NYSE:KR 7 December 2025 - 16 July 2026

Kroger Co is picking up Giant Eagle for what looks like a cheap price compared to the revenue involved. The bigger question for investors is if the chain can use that low multiple to boost margins in two grocery markets where Walmart Inc is already a strong rival.

Kroger agreed to buy family-owned Giant Eagle for $1.65 billion, a small but targeted bet on Pittsburgh, northern Ohio and nearby grocery markets after its larger Albertsons Companies plan died in court. The buyer is paying $1.25 billion in cash and assuming about $400 million of Giant Eagle liabilities, Kroger said. Giant Eagle has about $9 billion in annual sales, 197 supermarkets and 11 standalone pharmacies.

Kroger Co faces a contained but useful supply-chain test after U.S. food-safety officials warned consumers about a mislabeled Private Selection chicken product whose best-by date fell on Sunday, three days after the federal alert became active. The hard facts are narrow: one named SKU, one lot code, nine states, two Kroger banners and no confirmed adverse reactions in public reports.

Kroger Co. shares were up again midday Tuesday, building on gains from the last session. Investors are coming back to the grocer as it looks to cut prices and keep share from Walmart, Amazon, and club stores.

Kroger stock jumped Monday, following news that Greg Foran—a former Walmart executive—has been tapped as chief executive, capping a year with the role held on an interim basis.

Kroger has tapped Greg Foran, a former Walmart executive, as its new chief executive, closing the book on a year-long CEO search that started with Rodney McMullen’s exit last March. The stock jumped roughly 6% in premarket trading. Evercore ISI’s Michael Montani noted Foran’s “instant credibility” after steering a turnaround in Walmart’s U.S. stores. Foran steps in while Kroger contends with sluggish demand and pressure from rivals like Walmart.