Kroger Strikes Back: The Retail Underdog Taking On Walmart and Costco in 2025

In what industry analysts are calling a bold and strategic move, Kroger has set its sights on unseating retail titans Walmart and Costco with the rollout of more than 900 new private-label products in 2025. The American supermarket giant is going full throttle, reimagining its brand identity and expanding its offering to meet evolving consumer expectations head-on.

Reinvention Through Variety and Value

Kroger’s ambitious plan centres on launching an expansive line-up of items under its trusted in-house brands—Simple Truth and Private Selection. These additions will span everything from fresh produce to gourmet items and essential household goods. The company aims to bridge the gap between affordability and premium quality—two qualities that American shoppers increasingly demand in tandem.

In a saturated marketplace, product reliability, clean ingredients, and ethical sourcing are now just as important as price tags. Kroger’s strategy taps into this shift by promoting its own brands as not only cost-effective but also consistent in quality—making them a viable alternative to national brands.

No Price Hike, More Choice

What sets this initiative apart is that Kroger has committed to keeping prices stable despite the large-scale expansion. At a time when many retailers are hiking prices due to inflationary pressures, this decision positions Kroger as a value-driven player.

“Our customers are telling us they want more variety without having to compromise on cost or trust,” said a spokesperson for Kroger. “By strengthening our own-brand offerings, we’re meeting those needs and delivering real value.”

Taking On Retail Royalty

Walmart and Costco have long dominated the U.S. retail landscape through aggressive pricing strategies and unique sales models. Costco thrives on its warehouse bulk-buying model and loyal membership base, while Walmart continues to lead through everyday low prices and unparalleled store coverage.

But Kroger is not backing down.

Rather than imitating its competitors, Kroger is doubling down on consumer experience, product innovation, and brand trust. The company is leveraging its nationwide footprint and digital platforms to bring a more curated, yet affordable shopping experience to American households.

Retail experts suggest that this expansion is not just a product rollout—it’s a repositioning.

“Kroger’s play isn’t just about fighting for shelf space. It’s about reshaping how consumers perceive value in 2025,” said James Taylor, Editor at International Supermarket News.

A Consumer-Centric Future

Kroger’s efforts underline a broader trend in U.S. retail: the return of customer loyalty built on trust, transparency, and quality. As consumers navigate economic uncertainty, they are becoming more selective—not just looking for the lowest prices, but also for brands they can rely on.

With this major push in private-label expansion, Kroger is signalling that it is not just keeping pace with the competition—it’s ready to lead.


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