Cincinnati-based Kroger is investing $112 million to open and renovate stores in central and northwest Ohio in what the grocery giant calls a “record-breaking” effort to “support shoppers and grow communities,”.
The investment is covering projects including renovation of existing stores and the construction of two new stores. Kroger broke ground on a new 118,000-sq.-ft. store in Canal Winchester, Ohio on Thursday, March 19, 2026 and is continuing to build a new 123,000-sq.-ft. store in Delaware, Ohio which is scheduled to open this fall.
The Delaware store will feature enhanced produce, deli, meat and seafood as well as a dedicated sushi counter, specialty cheese shop, expanded apparel section and a fuel center. Each store is expected to cost roughly $30 million to build.
“These investments underscore Kroger’s confidence in the long-term growth of our communities and our ongoing commitment to meet customers where they live, work and shop,” said Jon Young, president of Kroger’s Columbus division. “By bringing new Kroger Marketplace locations and enhanced shopping experiences to our cities ranging from central Ohio to Toledo, we’re focused on creating convenient, modern stores that deliver fresh, affordable groceries for local families.”
Kroger’s new Ohio stores fit into a larger plan for constructing new stores in 2026 and beyond. On the company’s third quarter earnings call, chairman and interim CEO Ron Sargent said the company plans to accelerate capital investment in new stores beyond 2025 to strengthen its competitive position, expand into high-potential geographies and support long-term growth.
“We expect to break ground on 14 new stores in the fourth quarter, marking a meaningful acceleration in activity, Sargent said. “When you look at 2026, we expect to increase new store builds by 30%.”
Sargent also said that Kroger has opportunities to grow through acquisition — something it hasn’t ruled out “despite our last few years with Albertsons.”
“When you look at our long-term aspiration, we expect and plan to be a national retailer,” he said.
Earlier in the third quarter, Kroger announced expansion plans for Harris Teeter, which Sargent called one of the company’s strongest and most successful banners. The plans include opening additional new stores in the Southeast and entering Jacksonville, Fla.
The Kroger Co. operates approximately 2,800 stores under a variety of banners across the U.S., including Kroger, Fred Meyer, Ralphs, Dillons, Smith’s, King Soopers, Fry’s, QFC, City Market, Owen’s, Jay C, Pay Less, Baker’s, Gerbes, Harris Teeter, Pick ‘n Save, Metro Market and Mariano’s.
