The Kroger Co. (KR)
Consumer Staples12 articles
Price chart
Why is KR moving today?
-0.6%KR is -0.6% today, inside the ordinary range for a session (under 3%). No stories about it reached the feed in the last 24 hours.
What this does not prove. A story on the same day is evidence of timing, not of cause: it explains a move only if it accounts for the size and the direction, and most single-stock moves carry a sector or index component too. Nothing here is a forecast.
Source: Yahoo Finance - quote as of 13 hours ago
The Kroger Co. (KR) overview
Kroger is one of the largest U.S. supermarket operators.
KR is a member of the S&P 500. It sits in the Consumer Staples sector. That sector covers food, beverage and household-goods companies that tend to hold up in any economy.
The Kroger Co. trades on the NYSE under the ticker symbol KR. The most recent market data puts the share price at about $62.71. That is down 0.60% on the session. At that price the company is worth roughly $37.04B.
Over the past 52 weeks, KR has traded between $54.15 and $76.58. Shares change hands at a trailing price-to-earnings (P/E) ratio of about 34.8. The P/E ratio sets the share price against a year of earnings. A higher number means the market is paying more for each dollar the company earns. KR also pays a dividend. It yields around 2.49% at the current price.
Key statistics
Source: Yahoo Finance - quote as of 13 hours ago
Informational only, not financial advice. Content is AI-generated and may contain errors. How this works.
Why investors watch KR
KR is one of the larger names in the Consumer Staples sector, so investors follow it closely. It tends to move with the rest of the sector. This page sums up each KR story as it breaks, and tags it bullish, bearish or neutral.
What moves KR
- Earnings. KR reports results four times a year. A surprise against the estimate tends to move the stock that day.
- Analyst calls. Upgrades, downgrades and new price targets change what the market expects from KR.
- Sector news. Consumer Staples stocks often move together, so a rival's news can move KR too.
Market Mood
This week for KR
2 stories about The Kroger Co. in the last 7 days- Kroger to Cut 3,000 Roles Amid AI ExpansionProductneutralinvesting.com
- McDonald's Faces Lawsuit Over AI Pricing Engine UseLegalbearishcnbc.com
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Latest KR news
Kroger to Cut 3,000 Roles Amid AI Expansion
Kroger is planning to cut 3,000 corporate roles, according to a company memo. This decision aligns with the company's strategy to expand its use of artificial intelligence (AI) in operations. The reduction in roles is part of Kroger’s initiative to streamline operations and increase efficiency through technology integration. The company aims to enhance logistical processes and customer service by leveraging AI solutions. Currently, no specific timeline for the role eliminations has been provided. However, this move reflects a broader trend of automation in the retail industry. Streamlining operations with AI may reduce costs for Kroger, potentially impacting profitability positively. For investors, the focus will be on how effectively Kroger integrates AI into its business operations and whether these changes will offset the costs associated with restructuring.
Read More: Kroger to Cut 3,000 Roles Amid AI Expansion
McDonald's Faces Lawsuit Over AI Pricing Engine Use
A federal antitrust lawsuit has been filed against McDonald's, alleging the company uses an AI-powered 'pricing engine' to set menu prices across U.S. locations, potentially leading to overcharges for Big Macs and fries. McDonald's denies using AI for individual customer pricing, stating that it simply provides tools and recommendations to franchisees. This legal action highlights a broader trend where fast-food chains and supermarkets are increasingly adopting AI technologies that could impact consumer prices. For example, Kroger uses an AI platform to mark down perishables, and digital shelf labels are becoming more common in stores such as Kroger, Walmart, and Amazon Fresh. The legal challenge against McDonald's is part of a larger concern over the possibility of more personalized and dynamic pricing systems in the retail sector, facilitated by AI. While digital pricing aims to simplify and reduce waste, experts warn it could also lead to rapid real-time price changes, potentially harming consumers. Other technologies gaining attention include facial recognition checkouts, as trialed by Revolut in select coffee shops. This matters to ordinary investors because AI's integration in retail and fast food could reshape pricing strategies, potentially affecting top-line revenue. If AI-driven pricing tools lead to customer dissatisfaction or legal action, this could impact company reputations and financial performance.
Read More: McDonald's Faces Lawsuit Over AI Pricing Engine Use
Costco Expands to Challenge Major Grocery Chains
Costco is increasing its market presence, potentially impacting major grocery chains like Kroger and Publix. The company is aiming to capture a larger share of the grocery market by leveraging its strategic moves and pricing advantages. This expansion is perceived as a significant shift in the grocery retail landscape, possibly creating competitive pressures on established players in the industry. The grocery market is experiencing growth, and Costco is positioning itself to benefit from this trend. Experts suggest that Costco's strategy may involve enhancing its product offerings and customer experience to attract more consumers. This move is seen as an attempt to stay competitive against other retailers in the grocery segment. The strategic expansion of Costco is crucial for investors as it can influence market dynamics and affect the stock performance of both Costco (COST) and its competitors. Increased competition could lead to pricing pressure, impacting the profitability of traditional grocery chains.
Read More: Costco Expands to Challenge Major Grocery Chains
Taylor Farms faces scrutiny amid cyclospora outbreak linked to lettuce
The cyclospora outbreak in the U.S. has prompted scrutiny of Taylor Farms, linked by the FDA to the spread of the parasite. Taylor Farms produces 40% of salad kits sold at grocery stores and supplies major retailers like Walmart, Kroger, and restaurants including Taco Bell and McDonald's. The company states it invests over $200 million annually in food safety measures. In response to the outbreak, Taylor Farms has voluntarily suspended iceberg lettuce sourcing from central Mexico and engaged independent experts to review its food safety practices. This situation highlights the risks associated with industry consolidation in the U.S. food supply chain for investors.
Read More: Taylor Farms faces scrutiny amid cyclospora outbreak linked to lettuce
Kroger (KR) to Close 60 Stores by 2026 Amid Downsizing Plan
Kroger (KR) has announced plans to close approximately 60 stores by the end of 2026 as part of a broader downsizing trend began in 2025, which will extend at least through 2027. Stop & Shop will also close stores in Basking Ridge and Westfield, N.J., while Raley's Companies plans to shut seven locations in California and Nevada, impacting 48 employees in Petaluma alone. Raley's cited local market conditions and financial sustainability for its actions, and despite the closures, plans to open a new store in Madera, Calif., in March 2027. This matters for investors as the ongoing closures highlight challenges in the grocery sector, including competition and changing consumer preferences.
Read More: Kroger (KR) to Close 60 Stores by 2026 Amid Downsizing Plan
Taylor Farms Recalls 18 Products Linked to Salmonella Outbreak
Taylor Farms has recalled 18 meat products due to a salmonella outbreak linked to jalapeños. The recall affects products sold at major grocery chains including Kroger, Walmart, and Albertsons. This follows alerts for salsa and guacamole also containing the implicated jalapeños. Such recalls can impact consumer confidence and sales for affected brands, highlighting food safety risks in the food supply chain.
Read More: Taylor Farms Recalls 18 Products Linked to Salmonella Outbreak
Grocery Units Decline 1.8% in June, Impacting PepsiCo (PEP)
In June 2026, grocery units in the U.S. fell 1.8% year-over-year, a significant change from the 0.1% growth in June 2025. Inflation continues to pressure consumers, with grocery prices approximately 33% higher than in 2019. During its recent second quarter, PepsiCo (PEP) reported a 2% decline in North America food revenue, with volume flat. The shift in consumer behavior, driven by rising prices and reduced SNAP benefits, affects grocery retailers like Walmart and Kroger, which are implementing price cuts and promotions to maintain sales. This situation highlights the challenges facing food companies in adapting to changing consumer spending patterns.
Read More: Grocery Units Decline 1.8% in June, Impacting PepsiCo (PEP)
Kroger (KR) Eagle Deal Could Unlock Growth Potential
Kroger (KR) has announced a strategic collaboration with Eagle, though specific financial terms have not yet been disclosed. The deal aims to enhance Kroger's market position and drive innovation in its offerings. This partnership may result in operational efficiencies and a potential increase in market share. The implications for the grocery sector could be significant, suggesting a shift in competitive dynamics. Details regarding potential revenue increases or specific growth targets remain to be confirmed.
Read More: Kroger (KR) Eagle Deal Could Unlock Growth Potential
Kroger (KR) Acquires Giant Eagle for $1.65 Billion
Kroger (KR) announced it will acquire Giant Eagle for $1.65 billion, which includes $1.25 billion in cash and the assumption of approximately $400 million in liabilities. This transaction aims to enhance Kroger's retail presence and address inflationary pressures within the industry. The acquisition is part of a broader trend of consolidation among food and pharmacy retailers driven by changing consumer preferences and increasing competition. Kroger's CEO, Greg Foran, stated that Giant Eagle allows for expansion into attractive adjacent markets, signifying strategic growth potential.
Read More: Kroger (KR) Acquires Giant Eagle for $1.65 Billion
Kroger (KR) Faces Sales Growth Issues Amid Rising Costs
Kroger's (KR) recent reports show that costs are increasing faster than sales growth. Comp sales have underperformed while new CEO plans focus on store improvements. In the first quarter of 2026, financial results indicated pressure on margins and profitability. This situation may lead to further scrutiny from investors regarding operational efficiency and market positioning.
Read More: Kroger (KR) Faces Sales Growth Issues Amid Rising Costs
Taiwan, South Korea ETFs Gain 67% and 109% in AI Trade
Tim Urbanowicz, chief investment strategist at Innovator from Goldman Sachs, emphasized the significance of emerging markets like Taiwan and South Korea for AI investments. The iShares MSCI Taiwan ETF is up 67% and the iShares MSCI South Korea ETF has increased by 109% as of Thursday's U.S. close. Urbanowicz mentioned that valuations in these markets have not risen as much as in the U.S., suggesting potential for higher gains. He also highlighted the Goldman Sachs ActiveBeta Emerging Markets Equity ETF as a vehicle for investors aiming for AI-driven gains.
Read More: Taiwan, South Korea ETFs Gain 67% and 109% in AI Trade
Walmart to Implement Digital Price Labels Across All U.S. Stores by 2026
Walmart plans to roll out digital shelf labels (DSLs) in every store across the U.S. by the end of 2026. This initiative aims to enhance pricing efficiency, significantly reducing staff time on pricing duties by 75% according to a company team leader. The implementation of digital tags follows similar moves by Kroger, indicating a broader trend in retail technology adoption. Key benefits include better customer experience and updated pricing alignment with online information, addressing concerns related to consumer trust amid ongoing inflation and economic pressures.
Read More: Walmart to Implement Digital Price Labels Across All U.S. Stores by 2026More Consumer Staples stocks
Frequently asked questions
Is The Kroger Co. in the S&P 500?
Yes. The Kroger Co. trades as KR and is a member of the S&P 500. The index lists it in the Consumer Staples sector.
What sector is KR in?
KR sits in the Consumer Staples sector of the S&P 500.
Where can I find the latest KR news?
Right here. This page collects recent KR news and market analysis. Every story gets an AI summary and a bullish, bearish or neutral tag.
What is The Kroger Co.'s stock price?
KR last traded at about $62.71. Prices move all through the session, so this is the latest quote rather than a live one.
What is The Kroger Co.'s market cap?
KR is worth roughly $37.04B. Market cap is the share price times the number of shares outstanding.
What is KR's P/E ratio?
KR trades at a trailing P/E ratio of about 34.8. The ratio compares the share price with earnings per share over the past year.