Kroger’s Bagger-Turned-CEO Meets Biggest Challenge in 46 Years

Rodney McMullen is facing his greatest test yet as the head of the largest grocer in the US.

The calm, pragmatic Kroger Co.chief executive officer is in a high-stakes fight over his boldest bet: a $24.6 billion merger with Albertsons Cos. that could shake up the US grocery industry. The Federal Trade Commission, along with eight states and Washington, DC, on Monday sued to block Kroger’s acquisition of Albertsons, arguing that the tie-up would lead to higher grocery prices and lower wages. The parties plan to litigate in court.

Kroger said Monday that the FTC’s decision would further strengthen ...