The Kroger Co. has announced it will increase the number of local products in-store by 10 percent following its proposed merger with Albertsons Cos.
According to the Cincinnati-based grocery giant, that amounts to at least 30 new local products in each store.
“Local farmers, bakers and producers are important parts of our ‘Fresh for Everyone’ brand promise,” said Rodney McMullen, chairman and CEO.
“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.”
Today, Kroger works with suppliers in several ways to get their products in-store:
- Stores sell a variety of produce items from local farmers. By reducing the distance between a farm and store, customers have more days of product freshness.
- Many stores have shelf space dedicated to local products, with signs highlighting the regional connection.
- Farmers and local producers work with Kroger to understand the best techniques to ensure customers are aware of 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, SVP and chief merchant and marketing officer.
“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.”
Read more about the proposed merger from The Shelby Report.
