Food 4 Less

Food 4 Less is a grocery chain operating under The Kroger Co., known for its straightforward, value-driven approach to food retailing. The company began in 1977, when Lou Falley opened the first store in Kansas, introducing a self-service, bag-your-own format that appealed to shoppers looking for low prices and efficiency. Food 4 Less became part of Kroger in 1998, following Kroger’s acquisition of Fred Meyer, which marked a significant milestone in the brand’s history and brought it into one of the largest supermarket networks in the United States.

As of November 2025, Food 4 Less runs approximately 120 stores, with a strong presence in California, Illinois, Indiana, and Nevada. The chain focuses on urban and suburban areas where there is consistent demand for affordable groceries and bulk shopping options. Over the past five years, Food 4 Less has concentrated on selective expansion, particularly in California and neighboring states. The company has invested in remodeling existing stores and enhancing digital shopping capabilities, reflecting a commitment to both physical and online retail formats.

Food 4 Less operates exclusively as a Kroger banner, without franchising, and all real estate decisions are managed by Kroger’s corporate team. The brand’s large-format stores are designed to serve high-volume shoppers, often anchoring shopping centers in diverse communities. Its measured growth strategy, ongoing investments in store improvements, and integration with Kroger’s supply chain provide stability and credibility, making Food 4 Less a reliable tenant for landlords, brokers, and developers seeking established grocery anchors in key markets.