Kroger Faces Leadership Shakeup and Mixed Financial Outlook

CEO Rodney McMullen resigns following a conduct probe as Kroger reports better-than-expected earnings but a disappointing profit forecast.

Kroger's CEO Rodney McMullen stepped down after a board investigation into his personal conduct, with Ron Sargent named interim CEO.
The company provided a profit outlook for 2025 that fell below Wall Street expectations, citing challenges like lower pharmacy margins and ongoing investments.
Kroger's adjusted earnings per share for the fourth quarter exceeded estimates at $1.14, though overall revenue of $34.31 billion missed forecasts.
The grocery chain's stock rose over 2% on Thursday, reflecting a 25% gain over the past year, outperforming the S&P 500 Index.
Kroger postponed its investor day as it searches for a permanent CEO, while also navigating inflation pressures and the fallout from its failed merger with Albertsons.