Kroger Stock Price, News & Analysis

Kroger/Ralphs and Cardinal Health are partnering for annual drug take back events on October 29, 2022, at over 150 pharmacy locations nationwide. This initiative aims to combat the rising misuse of prescription medications, as 66% of U.S. adults use them. Events will feature law enforcement onsite for safe disposal of expired drugs. Participating Ralphs locations in Southern California will operate from 10 a.m. to 2 p.m.. The collaboration continues Cardinal Health's Generation Rx program, emphasizing safe medication use.

Ralphs Pharmacy, part of Kroger Health, urges customers to get their flu shots before the end of October for optimal protection during flu season. The CDC recommends vaccination to prevent flu-related hospitalizations, which can reach up to 710,000 annually in the U.S. Ralphs offers both high-dose and regular flu vaccines and provides a $5 grocery coupon for eligible customers receiving a shot by November 5. Vaccinations are administered by Certified Immunizing Pharmacists, and updated COVID-19 boosters are also available.

Kroger has officially launched its new Customer Fulfillment Center (CFC) in Romulus, Michigan, to enhance its grocery delivery services in the greater Detroit area. This 135,000-square-foot facility utilizes advanced robotics and machine learning technology in partnership with Ocado Group. The CFC aims to deliver groceries to customers within 90 minutes, employing over 700 associates. This initiative builds on Kroger's Boost membership program, offering significant savings on deliveries. Kroger's ongoing expansion reflects its commitment to redefining online grocery shopping.

Kroger and Albertsons Companies have announced a merger agreement, valuing the deal at approximately $24.6 billion, including $4.7 billion in Albertsons' net debt. Shareholders of Albertsons are set to receive $34.10 per share, with a special cash dividend of up to $4 billion. This merger aims to create a national footprint, enhancing customer accessibility to affordable food across 85 million households. Kroger plans to invest $1 billion in associate wages and $1.3 billion to improve customer experience, while expecting $1 billion in annual synergies post-merger.

Home Chef is launching seasonal Thanksgiving and holiday menus for easy meal preparation. Available at Kroger stores and online, the offerings include both meal kits and ready-to-eat dishes, catering to various gathering sizes. Key items include a $49.50 Turkey Breast Roast and sides priced at $15.98 each, serving six. Orders can be placed starting October 14, 2022, for Thanksgiving and November 11 for Christmas, with deadlines set for noon CT on November 18 and December 16, respectively. Gift cards for meals are also available for the holiday season.

The Kroger Co. (NYSE: KR) announced plans to hire thousands of associates across various sectors including retail, e-commerce, and healthcare as part of their strategy for the holiday season and beyond. The hiring initiative aims to provide competitive pay and benefits, with investments of $1.2 billion in associate compensation since 2018. Kroger also offers educational support through a tuition reimbursement program, access to health resources, and various perks. Recruitment activities are ongoing throughout November, including virtual hiring events.

Kroger Co. (NYSE: KR) has launched its Our Brands Innovation Summit to enhance its private brand offerings. Open to suppliers across multiple categories, the program aims to identify innovative products that align with current market trends. Suppliers can apply until October 31, 2022, for virtual meetings with Kroger buyers scheduled for January 24-26, 2023. The initiative supports Kroger's mission to offer high-quality, affordable products while expanding its supplier network, contributing to its brand promise of being Fresh for Everyone.

The Kroger Co. (NYSE: KR) is set to launch its annual Winter Wine Box Celebration Pack, featuring 24 curated wines from various global regions, on October 9. Priced at $69.99, the box contains 6.3-ounce bottles, equivalent to six full-sized bottles. Customers can purchase it in-store or online, with delivery options available for Boost by Kroger members. This selection includes wines from Bulgaria, France, Hungary, Italy, Portugal, North Macedonia, South Africa, and Spain, catering to diverse tastes and special occasions during the winter season.