Kroger Selects McCann as New Creative Agency, Ending DDB Partnership
Kroger has appointed McCann as its new creative agency of record, replacing DDB New York after a six-year partnership. This move signifies a strategic shift in Kroger's marketing approach to enhance its brand and customer engagement in the competitive grocery market. McCann will develop creative campaigns under its "Truth Well Told" philosophy to drive business growth.
Why Instacart (CART) Shares Are Plunging Today
Instacart (CART) shares dropped by 8.7% after reports surfaced that DoorDash and Kroger are expanding their grocery delivery partnership, directly challenging Instacart's position as Kroger is its third-largest customer. This development intensifies existing competitive pressures from major players like Amazon and Walmart. Despite previous strategic moves like a partnership with Vroom Delivery to expand its advertising business, concerns about market share erosion persist.
Uncrustables goes fridge friendly across full portfolio
Uncrustables announced at the Consumer Analyst Group of New York Conference that its entire product portfolio will become "fridge friendly" by summer 2026, allowing sandwiches to be stored in the refrigerator for up to five days. This change eliminates the thaw time barrier for consumers, offering greater convenience for immediate consumption while products will continue to be sold in the freezer aisle. The company also highlighted two new protein-packed morning varieties that are already fridge friendly and available nationwide.
Fridge-friendly Uncrustables are coming to Kroger, other stores
The J.M. Smucker Co. announced that its Uncrustables will soon be "fridge-friendly," allowing consumers to eat them straight from the refrigerator without thawing. This new option will be available at Kroger, Walmart, and Target stores nationwide, with a full rollout expected by summer 2026. Two morning flavors, Up & Apple and Bright‑Eyed Berry, are already on shelves.
Campbell Soup Co. Is Quietly Changing Your Pantry – Here’s How
Campbell Soup Co. is undergoing a significant transformation, shifting focus from traditional soups to snacks and convenience foods like Pepperidge Farm and Snyder’s of Hanover. This strategic pivot aims to make their products more appealing to Gen Z and Millennials seeking budget-friendly, quick comfort food while still making incremental moves toward "better ingredients." Despite dealing with inflation and consumer demand for healthier options, Campbell remains a stable, defensive stock, offering accessible and affordable meal solutions through retail promotions and social media engagement.
Parents: Your child’s favorite ready-made school lunch just moved out of the freezer aisle
J.M. Smucker Co. is transitioning its entire line of Uncrustables from the freezer aisle to the refrigerator aisle by summer 2026. This change means the pre-packaged peanut butter and jelly sandwiches will no longer require thawing and can be kept in the fridge for up to five days. Two new refrigerator-friendly varieties, Up & Apple and Bright-Eyed Berry, are already available nationwide.
Jupiter Asset Management Ltd. Purchases Shares of 738,460 The Kroger Co. $KR
Jupiter Asset Management Ltd. recently acquired 738,460 shares of The Kroger Co. (NYSE:KR), a new position valued at approximately $49.78 million, representing 0.11% of the company. This comes as Kroger exceeded EPS estimates but missed revenue expectations in its latest quarter, while analysts have a "Moderate Buy" consensus and the company declared a $0.35 quarterly dividend. The article also details other institutional investor activity in Kroger stock and provides financial performance metrics and analyst ratings.
Kroger revives plan to build a Marketplace grocery store near Keller Town Center
Kroger is revisiting a decade-old plan to construct a 100,000-square-foot Marketplace grocery store with a gas station near Keller Town Center. If approved, the new store would replace the existing 34-year-old Kroger in the area. The company is seeking a special-use permit and has invited residents to a town hall meeting in March to discuss the project and address concerns.
Chris Paul Brings Vegan Snacks to 1,650 Kroger Stores to Boost Accessibility
NBA star Chris Paul's vegan snack brand, Good Eat'n, is expanding its reach by being introduced into 1,650 Kroger stores nationwide. Paul founded the brand to offer accessible vegan alternatives to popular snack flavors he missed after going vegan, such as Cool Ranch Doritos. This expansion into Kroger, following previous launches in Walmart and H-E-B, aims to make better-for-you plant-based snacks readily available to a wider audience, moving them out of niche health stores and into mainstream grocery aisles.
The J.M. Smucker Co. to Make Uncrustables ‘Fridge Friendly’
The J.M. Smucker Co. announced it is making its Uncrustables product line "fridge friendly" to eliminate thaw time, increasing convenience for consumers. This change allows the sandwiches to be stored in the refrigerator for up to five days or kept frozen, providing immediate enjoyment. The company also launched two new protein-rich morning flavors in late 2025.
Beach City Coffee Launches Fair Trade Organic Beans in 350+ Kroger Stores
Women-owned coffee brand, Beach City Coffee, has expanded its reach by launching three Fair Trade organic blends in over 350 Kroger stores, including Ralphs, Fry’s, and King Soopers. The company emphasizes its commitment to sustainability through 100% compostable, PFAS-free packaging and sourcing practices that support farmers and community reinvestment. This expansion marks a significant growth milestone and highlights the brand's dedication to making a positive impact through everyday consumer choices.
Emerging Sub-Segments Transforming the Dried Soup Market Landscape
The dried soup market is projected to reach $4.63 billion by 2030, growing at a CAGR of 6.5%, driven by demand for convenient, healthy, and sustainable meal solutions. Key trends include plant-based protein soups, increased use of freeze-drying technology, and a focus on clean-label ingredients and sustainable packaging. Major players like Campbell Soup Company are expanding portfolios through acquisitions, and companies are innovating with products like high-protein instant noodle soups to cater to health-conscious consumers.
Kroger Celebrates Experience Makers in Honor of Supermarket Employee Day on Sunday, Feb. 22
The Kroger Co. is celebrating Supermarket Employee Day on February 22 by recognizing its over 400,000 associates as "experience makers." The company highlights several dedicated employees like Jeff Bass, Ashley Montgomery, and Ana Sanchez, who bring friendly service and joy to customers daily. Kroger invites individuals seeking career opportunities to apply through their mobile-friendly platform.
Coca-Cola rival launches Kroger-exclusive soda flavor
Keurig Dr Pepper's 7UP is launching a new Mandarin Orange flavor exclusively at Kroger stores, following a successful Watermelon Strawberry exclusive last year. This strategy allows brands to test new products and strengthen partnerships with retailers like Kroger, which also offers its own private-label soda line. The move highlights the increasing trend of exclusive and limited-time offerings in the competitive soda market.
Keurig Dr Pepper announces 5 unique soda flavors, 1 Kroger exclusive
Keurig Dr Pepper is releasing five unique soda flavors, including returning fan-favorites and one exclusive to Kroger. The lineup features Dr Pepper Creamy Coconut, 7UP Shirley Temple, 7UP Endless Summer Mandarin Orange (Kroger exclusive), A&W Root Beer Float, and Canada Dry Fruit Splash Strawberry. These flavors will be launched throughout 2026, with some available in both full and zero-sugar options.
Inside Kroger's thank-you day for more than 400,000 grocery workers
Kroger is celebrating Supermarket Employee Day on February 22, 2026, honoring its more than 400,000 associates as "experience makers" for their service and community connections. The company highlighted specific employees for their dedication and creativity, and invited job seekers to explore career opportunities through its mobile-friendly application process. This initiative underscores Kroger's commitment to its workforce and their impact on customer experience.
Goldman Sachs EV and Battery Stocks: Top 10 Stock Picks
This article identifies the top 10 EV and battery stock picks from Goldman Sachs' 13F portfolio, based on their stake value in Q3 2025. It notes a recent global decline in EV registrations for January 2026, primarily due to drops in China and North America, while Europe and the rest of the world saw some growth or record increases. The report provides detailed information on Lucid Group, Inc. (LCID) and EVgo, Inc. (EVGO), including recent business developments, analyst ratings, and financial figures.
Real estate students, professionals gather for UC/PNC Economic Outlook
The 32nd annual UC/PNC Economic Outlook event was held on February 13, bringing together over 350 attendees, including more than 70 real estate students, to discuss local, national, and international economic developments. Speakers Stuart Hoffman and Greg Valliere provided insights on economic forecasts and geopolitical impacts. The event was co-hosted by the UC Real Estate Center and PNC Bank, with thanks extended to their corporate partners.
Real estate students, professionals gather for UC/PNC Economic Outlook
The 32nd annual UC/PNC Economic Outlook brought together over 350 attendees, including more than 70 real estate students, to discuss local, national, and international economic trends. Keynote speakers Stuart Hoffman and Greg Valliere provided insights into PNC's 2026 economic forecast and geopolitical events affecting the economy.
Kroger in East Cobb to undergo $23M expansion
Kroger's Atlanta division is investing $23 million to expand its Parkaire Landing location in East Cobb, adding over 26,000 square feet to the store. The expansion, developed by Jamestown, will include a new fuel center, sushi kiosk, expanded produce and deli sections, and a Murray’s cheese counter, with completion targeted for spring 2027. This project moves forward despite Kroger's recent nationwide store closures.
53-year-old Home Depot rival closing down, no bankruptcy
Blossom True Value Hardware, a 53-year-old Home Depot rival in Mountain View, California, is closing down in summer 2026 when its lease expires. The store owner attributes the closure to a loss of half its business since the COVID-19 pandemic, increased competition from Amazon and Ace Hardware, and rising tariffs on imported goods. This follows a trend of independent hardware stores struggling against big-box retailers and the rise of online shopping.
Kroger’s New CEO Greg Foran Refocuses Growth Story After Albertsons Deal
Kroger has appointed Greg Foran, former Walmart U.S. chief, as its new CEO and board member. This leadership change comes after the failed merger with Albertsons, shifting investor focus to Kroger's existing assets and digital capabilities. Foran's experience is expected to influence strategic decisions regarding capital allocation, store investments, and potential smaller acquisitions in a competitive grocery market.
What Catalysts Are Rewriting The Ocado Group (LSE:OCDO) Narrative After Target Cuts And Kroger Shift
Ocado Group's fair value estimate has been slightly increased from £2.71 to £2.79 per share, aligning more closely with analyst expectations like JPMorgan's £2.90 target. This adjustment reflects updated assumptions on revenue growth and cost of capital, indicating a recalibration of valuation rather than a complete overhaul. The article discusses both bullish and bearish perspectives on Ocado's future, considering its core technology, retail operations, and recent developments with Kroger.
Sushi kiosk, cheese counter part of major redo at this Atlanta area Kroger
Kroger announced a $23 million investment to revamp its store at Parkaire Landing in East Cobb, Atlanta. The makeover will include new offerings such as a sushi kiosk and cheese counter, along with a fuel center, and is expected to be completed by early 2027. This investment comes as metro Atlanta's grocery market is highly competitive, with Kroger focusing on larger-format stores and continuous efforts to upgrade locations.
General Mills lowers sales, profit outlook as stressed consumers spend less
General Mills has lowered its sales and profit outlook for the current fiscal year, citing reduced spending by financially stressed consumers. CEO Jeff Harmening noted "historically low consumer sentiment" exacerbated by inflation and other factors, leading to an anticipated organic net sales loss of 1.5% to 2%. The company plans to focus on offering more value and introducing new products with bold flavors and protein to adapt to changing consumer behavior.
Kroger to Invest $23 Million in Parkaire Landing Expansion
Kroger is investing $23 million to expand its store in the Parkaire Landing shopping center in East Cobb. The expansion will add over 26,000 square feet, enhancing the deli, produce, and adding a sushi kiosk and Murray's cheese counter. Construction is underway, with completion expected in Spring 2027, and the store will remain open throughout the process.
As Walmart and Target head in different directions, all eyes are on their new CEOs
Walmart and Target are both under new CEO leadership, with John Furner at Walmart and Michael Fiddelke at Target. While Furner aims to maintain Walmart's recent strong performance and integrate AI, Fiddelke faces the challenge of revitalizing Target amidst declining sales and store traffic. Investors will closely watch their respective earnings reports for insights into their strategies for the future.
The Kroger Co. $KR Shares Sold by Aberdeen Group plc
Aberdeen Group plc reduced its stake in The Kroger Co. (NYSE:KR) by 9.1% in the third quarter, selling 39,382 shares and retaining 392,925 shares valued at $26.23 million. This comes as other large institutions, including Norges Bank and Allianz, made significant moves in the stock, leading to an overall institutional ownership of about 80.93%. Analysts maintain a "Moderate Buy" rating for Kroger with an average price target of $74.07, following the company's Q3 EPS of $1.05 and FY2025 EPS guidance of $4.75-$4.80.
Vanguard Group Inc. Sells 347,379 Shares of The Kroger Co. $KR
Vanguard Group Inc. reduced its stake in The Kroger Co. (NYSE:KR) by 0.5% in the third quarter, selling 347,379 shares but still owning over 76 million shares valued at $5.14 billion. Despite Vanguard's slight reduction, other institutional investors like Norges Bank and Allianz Asset Management GmbH significantly increased their holdings in Kroger. The article also provides an overview of recent analyst ratings, Kroger's stock performance, and its latest earnings results, guidance, and dividend declaration.
Kroger Turns To Greg Foran To Reset Execution And Digital Grocery Plan
Kroger has appointed Greg Foran, former Walmart U.S. chief, as its new CEO to focus on operational improvements and digital transformation following the failed merger attempt with Albertsons. This leadership change signals a shift towards stronger execution, cost control, and a clearer digital grocery plan to compete with major retailers. Investors will be watching Foran's impact on margins, store productivity, and e-commerce profitability, with the upcoming March 5, 2026 earnings report providing initial insights.
Update: List of Kroger stores closing in 2026; is yours on the list?
This article provides an update on Kroger stores scheduled for closure in 2026. It advises readers to check if their local store is included in the list of impending closures. The article aims to inform Kroger customers about significant changes to store operations.
EXCLUSIVE: McCann Wins Kroger's US Creative Business
McCann has been named the creative agency of record for Kroger U.S., taking over from DDB New York. This move keeps the Kroger account within the Omnicom umbrella, following Omnicom's acquisition of IPG, McCann's former parent company. McCann New York's CEO, Amber Guild, expressed pride in partnering with Kroger, an iconic brand, to develop meaningful work and drive business growth.
5 things top news: Target’s turnaround begins at the store
Target's new CEO plans to initiate the company's turnaround by focusing on enhancing the customer experience within its stores. This announcement is highlighted in a "5 things top news" summary from Supermarket News. The article also mentions other retail news, including Dollar General's new private-label air freshener line.
Walmart pushes major checkout change to more stores after shoppers abandon carts
Walmart is gradually moving away from self-checkout kiosks and reintroducing traditional checkout lanes in more stores due to customer complaints, abandoned carts, and significant shoplifting issues. This shift is being implemented selectively, with some locations, like one in Colville, Washington, already adapting their front-end experiences based on customer feedback. Alongside these checkout changes, Walmart is also enhancing its operations with AI integration, digital shelf labels, and the removal of synthetic dyes from some store-brand products.
Lexington customers will keep paying elevated utility bills after state OK’s rate hike
Kentucky's Public Service Commission has approved rate hikes for Kentucky Utilities (KU) and Louisville Gas and Electric (LG&E), allowing them to maintain elevated electricity and natural gas rates for over a million customers. This decision largely upholds a deal struck between the utility companies, customers, and the state attorney general's office, though the approved rates are slightly lower than an interim increase implemented in January. The companies, subsidiaries of PPL Corp., initially sought much larger increases and are barred from further rate requests until at least 2028, while also planning significant infrastructure investments.
Readers react: New Kroger CEO has work to do
Supermarket News polled its readers about the top priorities for Kroger's new CEO, Greg Foran, in his initial days. The majority of respondents (43%) believe he should focus on settling the pending lawsuit with Albertsons. Other significant concerns include changing the company's direction and hiring new executives, with readers offering detailed advice on store operations, customer needs, and company culture.
SN top 10: Kroger finally makes its big hire
Kroger has appointed Greg Foran, former CEO of Walmart U.S. and Air New Zealand, as its new CEO after a year-long search. Foran is credited with boosting digital capabilities at Walmart and leading Air New Zealand through a digital transformation and the pandemic. His hire was the top story last week for Supermarket News, which also covered other significant retail developments.
Kroger’s $23M Parkaire expansion to include fuel center
Kroger is undertaking a $23 million renovation and expansion of its Parkaire Landing store in East Cobb, increasing its size from 59,000 to 85,000 square feet. The project, expected to be completed by spring 2027, will include a new 12-pump fuel center, an expanded produce department, an enlarged deli, a full-service Murray’s cheese counter, and a sushi kiosk. The store will remain open during construction.
Strategic Adjustments Continue at Kroger, but Structural Disadvantages Limit Durable Share Gains
Kroger, despite being the largest U.S. dedicated supermarket operator and holding 6% of the grocery market, faces significant structural disadvantages. The company lacks enduring intangible assets and the cost advantages of rivals like Walmart and Amazon, limiting its ability to gain lasting market share. Kroger's strategy to use its 2,700+ stores as fresh food and omnichannel hubs is seen as a necessary move to maintain relevance rather than to carve out a distinct competitive edge.
Pardon the Disruption: The big question facing Kroger’s new CEO
Kroger's new CEO, Greg Foran, is an experienced operations guru tasked with improving the supermarket chain's core business. While he is expected to streamline operations and enhance the store experience, the article questions whether he can address Kroger's underlying identity crisis in a rapidly changing grocery landscape. The challenge lies in distinguishing Kroger from discounters, specialty grocers, and e-commerce giants, and maintaining relevance beyond just offering a large selection of goods, especially as digital shopping grows and traditional supermarket models lose appeal.
Jesse Jackson called for boycott in 2018. See photos of his time in Cincy
This article provides a photo gallery of Rev. Jesse Jackson's time in Cincinnati, recalling his call for a Kroger boycott in 2018 and his meeting with the Enquirer. It highlights a significant event from his past involvement in the city.
Target & Kroger among test advertisers on ChatGPT
Albertsons and Target are participating in OpenAI's Ad Pilot Program, which tests new advertising formats within the ChatGPT AI engine. This program targets logged-in adult users on free and Go subscription tiers with ads based on keywords in their prompts. Target noted a 40% monthly increase in traffic from ChatGPT, while Albertsons utilized the pilot for Valentine's Day promotions.
Shell Asset Management Co. Sells 22,093 Shares of The Kroger Co. $KR
Shell Asset Management Co. reduced its stake in The Kroger Co. by 64.8% in Q3, selling 22,093 shares and now holding 11,993 shares valued at approximately $808,000. While institutional ownership remains high (80.93%), analysts maintain a "Moderate Buy" consensus with a $74.07 price target despite recent target reductions. Kroger also declared a quarterly dividend of $0.35, yielding 2.0%, and provided optimistic FY2025 EPS guidance.
Kroger partners with MUST Ministries to create two new school pantries
Kroger and its vendor partners have donated $217,000 to MUST Ministries to establish two new Neighborhood Pantries in Title 1 schools in Atlanta. These pantries, located at Hank Aaron High School and South Fulton High School, will provide monthly food distributions, including fresh meats, produce, and shelf-stable items, to 300 students and their families to combat childhood hunger. This initiative expands MUST's ongoing program, which already supports students from 70 schools through 18 existing pantries.
Promethos Capital Fully Exits Sprouts Farmers Market Stake
Promethos Capital has completely divested its 34,935 shares in Sprouts Farmers Market (SFM) for approximately $3.80 million, reflecting a significant decline in confidence due to SFM's 60.9% drop over the past year. This move represents a strategic portfolio reallocation for Promethos Capital, with Taiwan Semiconductor Manufacturing becoming its largest holding. Despite this exit, Sprouts Farmers Market plans aggressive expansion, aiming for 1,400 locations, and analysts maintain a "Moderate Buy" rating, anticipating future growth opportunities.
Kroger Reaches an Agreement With Illinois Over Asbestos Work
Kroger and contractor SSI Services LLC have agreed to pay $108,000 in civil penalties to Illinois for asbestos handling violations during a 2022 renovation of a Taylorville grocery store. The settlement follows a long legal dispute and an Illinois Environmental Protection Agency intervention after asbestos-containing materials were found in public areas, leading to the store's temporary closure. The agreement aims to hold the companies accountable and prevent future environmental regulation breaches.
The Kroger Co. $KR is Tobam's 5th Largest Position
Tobam recently increased its stake in The Kroger Co. (NYSE:KR) by 34.9% during the third quarter, making it their 5th largest position and accounting for 2.7% of their investment portfolio. Various other institutional investors have also adjusted their holdings in Kroger. Wall Street analysts have issued a "Moderate Buy" rating for Kroger with a consensus target price of $74.07, and the company has announced a quarterly dividend of $0.35 per share.
These Popular Grocery Stores Are All Part Of The Kroger Family
Kroger, a nearly 150-year-old company that started as a tea shop in Cincinnati, Ohio, now owns approximately 20 supermarket brands nationwide. This article details the history and acquisition of several popular grocery chains under the Kroger umbrella, including Dillons, Fred Meyer, Ralphs, and Harris Teeter. It highlights Kroger's growth through both organic expansion and strategic acquisitions over the decades.
Todd Asset Management LLC Purchases 72,143 Shares of The Kroger Co. $KR
Todd Asset Management LLC increased its stake in The Kroger Co. (NYSE:KR) by 7.7%, bringing its total holdings to 1,010,556 shares valued at approximately $68.1 million. Other institutional investors like Norges Bank and Allianz Asset Management GmbH have also significantly increased their positions in Kroger, with institutional investors now owning 80.93% of the company's stock. Kroger recently beat quarterly EPS estimates and announced a quarterly dividend of $0.35 per share, representing an annualized dividend of $1.40 and a yield of 2.0%.
Kroger & CVS roll out huge shelf change as new era for in-store shopping begins
Kroger and CVS Pharmacy are introducing digital screens on end caps in their stores, marking a significant shift in in-store advertising. This technology allows for dynamic content, such as product videos, seasonal promotions, and educational messaging, aiming to enhance the shopping experience and drive sales. CVS has already deployed screens in over 600 locations, while Kroger is prioritizing grocery aisles and health/beauty sections, viewing end caps as a crucial point of influence for customer engagement.
