Kroger Stock Price, News & Analysis

Home Chef has announced that Erik Jensen will become the new Chief Executive Officer effective February 1, 2022, succeeding Pat Vihtelic, the founder who will remain on the advisory board. Since its inception in 2013 and acquisition by Kroger in 2018, Home Chef has achieved over $1 billion in annual sales as of October 2021. Jensen, who has been with Home Chef since 2016, aims to drive growth and innovation in the meal solutions market.

King Soopers and City Market have charged UFCW Local 7 with unfair labor practices due to their refusal to negotiate in good faith. Local 7 has also rejected mediation efforts aimed at resolving the dispute. The company's leadership emphasizes a commitment to improving associate compensation and benefits while maintaining affordable essentials for the community. King Soopers/City Market urges Local 7 to allow associates to vote on current proposals, stressing that associates are currently working without a contract amid potential strike threats.

Kroger Health has achieved a significant milestone by administering its 10 millionth COVID-19 vaccine dose as of January 10, 2022. This achievement comes amid the rise of the Omicron variant, highlighting Kroger's commitment to combating the pandemic. The company has partnered with government initiatives to enhance vaccine access and testing, including a $5 million Community Immunity Giveaway. It continues to offer both initial vaccinations and booster shots in alignment with CDC guidelines, demonstrating a robust response to public health needs.

Ralphs and Kitchen United MIX have launched their first kitchen center in Westwood, Los Angeles, on January 5, 2022. This collaboration allows customers to order freshly prepared meals from multiple participating restaurants digitally or via an in-person kiosk. The initiative aims to enhance convenience for shoppers while offering restaurant-quality meals. Additional locations in Texas are set to open later this month. This partnership, announced in August 2021, marks a strategic expansion for Kroger, reinforcing its commitment to innovative solutions and fresh food accessibility.

The Kroger Co. (NYSE: KR) has authorized a new $1 billion share repurchase program, replacing the previous authorization with approximately $157 million remaining. This decision reflects the Board's confidence in Kroger's cash flow and aims to enhance shareholder returns. The repurchase program allows for shares to be bought in various transactions without a set expiration, although it can be suspended or terminated by the Board. Kroger remains committed to investing in its business and returning excess cash to shareholders through share repurchases and dividends.

The Kroger Co. announced the expansion of its fulfillment network in Indianapolis, enhancing its grocery delivery services. This new 48,000-square-foot facility will collaborate with a hub in Monroe, Ohio, to deliver fresh groceries to 35 Central Indiana ZIP codes. Kroger aims to improve customer access to fresh food with delivery fees starting at $6.95. The expansion will create up to 150 jobs in the area and leverages technology from partner Ocado to optimize delivery efficiency. This move reflects Kroger's commitment to e-commerce and advancing customer service.

Kroger Co. has promoted Laura Gump to president of its Houston division as of December 13, 2021, succeeding Joe Kelley. Gump, who has over 34 years of grocery retail experience, previously served as vice president of merchandising for the Houston division. Her leadership aims to enhance customer experience, team engagement, and community support. Gump is also involved in initiatives promoting women's leadership and community engagement, reflecting Kroger's commitment to diversity and customer service.

The Kroger Co. (NYSE: KR) announced the establishment of a new customer fulfillment center (CFC) in North Carolina, powered by Ocado Group (LSE: OCDO). This CFC, measuring 200,000 square feet, aims to enhance delivery services with advanced technology, including robotics and machine learning. Expected to employ up to 700 associates over five years, the facility will be operational within 24 months. Kroger’s existing CFCs are located in Groveland, FL, and Monroe, OH, with additional sites planned across the U.S.

On December 7, 2021, Home Chef announced a partnership with USAA Alliance Services to provide exclusive discounts for its members. Active and retired military members can enjoy a 50% discount on their first meal kit and 15% off subsequent orders. This collaboration aims to enhance meal accessibility and foster family connections during mealtimes. Home Chef, a leader in meal solutions, emphasizes convenient cooking with fresh ingredients delivered to customers' doorsteps. The company is a subsidiary of Kroger (KR) and serves over 2,200 retail locations.