Kroger Co. (KR)

Kroger's proposed merger with Albertsons was blocked due to concerns about reduced competition, leading to a new stock buyback plan. Kroger's Q4 2024 earnings surpassed analyst estimates, contributing to a surge in the stock price. Ronald Sargent was appointed as interim CEO and Chairman, and David Kennerley became the new CFO. Kroger announced the creation of a new eCommerce business unit to accelerate online growth. Kroger's stock reached an all-time high of $72 in April 2025, reflecting a 27.7% return over the preceding six months. Kroger reported strong fiscal Q1 2025 results, with adjusted earnings per share (EPS) of $1.49 surpassing expectations, and the Board of Directors approved a 9% increase in its quarterly dividend. There has been insider selling activity by executives, and Congressional members have also traded KR stock.

Demand for Kroger's products and services exhibits seasonality, largely influenced by holidays and specific times of the year. Kroger provides "Seasonal & Holiday Shops" with essentials for various celebrations throughout the year. Kroger introduces limited-edition collections and seasonal products to align with consumer preferences during different times of the year. Major holidays like Thanksgiving see a significant surge in store visits. Kroger emphasizes in-season fruits and vegetables, providing customers with seasonal eating guides and recipes. Kroger adjusts its strategies, such as investing in private-label brands and e-commerce, to meet evolving consumer demands and maintain sales growth.

The Kroger Co. is a prominent American retail company operating supermarkets and multi-department stores across the United States, with a wide array of retail formats. Kroger's sector is Consumer Staples, operating within the Retail and Food Chains industries, specifically categorized under Grocery Stores. Kroger's extensive product portfolio includes traditional grocery items, natural and organic foods, pharmacy services, general merchandise, and fuel. The company also manufactures and processes food products for sale in its stores and online, offering a robust selection of private label brands. As of April 2025, Kroger serves millions of customers daily through its physical and online shops.

Kroger's operations span 35 states and the District of Columbia. As of July 15, 2025, there are 1,257 Kroger stores across 16 states and territories. In Q1 2023, Kroger operated 2,719 grocery retail stores under various banners and divisions. The company's store formats include multi-department stores, combo stores, marketplace stores, and price-impact warehouse stores. Kroger also operates manufacturing plants, supermarket fuel centers, pharmacies, in-store medical clinics, and jewelry stores. States with the highest concentration of Kroger stores include Texas, Ohio, and Georgia. Despite its widespread presence, Kroger does not have stores in 40 states and territories, including large and populated regions like New York, California, and Florida.

Kroger has maintained a strong brand reputation, being included in the 2025 Axios Harris Poll 100 and recognized by Newsweek as one of the World's Most Trustworthy Companies for 2024 and America's Most Trustworthy Companies for 2023. Kroger's brand reputation is also positively impacted by its signature "Zero Hunger | Zero Waste" initiative, launched in 2017, which aims to support hunger relief and reduce waste. Community engagement initiatives, such as Kroger Community Days, further enhance its reputation.

The ownership structure of The Kroger Co. is primarily held by institutional investors, with approximately 85.31% of the company's stock owned by institutional shareholders. Vanguard Group Inc. is the largest individual shareholder, owning 12.44% of the company. Other major institutional owners include BlackRock, Inc., Berkshire Hathaway Inc., and State Street Corp. Individual investors hold approximately 12.71% of the stock, while insiders own 1.98%. William McMullen, the former CEO, directly held 0.5% of the total shares outstanding.