I’m traveling and haven’t had the opportunity to fully digest the latest goings-on with the FTC and Whole Foods Market. But, here's a quick sum-up ...
Reports have surfaced John Mackey told the Whole Foods Market Board of Directors that the acquisition of Wild Oats would help avoid “nasty price wars” in markets where these two grocers compete. (I'm sure we will continue to read more about the statements Mackey shared with the Whole Foods board as it paints a different picture for why Whole Foods is seeking this acquisition.)
Mackey shares much more analysis and opinions with an impassioned 14,000 word blog posting. (Gotta give Mackey credit for being willing to express his views in such a public forum. I can't remember another CEO being so forthright with sharing their viewpoints for a merger in question by the FTC.)
The FTC has released their argument papers (pdf) outlining rationale for blocking the merger. (I've perused this document and it makes for very interesting reading.)
Samuel Fromartz, author of Organic Inc: Natural Foods and How They Grew, shares his thoughts on the matter. Plus, he links to sharp analysis from The Hartman Group. (The Hartman Group is intimately familiar with Whole Foods and the natural foods marketplace so their take on the matter is from an extremely knowledgeable vantage point.)
If I have anything else to add to all this, I will. But first, I need to digest all the latest goings-on.
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