Gerbes

Gerbes is a regional grocery chain serving central Missouri, operating as a division of The Kroger Company. The business traces its roots to 1933, when Frank Gerbes opened the first store in Columbia, Missouri. Over the decades, Gerbes became a familiar name in the area, building a reputation for fresh foods and local service. A significant milestone came in 1983, when Gerbes joined The Kroger Company, allowing the brand to benefit from Kroger’s national resources and supply chain efficiencies while maintaining its local character.

As of November 2025, Gerbes operates six stores, all located in Columbia and nearby communities. The company’s footprint has remained stable for several years, with no announced plans for new locations or major expansion. Instead, Gerbes focuses on operational excellence and meaningful community engagement. Stores offer a full-service grocery format, including fresh produce, bakery, deli, and pharmacy departments, and are recognized for attentive customer service.

Gerbes functions under the Dillon Stores umbrella within Kroger, with all real estate and expansion decisions managed centrally by Kroger’s real estate team. The brand does not offer franchise opportunities. While social media is primarily handled through Kroger’s corporate accounts, Gerbes maintains some local presence, particularly on Facebook.

For landlords, brokers, and developers, Gerbes represents a stable and credible tenant. Backed by Kroger’s financial strength and operational standards, the brand’s consistent presence in central Missouri provides reliable traffic and long-term lease stability for retail centers. Over the past five years, Gerbes has prioritized maintaining market share and enhancing the in-store experience, rather than pursuing aggressive growth or new market entries.