The Kroger Co. operates a U.S. grocery retail business with supermarkets across multiple banners, complemented by fuel centers, pharmacies, private-label products, manufacturing, advertising and data analytics. News about KR commonly covers fresh food and seasonal merchandising, pickup and delivery services, digital coupons, private brands such as Simple Truth, Private Selection and Kroger brand products, and customer access through Kroger.com, the Kroger app and delivery marketplaces.
Company updates also include Harris Teeter, a wholly owned Kroger subsidiary, with recurring coverage of pharmacy services, nutrition support, grocery promotions, fuel rewards, community programs and associate initiatives. Other news themes include new products entering Kroger-banner stores, floral and gift offerings such as Bloom Haus, and enterprise training programs such as Pearl Street Academy.
The Kroger Co. (NYSE: KR) reported its Q3 2021 results, showing a 3.1% increase in identical sales and total sales of $31.9 billion, up from $29.7 billion year-over-year. Adjusted EPS rose to $0.78 from $0.71, while operating profit increased by 9.6% to $868 million. The company is raising its full-year sales guidance to 13.7% to 13.9% and expects adjusted EPS of $3.40 to $3.50. Kroger's capital strategy includes a commitment to returning cash to shareholders through share repurchases and dividends amid ongoing investments in digital and fresh food initiatives.
Kroger (NYSE: KR) announces a partnership with Kipster Farms to introduce the world's first carbon-neutral, cage-free eggs in the U.S. The eggs will be produced in a closed-loop system that adheres to high health and welfare standards for both people and animals. This initiative enhances Kroger's commitment to sustainability and its Zero Hunger | Zero Waste mission. MPS Egg Farms is constructing the first production facility, and the new Simple Truth eggs are expected to hit select store shelves in late 2022. This partnership aligns with Kroger's Environmental, Social, and Governance strategy.
Home Chef, a leading meal solutions company, has launched a new digital gifting platform integrated with GiftNow, a Synchrony solution (NYSE: SYF), enhancing the gift card purchasing experience. This platform features personalized e-gift cards, offering customers seasonal designs and the ability to add video messages and photos. Customers can send these e-gift cards instantly or schedule delivery up to three months in advance. The offering aims to create a more seamless and personalized gifting experience, aligning with the holiday season.
Summary not available.
The Kroger Co. (NYSE: KR) will host its third quarter 2021 earnings conference call on December 2, 2021, at 10:00 a.m. ET. The management team will discuss financial and operational results for the quarter ending November 6, 2021. An online broadcast of the presentation will be available on ir.kroger.com, with an on-demand replay accessible by 1 p.m. ET on the same day.
The Kroger Co. (NYSE: KR) and Bed Bath & Beyond Inc. (NASDAQ: BBBY) have announced a strategic collaboration to enhance Kroger's e-commerce offerings. Starting in early 2022, Kroger customers will have access to a wide range of home and baby products from Bed Bath & Beyond through Kroger.com and select physical stores. This partnership aims to provide convenient shopping experiences, fulfilling customer needs for essential household items alongside groceries. Both companies anticipate that this initiative will reach a broader customer base, leveraging Kroger's extensive market presence.
Kroger Co. (NYSE: KR) and Bed Bath & Beyond Inc. (NASDAQ: BBBY) announced a strategic collaboration to offer Kroger customers a variety of home and baby products online and in select stores starting in 2022. This initiative allows Kroger shoppers to purchase items from Bed Bath & Beyond and buybuy Baby, aiming to enhance the shopping experience. The collaboration highlights Kroger’s commitment to innovation and product variety while expanding Bed Bath & Beyond's reach to a broader audience. This partnership is expected to drive sales growth for both companies.
Harris Teeter has announced the retirement of President Rod Antolock, effective February 1, 2022, after nearly 22 years with the company. He will be succeeded by Tammy DeBoer, currently serving as senior vice president of merchandising, operations, and marketing. Antolock, who joined in 2000, was instrumental in expanding Harris Teeter into new geographical areas and developing its customer engagement model. DeBoer brings over 25 years of retail experience and has previously held executive roles in other organizations, positioning her as a strong candidate for the presidency.
The Kroger Co. (NYSE: KR) and its meal solutions brand, Home Chef, have announced that Home Chef has surpassed $1 billion in annual sales. Founded in 2013, Home Chef merged with Kroger in 2018 and has since expanded meal options such as meal kits and heat-and-eat meals. The brand has over 500 products available at more than 2,200 Kroger stores. Home Chef aims to simplify cooking with fresh ingredients and diverse options, catering to busy families looking for quality meal solutions.
Anthem Blue Cross and Blue Shield in Ohio and Kroger Health have launched new 2022 Medicare Advantage plans aimed at improving overall health through enhanced benefits. These plans offer a Healthy Groceries Card, loaded with up to $75 monthly, allowing eligible members to buy nutritious food and health items at Kroger locations. Additional benefits include allowances for over-the-counter health items and dietitian sessions. The annual enrollment period starts on October 15, 2021, and runs until December 7, 2021.