Welcome to our dedicated page for The Kroger Co. news (Ticker: KR), a resource for investors and traders seeking the latest updates and insights on The Kroger Co. 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.
Kroger Health has launched a new interactive prescription drug safety course aimed at educating adults on the responsible use of medications. This initiative, developed in collaboration with EVERFI, provides essential information regarding the dangers of prescription drug misuse, which the CDC identifies as a significant public health issue, citing over 67,000 opioid-related deaths in 2018. The free wellness resource includes 10 interactive learning modules and is designed to help users understand safe disposal methods and support those struggling with opioid misuse.
Kroger Health has expanded its COVID-19 testing services to over 220 clinic locations, available by appointment for both symptomatic and asymptomatic patients. This initiative comes alongside the COVIDCare Plus testing program, ensuring increased access to testing amid the impending flu season. The clinics can accommodate up to 5,000 tests daily. Kroger Health has conducted over 150,000 COVID-19 tests since April, emphasizing the importance of testing as flu season approaches due to overlapping symptoms. Additional safety measures have been implemented at clinics to protect patients and staff.
The Kroger Co. (NYSE: KR) released its 2020 Environmental, Social and Governance (ESG) Report on August 17, highlighting progress in sustainability goals. The report emphasizes commitment to a hunger-free community and waste reduction. Key metrics include a 4% reduction in food waste and an 18% improvement in waste diversion since 2017. Kroger aims for zero food waste by 2025 and has invested over $830 million in associate safety amid COVID-19. The corporation also detailed new sustainability commitments, including a 30% reduction in greenhouse gas emissions by 2030.
Kroger (NYSE: KR) has announced an expansion of its Kroger Ship platform to include a ship-to-home marketplace featuring third-party sellers, facilitated by Mirakl. This initiative is part of Kroger's strategy to enhance its e-commerce services, responding to increased demand during the COVID-19 pandemic. Over 50,000 additional items will be available across various categories, improving product accessibility for customers. This market integration aims to leverage customer insights and broaden product offerings, further establishing Kroger's digital marketplace ahead of its fall launch.
The Kroger Co. (KYSE: KR) has announced the launch of a contactless payments pilot at its QFC division in Seattle, enhancing customer checkout experiences through mobile devices. Customers can utilize various payment methods, including Apple Pay, Google Pay, and Samsung Pay, via NFC technology. The pilot aims to improve convenience and promote social distancing amid the COVID-19 pandemic, complementing over 30 policy changes Kroger has implemented. This development aligns with Kroger's commitment to innovate and personalize the shopping experience for its customers.
The Kroger Co. (NYSE: KR) announced the launch of its Simple Truth Recycling Program, enabling customers to recycle flexible packaging from over 300 Simple Truth products. This initiative, developed with TerraCycle, allows participants to recycle items like produce and bread bags. It reflects Kroger's commitment to its Zero Hunger | Zero Waste plan, aiming to reduce environmental impact. Kroger has achieved a significant milestone by decreasing plastic resin usage in its packaging by 10.1 million pounds by 2019, ahead of its target. The program is open to individuals and organizations across the U.S.
The Kroger Family of Companies (NYSE: KR) has received a 75%, 15-year data center sales tax exemption from the Ohio Tax Credit Authority. This exemption applies to technology equipment for Kroger's data centers in Blue Ash and Hamilton, Ohio, contingent upon a minimum $100 million capital investment over three years and an annual payroll of $1.5 million. Kroger's investments in technology are aimed at enhancing customer experiences and supporting expected online grocery growth of 40% in 2020, positioning the company favorably for future digital expansion.
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