Kroger Stock Price, News & Analysis

Kroger Co. (NYSE: KR) has expanded its grocery delivery service with a new fulfillment "spoke" facility in Central Ohio, powered by Ocado Group (LSE: OCDO). The 61,000-square-foot facility in Lockbourne will extend delivery capabilities to over 250 Central Ohio ZIP codes, employing up to 200 associates. This initiative enhances Kroger's digital shopping experience and follows the recent launch of the Boost by Kroger Plus membership program, which offers benefits like free delivery. The expansion is part of Kroger's strategy to strengthen its e-commerce presence and create job opportunities.

Kroger has partnered with the USO to launch a mobile food program to serve military communities, kicking off with the "Stuff the Truck" event on May 16 in Atlanta, Georgia. This initiative aims to provide nutritious meals to service members and their families. The program will collect donations and distribute food across various military bases, ending with a meal for families of deployed members on May 21 at Fort Stewart. Kroger has donated $35.3 million to the USO since 2010, making it the largest contributor in the organization's history.

Eat Well Investment Group Inc. (EWG) announces that Amara Organic Foods, a fast-growing baby food brand, is now available on Kroger's eCommerce platforms, including Kroger.com and Vitacost.com. This move enhances Amara's distribution strategy, which already includes major retailers like Amazon and Whole Foods. The infant nutrition market is projected to exceed $109 billion by 2027, positioning Amara to capitalize on this growth. CEO Jessica Sturzenegger emphasizes the importance of increased eCommerce distribution for driving revenue and maximizing margins.

The Kroger Co. (NYSE: KR) has launched the second year of its Go Fresh & Local Supplier Accelerator, inviting local and regional growers to apply until May 23, 2022. This program aims to enhance the selection of fresh items in Kroger stores by connecting American suppliers directly with the retailer. The initiative, part of Kroger's commitment to invest $10 billion in diverse suppliers by 2030, culminates in a two-day event in Cincinnati in August, where 30 finalists can showcase their products for potential shelf placement and business development coaching.

Kroger Health is enhancing access to COVID-19 testing and treatment across the U.S. as part of the Biden-Harris Administration's 'Test to Treat' initiative. With over 11 million vaccine doses administered, Kroger supports treatment through its 225 Little Clinic locations and telehealth services in all 50 states. Patients can get antiviral prescriptions after a positive test, while COVID-19 therapeutics are available at all Kroger pharmacies. Chief Medical Officer Dr. Marc Watkins emphasizes the importance of testing and vaccination to control COVID-19's spread.

The Kroger Co. (NYSE: KR) is hosting a spring hiring event on April 30, 2022, aiming to fill 23,000 positions across various departments including retail, e-commerce, and healthcare. The event will feature virtual interviews from 1 p.m. to 5 p.m. ET and in-person interviews at local times. Kroger continues to invest in its workforce, having allocated $1.2 billion in wages and training over the past four years, resulting in an average hourly wage of $17, with total compensation exceeding $22 per hour. The company also offers extensive benefits and educational support.

The Kroger Houston division appointed Teresa Dickerson as the new corporate affairs manager, overseeing communications and community relations for 108 stores in the Greater Houston area and Louisiana. Dickerson, with over 20 years of experience, previously managed corporate affairs for Kroger's Memphis division. She aims to deepen connections with associates and communities while promoting Kroger's commitment to providing fresh food. The Houston division has over 15,000 associates and focuses on creating #ZeroHungerZeroWaste communities by 2025, having donated $1.9 million and 2.6 million pounds of food in 2021.

Kroger (NYSE: KR) and Bed Bath & Beyond (NASDAQ: BBBY) have launched a new e-commerce experience on Kroger.com, expanding their product offerings in home and baby categories. This collaboration aims to create a seamless digital shopping experience, allowing customers to purchase a variety of products, including exclusive Owned Brands from Bed Bath & Beyond and buybuy BABY. The initiative encompasses thousands of items and aims to enhance customer convenience and satisfaction.