Kroger and Albertsons have proposed a merger that would result in the sale of 579 stores, including 63 in California. The majority of affected locations are in Southern California. The Federal Trade Commission has raised concerns about potential higher grocery prices and negative impacts on workers from the merger. Kroger denies these claims, promising no closures and lower prices. The United Food and Commercial Workers union continues to oppose the merger, with legal challenges underway. If approved, affected California stores include Vons, Pavilions, Albertsons, and Safeway locations. Employees will likely transition to C&S Wholesale Grocers. The merger remains uncertain, pending legal proceedings and regulatory approvals.