CINCINNATI, OH - The Kroger Co. put fresh front-and-center in its growth strategy, and it has paid off. Releasing its first quarter 2022 results, the retailer wielded its Leading with Fresh and Accelerating with Digital initiatives to increase its total company sales by $3.3 billion.

“We are incredibly proud of our associates who continue to put the customer at the center of everything we do,” said Rodney McMullen, Chief Executive Officer. “Our team is doing an outstanding job managing costs in an inflationary environment, which is allowing us to continue to invest in our associates while providing our customers the freshest food at affordable prices when and where they need it…Looking ahead, we are well-positioned to continue delivering for our customers, investing in our associates, and driving sustainable returns for shareholders.”

Overall, Kroger’s total company sales increased from $41.3 billion to $44.6 billion from the first quarter of 2021, a release stated. Excluding fuel sales, this is a 3.8 percent jump from the year prior.

Other highlights from the report include:

• Identical Sales without fuel increased 4.1 percent
• Operating Profit of $1.5 billion and Adjusted FIFO Operating Profit of $1.6 billion
• EPS of $0.90
• Fresh Department identical sales increased 5.2 percent
• Digitally engaged households grew by more than half a million and digital coupon downloads increased 11 percent
• Accelerated End-to-End Fresh Produce initiative with 355 new stores certified, driving higher fresh sales during the quarter

“Our relentless focus on executing our strategy and sustained food at home trends led to a strong first quarter. The Kroger team is effectively navigating a dynamic retail environment. Our diverse and resilient business model gives us confidence to raise our full-year guidance,” commented Gary Millerchip, Chief Financial Officer. “We now expect identical sales without fuel to be in the range of 2.5 percent to 3.5 percent, adjusted FIFO operating profit of $4.3 billion to $4.4 billion, and adjusted net earnings per diluted share to be in the range of $3.85 to $3.95. We remain confident in our ability to deliver sustainable earnings growth and total shareholder returns of 8-11 percent over time.”

To read the report in its entirety, click here.

As Kroger continues to use fresh to lead its long-term growth, AndNowUKnow will share the latest updates.

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