The Kroger Co. announced a commitment to make more local products available to its customers following its proposed merger with Albertsons Companies.
Post-close, the combined company will increase the number of local products in its stores by 10%, which equates to at least 30 new local products in each store.
Last October, Kroger and Albertsons Companies announced that they have entered into a definitive agreement under which the companies will merge two complementary organizations with iconic brands and deep roots in their local communities to establish a national footprint.
Related Article: Kroger and Albertsons Agrees to Merge in $24.6 Billion Deal
At this moment, the merge involves 4,996 stores. This data does not include pharmacies or fuel centers.
“Local farmers, bakers and producers are important parts of our Fresh for Everyone brand promise,” said Rodney McMullen, chairman and CEO of The Kroger Co. “Every local product we stock has a unique producer with their own story standing behind it. Since the beginning, this merger has been about growth – and we look forward to inviting our local suppliers to grow alongside us. We are dedicated to supporting the innovation that only a small business owner can create.”
Local Products at Kroger
Today, Kroger offers ways local suppliers can sell their products in stores:
- Stores sell a variety of produce items from local farmers. By reducing the distance between the farm and the store, customers have more days of product freshness in their homes.
- Many stores have shelf space for local products, with special signage highlighting the regional connection.
- Farmers and local producers work directly with Kroger to understand the best techniques to ensure customers know their products.
“From Stemilt cherries in Washington and Sun Pacific citrus in California to Talbott Farms Palisade Peaches in Colorado and Southern Press blueberries in Georgia, we know just how important local products are to our customers,” said Stuart Aitken, Senior Vice President and Chief Merchant and Marketing Officer, The Kroger Co. “Our customers know we offer the freshest local products, and they will ask our teams when their favorite seasonal items will be on shelves. We are excited to provide more opportunities for local producers to grow their businesses.”