Kroger trims 2026 sales outlook despite profit gains

Kroger, the US supermarket chain, has lowered its full-year 2026 sales forecast to 0.2%-0.8% from the previously announced 1%-2%. This decline is attributed to factors such as higher fuel sales, increased shrinkage, higher transportation costs, and more price reductions passed onto customers. Despite these adjustments, Kroger reported a strong second quarter in 2026, with sales increasing to $34.62bn from $33.94bn in the same period last year, and identical sales rising by 0.2%.

The company's profit also improved, with operating profit reaching $971m and net earnings attributable to Kroger hitting $641m. CEO Greg Foran expressed satisfaction with the progress made, highlighting the company's focus on improving sales momentum.