The Kroger Company, founded in 1883 by Bernard “Barney” Kroger in Cincinnati, Ohio, has grown from a single grocery store into one of the largest and most influential supermarket chains in the United States. Starting with a $372 investment and a simple motto—“Be particular. Never sell anything you would not want yourself”—Kroger revolutionized retail by prioritizing quality, innovation, and customer service. His early innovations included in-store bakeries and butcher shops, setting a new standard for grocery shopping. Kroger’s history is marked by significant milestones. In 1916, the company pioneered self-service shopping, transforming how customers interacted with stores. By 1930, it operated nearly 5,600 stores, demonstrating rapid expansion and market dominance. The company continued to innovate, becoming the first U.S. grocery retailer to test electronic scanners in 1972. Over the decades, Kroger expanded its offerings to include pharmacies, drive-through services, and mail-order prescriptions, adapting to changing consumer needs. Today, Kroger operates more than 2,700 stores across 35 states, with annual sales exceeding $100 billion. It is recognized not only for its scale but also for its commitment to technology and sustainability, investing in digital platforms, automated fulfillment centers, and fresh food accessibility. The company’s recent announcement to merge with Albertsons, pending regulatory approval, signals its ambition to further strengthen its position in a competitive market. Kroger’s enduring success lies in its blend of tradition and innovation, rooted in Barney Kroger’s original vision. As it continues to evolve, Kroger remains a leader in shaping the future of grocery retail, making it a compelling subject for business and technology enthusiasts.