wiggly chain. Contrary to fears, these stores will remain open, and employees will keep their jobs, pay, and benefits. The local community won’t lose their neighborhood supermarket.

In fact, the merger will help supermarkets stay open in an increasingly competitive market, a challenge made even harder by the rampant retail theft that all California businesses face. Rather than burdening businesses further and giving them more reasons to leave, our political leaders should focus on curbing retail theft and creating a more favorable environment for businesses to thrive.

Veterans, like all Californians, deserve leaders who take constructive actions to create opportunities and empower them to succeed. Supporting the Kroger-Albertsons merger is one such action—one that will protect jobs, support businesses, and help ensure a brighter future for our communities.

Nick Busse is an advocate for veterans, a leader in military Programs, and the 2023 Veteran Champion of the Year in Corporate America. He served 13 years in the U.S. Army’s 1st Infantry and 1st Cavalry Divisions, managing more than 200 combat operations in Iraq.