Welcome to our dedicated page for Kroger news (Ticker: KR), a resource for investors and traders seeking the latest updates and insights on Kroger stock.
The Kroger Co. (NYSE: KR) is a premier retail giant and one of the largest grocery retailers in the United States. With more than 2,425 supermarkets and multi-department stores spanning across 31 states, Kroger operates under a wide array of local banner names including Kroger, City Market, Dillon's, Jay C, Food 4 Less, Fred Meyer, Fry's, King Soopers, QFC, Ralphs, and Smith's. Additionally, the company boasts 789 convenience stores, 337 fine jewelry stores, 1,109 supermarket fuel centers, and 38 food processing plants in the U.S.
Kroger is not just about grocery retailing. It offers a diversified portfolio of services and products, including 80+ “The Little Clinic” retail healthcare sites, pharmacies in 80% of its locations, and fuel stations at 60% of its stores. Kroger's private-label products contribute significantly to its revenue, with around 30% of units produced in-house in its 33 food production plants.
The company is recognized for its commitment to the community and social responsibility. It supports numerous initiatives such as hunger relief, breast cancer awareness, military family support, and more than 30,000 schools and grassroots organizations. Kroger contributes food and funds equal to 160 million meals annually through its partnerships with over 80 Feeding America food banks.
Financially, Kroger has maintained robust performance, evidenced by its 2023 fiscal year results. Total company sales reached $150.0 billion, including $2.7 billion from the 53rd week. The company also continues to innovate and expand, as seen in its recent launch of MCoBeauty in the U.S., exclusive to Kroger stores.
Kroger's strategy for growth includes leveraging its “Leading with Fresh” and “Accelerating with Digital” platforms. The company is continually investing in its seamless shopping experience, digital innovation, and associate welfare, aiming to create a sustainable growth model. Recent initiatives include the sale of its specialty pharmacy business to CarelonRx and the introduction of SDS for HD, a coastal living home décor collection in collaboration with Bravo Reality Personality Craig Conover.
Furthermore, Kroger's proposed merger with Albertsons aims to expand its market reach, bringing even more choices and lower prices to consumers while securing the long-term future of unionized grocery jobs. The merger is expected to enhance competition, increase local product offerings, and maintain job security for frontline associates.
To stay updated on Kroger’s latest financial performance, growth strategies, and community initiatives, visit Kroger’s newsroom and investor relations site.
Home Chef has partnered with Life Time to offer exclusive meal solutions to Life Time members, enhancing their ability to prepare simple and healthy meals at home. This initiative will provide members with discounts on Home Chef meal kits, which include fresh ingredients and easy-to-follow recipes.
The collaboration marks Life Time's first partnership with a national meal kit brand and aims to improve home cooking convenience for members. The integrated partnership will run through 2025, underscoring Home Chef's commitment to accessible meal preparation. Life Time members can benefit from various offers, including birthday perks and meal recommendations.
Kroger Co. (NYSE: KR) has released its 2023 Food Trends Report, highlighting the continued trend of home cooking as consumers shift towards celebrating special moments with family and friends. As pandemic concerns decline, customers are embracing cooking at home to save money. The report emphasizes the popularity of celebratory foods, with items like cheese and cheesecake gaining traction. Additionally, the report suggests a rise in seafood consumption and global flavors. Kroger also promotes its Boost membership service, which can save consumers up to $1,000 annually on grocery delivery.
Kroger Health has launched a clinical trial site network aimed at enhancing access to colorectal cancer research. In collaboration with Persephone Biosciences, they are actively recruiting participants for the ARGONAUT clinical study, which investigates microbiome-based biomarkers for colorectal cancer. The initiative begins in Toledo, Ohio, with plans to enroll 55 individuals with varying risk levels.
With a significant presence in socially vulnerable areas, Kroger aims to utilize its pharmacy network to improve healthcare accessibility. The trial leverages data analytic capabilities and patient engagement tools to enhance recruitment and retention throughout the study.
The Kroger Co. (NYSE: KR) announced that its Community Rewards program has contributed over $200 million to local charities since its inception in 2017. The program enables loyalty members to choose local nonprofits to benefit from their purchases. Thousands of organizations, including schools and youth sports, have received funding, showcasing Kroger's commitment to community support. CEO Rodney McMullen emphasized the program's ease of participation and the importance of customer involvement in charitable contributions. Customers can track their donations quarterly via their Kroger accounts.
The Kroger Co. (NYSE: KR) has declared a quarterly dividend of 26 cents per share, scheduled for payment on March 1, 2023. Shareholders of record as of February 15, 2023 will receive this dividend. Since its reinstatement in 2006, Kroger's quarterly dividend has grown at a compounded annual growth rate of 14%. The company's strategy focuses on utilizing free cash flow for business investments, maintaining its investment-grade debt rating, and returning capital to shareholders. Furthermore, Kroger expects to increase dividends over time, pending board approval.
The Kroger Co. (NYSE: KR) participated in the National Retail Federation Big Show 2023, where Chairman and CEO Rodney McMullen discussed the company's customer-centric approach amid an evolving grocery landscape. He emphasized the importance of providing excellent service, investing in associates, and addressing community needs, particularly through the Zero Hunger | Zero Waste initiative. Since its inception in 2017, this initiative has contributed to billions of meal donations and significant food waste reduction. Kroger has also been recognized by Newsweek as one of America's Most Responsible Companies for 2023, reflecting its commitment to corporate responsibility.
Home Chef is offering a unique opportunity for individuals to kickstart their New Year goals by sponsoring one winner with $5,000 in cash and a year's supply of meals. Participants can submit their goals through www.freshstarthomechef.com by January 31. The initiative aims to support individuals in achieving aspirations beyond cooking, like mental health and personal growth. Furthermore, Home Chef will select ten additional participants to receive three months' worth of meals. Winners will be notified by February 15, 2023.
Kroger Health, the healthcare division of The Kroger Co. (NYSE: KR), launched a new brand campaign titled 'A World of Care is In-Store.' This initiative emphasizes the accessibility of health services at local Kroger stores, where 24,000 health professionals provide care. The campaign aims to transform healthcare delivery through various services including diagnostics and wellness visits. Kroger Health's role was enhanced during the pandemic, administering over 12 million COVID-19 vaccines across 35 states. Through this campaign, the company aims to highlight its commitment to community health and wellness.
Kroger Co. (NYSE: KR) recently shared insights into how Americans are preparing for the holiday season, highlighting favorites like deli trays, cheesecakes, and various cheeses, with expectations of 1.6 million pounds of cheese sold. The emphasis is on providing quality, affordable products accessible both in-store and online. Customers are also projected to purchase 800,000 pounds of Private Selection Cheesecake. Kroger's Boost membership offers savings on fuel and delivery, enhancing shopping convenience. The grocer aims to create memorable holiday experiences for families.