Albertsons Seeks Details on Kroger's Ex-CEO Rodney McMullen's Exit Amid Legal Battle

Albertsons is seeking details from Kroger regarding the departure of former CEO Rodney McMullen, who resigned after an investigation found his personal conduct was inconsistent with Kroger's ethics policy. Albertsons argues that McMullen's actions could have distracted from or conflicted with his obligations during the failed merger attempt and is asking the Delaware Court of Chancery to compel Kroger to provide the requested information.

Albertsons Companies is seeking more information from Kroger regarding the abrupt resignation of former CEO Rodney McMullen. The request is part of Albertsons' ongoing lawsuit against Kroger following the failed $25 billion merger attempt. The exact reasons for McMullen's sudden departure in March remain unclear, but Albertsons believes his conduct may have played a role in the merger's failure.

Kroger revealed that McMullen resigned after an internal ethics investigation found his personal conduct to be inconsistent with the company's policy. However, the company has provided little detail about the circumstances surrounding his resignation. Albertsons attorneys have argued that McMullen's actions and his key position at Kroger during the merger process could have distracted from or conflicted with his obligations to the company.

Albertsons is asking the Delaware Court of Chancery to compel Kroger to provide the requested information. The court is scheduled to hold a hearing on the motion on September 4, 2025. This legal battle is part of a larger dispute between the two companies, which also includes a lawsuit from C&S Wholesale Grocers over the failed merger.

Kroger has dismissed Albertsons' bid for details, labeling it as "desperation." The company is currently being led by Ron Sargent, a board member and former Staples CEO, while it conducts a national search for a permanent successor.

References:
[1] https://www.cincinnati.com/story/money/2025/07/29/albertsons-wants-kroger-to-reveal-why-ceo-resigned-after-merger-bid/85415833007/
[2] https://boisedev.com/news/2025/07/30/albertsons-kroger-mcmullen/
[3] https://www.grocerydive.com/news/albertsons-lawsuit-kroger-ceo-rodney-mcmullen-ethics-violations/756110/
[4] https://progressivegrocer.com/albertsons-seeking-information-ex-kroger-ceos-personal-conduct