12 members of Congress call on DOJ and FTC to review Amazon deal, citing concern for low-income communities and food deserts
If you’ve been following retail news over the past month, you know the industry has been buzzing with concerns about Amazon’s acquisition of Whole Foods since their announcement in June.
On July 17th, UFCW President Marc Perrone sent a letter to the Federal Trade Commission (FTC) to explain why the acquisition is a threat to workers and should be reviewed. Letter
Now a dozen members of Congress are calling on the FTC and Department of Justice (DOJ) to review Amazon’s acquisition of Whole Foods in a letter sent on July 20th:
In their letter to the FTC and DOJ, the 12 members of Congress called for Amazon’s acquisition of Whole Foods to be reviewed, saying: “This merger should be scrutinized beyond the normal antitrust review process that only examines the competitive impact. It should also include a careful review of the impact further consolidation will have on the communities representing many of the ‘food deserts’ across the nation.” The letter also cites, among other concerns, “the declining presence of retail stores due to Amazon’s growth.”
Amazon’s vision for retail is one where automation replaces good jobs. That is the reality today at Amazon, and it will no doubt become the reality at Whole Foods.
UFCW supports and advocates for good jobs, wages, and healthcare. UFCW advocates for protections and improvements in consumer and worker health and safety. We recognize the advancements in technology and appreciate the improvements they could provide, but we will not stand idle as corporations continue to threaten, take advantage of and silence workers.