Sep 27, 2026

This article compares Hershey (HSY) and Mondelez (MDLZ) as investment options for retirement-focused investors, especially considering their dividends amidst rising cocoa costs. Despite facing the same cocoa cost pressures, Mondelez is presented as the stronger dividend stock due to its higher yield, better free cash flow coverage, consistent dividend growth, and diversified global market presence. Hershey's dividend raises paused during the cocoa price squeeze, and its performance has lagged Mondelez's year-to-date, though Hershey offers a higher long-term total return.

Sep 26, 2026

This article outlines five common disadvantages of shopping at Kroger, based on customer complaints. These issues include higher-than-average prices and instances of alleged price gouging, complicated requirements for advertised deals, and frequent problems with sales prices not being applied correctly at checkout. Additionally, customers often face long waits due to a lack of cashiers and find Kroger's grocery delivery service to be unreliable, with issues ranging from delayed delivery to incorrect charges and poor produce quality.

Sep 26, 2026

Kroger is offering free flu shots at its pharmacies across central Indiana to help residents stay healthy this fall. Birgitta Monson, Health Leader for Kroger, discussed the initiative on FOX59 Morning News, emphasizing the importance of flu vaccination. More information is available on Kroger's website.

Sep 25, 2026

A new study by the Center for Responsible Food Business (CRFB) reveals that Kroger stores in Ohio have been overcharging customers due to widespread pricing errors. Government inspections found 644 incorrect prices across 389 inspections from 2022 to mid-2026, with overcharges occurring about three times more often than undercharges. Customers were often charged significantly more than the advertised shelf price, with one instance showing a 55% overcharge on eggs due to digital coupon failures.

Sep 25, 2026

ALDI is launching its first-ever collection of fresh, ready-made meals to compete with other major food retailers like Walmart and Kroger. The seven-meal lineup, priced affordably, will roll out nationwide by January 2027, catering to the growing consumer demand for convenient and cost-effective meal solutions. This strategic move aims to capture a larger share of consumers' meal occasions, capitalizing on ALDI's reputation for value.

Sep 25, 2026

A Kroger store at 6002 St. Joe Center Road in Fort Wayne will soon begin operating 24 hours a day as part of a pilot program. This initiative aims to gauge customer demand for around-the-clock shopping, a service many grocery stores ceased during the COVID-19 pandemic. The exact start date for the 24-hour schedule has not yet been announced.

Sep 25, 2026

Famed investor Michael Burry has increased his stake in Sprouts Farmers Market (SFM) to a "full position" after its stock fell 62.3% from its 2025 high. Sprouts, a higher-end grocery store, is facing temporary headwinds like difficult comparisons to previous years and inflation impacting consumer spending, which has led to declining same-store sales and margins. Despite these short-term challenges, the article suggests that Burry's investment aligns with a value-investing approach, viewing Sprouts as a potentially undervalued "great company" experiencing temporary trouble, with significant room for new store growth.

Sep 25, 2026

Michael Burry, known for shorting the 2008 housing market, has made Sprouts Farmers Market (SFM) a "full position" in his long portfolio, noting its potential despite a difficult year ahead. Sprouts, a luxury grocery store akin to Whole Foods, has seen its stock drop significantly from its 2025 high due to declining same-store sales and difficult comparisons, but management provides reasonable explanations. The article discusses whether investors should follow Burry's move, considering Sprouts' premium margins, growth potential through new stores, and current undervaluation, while also acknowledging the competitive grocery market.

Sep 24, 2026

Kroger is piloting 24-hour service at five locations in Indiana, including Brownsburg, Bloomington, Fishers, Fort Wayne, and West Lafayette, as part of an effort to offer more convenient shopping options. This test comes more than half a decade after many retailers, including Kroger, curtailed 24-hour operations due to the COVID-19 pandemic, labor shortages, and economic factors. The pilot program aims to better serve customers and will begin on October 4.

Sep 24, 2026

Nine animal welfare activists were arrested outside Kroger's downtown Cincinnati headquarters for protesting the company's egg-sourcing policies. These activists, not from Ohio, chained themselves to the building to demand Kroger adhere to its 2016 pledge for 100% cage-free eggs by 2025. Organizers like Animal Equality and The Humane League plan to escalate demonstrations, including large-scale protests and a "March of the Chickens" during Kroger's Momentum Conference next week.

Sep 24, 2026

Nine animal welfare activists were arrested after chaining themselves to Kroger's downtown Cincinnati headquarters during a protest demanding the company adopt a cage-free policy for chickens. These activists have since been released on bond, and organizers are planning to escalate demonstrations with more elaborate protests next week. Kroger, while respecting peaceful protest, stated that extreme tactics creating safety concerns cross a line, and highlighted their focus on balancing animal welfare with affordable food prices.

Sep 24, 2026

Nine animal welfare activists arrested outside Kroger's Cincinnati headquarters during an egg protest have been released from jail. Organizers, including Animal Equality and The Humane League, are planning to escalate demonstrations next week, demanding Kroger fulfill its 2016 pledge to source 100% cage-free eggs. Kroger, while respecting peaceful protest, stated that the "extreme tactics" of chaining themselves to the building crossed a line.

Sep 24, 2026

The Zacks Retail – Supermarkets industry is thriving due to expanded omnichannel capabilities, increased digital engagement, and consumer demand for convenient shopping. Walmart, Kroger, and Yesway are well-positioned to capitalize on these trends, focusing on private brands, loyalty programs, and retail media while managing structural costs. The industry's positive outlook is underscored by its Zacks Industry Rank #84.

Sep 23, 2026

Nine protesters were arrested outside Kroger's Cincinnati headquarters for criminal trespass and resisting arrest during a demonstration organized by Animal Equality. The group is pressuring Kroger to uphold its 2016 commitment to phase out eggs from caged hens by 2025, which Animal Equality claims has not happened. The organization has opened a Cincinnati office to continue its campaign, despite Kroger's assertion that it supports animal welfare while offering affordable choices and has met with the "pressure campaign" leaders, a claim Animal Equality disputes.

Sep 23, 2026

Nine animal rights activists were arrested after chaining themselves to Kroger headquarters in Cincinnati to protest the company's decision to scale back its 2016 pledge to source only cage-free eggs by 2025. Approximately 60 activists demonstrated, with police stating the situation was peaceful despite the arrests for criminal trespassing and resisting arrest. Roads around the headquarters were closed as police removed the protesters.

Sep 23, 2026

Nine animal rights activists were arrested outside Kroger's downtown Cincinnati headquarters after chaining themselves to the building to protest the company's cage-free egg commitments. The demonstration, organized by Animal Equality, aimed to pressure Kroger into discussing a plan to fully end cages for hens. Kroger stated it respects peaceful protest but condemned "extreme tactics" that create safety concerns, adding that it balances animal welfare with keeping grocery prices affordable.

Sep 23, 2026

Animal activists from Animal Equality chained themselves to Kroger's Cincinnati headquarters to protest the company's alleged failure to uphold its commitment to go 100 percent cage-free by the end of 2025. Police arrested nine protesters. Kroger stated it respects peaceful protest but draws a line at tactics creating safety concerns, adding that it is focused on animal welfare while keeping food affordable for customers.

Sep 23, 2026

State Street Corp reduced its stake in The Kroger Co. by 4.0% in the second quarter, selling 1.22 million shares but still holding 29.23 million shares valued at approximately $1.62 billion. Kroger reported strong Q2 earnings with EPS of $1.09, exceeding estimates, and reaffirmed its fiscal 2026 EPS guidance. Analysts maintain a "Moderate Buy" rating for Kroger with an average price target of $69.

Sep 22, 2026

Kroger's chief digital officer, Yael Cosset, revealed that customers using their AI-powered shopping assistant are building larger baskets, an unexpected positive outcome. The AI tool helps shoppers plan meals and create grocery lists, and Kroger plans to integrate more personalization features. Beyond customer-facing applications, Kroger also leverages AI for operational tasks like replenishment and forecasting, emphasizing the importance of strong data and a flexible technology approach.

Sep 22, 2026

Kroger presented its comprehensive AI strategy at GroceryShop 2026, highlighting the integration of customer insights and operational data to enhance personalization and demand forecasting. The company is developing an AI Shopping Assistant to improve customer experience and envisions a future where AI agents manage shopping planning and fulfillment. Analysts have maintained or slightly lowered price targets for KR stock, while an executive recently sold shares, though analysts believe this is for personal reasons rather than a lack of confidence in the company.

Sep 22, 2026

Major retailers like Walmart and Target are expanding their presence in the Austin suburbs, including new locations in Liberty Hill, Dripping Springs, and Bastrop. This expansion is driven by the booming job growth in these suburban areas. Three notable retailers are currently planning new stores, indicating a continued trend of growth.

Sep 22, 2026

The Kroger Co. (NYSE:KR) has received a consensus rating of "Moderate Buy" from nineteen brokerages, with an average 12-month price target of $69.00. The company recently reported strong quarterly earnings, beating expectations with $1.09 EPS and a 2% year-over-year revenue increase to $34.62 billion. Kroger also declared a quarterly dividend of $0.39 per share, resulting in a 2.6% yield, and announced an initiative to deliver groceries and prescriptions in a single order, while institutional investors hold a significant 80.93% stake in the company.

Sep 21, 2026

Kroger has removed Red Bull from all its stores and some Boar's Head products from approximately 200 locations due to disputes over proposed price increases. This move is part of CEO Greg Foran's strategy to enhance Kroger's competitiveness by focusing on lower prices and faster service amidst rising food costs and inflation. While Red Bull's removal was directly linked to price, Boar's Head disputed that price was the reason for its partial delisting, citing operational and strategic factors.

Sep 21, 2026

Costco is set to open 10 new stores across nine US states in October and November as part of its ongoing expansion efforts to add over 30 new stores annually. These new locations, including California, New York, Texas, and more, aim to capitalize on the growing demand for bulk retailers amid rising grocery prices. The company reported significant net sales growth in its 2026 fiscal year and continues to see strong customer traffic despite economic pressures.

Sep 20, 2026

Kroger has stopped selling Red Bull nationwide, removing all products from its stores and fuel centers by August 31st. This action appears to stem from a disagreement over pricing, as Kroger's CEO has voiced intentions to resist unjustified supplier price increases. While no return date has been announced, the popular energy drink could reappear on shelves if Kroger and Red Bull resolve their dispute.

Sep 19, 2026

A new report by the Center for Responsible Food Business accuses Ohio-based grocery giant Kroger of frequent overpricing, often in its own favor, based on government inspections and customer surveys. The report claims that 15% of Kroger stores failed price inspections and found a nearly three-to-one ratio of overcharges to undercharges. Kroger denies the accusations, stating that the report cherry-picks data and does not accurately reflect customer experience.

Sep 18, 2026

Jim Cramer expressed confusion over why Walmart's shares rose despite negative earnings, while Kroger's stock did not react positively to its own earnings report. Both companies faced challenges, with Kroger cutting its full-year sales growth guide and Walmart experiencing its slowest comparable sales growth in five years, yet both saw strong advertising revenue. Walmart's higher forward P/E ratio and lower short interest, compared to Kroger, suggest differing investor perceptions despite similar underlying business challenges regarding consumer spending.

Sep 18, 2026

Kroger has removed Red Bull from its shelves nationwide due to disagreements over pricing, as the grocery chain takes a tougher stance against supplier price hikes. This move comes amid rising consumer complaints about Red Bull's premium cost compared to other energy drinks, with some shoppers indicating they will switch brands or stores. The situation highlights a gamble for both Kroger and Red Bull as the standoff continues.

Sep 18, 2026

Kroger has stopped stocking Red Bull energy drinks in its stores and gas stations nationwide. The supermarket giant cites issues with its suppliers over affordable pricing, with an employee suggesting a dispute with Red Bull over wholesale prices. This move is believed to be a strategy by Kroger to resist Red Bull's potential price increase.

Sep 18, 2026

A new report alleges that Ohio-based grocery chain Kroger frequently overcharges customers, primarily in the company's favor. The analysis, based on government inspections and customer surveys, indicates that 15% of stores failed price inspections, with overcharges significantly outnumbering undercharges. Kroger denies the claims, stating the report uses selective data, while former employees attribute pricing inaccuracies to understaffing.

Sep 17, 2026

Casey's General Stores (CASY) experienced a significant post-earnings sell-off despite reporting a double-beat quarter, largely due to concerns over valuation and slowing growth. While the company exhibits strong fundamentals like EPS growth and margin expansion, declining free cash flow and a forward P/E still above historical averages and peers make the author cautious. The article reiterates a Hold rating, suggesting a more attractive entry point around 25x earnings due to potential macro headwinds impacting sales and margins.

Sep 17, 2026

Kroger has stopped selling Red Bull at all its stores and gas stations nationwide due to a pricing dispute with the energy drink's supplier. The supermarket giant is taking a firm stance against Red Bull's proposed wholesale price increase, betting that customers will opt for alternative brands rather than leaving the store. This move is part of Kroger CEO Gregory Foran's broader strategy to prioritize value for customers and improve in-stock availability.

Sep 16, 2026

Kroger has stopped selling Red Bull at all its stores and fuel centers nationwide, with the last sales in August and displays removed by August 31. This move comes as Kroger's new CEO, Greg Foran, is focused on pushing back against supplier price increases and expanding the company's private-label brands. Kroger continues to sell other energy drink brands, and its private-label strategy generated significant revenue last year.

Sep 16, 2026

Kroger announced that a summer cyclosporiasis outbreak, linked to iceberg lettuce, resulted in over $100 million in lost sales. CEO Greg Foran stated that shoppers avoided the entire produce section, leading to a 0.35% drop in identical store sales excluding fuel. The company also cut its 2026 sales forecast, despite beating Wall Street profit forecasts.

Sep 16, 2026

Phillips 66 (PSX) stock has resumed its advance, maintaining a primary medium-term uptrend and trading above its 50-day Simple Moving Average. The outlook remains bullish for upcoming trading sessions, provided support at $245.00 holds, with a target resistance level of $289.00. The stock has also worked off overbought conditions in momentum indicators, allowing for further gains.

Sep 16, 2026

F5, Inc. (FFIV) has shown strong gains after breaking above its 50-day Simple Moving Average, relieving negative pressure. The stock is now poised to challenge the key resistance level of $435.00, with bullish signals from momentum indicators and a prevailing short-term uptrend. The forecast remains bullish, anticipating a target of $475.00 if the $435.00 resistance is breached.

Sep 16, 2026

Kroger has brought back two limited-edition Hershey's caramel and chocolate-dipped apples for the fall season, one featuring Reese's Peanut Butter Cups and the other Reese's Chips. These fairground-style treats are available on a stick and are generating positive reviews from shoppers. For those without access to a Kroger, the article suggests making a homemade version.

Sep 15, 2026

Sprouts Farmers Market has relocated its headquarters to a new 180,000-square-foot campus in Phoenix, nearly doubling its previous office size. The new facility includes a four-story office building, a flagship Sprouts store, and additional retail space, designed to accommodate over 1,000 employees. This move supports Sprouts' ongoing expansion plans, which involve entering new markets and strengthening its distribution network.

Sep 14, 2026

Kroger and its associated brands have lost over $12 billion in consumer packaged goods spending to competitors like Amazon, Walmart, and Costco in the past year, according to a Numerator analysis. This decline is largely due to lower-income households becoming more cautious with their spending and making fewer trips to Kroger stores. Despite a gain in higher-income shoppers and strong private-label sales, Kroger has lowered its full-year outlook, expecting continued pressure on consumer spending.

Sep 14, 2026

Kroger's Q2 fiscal 2026 earnings call revealed softer sales momentum, leading management to lower its identical-sales outlook. Despite this, the company maintained its profit targets, emphasizing cost discipline and customer value through savings reinvestment. Key drivers for profitability included cost savings, pharmacy margins, e-commerce growth, and media revenue, even as consumer spending faced pressure from inflation and reduced SNAP benefits.

Sep 13, 2026

The Manufacturers Life Insurance Company has reduced its stake in The Kroger Co. by 8%, selling 24,403 shares but still retaining over 281,000 shares valued at approximately $15.6 million. This reduction comes as Kroger reported second-quarter adjusted EPS that beat estimates, though revenue was slightly below expectations and the company lowered its full-year identical-sales outlook due to inflation and competition. Despite these challenges, management reaffirmed fiscal 2026 EPS guidance and the stock has an average analyst price target significantly higher than its current trading price.

Sep 13, 2026

Major food companies like Conagra, Campbell's, and McCormick are warning of impending price hikes on their products due to sustained increases in energy, fertilizer costs, tariffs, and potential impacts from the El Niño weather pattern. Executives state that cost-cutting measures are no longer sufficient to offset inflation, forcing them to raise prices to maintain profit margins. This trend will likely put further pressure on consumers and has implications for the broader economy and political landscape.

Sep 13, 2026

Kroger's latest quarterly report showed modest growth, with sales up 2% and a slight beat on adjusted EPS, while net income declined. Despite mixed results and trimmed full-year sales guidance, the company's commitment to increasing its dividend and continuing share repurchases makes it an appealing option for income investors. The impressive 20% rise in e-commerce sales also highlights Kroger's adaptation to modern shopping trends.

Sep 12, 2026

Amundi significantly increased its stake in US Foods Holding Corp. by 115% in the second quarter, now holding 111,705 shares valued at $11.4 million. Institutional investors collectively own 98.76% of the company, and analysts maintain a "Moderate Buy" rating with an average price target of $113.92. The company recently surpassed earnings and revenue expectations, reporting $1.44 EPS and $10.53 billion in revenue, though two insiders sold shares in August.

Sep 12, 2026

WINTON GROUP Ltd has acquired 16,174 shares of SharkNinja, Inc. (NYSE:SN) during the second quarter, valued at approximately $2.46 million. This purchase is part of broader institutional investment, with hedge funds and institutional investors collectively owning 34.77% of the company. Despite insider selling activity, analysts largely maintain a "Moderate Buy" rating for SharkNinja, which recently reported strong quarterly earnings and issued optimistic fiscal 2026 EPS guidance.

Sep 12, 2026

Tidal Investments LLC significantly increased its stake in Evergy Inc. (NASDAQ:EVRG) by 95.8% in the second quarter, adding 66,593 shares to now own 136,137 shares valued at approximately $11.8 million. This move is supported by Evergy's strong quarterly results, beating analyst expectations for both EPS and revenue, and positive analyst sentiment with a "Moderate Buy" rating. The company also declared a quarterly dividend of $0.695 per share, offering a 3.4% annualized yield.

Sep 12, 2026

Virginia Retirement Systems recently acquired 63,469 shares of Vontier Corporation (NYSE:VNT) worth approximately $1.84 million, contributing to institutional investors owning 95.83% of the company. Vontier exceeded its quarterly earnings expectations with $0.89 EPS and $756.7 million in revenue, approved a $1 billion share buyback, and maintains a $0.025 quarterly dividend. Despite mixed analyst sentiment leading to a "Hold" consensus and a $41 price target, the stock currently trades near $32.

Sep 12, 2026

Engineers Gate Manager LP significantly increased its stake in The Kroger Co. (NYSE:KR) by 537.2% in the second quarter of 2026, bringing their total holdings to 117,646 shares valued at $6.53 million. This move comes as Kroger reported strong second-quarter adjusted EPS of $1.09, exceeding estimates, and reaffirmed its fiscal 2026 adjusted EPS guidance despite reducing its full-year identical-sales growth forecast due to competitive pressures and inflation. The company also raised its quarterly dividend to $0.39 per share, indicating continued confidence in its financial health.

Sep 12, 2026

Corient Private Wealth LP reduced its stake in Walmart Inc. by 19.3% in the second quarter, selling 391,673 shares but still retaining 1.64 million shares valued at about $185.4 million. Despite concerns over premium valuation and rising costs, analysts maintain a "Moderate Buy" rating for Walmart with an average price target of $131.88. Walmart recently surpassed quarterly earnings expectations, reporting $0.81 EPS and $187.94 billion in revenue, up 5.9% year-over-year.

Sep 12, 2026

Baird Financial Group Inc. reduced its stake in Floor & Decor Holdings, Inc. (NYSE:FND) by 15.8%, selling 55,776 shares but retaining a significant holding valued at $17.6 million. Despite mixed analyst sentiment and a "Hold" rating, Floor & Decor exceeded quarterly expectations with strong EPS and revenue growth. Insider Thomas V. Taylor also sold a substantial number of shares, while several other institutional investors adjusted their positions in the company.

Sep 12, 2026

Take-Two Interactive Software (NASDAQ:TTWO) has received a consensus "Moderate Buy" rating from twenty-two research firms, with an average 12-month price target of $296.95. Despite missing EPS expectations in its latest quarter, the company exceeded revenue forecasts. Institutional investors hold a significant 95.46% of shares, while insiders have recently sold over $12.95 million worth of stock.

Sep 12, 2026

Wall Street Zen has upgraded Mission Produce (NASDAQ:AVO) from a "sell" to a "hold" rating. This upgrade comes as the company reported strong quarterly earnings, exceeding analyst estimates, and authorized a $100 million share repurchase program. Despite mixed analyst ratings, Mission Produce holds an overall "Moderate Buy" consensus with an average price target of $16.50.

Sep 12, 2026

Wall Street Zen upgraded Forward Industries (NASDAQ:FWDI) from a "sell" to a "hold" rating, aligning with the overall analyst consensus of "Hold" and an average price target of $12.50. This comes despite the company reporting a significant quarterly loss of $(0.80) EPS against a consensus estimate of $0.04, along with $10.78 million in revenue. Analyst opinions remain mixed, with three firms recommending a "Buy," one a "Hold," and one a "Sell" for FWDI.

Sep 12, 2026

Colgate-Palmolive is reportedly exploring the sale of several personal care brands, including Softsoap, Irish Spring, and Speed Stick, in a deal that could exceed $1 billion. This potential divestiture is part of Colgate's broader strategy to reshape its brand portfolio and expand its productivity program, aiming for $200 million to $300 million in annual pre-tax savings. The move aligns with a wider trend of large consumer-goods companies restructuring their businesses.

Sep 12, 2026

West Virginia Delegate Andy Shamblin has sent a letter to Kroger corporate officials, store management, and the Attorney General following numerous reports of fraudulent purchases among shoppers in Cross Lanes. While no skimmer has been confirmed, shoppers like Jennifer Hill have had to replace their debit cards multiple times. The Attorney General's Consumer Protection Division has launched an investigation into the matter.

Sep 12, 2026

A summer cyclosporiasis outbreak linked to lettuce caused Kroger's identical store sales to drop by 0.35%, representing over a $100 million hit, as shoppers avoided the entire produce section. Consequently, Kroger lowered its 2026 sales forecast after missing revenue expectations, despite reporting a $641 million profit. The company now anticipates identical store sales excluding fuel to increase between 0.2% and 0.8% for the year.