The Kroger Co. (NYSE:KR), the nation’s largest grocery chain, is undergoing major changes, including a $2.4 billion acquisition of Harris Teeter Supermarkets Inc (NYSE:HTSI). This deal adds 212 stores in eight states, which provides The Kroger Co. (NYSE:KR) exposure in new regions. It also gives the company the opportunity to learn more about fresh-food categories, which are highly profitable, says The Kroger Co. (NYSE:KR) CFO Michael Schlotman.
There is also speculation that Kroger will acquire the Great Atlantic & Pacific Tea Company, though The Kroger Co. (NYSE:KR) said it would be difficult to make another large acquisition within the next six months. Great Atlantic & Pacific Tea operates Pathmark, Food Emporium, Waldbaum’s, and A&P chains.
Despite the fact that Great Atlantic & Pacific Tea recently emerged from bankruptcy, The Wall Street Journal projects it is worth around $1 billion. If Kroger is able to complete the A&P acquisition, it would be able to penetrate new markets in Connecticut, New York, New Jersey, and Pennsylvania.
Grocery industry consolidation is becoming quite common. Companies are searching for ways to stay competitive under intense pressure from dollar stores, upscale grocers, and of course, Wal-Mart Stores, Inc. (NYSE:WMT). With many retailers now doing nearly the exact same thing, it is becoming more and more difficult to distinguish oneself from the competition and remain profitable.
Evidence that increased competition is impacting the bottom line: The Kroger Co. (NYSE:KR) has adjusted its coupon policy and has begun removing its double-coupon policy in many stores. To appease coupon users, The Kroger Co. (NYSE:KR) has assured its customers that the removal of double coupons will be replaced with lower prices and better weekly specials. This sounds a lot like Wal-Mart Stores, Inc. (NYSE:WMT)’s “Everyday Low Prices” philosophy.
Imitation is the sincerest form of flattery
Wal-Mart Stores, Inc. (NYSE:WMT)’s business model of “Everyday Low Prices” eliminates the need for specials. The company has been known to offer grocery items at a loss in an effort to sell other merchandise. These low prices coupled with Wal-Mart’s generous price-matching policy and other customer perks have secured the company’s position as the king of the ever-changing retail environment.
While Kroger is ending its double-coupon policy, Wal-Mart is taking steps to make its money-conscious customers happy. The company has incorporated the Scan & Go feature in its mobile app, which will allow customers to organize and easily access available coupons. Wal-Mart anticipates the program will reach more than 200 stores. Retailers like Kroger will undoubtedly follow suit.
