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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.
The Kroger Co. (NYSE: KR) will host its first quarter 2022 earnings conference call on June 16, 2022, at 10:00 a.m. ET. Management will discuss financial and operational results ending May 21, 2022. The event will be available for online streaming at ir.kroger.com, with an on-demand replay starting at 1 p.m. ET on the same day.
Kroger aims to serve over 11 million customers daily and is committed to creating #ZeroHungerZeroWaste communities by 2025.
The Kroger Co. (NYSE: KR) announced its ranking as #25 on the 2022 Axios Harris Poll 100, highlighting its reputation among the most visible U.S. companies. CEO Rodney McMullen emphasized Kroger's commitment to innovation in food accessibility and affordability. The company also ranked in the Top 10 for citizenship and trust, reflecting its value alignment with consumers. Kroger's ESG strategy, focused on Zero Hunger | Zero Waste, aims to foster a sustainable food system. The Axios Harris Poll 100 is based on responses from over 33,000 Americans.
Kroger Co. (NYSE: KR) has expanded its grocery delivery service with a new fulfillment "spoke" facility in Central Ohio, powered by Ocado Group (LSE: OCDO). The 61,000-square-foot facility in Lockbourne will extend delivery capabilities to over 250 Central Ohio ZIP codes, employing up to 200 associates. This initiative enhances Kroger's digital shopping experience and follows the recent launch of the Boost by Kroger Plus membership program, which offers benefits like free delivery. The expansion is part of Kroger's strategy to strengthen its e-commerce presence and create job opportunities.
Kroger has partnered with the USO to launch a mobile food program to serve military communities, kicking off with the "Stuff the Truck" event on May 16 in Atlanta, Georgia. This initiative aims to provide nutritious meals to service members and their families. The program will collect donations and distribute food across various military bases, ending with a meal for families of deployed members on May 21 at Fort Stewart. Kroger has donated $35.3 million to the USO since 2010, making it the largest contributor in the organization's history.
Eat Well Investment Group Inc. (EWG) announces that Amara Organic Foods, a fast-growing baby food brand, is now available on Kroger's eCommerce platforms, including Kroger.com and Vitacost.com. This move enhances Amara's distribution strategy, which already includes major retailers like Amazon and Whole Foods. The infant nutrition market is projected to exceed $109 billion by 2027, positioning Amara to capitalize on this growth. CEO Jessica Sturzenegger emphasizes the importance of increased eCommerce distribution for driving revenue and maximizing margins.
The Kroger Co. (NYSE: KR) has launched the second year of its Go Fresh & Local Supplier Accelerator, inviting local and regional growers to apply until May 23, 2022. This program aims to enhance the selection of fresh items in Kroger stores by connecting American suppliers directly with the retailer. The initiative, part of Kroger's commitment to invest $10 billion in diverse suppliers by 2030, culminates in a two-day event in Cincinnati in August, where 30 finalists can showcase their products for potential shelf placement and business development coaching.
Kroger Health is enhancing access to COVID-19 testing and treatment across the U.S. as part of the Biden-Harris Administration's 'Test to Treat' initiative. With over 11 million vaccine doses administered, Kroger supports treatment through its 225 Little Clinic locations and telehealth services in all 50 states. Patients can get antiviral prescriptions after a positive test, while COVID-19 therapeutics are available at all Kroger pharmacies. Chief Medical Officer Dr. Marc Watkins emphasizes the importance of testing and vaccination to control COVID-19's spread.
The Kroger Co. (NYSE: KR) is hosting a spring hiring event on April 30, 2022, aiming to fill 23,000 positions across various departments including retail, e-commerce, and healthcare. The event will feature virtual interviews from 1 p.m. to 5 p.m. ET and in-person interviews at local times. Kroger continues to invest in its workforce, having allocated $1.2 billion in wages and training over the past four years, resulting in an average hourly wage of $17, with total compensation exceeding $22 per hour. The company also offers extensive benefits and educational support.
The Kroger Houston division appointed Teresa Dickerson as the new corporate affairs manager, overseeing communications and community relations for 108 stores in the Greater Houston area and Louisiana. Dickerson, with over 20 years of experience, previously managed corporate affairs for Kroger's Memphis division. She aims to deepen connections with associates and communities while promoting Kroger's commitment to providing fresh food. The Houston division has over 15,000 associates and focuses on creating #ZeroHungerZeroWaste communities by 2025, having donated $1.9 million and 2.6 million pounds of food in 2021.