Kroger

Kroger Co. is an American retail company that operates supermarkets and multi-department stores across the United States. Founded in 1883 by Bernard Kroger in Cincinnati, Ohio, the company expanded from a single store into a national grocer through aggressive expansion, diversification, and acquisitions. Kroger operates under numerous banners, including Kroger, Harris Teeter, Ralphs, Fred Meyer, King Soopers, Smith's, Fry's, and City Market, among others. Some banners operate Kroger Marketplace stores that combine groceries with general merchandise. These banners serve various regional markets, often combining grocery, produce, meat, bakery, deli, and pharmacy services.

Store formats range from traditional supermarkets and department-style grocery stores to warehouse-like supercenters and convenience stores. In addition to in-store shopping, Kroger offers online grocery ordering and delivery, curbside pickup, and ship-to-home services through its digital platforms.

Kroger has pursued growth through diversification and technological investments. It partnered with Ocado to build automated online fulfillment centers to support its e-commerce operations and has continued to expand its digital and omnichannel offerings, including Kroger Delivery and Kroger Ship. The company also engages in private label brands, with lines such as Simple Truth and Kroger Brand.

Corporate and governance: Kroger is a publicly traded company listed on the New York Stock Exchange under the ticker KR. It is headquartered in Cincinnati, Ohio, and ranks as one of the largest grocery retailers in the United States by revenue and store count. The company has described initiatives around sustainability and hunger relief, including its Zero Hunger Zero Waste framework and partnerships with food banks and Feeding America.