Kroger Keeps Stores Open on Labor Day and Delivers Key Investor Updates

CINCINNATI, Sept. 1 (Reuters) - Kroger Co. (NYSE: KR) confirmed that all of its banner stores will operate under normal business hours on Labor Day, ensuring customers can stock up on end-of-summer essentials despite the federal holiday. At the same time, the company executed a scheduled dividend payment and disclosed a new strategic investment in its shares.

The supermarket giant affirmed that its family of brands - including Ralphs, Fred Meyer, King Soopers, Fry’s and others - will remain open to serve shoppers seeking groceries, beverages and party supplies for holiday gatherings. While department operations such as pharmacies, delis and bakeries may follow reduced schedules, most locations will welcome customers from early morning until late evening.

In investor relations, Kroger paid its quarterly dividend of $0.35 per share today to shareholders of record as of August 15, marking the 19th consecutive year of dividend increases and reflecting a 13% compounded annual growth rate since reinstatement in 2006. The board has maintained its commitment to returning capital to investors while reinvesting in pricing and store expansions.

On the same day, hedge fund Night Squared LP filed an SEC disclosure revealing the purchase of a new position in Kroger shares during the first quarter of 2025. The fund noted its confidence in Kroger’s guidance of $4.60-$4.80 in full-year EPS while citing the retailer’s robust free cash flow and margin improvement initiatives.

Labor Day Operations

Although most banks, government offices and postal services are closed today, Kroger’s extensive grocery network remains fully operational. Customers planning last-minute cookouts or week-ahead shopping can visit local stores, many of which open around 6 a.m. and close at 11 p.m., though hours vary by location and state regulations on alcohol sales.

Dividend Distribution

The $0.35 per-share dividend disbursement today follows June’s board approval of a $1.40 annualized dividend rate. Kroger’s capital allocation strategy continues to balance reinvestment in price competitiveness and store growth with maintaining an investment grade debt profile.

Strategic Shareholding

Night Squared LP’s new stake underscores growing institutional interest in Kroger’s turnaround plan, which emphasizes supply-chain efficiencies, customer-centric pricing and technological investments. The fund’s disclosure arrives as Kroger prepares for its Q2 2025 earnings conference call on September 11, where management is expected to outline progress on these initiatives.

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