Grocers Focus on Value and Scale to Compete as Kroger Defends Albertsons Deal, BJ's and Costco Beat Earnings
• Kroger beats Q4 earnings expectations, decides to proceed with Albertsons merger defense in mid-to-late summer • Kroger remains committed to defending Albertsons deal, citing benefits for jobs and investments • BJ's tops Q4 earnings expectations but misses on revenue; success driven by general merchandise over holidays • Grocers and wholesale clubs focusing on value, scale to compete with chains like Walmart and Costco • Costco Q4 expectations traffic, ticket growth over 4% as consumers seek value; updates on membership hikes