Kroger raises annual sales forecast as Americans stick to eating at home

Group 1: Company Performance - Kroger raised its annual core sales forecast, anticipating resilient demand for lower-priced products amid tariff-related consumer demand concerns [1][4] - The company reported a 3.4% increase in quarterly identical sales, surpassing analysts' estimates of 2.84% [4] - Adjusted earnings per share for the quarter were $1.04, exceeding estimates of 99 cents [4] Group 2: Market Trends - Retailers like Kroger are experiencing growth despite a broader industry slowdown, as consumers from lower-income households seek value through cheaper essentials [2] - The company has focused on promotions and maintaining low prices, having reduced prices on over 2,000 products this year [3] Group 3: Financial Outlook - Kroger expects full-year comparable sales to rise between 2.7% and 3.4%, an increase from the previous forecast of 2.25% to 3.25% [4] - The lower end of the annual profit forecast was raised to $4.70 from $4.60, while the upper end remains at $4.80 [4] Group 4: Legal Issues - Kroger is currently involved in a legal battle with Albertsons following the blockage of their $25 billion deal by a U.S. judge [5]