CINCINNATI — SN has named Kroger as the winner of its 2008 Retail Excellence Award, based on the success the company has achieved in the current economy and its leadership in a range of areas, such as marketing and community relations. The award recognizes a retailer who demonstrates innovative strategies that set it apart from the competition, a deep understanding of its customer base, and has had a positive impact on the food industry in developing new solutions to grow its business. Kroger is the first retailer to receive this honor twice. It previously received the award in 2004. Other winners have been H.E. Butt Grocery Co. (2003), Hannaford Bros. (2005), Hy-Vee (2006) and Safeway (2007). The selection of Kroger was made by SN editors after consulting with industry analysts and other observers. A profile of Kroger’s efforts appears in the Oct. 13 print issue of SN, and will also be made available online. The 2008 Retail Excellence Award was sponsored by Kraft Foods.
