Kroger has undertaken several growth concepts recently, from acquisitions of two regional chains to emerging concepts like Main & Vine, Ruler Foods and Lucky’s Market.
When Haggen was forced to sell off stores in Southern California, Smart & Final stepped in to acquire 33 of them, and the chain is “bullish” for more opportunities.
Sprouts Farmers Market continues in aggressive growth mode — with 36 new stores planned this year — spreading out from its Southwest roots across the lower half of the U.S. all the way to Atlanta.