Kroger

In 1883, Barney Kroger, with only $372, opened a grocery store in Cincinnati. Today, Kroger has grown to more than 2,500 stores in over 30 U.S. states under nearly 10 banners. With annual revenues of approximately $76 billion, it is one of the largest grocery stores in the United States. Kroger has pioneered many innovations in the supermarket industry. During the 1930s, it was the first grocery chain to monitor product quality and test foods. With more than 1,600 stores, it offers self-checkout services. Kroger maintains several grocery, multidepartment, convenience stores and mall jewelry stores. The chain operates various supermarket brands, including Fred Meyer, Ralphs, Fry s, Baker s, Food4Less, KwikStop and Tom Thumb.