Welcome to our dedicated page for Kroger news (Ticker: KR), a resource for investors and traders seeking the latest updates and insights on Kroger stock.
The Kroger Co. (NYSE: KR) generates a steady flow of news that reflects its role as a large U.S. grocery retailer and digital food platform. Company announcements span grocery merchandising, health and wellness, digital innovation, partnerships, and community impact, giving investors and customers insight into how Kroger evolves its business and serves shoppers.
Recent news highlights include seasonal product launches under Kroger’s Our Brands portfolio, such as the Private Selection Harvest Apple collection, which showcases limited-edition fall flavors across beverages, snacks, and bakery items. Kroger also shares annual food trend predictions developed by its food experts, connecting emerging customer preferences to specific products in its exclusive brands.
Kroger Health and The Little Clinic are frequent subjects of updates, including vaccination campaigns that offer savings incentives for customers who receive flu and other vaccines at Kroger pharmacies or clinics. These stories illustrate how the company integrates healthcare services and the "food as medicine" concept into the grocery experience.
On the digital front, Kroger news covers partnerships and technology initiatives, such as the nationwide launch of thousands of Kroger Family of Companies locations on Uber Eats, Uber, and Postmates for on-demand grocery delivery. The company also reports on its expanded relationship with Google Cloud, where it plans to use Gemini Enterprise for Customer Experience to power an AI-based shopping and meal assistant.
Corporate updates include leadership changes, the sale of non-core assets like Vitacost.com, and programs aimed at affordability and food access, such as the Verified Savings Program and Yearly Checkout savings summaries. For anyone tracking KR, this news feed offers a consolidated view of how Kroger manages merchandising, health, technology, and community initiatives over time.
The Kroger Co. (NYSE: KR) has elected Elaine Chao to its board of directors, effective immediately. Chao's extensive experience includes serving as U.S. Secretary of Labor and U.S. Secretary of Transportation, along with roles in numerous Fortune 500 companies. Her election is part of Kroger's strategy to enhance corporate governance and bring diverse perspectives to the board. Chao will serve until the annual meeting of shareholders in June 2022, at which point she will stand for re-election.
Kroger's Central Division has ratified new labor agreements with UFCW Local 536, benefiting over 1,100 associates in central Illinois. The agreements, which last three years, include a substantial investment of $11.3 million in wage increases. Associates will receive enhanced pay, affordable health care, and ongoing contributions to pension funds. Colleen Juergensen, president of Kroger's Central Division, expressed satisfaction with the outcome, highlighting the collaborative efforts of both bargaining committees. The contracts cover retail and meat clerks across 13 stores in cities like Peoria and Bloomington.
The Kroger Co. (NYSE: KR) has partnered with Inclusion Companies LLC and co-founder Jewel to present The Wellness Experience in Cincinnati, OH, on August 20-21, 2021. This free festival aims to promote health and wellness, featuring over 100 interactive experiences across health, nutrition, activity, and inspiration. Notable participants include NASCAR driver Kyle Busch and wellness advocates like Tabitha Brown. Kroger Health, with 2,200 pharmacies serving over 14 million customers, emphasizes 'food as medicine' and mental well-being during this event, which offers valuable resources for healthier living.
The Kroger Co. (NYSE: KR) has appointed Rob Quast as the new Head of Investor Relations, effective immediately. Quast, who joined Kroger in 2013, previously served as director of insurance and claims, overseeing the company's global insurance strategy. He brings extensive financial expertise and leadership skills. Quast takes over from Rebekah Manis, who will lead Kroger's expansion into new geographies, including its recent entry into Florida. Kroger's CFO, Gary Millerchip, expressed confidence in Quast's ability to enhance shareholder engagement and communicate the company's growth strategy.
The Kroger Co. (NYSE: KR) has announced the retirement of Steve McKinney, senior vice president of retail divisions, effective August 7, 2021, after 40 years at the company. He will be succeeded by Valerie Jabbar, currently group vice president of center store merchandising. Jabbar has been with Kroger since 1987, holding various leadership roles, including president of the Ralphs division. Jabbar's extensive experience is expected to enhance Kroger's leadership team as she takes on her new responsibilities.
The Kroger Atlanta division and UFCW Local 1996 members have ratified new labor agreements, effective July 7 and 8, which will invest over $300 million in wage increases over four years. This follows Kroger's national investment of $800 million in wage increases in the past three years. The agreements cover 22,000 associates across 170 stores in Greater Atlanta and Savannah, offering significant pay increases, affordable healthcare, and pension support. Kroger aims to foster talent development and career opportunities for its associates.
The Kroger Co. (NYSE: KR) has partnered with KNAPP to enhance its Great Lakes Distribution Center in Delaware, Ohio. The renovation, expected to be completed this summer, will expand the facility by 130,000 square feet and incorporate advanced automation technology. This upgrade aims to improve efficiency in replenishing stores and more than double the center's capacity. According to Kroger's VP, this initiative is a critical part of their supply chain transformation, ensuring they meet growing customer demand more effectively.
The Kroger Co. (NYSE: KR) announced a dividend increase from 72 to 84 cents per year, marking a 17% uplift. The next quarterly dividend of 21 cents per share is set for September 1, 2021, payable to shareholders on record by August 13. This increase reflects Kroger's confidence in sustained free cash flow and strong performance, continuing its trend of annual increases for 15 consecutive years.
Kroger aims to maintain this growth over time through effective capital allocation strategies.
The Kroger Co. (NYSE: KR) and Inclusion Companies LLC will host The Wellness Experience, a wellness festival co-founded by Jewel, on August 20-21, 2021, in Cincinnati, OH. The festival includes live music, workouts, and cooking demonstrations, emphasizing overall health in light of recent events. The event aims to inspire healthy living and is free to attend, with activities like the Food As Medicine Expo and a donation drive for Freestore Foodbank. It reflects Kroger's commitment to community health and wellness.
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