AUSTIN, TX - The plans for Whole Foods’ future are continuing to build momentum, with whispers solidifying that the retailer could be shopping quietly for a buyer.

Last week, sources close to the company told Reuters that one of its top shareholders was looking to make big changes, including a new management team and new ownership.

To see our previous coverage, click here.

Sources close to ANUK share that Whole Foods is actively consolidating shippers, and minimizing its local sourcing program–a move that makes Whole Foods more attractive to potential buyers.

Kroger is one buyer that was brought up weeks back in the industry’s rumor mill as a possible party to move in, a decision which could give the Ohio-based retailer a stronger foothold on the West Coast.

While many analysts responded to the rumor with skepticism, the leak appeared in the media weeks before big changes were announced for Whole Foods like the stepping down of Co-CEO Walter Robb and the elimination of its current leadership structure.

Announcements of both the shakeup in leadership as Co-Founder John Mackey stepped in as solo CEO and the news that one of the top ten shareholders (which remained anonymous in reports) resulted in significant boosts in the retailer’s stock.

Will we soon see Whole Foods added to Kroger, which was recently named a top retailer alongside Walmart in Kantar Retail’s 2016 US PoweRanking® survey for the successful execution of its growth strategy?

Keep an eye on AndNowUKnow as we report further details on this developing story.

Whole Foods Kroger Co.