Kroger has announced its new plans to hire 15,000 more staff members to improve its customer experience, according to a statement released on Tuesday.
The grocer will expand the number of employees in the cashier, bagger, deli bakery clerk, pharmacy technician, and delivery driver sectors.
Tim Massa, EVP and chief associate experience officer at Kroger said: “Led by our purpose to feed the human spirit, we are hiring dedicated associates who share our commitment to be fresh for everyone in delivering fresh, affordable food and exceptional customer experiences.
“We invite future associates to make a home at Kroger and discover a fresh opportunity with competitive pay and benefits, flexible schedules, and a promise to invest in your future.”
However, there has been a surge in layoffs and downsizing driven by the mounting pressure of tariffs and inflation on retailers.
A recent study by Challenger, Gray & Christmas revealed that US retailers announced 64,000 job cuts between January and April 2025, indicating a surge in layoffs this year.
Andrew Challenger, SVP at Challenger, Gray & Christmas, commented: “Generally, companies are citing the economy and new technology. Employers are slow to hire and limiting hiring plans as they wait and see what will happen with trade, supply chain, and consumer spending.”
Additionally, lowering consumer sentiment is on the rise amid growing concerns over trade. A recent survey revealed that the overall consumer sentiment plunged by 26.5% year-over-year due to trade concerns.
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