Cincinnati, Ohio, February 10, 2026

Kroger Co. has appointed Greg Foran, former Walmart executive, as its new CEO following the resignation of Rodney McMullen. Foran’s extensive retail experience comes at a crucial time as Kroger navigates heightened competition from discount grocery chains and e-commerce rivals. The company’s focus on enhancing digital capabilities and customer service is expected to drive future growth. With Foran’s leadership, Kroger aims to adapt its strategies to meet shifting consumer preferences while maintaining commitment to quality and community engagement.

Kroger Appoints New CEO Amid Industry Challenges

New leadership brings a wealth of experience to the largest U.S. grocery chain

Cincinnati, Ohio – Kroger Co. has appointed Greg Foran, a former Walmart executive, as its new Chief Executive Officer (CEO), effective immediately. This decision follows an extensive search initiated after the resignation of former CEO Rodney McMullen in March 2025 due to personal conduct issues unrelated to the business. Foran succeeds Ron Sargent, who has been serving as interim CEO since McMullen’s departure and will continue as Chairman of the Board to ensure a smooth leadership transition.

In a landscape increasingly defined by rapid digital transformation and heightened competition, Foran’s appointment comes at a pivotal time for Kroger. The company is facing challenges not only from emerging discount brands like Aldi and Lidl but also from e-commerce players like Amazon, which have changed consumer shopping behaviors. Such shifts emphasize the need for strong leadership and innovative strategies to ensure continued growth and customer loyalty. Here in Jacksonville, this situation reflects broader trends seen across Florida’s economic landscape, where local businesses strive to adapt and thrive amidst changing market conditions.

Greg Foran’s Background and Experience

Foran brings over four decades of experience in the retail industry. He led Walmart’s U.S. division from 2014 to 2019, where he introduced online ordering and pickup services, significantly enhancing Walmart’s digital capabilities. Under his leadership, Walmart’s U.S. operations experienced a turnaround, achieving 20 consecutive quarters of positive comparable sales growth. After his tenure at Walmart, Foran served as CEO of Air New Zealand from 2020 to 2025, guiding the airline through the challenges of the COVID-19 pandemic and leading a comprehensive digital transformation to improve customer experience.

Kroger’s Strategic Direction Moving Forward

As the largest standalone U.S. supermarket chain, Kroger is refocusing its efforts on enhancing digital capabilities and customer service. The company reported a 17% increase in e-commerce sales during the last quarter, showcasing consumer interest in online shopping. In response to competition, Kroger has expanded partnerships with third-party delivery services, such as DoorDash and Uber Eats. Furthermore, Kroger is transitioning its e-commerce fulfillment strategy by closing several automated fulfillment centers and fulfilling orders directly from stores, a move aimed at improving efficiency and profitability.

Leadership Transition and Stability

Ron Sargent, who has been serving as interim CEO since March 2025, will continue to serve as Kroger’s Chairman to ensure a smooth leadership transition. Sargent expressed confidence in Foran’s ability to lead Kroger into its next chapter, emphasizing his expertise in managing large-scale retail businesses and his commitment to customer satisfaction and operational excellence. This approach reassures stakeholders and aims to maintain shareholder confidence during this transition period.

The Competitive Landscape in Retail

Kroger’s challenges are reflective of broader trends in the retail sector, including the rise of discount supermarket chains like Aldi and Lidl, which have captured significant market share through their cost-effective strategies. Moreover, Amazon’s foray into the grocery business has intensified competition, compelling traditional retailers to innovate continuously. In Jacksonville and across Florida, entrepreneurs are observing these dynamics closely, seeking opportunities for growth and investment in an evolving marketplace.

Kroger’s Commitment to Customers and Community

As Kroger adapts its business strategy to accommodate the changing preferences of consumers, its commitment to quality products and customer service remains paramount. The company operates 2,731 stores under various brands and employs approximately 409,000 individuals. This dedication to local communities not only supports job creation but also fosters a sense of community engagement among residents. For many families in Jacksonville, Kroger is more than just a grocery store—it’s a trusted partner in daily life.

Conclusion

In summary, Greg Foran’s appointment represents a strategic move for Kroger as it navigates the complexities of a challenging retail environment. The company’s focus on enhancing e-commerce capabilities and maintaining a strong commitment to customer service will be crucial as it faces increased competition. As local businesses in Jacksonville observe these developments in the grocery industry, they too can draw inspiration from Kroger’s adaptability and resilience in the face of change. Supporting local businesses remains essential for fostering economic growth in Duval County and the broader Florida economy, making it imperative for residents to engage with and uplift their local entrepreneurs.

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Author: STAFF HERE JACKSONVILLE WRITER

The JACKSONVILLE STAFF WRITER represents the experienced team at HEREJacksonville.com, your go-to source for actionable local news and information in Jacksonville, Duval County, and beyond. Specializing in "news you can use," we cover essential topics like product reviews for personal and business needs, local business directories, politics, real estate trends, neighborhood insights, and state news affecting the area—with deep expertise drawn from years of dedicated reporting and strong community input, including local press releases and business updates. We deliver top reporting on high-value events such as the Jacksonville Jazz Festival, Riverside Arts Market, and World of Nations Celebration. Our coverage extends to key organizations like the Jacksonville Chamber of Commerce and JAXUSA Partnership, plus leading businesses in logistics, healthcare, and entertainment that power the local economy such as CSX Corporation, Baptist Health, and VyStar Credit Union. As part of the broader HERE network, including HEREOrlando.com, HEREStPetersburg.com, HERETallahassee.com, and HERETampa.com, we provide comprehensive, credible insights into Florida's dynamic landscape.