Kroger Stock Price, News & Analysis

The Kroger Co (NYSE: KR) has announced a noteworthy dividend increase from $0.84 to $1.04 per share, marking a 24% rise. The next quarterly dividend of 26 cents per share will be paid on September 1, 2022, to shareholders on record by August 15, 2022. This increase signifies the 16^th consecutive year of rising dividends, supported by Kroger's robust financial health and strong cash flow. The company aspires to deliver total shareholder returns of 8% to 11% in the future, demonstrating its commitment to sustainable growth.

The Kroger Co. (NYSE: KR) is expanding its delivery services by opening a new customer fulfillment center (CFC) in Aurora, Colorado, powered by Ocado Group (LSE: OCDO). This facility will feature advanced robotics and is set to enhance the grocery shopping experience for residents in the Denver Metro Area. With nearly 300,000 square feet and the creation of around 400 new jobs, Kroger aims to redefine delivery logistics, utilizing cutting-edge technology for efficient operations. This expansion aligns with Kroger's ongoing commitment to improve customer service and accessibility.

The Kroger Co. (NYSE: KR) announced a strategic expansion of electric vehicle (EV) charging stations, enhancing customer access across the U.S. Over 350 chargers have already been installed in states like Arizona, California, and Texas. Collaborating with Blink, Electrify America, EVgo, Tesla, and Volta, Kroger aims to support a lower-carbon economy and help customers adopt sustainable practices. Charging times can be as short as 10 minutes, improving convenience for shoppers. More stations are planned in additional states by year-end, signaling Kroger's commitment to sustainability.

Unique Logistics International, Inc. (OTCMKTS: UNQL) announced a 12-month ocean freight contract with The Kroger Company (NYSE: KR). This new partnership, effective through April 2023, involves transporting goods from the Asia-Pacific region to North America. Kroger, a retail leader with over $137 billion in annual sales and 2,726 stores, seeks innovative solutions to enhance its supply chain. This collaboration highlights Unique's expertise in the retail logistics sector, positioning the company for growth.

Kroger Co. (NYSE: KR) reported strong Q1 2022 results, with identical sales without fuel up 4.1% and total sales reaching $44.6 billion, a 7.9% increase year-over-year. Operating profit was $1.505 billion, with adjusted EPS climbing to $1.45. The company successfully implemented its 'Leading with Fresh' and 'Accelerating with Digital' strategies, resulting in growth in digital engagement and private label sales. Kroger also raised its full-year guidance for identical sales growth to 2.5%-3.5% and adjusted operating profit to $4.3-$4.4 billion, reflecting its strong market position.

Kroger Health has appointed professional quarterback Joe Burrow as a Brand Ambassador to promote health initiatives aimed at combating food insecurity. Burrow, a Southeast Ohio native and Heisman Trophy winner, has a strong connection to local hunger relief efforts, having established the Joe Burrow Hunger Relief Fund with over $1.3 million raised. This partnership aligns with Kroger's Zero Hunger | Zero Waste initiative, which aims to eliminate food waste and hunger by 2025. In 2021, Kroger contributed $343 million to community charities, enhancing access to nutritious foods.

The Kroger Co. has expanded its delivery service to South Florida, opening a new 60,000-square-foot facility in Miami. This move creates 200 jobs in logistics and transportation, enhancing Kroger's last-mile delivery capabilities. Customers can utilize a promotion offering $15 off their first three orders. The expansion, part of a partnership with Ocado, leverages advanced technology for optimized grocery delivery and aims to meet demand for fresh food, especially during hurricane seasons. The facility is designed for efficiency, utilizing automated systems to streamline operations.

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.