Kroger, the nation’s largest operator of traditional supermarkets, would buy Albertsons, the second-largest such operator, for $24.6 billion and merge it into Kroger’s operations. The deal would combine Cincinnati-based Kroger and its 2,722 stores with Boise, Idaho-based Albertsons and the 2,271 stores it operates.

In an unsealed complaint, Albertsons claims that Kroger’s hubris and reluctance to divest of stores sank their merger; Kroger has said its rival breached the agreement.

Antitrust experts say a few core issues prompted the judges to say no the merger, ultimately dooming the deal.

University of Houston professor Steven Craig said the Krogers-Albertsons merger falling apart is a good development for shoppers.

Kroger chose to sell as few stores as possible, ensured it was only selling Kroger’s worst performers, and opted to sell to one of the least-qualified buyers, Albertsons alleges