In a significant expansion move, The Kroger Co. recently inaugurated its latest Marketplace store in Central Ohio, marking the first new store in the region in 15 years. The new 123,000-square-foot facility, located in the Jerome Village community of Plain City and officially opened on November 8, exemplifies Kroger’s commitment to growth in the Midwest.
The $38 million investment in this new store stands as a testament to Kroger’s strategic planning, as it represents the first store development in Central Ohio that doesn’t replace an existing outlet. This approach not only showcases Kroger’s intent to invest in new markets but also indicates the brand’s confidence in expanding its customer base. Employing around 150 associates, some of whom have transferred from other Kroger locations, the store aims to foster a sense of community and continuity among its staff.
One of the highlights of this new shop is its extensive service features aimed at enhancing the customer shopping experience. Notably, the store includes a 3,000-square-foot area dedicated to curbside pickup operations, an increasingly popular service that allows customers to order groceries online and pick them up without leaving their cars. Signs of innovation extend beyond mere convenience, as more amenities include a sushi kiosk, a Murray’s Cheese counter, a drive-thru pharmacy, and a fuel center, catering to diverse customer needs under one roof.
Nicole Thomas, the newly appointed store manager, has been recognized as one of the industry’s up-and-coming talents, reflected in her selection as a 2024 Progressive Grocer GenNext honoree. This accolade highlights Kroger’s efforts to foster leadership talent within its ranks and ensure that experienced leaders manage its new locations.
Kroger’s ambitions don’t stop with the Jerome Village Marketplace. The company has recently announced plans to invest further in Central Ohio, with another Marketplace location set to open in the Columbus suburb of Powell by late 2025. This upcoming store will share a similar footprint of 123,000 square feet and is projected to cost around $35 million.
Kroger’s strategy extends beyond mere expansion; it aligns with evolving consumer shopping behaviors, particularly the shift towards digital shopping. With nearly 420,000 associates serving more than 11 million customers daily, Kroger offers a range of shopping experiences through both its e-commerce platform and physical stores. It consistently ranks as one of the leading food and consumable retailers in North America, currently holding the No. 4 spot on Progressive Grocer’s 2024 PG 100 list.
The expansion of Kroger in Central Ohio highlights not only its growth ambitions but also its adaptability to market demands. By investing in new technologies and enhancing in-store experiences, the company positions itself as a forward-thinking player in the competitive grocery market. This focus on innovation is key to attracting new customers while retaining existing ones, which is essential for sustaining growth in the retail sector.
In conclusion, the opening of the Jerome Village Marketplace represents a pivotal moment for Kroger in Central Ohio. As consumer preferences continue to evolve, Kroger’s commitment to investing in both physical and digital experiences illustrates its aim to remain a relevant and pioneering leader in the grocery space. The rapid response to consumer needs, with features like curbside pickup, demonstrates a clear understanding of today’s shopping landscape, ensuring that Kroger remains synonymous with quality and convenience.
