As Albertsons steps into a new chapter, the spotlight is now firmly on Susan Morris, the seasoned executive set to take the reins as CEO on 1st May 2025. After nearly 40 years at the company and serving as Chief Operating Officer since 2018, Morris assumes leadership at a crucial turning point for one of America’s largest supermarket chains. Following the collapse of the highly publicised Kroger merger, all eyes are on what direction she will take Albertsons—and whether her steady hand and operational insight can chart a new course for sustainable growth.
A Legacy of Operations and a Quiet Powerhouse
Susan Morris is not a newcomer to the grocery landscape. Her deep-rooted understanding of Albertsons—from the shop floor to the corporate suite—gives her an edge that few can match. Known for her calm, methodical approach and people-first leadership style, she’s credited with streamlining operations across divisions, rolling out store modernisation plans, and helping Albertsons weather the pandemic-era supply challenges.
But the CEO seat demands more than operational excellence—it requires bold vision. And in the wake of the failed Kroger deal, Morris must now carve out an independent future for Albertsons without the scale advantages the merger might have delivered.
What Will Change?
Early signals suggest Morris intends to double down on customer-centric strategies. She inherits and will continue to evolve the company’s “Customers for Life” agenda—a vision rooted in deepening loyalty and rethinking the shopping experience.
Key changes expected under her leadership include:
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Revitalising In-Store Experience: Morris is expected to launch a new phase of store renovations, with an emphasis on improving layouts, product selection, and customer flow. She understands that while digital is important, bricks-and-mortar is far from dead—and still holds emotional and cultural value in communities.
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Accelerating Digital Growth: With growing pressure from Walmart, Amazon, and rapidly scaling regional players, Morris will prioritise investment in e-commerce platforms, click-and-collect services, and data-driven personalisation of online offers.
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Supply Chain Modernisation: Drawing from her operational background, Morris is likely to continue enhancing the supply chain’s resilience, pushing for automation, localised sourcing, and greater transparency from farm to shelf.
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Focus on Own Brands and Price Value: In a cost-conscious consumer landscape, expect Morris to champion private label development. These ranges deliver higher margins for Albertsons and loyalty from shoppers seeking quality at lower prices.
Does Susan Have a Plan?
While Morris has yet to unveil a detailed “Susan Strategy,” recent leadership commentary and investor briefings provide a glimpse of her priorities:
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A $1.5 billion cost savings target over the next three years, largely through supply chain and procurement efficiency.
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Reaffirmation of digital media and loyalty programme growth, including expansion of the Albertsons Media Collective.
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A focus on retaining talent and rebuilding trust internally after the uncertainty caused by the failed merger and months of legal limbo.
One insider noted, “Susan has always been a stabiliser. Now, she’s being asked to be a visionary. Her challenge is to blend both roles—and fast.”
Too Early for Change?
Some industry analysts caution that a shift in strategy so soon after the merger setback could cause confusion, but others argue the moment is ripe. Consumers are redefining how they shop, and retailers must evolve with them.
“Waiting is not an option,” says retail strategist John L. Carter. “Morris must act swiftly to reassure stakeholders, drive morale, and define a bold future that’s uniquely Albertsons—no longer waiting in Kroger’s shadow.”
A New Chapter, A Quiet Determination
Though not one for grandstanding, Morris brings a quiet determination and deep authenticity to the job. Her ascent to CEO signals not only a recognition of experience but a commitment to continuity—with a touch of reinvention.
If her past is any indicator, Susan Morris will be less about splashy promises and more about consistent delivery—doing the work, brick by brick. And in a grocery industry still recovering from shocks, that may be exactly what Albertsons needs.