Kroger, officially The Kroger Co., is an American retail corporation that operates supermarkets and multi-department stores throughout the United States. Founded by Bernard Kroger in 1883 in Cincinnati, Ohio, the company began as the Great Western Tea Company, with Kroger investing his life savings of $372. Kroger's vision was rooted in quality and customer satisfaction, summarized by his motto: "Be particular. Never sell anything you would not want yourself". The company quickly expanded, incorporating as Kroger Grocery and Baking Company in 1902 and pioneering innovations such as in-store bakeries and meat departments. As of February 9, 2026, Greg Foran is the Chief Executive Officer, succeeding Ron Sargent, who served as interim CEO.
Today, Kroger operates approximately 2,700 stores under various banners across 35 states. It distinguishes itself through a combination of traditional supermarkets, multi-department stores, marketplace stores, and price-impact warehouses. Kroger also has a significant presence in manufacturing, operating 35 food production plants and a private-label portfolio accounting for a substantial portion of its sales. These private label brands include Kroger Brand, Simple Truth, and Private Selection, offering a range of products from staples to organic and gourmet options. Recent news indicates Kroger is focused on digital growth, with its e-commerce business projected to reach net profitability in 2026. However, Kroger is closing some stores to run more efficiently. Kroger holds a significant market share in the supermarket and grocery store industry.
