"Washington State Lawsuit Delays $25 Billion Kroger-Albertsons Merger"

The $25 billion deal between Jewel and Mariano’s parent companies has been delayed due to opposition and concerns about anti-trust regulations, with the federal government expected to announce its decision in February. One state has already filed a formal challenge to the deal, which would create a mega-grocery chain with over 5,000 stores. Meanwhile, Dom’s Kitchen & Market has combined with Foxtrot to form Outfox Hospitality, aiming to capitalize on the growing demand for gourmet foods and unique snacks in the Chicago market.