Kroger Names Ex-Walmart Exec Greg Foran as New CEO
In a significant leadership shake-up for the U.S. grocery sector, Kroger Co. has appointed Greg Foran, a seasoned retail executive with a proven track record at Walmart, as its new chief executive officer. The announcement, made on February 8, 2026, marks the end of a year-long search following the controversial departure of former CEO Rodney McMullen. This move comes at a critical time for Kroger, as the company navigates sluggish consumer spending on essentials and intensifying competition from discount giants like Walmart and online disruptors.
Background on Greg Foran's Impressive Retail Career
Greg Foran, a New Zealand native, brings over three decades of global retail experience to Kroger. Most notably, from 2014 to 2019, he served as president and CEO of Walmart's U.S. operations, where he orchestrated a remarkable turnaround. Under his leadership, Walmart achieved 20 consecutive quarters of comparable sales growth by focusing on store improvements, supply chain efficiencies, and customer-centric innovations. Foran's strategies emphasized enhancing the in-store experience, which resonated deeply in an era of shifting shopping habits.
Post-Walmart, Foran took the helm at Air New Zealand as CEO from 2020 until October 2025. During his tenure, he steered the airline through the turbulence of the COVID-19 pandemic, implementing cost-saving measures and digital transformations that bolstered the carrier's resilience. His ability to adapt to crisis situations and drive operational excellence makes him a fitting choice for Kroger's current challenges.
Why Foran Stands Out in the Grocery Landscape
Analysts praise Foran's hands-on approach to retail fundamentals. 'He brings instant credibility to Kroger after his demonstrated success turning around Walmart U.S. store operations,' said Michael Montani, an analyst at Evercore ISI. Foran's expertise in optimizing physical retail spaces could be pivotal as Kroger seeks to differentiate itself in a market dominated by e-commerce and value-driven shoppers.
Kroger's Turbulent Path Leading to This Appointment
Kroger's board initiated the CEO search in March 2025 after ousting Rodney McMullen, who had led the company for 11 years. McMullen's exit stemmed from a board investigation revealing personal conduct inconsistent with company policies. Additionally, his tenure was marred by the failed $25 billion acquisition attempt of rival Albertsons, a deal abandoned amid regulatory scrutiny and antitrust concerns. Unions and critics accused McMullen of prioritizing shareholder giveaways over strategic growth, further eroding confidence.
Despite these setbacks, McMullen's era saw Kroger's stock valuation more than triple, underscoring the company's underlying strengths in a consolidating grocery market. During the transition, the board appointed Ronald Sargent, former CEO of Staples, as interim CEO and lead director. Sargent will retain his role as board chairman to facilitate a seamless handover, ensuring continuity in Kroger's operations across its 2,700+ stores.
Broader Industry Pressures Shaping Retail Leadership
The grocery industry is under siege from multiple fronts. Weak consumer spending, even on staples like food and household goods, reflects broader economic anxieties in the U.S. Inflationary pressures, potential tariffs on imports, and rising operational costs have squeezed margins for grocers. Competitors like Walmart, with its vast supply chain and pricing power, continue to erode market share from traditional players like Kroger.
Recent executive changes across global retail highlight this volatility. Companies are seeking leaders with agility to handle digital integration and sustainability demands. For Kroger, Foran's appointment signals a pivot toward revitalizing core strengths—reliable stores, fresh products, and loyalty programs—while exploring tech-driven efficiencies.
Market Reaction and Future Outlook for Kroger
Investors responded positively to the news. Kroger's shares surged about 6% in premarket trading on February 9, 2026, reflecting optimism about Foran's potential impact. The company reaffirmed its fiscal 2025 guidance, projecting stable sales amid ongoing investments in automation and e-commerce.
Looking ahead, Foran faces daunting tasks: rebuilding consumer trust, countering Walmart's dominance, and adapting to evolving shopping behaviors. His Walmart success suggests he could reinvigorate Kroger's store network, perhaps through targeted renovations and personalized marketing. Moreover, with the Albertsons deal in the rearview, Kroger may pursue smaller acquisitions or partnerships to expand its footprint.
Implications for the U.S. Grocery Sector
This leadership change underscores the high stakes in America's $800 billion grocery market. As consumers tighten belts, grocers must balance affordability with quality. Foran's cross-industry experience—from hypermarkets to airlines—could introduce innovative ideas, such as sustainable sourcing or AI-optimized inventory, setting Kroger apart.
Stakeholders, including unions and suppliers, will watch closely. While McMullen's ouster was contentious, Foran's arrival offers a fresh start. If he replicates even a fraction of his Walmart achievements, Kroger could emerge stronger in a competitive arena.
In summary, Greg Foran's appointment as Kroger's CEO is more than a personnel move; it's a strategic bet on proven retail revival tactics. As the grocery giant charts its course through economic headwinds, all eyes are on whether Foran can deliver the growth that eluded his predecessor.