Kroger acquires Giant Eagle in $1.65 billion deal
Kroger acquires Giant Eagle for $1.65 billion, adding 197 stores and 11 pharmacies in five states. The transaction will close in 2027.
- Kroger will open 147 in-store wine shops, starting with its first store in Newport, Kentucky.
- The new shop will expand the selection of imported and more expensive wines.
- A tasting bar and trained wine stewards are available to assist you.
Kroger plans to expand its wine selection and create 147 in-store wine shops across the country, with the first opening taking place on July 9 in Newport, Kentucky.
The new concept, which is debuting in Newport, Kentucky, across the river from Kroger’s Cincinnati headquarters, replaces the traditional wine department with upgraded refrigerated and display cases and a larger selection of fine and imported wines.
There is also a tasting bar where customers can ask for wine recommendations from trained stewards and learn more about wine selections.
Kroger to offer more foreign and fine wines at new store
The company said the move was taken after realizing that customers in its approximately 150 stores wanted a more upscale selection. In response, Kroger is adding more than 130 new wines.
The new stores will join Kroger’s 14 local stores in the Cincinnati-Dayton area, including northern Kentucky. The company did not disclose the schedule or which stores the wine shop would be in, but added that it could open more stores if demand is strong.
Many of the new wines come from coveted regions such as Chablis and Sancerre in France, Sicily and northern Italy. The grocer buys wine directly from Burgundy and Bordeaux in France, as it is of particular interest to its customers.
“Kroger is making this investment in response to growing customer demand for affordable fine and premium wines,” Kroger said in a statement, adding that the new store will feature “wines from both established and emerging producers.”
Kroger is the nation’s largest traditional supermarket chain
Kroger operates approximately 2,700 stores in 35 states and the District of Columbia, including 77 stores in the Greater Cincinnati area. The company employs 403,000 people.
The retailer operates stores under the Kroger banner, as well as stores such as Fred Meyer, Ralphs, Harris Teeter, Pick ‘n Save, Dillons, King Soopers, Mariano’s, Fry’s and QFC.
