Kroger Rises After Lifting Outlook on Healthy Grocery Demand

Kroger Co. raised its full-year sales forecast on food spending that’s remained stable even as consumers seek out bargains.

The company now expects comparable sales, excluding fuel, to gain as much as 3.4% in the current fiscal year, up from its previous guidance for an increase with a ceiling of 3.25%. The grocery chain’s comparable sales and adjusted earnings also beat expectations during the latest quarter on higher sales of fresh food, e-commerce and pharmacy.