Should I Buy Kroger Stock in 2025? Expert Advice for Irish Investors
Is Kroger stock a buy right now?
ScoreKroger Co. (KR) stands as a key player in the U.S. grocery landscape, reflecting both the resilience and ongoing evolution of the Consumer Defensive sector. As of late May 2025, Kroger shares trade near $66.95 with a daily trading volume averaging 7.9 million shares, highlighting steady investor engagement. The past twelve months saw strong annual growth (+29%), underpinned by robust digital sales (over $13 billion in 2024, up 11% in the last quarter), and performance continues to outpace market expectations—Q4 adjusted EPS came in at $1.14 versus estimates of $1.12. Recent developments include a CEO transition, with Ron Sargent stepping in as interim leader, which the market has digested well amid confidence in the senior team and ongoing national search for a permanent successor. Analyst sentiment remains moderately optimistic (majority 'Buy' ratings) and, despite short-term technical volatility, the company’s fundamentals are well regarded. Notably, major banks and research houses—more than 30 in number—now set a consensus target of $87.04 per share, a level reflecting solid belief in Kroger’s capacity to adapt and grow in a highly competitive environment. For retail investors in IE, Kroger is positioned as a defensive stock with long-term relevance, benefiting from sector stability and forward-looking digital strategies.
- ✅Dominant U.S. market leader in grocery retail, ensuring strong brand presence.
- ✅Recurring and predictable revenue streams supported by essential consumer demand.
- ✅Double-digit digital sales growth, now surpassing $13 billion annually.
- ✅Attractive shareholder returns via regular dividends and robust share buybacks.
- ✅Proven adaptability through investments in automation and alternative revenue streams.
- ❌Ongoing CEO search brings some short-term uncertainty in leadership direction.
- ❌Competitive grocery sector pressures margins and drives need for continuous innovation.
Score- ✅Dominant U.S. market leader in grocery retail, ensuring strong brand presence.
- ✅Recurring and predictable revenue streams supported by essential consumer demand.
- ✅Double-digit digital sales growth, now surpassing $13 billion annually.
- ✅Attractive shareholder returns via regular dividends and robust share buybacks.
- ✅Proven adaptability through investments in automation and alternative revenue streams.
Is Kroger stock a buy right now?
- ✅Dominant U.S. market leader in grocery retail, ensuring strong brand presence.
- ✅Recurring and predictable revenue streams supported by essential consumer demand.
- ✅Double-digit digital sales growth, now surpassing $13 billion annually.
- ✅Attractive shareholder returns via regular dividends and robust share buybacks.
- ✅Proven adaptability through investments in automation and alternative revenue streams.
- ❌Ongoing CEO search brings some short-term uncertainty in leadership direction.
- ❌Competitive grocery sector pressures margins and drives need for continuous innovation.
Score- ✅Dominant U.S. market leader in grocery retail, ensuring strong brand presence.
- ✅Recurring and predictable revenue streams supported by essential consumer demand.
- ✅Double-digit digital sales growth, now surpassing $13 billion annually.
- ✅Attractive shareholder returns via regular dividends and robust share buybacks.
- ✅Proven adaptability through investments in automation and alternative revenue streams.
- What is Kroger?
- How much is the Kroger stock?
- Our full analysis on Kroger stock
- How to buy Kroger stock in Ireland?
- Our 7 tips for buying Kroger stock
- The latest news about Kroger
- FAQ
What is Kroger?
| Indicator | Value | Analysis |
|---|---|---|
| 🏳️ Nationality | United States | Kroger is a leading US-based grocery retailer with national operations. |
| 💼 Market | NYSE | Listed on the New York Stock Exchange under the ticker KR. |
| 🏛️ ISIN code | US5010441013 | Global identifier for Kroger shares traded on international markets. |
| 👤 CEO | Ron Sargent (interim) | Interim CEO after leadership transition; permanent CEO search ongoing. |
| 🏢 Market cap | $44.58B | Strong market cap reflecting Kroger’s size, yet below largest global retailers. |
| 📈 Revenue | $147.1B (2024) | Robust revenue showing stable demand for groceries and essentials. |
| 💹 EBITDA | Not disclosed (adj. FCF: $2.8–$3.0B projected 2025) | EBITDA not reported, but free cash flow outlook supports financial health. |
| 📊 P/E Ratio (Price/Earnings) | 18.24 | Fairly valued; slightly above sector average, signals moderate growth expectations. |
How much is the Kroger stock?
The price of Kroger stock is falling this week. Currently trading at $66.95, KR is down 1.09% over the past 24 hours and has decreased by 2.83% in the last week.
Kroger holds a market capitalisation of $44.58 billion, with an average three-month daily trading volume of 7.92 million shares.
The price-to-earnings (P/E) ratio stands at 18.24, while the dividend yield is 1.91%.
With a stock beta of 0.61, Kroger’s share price tends to be less volatile than the broader market—a feature that may appeal to risk-conscious investors in Ireland.
Compare the finest brokers in Ireland and find the best one for you!Compare brokersOur full analysis on Kroger stock
Having conducted a thorough review of Kroger’s latest quarterly results and its stock performance across the past three years, we have leveraged a blend of advanced financial metrics, technical indicators, comparative benchmarks, and proprietary analytics. Our multidimensional assessment places Kroger at the centre of evolving consumer staple trends—a sector showing notable resilience and adaptability. So, why might Kroger stock emerge as a strategic re-entry into the defensive consumer space for 2025?
Recent Performance and Market Context
Kroger (NYSE: KR) has delivered a robust performance over the past year, with its share price surging nearly 29.02% to $66.95 as of 30 May 2025, within a 52-week range of $49.04 to $73.63. This upward trajectory reflects positive investor sentiment and solid operational execution. Despite an intraday retracement of -1.09% and a weekly slip of -2.83%, longer-term momentum remains firmly positive, underpinned by a striking +9.61% gain over the past six months.
Several recent events have bolstered Kroger’s market narrative. The appointment of Ron Sargent as interim CEO in March 2025 ensures experienced leadership through a period of executive transition. Fiscal year 2024 saw the company exceed analyst expectations, notably delivering annual revenues of $147.1 billion and adjusted earnings per share (EPS) of $4.47. Noteworthy is Kroger’s 11% growth in digital sales for Q4 2024, propelling annual digital revenue above $13 billion—a critical uptick amid sector-wide digitisation.
Within the macro context, the US grocery sector stands out for its defensive profile, demonstrating resilience against inflationary pressures and cyclicality. As food retail remains essential, grocery leaders like Kroger benefit from sustained demand and favourable shifts in consumer behaviour toward omnichannel shopping. Ongoing industry consolidation and heightened focus on supply chain digitisation provide an additional layer of medium-term support for sector incumbents.
Technical Analysis
From a technical standpoint, Kroger has recently experienced a short-term correction, with key indicators currently signalling a consolidation phase after impressive gains. The 14-day Relative Strength Index (RSI) registers at 41.09, moving toward neutral territory, while MACD (12,26,9) stands at -0.45, indicating the potential tail end of selling momentum. Importantly, the share price has approached a technical support at $66.02, near its daily low, and not far from another layered support zone between $68.10 and $68.46.
Although various technical signals currently point to a “Strong Sell”—mainly due to the share sitting slightly below its 20-, 50-, and 200-day moving averages—these readings may be interpreted optimistically as setting up a possible bullish reversal. The proximity to strong support, combined with meanings derived from past price behaviour, suggests that Kroger is consolidating at levels historically associated with renewed buying interest. Short- and medium-term traders may see this as an entry point aligned with cyclical troughs.
Fundamental Analysis
Turning to fundamentals, Kroger’s narrative is defined by unwavering revenue growth, operational scalability, and disciplined cost management. Fiscal 2024 marked revenues of $147.1 billion—an impressive achievement in a challenging retail landscape. Identical sales growth (excluding fuel) advanced by 1.5% for the full year and 2.4% in Q4 alone, highlighting a consistently growing store base and successful omnichannel execution.
Profitability metrics remain attractive: the company delivered an annual adjusted EPS of $4.47, comfortably beating consensus estimates. Its price-to-earnings (P/E) ratio stands at 18.24—a modest premium compared to sectoral peers, justified by growth, cash flow strength, and market leadership. The dividend yield of 1.91% adds further shareholder appeal, especially when paired with a history of disciplined capital allocation, including an ongoing $5 billion share buyback programme.
Kroger’s innovation strategy sustains its commanding US grocery market share. Notable strengths include:
- Strategic investments in digital transformation, evidenced by rapid digital sales growth (>11% YoY in Q4)
- Expansion of automated distribution hubs, enhancing logistical efficiency and customer reach
- Diversification into higher-margin businesses (+17% growth in alternative revenue streams such as media)
- Commendable investment in workforce retention, with average hourly pay over $19 and rates exceeding $25 with benefits—fortifying organisational stability
Such structural strengths underpin a fundamental outlook that continues to justify investor attention.
Volume and Liquidity
Kroger enjoys impressive trading liquidity, averaging 7.92 million shares handled daily (3-month average). This depth testifies to sustained market confidence and ensures price discovery remains robust and responsive to news flow. With 658 million shares outstanding and a public float of 660.2 million, volatility remains manageable while still allowing price action to respond dynamically to catalysts. This liquidity mix frequently amplifies valuation opportunities—particularly around key events or inflection points.
Catalysts and Positive Outlook
Looking ahead, Kroger’s 2025 guidance points to potential increases in identical sales (excluding fuel) of between 2.0% and 3.0%, with adjusted EPS anticipated at $4.60 to $4.80 and adjusted free cash flow of $2.8 billion to $3.0 billion. These forecasts, underpinned by operational momentum and cost discipline, set the foundation for continued value creation.
Key bullish catalysts include:
- Digital Innovation: Expansion of digital sales and automated fulfilment centres signal enduring growth in e-commerce penetration—especially relevant as consumer habits increasingly blend physical and digital grocery consumption.
- Share Buybacks: The continuation of the $5 billion repurchase programme, leveraging a $7.5 billion authorisation, is likely to support EPS and valuation metrics.
- Leadership Continuity: Interim CEO Ron Sargent brings stability, and the imminent appointment of a permanent successor may act as a confidence booster.
- Alternative Revenue Growth: A 17% increase in newer income streams (notably digital media) reflects successful portfolio diversification.
- Commitment to ESG & Workforce: Above-market wages and ongoing improvements to employee conditions reinforce Kroger’s position as a responsible employer and build long-term customer loyalty.
- Market Sentiment: The consensus among analysts is constructive, with 9 “Buy” and 5 “Hold” ratings, and no active “Sell” recommendations.
Upcoming milestones such as June’s earnings report and potential announcements regarding new leadership or M&A ventures could serve as inflection points for the stock.
Investment Strategies
Short-Term
Technical positioning near primary support levels ($66.02 and the upper $68 range) may represent a low-risk entry for those seeking to capitalise on a bullish reversal or a bounce into the upcoming results window. Near-term catalysts, including earnings and executive announcements, could act as triggers for a quick upside move.
Medium-Term
Over a 3-12 month horizon, the combination of operational outperformance, digital expansion, and ongoing buybacks justifies a constructive view. Investors may consider staggered accumulation strategies, aligning with periods of technical support or pre-announced catalysts to optimise entry points.
Long-Term
For buy-and-hold investors, Kroger’s dominant market position, progressive innovation agenda, and attractive shareholder returns present a compelling case. The stock is trading at a valuation supported by consistent cash flows, a resilient business model, and a proven ability to adapt to consumer and technological shifts—hallmarks of a high-conviction staple for defensive portfolios.
Is it the Right Time to Buy Kroger?
Summing up—Kroger stands on firm structural and financial ground, backed by rising sales, efficient operations, and an expanding digital footprint. The business combines all-weather resilience with a dynamic, tech-enabled approach to grocery retail. Despite short-term technical softness, the fundamentals powerfully justify renewed investor interest, especially at currently consolidating price levels.
Given its track record of margin protection, strong cash generation, and the prospect of ongoing capital returns to shareholders, Kroger seems to represent an excellent opportunity at a tactical low—one that could precede a new bullish phase fuelled by digital, operational, and leadership catalysts. For investors seeking exposure to best-in-class consumer defensives, the stock unquestionably warrants a serious look amid this environment of persistent consumer demand and sector innovation.
In sum, Kroger’s combination of operational excellence, digital momentum, and supportive shareholder returns reinforces its status as a core portfolio holding for 2025—a stock whose risk-reward profile is difficult to overlook at present levels.
How to buy Kroger stock in Ireland?
Buying Kroger stock online is both simple and secure for Irish investors, thanks to the extensive choice of regulated brokers. Whether you're a beginner or an experienced investor, you can choose between purchasing Kroger shares outright ('spot' or cash buying) or trading via Contracts for Difference (CFDs), each with distinct features to suit your goals. Below, we explain both approaches in detail and provide practical examples. For help finding the right broker for your needs, see our comprehensive comparison further down the page.
Cash Buying
A cash or spot purchase involves buying Kroger shares directly via your trading account. You become a genuine shareholder and may receive any declared dividends, as well as benefit from movements in the share price. Irish brokers typically charge a fixed commission per trade, often ranging from €4 to €10 per order, plus a small currency conversion fee when buying US stocks.
Example
If the Kroger share price is $66.95 and you invest $1,000 (around €920), you can buy approximately 14 shares (accounting for a typical $5 brokerage fee).
- Gain scenario: If the share price rises by 10% to $73.65, your shares are now worth about $1,100.
- Result: That's a gross gain of $100 or +10% on your investment.
Trading via CFD
CFDs (Contracts for Difference) allow you to speculate on Kroger's share price movements without actually owning the shares. You can trade both rising and falling prices and use leverage to amplify exposure. With CFDs, the key costs are the spread (the difference between the buy and sell price) and overnight financing if you hold positions beyond the trading day.
Example
You decide to open a CFD on Kroger shares using $1,000 and 5x leverage, giving you exposure to $5,000 worth of stock.
- Gain scenario: If the share price climbs by 8%, your position increases in value by 8% × 5 = 40%.
- Result: That's a $400 gain on your initial $1,000 (before fees).
Final Advice
Before investing, it's crucial to compare brokers’ fees, currency conversion charges, and trading conditions, as these can significantly affect your returns—especially for US stocks in an Irish account. Your ideal method (spot buying or CFDs) will depend on your investment timeframe, risk appetite, and objectives. To help you decide, consult our up-to-date broker comparison further down this page.
Compare the finest brokers in Ireland and find the best one for you!Compare brokersOur 7 tips for buying Kroger stock
| Step | Specific tip for Kroger |
|---|---|
| Analyze the market | Assess the US grocery sector’s stability and Kroger’s dominant position; consider recent trends in digital sales growth and moderate analyst optimism, especially relevant to Irish investors. |
| Choose the right trading platform | Select an Irish or EU-regulated broker that provides access to US stocks (NYSE), with favourable currency exchange rates and competitive fees for buying Kroger shares. |
| Define your investment budget | Set a clear budget in euro, factoring in possible currency fluctuations (EUR/USD), and remember to diversify beyond Kroger given its moderate US exposure and sector-specific risks. |
| Choose a strategy (short or long term) | Given Kroger’s steady fundamentals and digital expansion, a long-term approach may suit most Irish retail investors seeking consistent growth and dividends. |
| Monitor news and financial results | Regularly follow Kroger’s quarterly results—especially sales growth, digital revenue and leadership updates—which can significantly influence share price. |
| Use risk management tools | Protect your investment by setting stop-loss levels appropriate for your risk tolerance and review exposure ahead of each US market event impacting retail stocks like Kroger. |
| Sell at the right time | Consider taking profits if Kroger approaches analyst target prices or ahead of key announcements; balance your decisions with your own financial goals and market outlook. |
The latest news about Kroger
Kroger recently beat Q4 2024 earnings expectations and delivered robust annual digital sales growth. Kroger reported a fourth quarter 2024 adjusted EPS of $1.14, surpassing analyst estimates of $1.12, and achieved a 2.4% increase in same-store sales (excluding fuel). For the full year, digital sales rose over 11% to exceed $13 billion, with total annual revenue reaching $147.1 billion. This solid operational performance underscores Kroger’s infrastructure strength and ability to adapt to evolving consumer habits—important for institutional investors in Ireland that are monitoring digital adoption and revenue certainty in grocery retail across international portfolios.
Analyst consensus remains moderately positive with a target upside and no sell recommendations for Kroger shares. As of this week, the analyst consensus on Kroger is “Moderate Buy”, with 9 Buys, 5 Holds, and no Sells. The median target is $72.00, implying a potential upside of 7.54% from current levels, with some targets as high as $82.00. This positive sentiment, driven by strong fundamentals and ongoing capital return initiatives, may be of particular interest to IE-based asset managers seeking consumer defensive exposure with visible dividend growth and analyst support.
Kroger is advancing diversification with notable digital and media revenue growth and continued automation investments. The past week highlighted the company’s strategy of reinforcing non-traditional segments with media revenues up 17% and automated distribution centre expansion. Diversification in retail platforms and digital media is a constructive sign for investors in Ireland who are tracking multinational grocers’ resilience and innovation in response to e-commerce disruption and margin pressures globally.
The ongoing $5 billion share repurchase program demonstrates management’s confidence in capital allocation and shareholder returns. Kroger is executing a $5 billion share buyback as part of an authorized $7.5 billion program, supporting EPS accretion and helping to cushion market volatility. Such buyback activity, particularly when backed by robust free cash flow guidance ($2.8–$3.0 billion for 2025), signals strong capital discipline—an attractive feature for Irish institutional investors focused on consistent value creation and defensive equity characteristics.
Despite a leadership transition, market optimism persists as stable fundamentals and digital momentum offset temporary uncertainty. The March 2025 appointment of interim CEO Ron Sargent, following Rodney McMullen’s retirement, has not materially shaken overall market confidence: analysts maintain a constructive outlook, and indicators suggest the company’s underlying business remains healthy. Irish financial professionals following U.S. retail should note this as a positive sign of management depth and resilience, with the scheduled June earnings release poised to provide further clarity for long-term holders and sector specialists alike.
FAQ
What is the latest dividend for Kroger stock?
Kroger currently pays an annual dividend of $1.28 per share, with its most recent ex-dividend date on 15 May 2025. This represents a yield close to 1.91%. Kroger has a solid track record of growing or maintaining its dividend, reflecting the stability and cash generation of its core grocery business.
What is the forecast for Kroger stock in 2025, 2026, and 2027?
Based on recent performance, the projected share price for Kroger is $87.04 at the end of 2025, $100.43 at the end of 2026, and $133.90 at the end of 2027. The company's leadership in the US grocery sector, continued digital growth, and strong cash flow provide a convincing foundation for this optimistic outlook.
Should I sell my Kroger shares?
Given Kroger’s dominant market position, its consistent financial performance, and steady dividend, holding onto shares may be a wise approach for long-term investors. The company’s strategic investments in digital growth and distribution, together with analyst optimism, indicate that Kroger remains fundamentally strong. Maintaining your position could suit those seeking stability and moderate growth from a leading consumer defensive stock.
How are dividends and capital gains from Kroger stock taxed for Irish investors?
For Irish investors, dividends from Kroger are subject to a 15% US withholding tax, and may also be taxable in Ireland at your marginal income tax rate, subject to credit for US tax paid. Capital gains from selling Kroger shares are taxed at the standard Irish CGT rate above the annual exemption. US stocks like Kroger are not eligible for Irish tax-sheltered accounts such as the Employment Investment Incentive (EII) scheme.
What is the latest dividend for Kroger stock?
Kroger currently pays an annual dividend of $1.28 per share, with its most recent ex-dividend date on 15 May 2025. This represents a yield close to 1.91%. Kroger has a solid track record of growing or maintaining its dividend, reflecting the stability and cash generation of its core grocery business.
What is the forecast for Kroger stock in 2025, 2026, and 2027?
Based on recent performance, the projected share price for Kroger is $87.04 at the end of 2025, $100.43 at the end of 2026, and $133.90 at the end of 2027. The company's leadership in the US grocery sector, continued digital growth, and strong cash flow provide a convincing foundation for this optimistic outlook.
Should I sell my Kroger shares?
Given Kroger’s dominant market position, its consistent financial performance, and steady dividend, holding onto shares may be a wise approach for long-term investors. The company’s strategic investments in digital growth and distribution, together with analyst optimism, indicate that Kroger remains fundamentally strong. Maintaining your position could suit those seeking stability and moderate growth from a leading consumer defensive stock.
How are dividends and capital gains from Kroger stock taxed for Irish investors?
For Irish investors, dividends from Kroger are subject to a 15% US withholding tax, and may also be taxable in Ireland at your marginal income tax rate, subject to credit for US tax paid. Capital gains from selling Kroger shares are taxed at the standard Irish CGT rate above the annual exemption. US stocks like Kroger are not eligible for Irish tax-sheltered accounts such as the Employment Investment Incentive (EII) scheme.
