Supermarkets

The Kroger Co.

The biggest supermarket chain in the country, Cincinnati-based Kroger <% if gsSubBrand = "aolsnapshot" then Response.Write("(NYSE: KR)") else Response.Write("(NYSE: KR)") end if %> operates over 1400 stores in 24 Midwestern and Southern states (primarily under the Kroger and Dillon names) and in other growing, competitive markets. The grocer also runs more than 800 convenience stores under the Turkey Hill and Kwik Shop banners. Kroger has generated excellent returns on capital while situating itself in markets that continue to attract competitors, which has at times placed a strain on earnings. Continued focus on promotional activities to maintain market share has also hindered the company somewhat. However, if the company can continue to rapidly turn its capital (almost 5 times), it should continue to prosper.

Latest Financials

Total sales for the second quarter of 1997 increased 6.6% over second quarter 1996 to $6.23 billion as compared to $5.84 billion. The company's net earnings in the were $105.1 million or $0.40 per share on a fully diluted basis compared to net earnings in the second quarter 1996 of $77.6 million or $0.30 per share.

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