Kroger to unveil new convenience concept

Kroger Co. on Wednesday is opening a new store concept called Fresh Eats MKT, which CFO Mike Schlotman on Tuesday described as “a different kind of convenience store.”

At least one location of the new concept will open in Blacklick, Ohio, Wednesday, but may also be headed as a rebranding for existing convenience stores currently doing business under Kroger’s Turkey Hill convenience banner, SN has learned.

A company spokesman wasn’t immediately available for additional comment.

Schlotman mentioned Fresh Eats during an investor presentation Tuesday, calling it a “small test.”

An Instagram page includes a photo of the new store and a description reading: “Putting fresh within reach. Start shopping fresh produce, meat, bakery and dairy beginning May 10.”

Job listings on the Kroger website suggest the brand was seeking workers in three Columbus-area sites including the address of an existing Turkey Hill store in Marysville, Ohio. A worker at that store reached by phone said that store was converting to the new brand.

A photo of the Blacklick store exterior indicated it would include a Starbucks café.