Consumer spending habits are changing in this key way, Kroger says - MarketWatch
1. Kroger reported strong first-quarter profits and sales despite economic uncertainty. 2. CEO Ron Sargent noted customers prefer value and are buying more private-label products. 3. Kroger's stock rose 9.7% after earnings announcement, marking its largest gain in three years. 4. Same-store sales increased by 2.5%, surpassing analyst expectations. 5. Kroger proactively reduced prices on 2,000 items to maintain customer loyalty.