Kroger to Focus on Freshness in C-stores

CINCINNATI, Ohio -- Kroger Co. plans to open more convenience stores that focus on fresh food in what CFO Michael Schlotman stated is not a large enough venture to qualify as a full test, reports the Cincinnati Business Courier.

"We think there is something there," Schlotman said at last month's BMO Capital Markets investor conference. "These are a little bit bigger convenience stores. They would have a fresh presentation. They'd have some fresh meat, fresh produce, a little bit more in the deli than just the hot dogs on the heater or on the warmer. They'd have a little bit more of an array of product."

Kroger is building the larger c-stores in markets where it already operates full-size grocery stores as it attempts to recreate positive results from areas such as Wichita, Kan., where it operates Dillon's grocery stores and Kwik Shop c-stores, according to other media reports.

Schlotman did not identify the specific markets in which Kroger is conducting the test. Kroger also operates the Turkey Hill convenience store banner.