Kroger

Kroger is the largest supermarket operator in the United States, with a history that began in 1883 when Bernard Kroger opened the company’s first store in Cincinnati, Ohio. As of March 2023, Kroger manages 2,719 grocery stores across 35 states and Washington, D.C., operating under a variety of well-known banners such as Kroger, Ralphs, Fred Meyer, and Harris Teeter. The company’s headquarters remain in Cincinnati, anchoring its presence in the Midwest while supporting a broad national reach.

Over the past five years, Kroger has steadily evolved by investing in store remodels, opening new locations, and upgrading technology to support an omnichannel approach. The company has placed particular emphasis on expanding its digital and delivery services, responding to changing consumer habits and increasing demand for convenience. This expansion includes a growing presence in high-growth regions like Texas, Georgia, Ohio, Tennessee, North Carolina, and Colorado, where Kroger continues to open new stores and enhance existing assets.

Kroger’s operations extend beyond traditional grocery retail. The company also runs its own manufacturing facilities, pharmacies, and fuel centers, which contribute to its integrated business model and operational resilience. Its workforce is largely unionized, primarily represented by the United Food and Commercial Workers, and as of 2023, Kroger employs approximately 414,000 people, making it one of the country’s largest private employers.

A publicly traded company listed on the New York Stock Exchange under the ticker KR, Kroger has attracted significant institutional investment, including a notable minority stake held by Berkshire Hathaway. Leadership remains stable, with Ron Sargent serving as interim CEO as of 2025.

For landlords, brokers, and developers, Kroger’s scale and strong financial standing make it a reliable anchor in retail centers. The company’s willingness to invest in both new formats and established locations, along with its ongoing commitment to omnichannel growth, positions Kroger as a key player in today’s evolving retail landscape.