Kroger upbeat with latest forecast
The Kroger Co. is forecasting a rosier year after its customer- loyalty programs helped boost net income in the first quarter.
The nation’s largest traditional grocery store chain said Thursday that its targeted discounts and coupon mailings, which are based on purchase histories, is helping increase the number of customers who return to its stores.
Rather than passing on those costs entirely, Kroger is focusing on cutting expenses and boosting traffic in its stores. The strategy is paying off for the Kroger, which operates Ralphs, Food 4 Less, QFC and Fred Meyer. Kroger said its “loyal households,” which the company defines based on shopping patterns, grew in the quarter.
