Kroger Plotting a Florida Invasion?

Florida Winn-Dixie fans may soon spot a different sign over the popular grocery store chain’s doors if rumblings about a possible Kroger buyout are accurate.

“Kroger Co. could be plotting a Florida invasion,” WCPO-9, the ABC affiliate in Cincinnati reported. The primarily Midwestern grocery chain is based in Cincinnati and only has a presence with one Florida store in Fernandina Beach courtesy of its 2014 acquisition of Harris Teeter, Jacksonville.com points out.

While America’s second largest grocery chain hasn’t announced specific plans to purchase Bi-Lo/Winn-Dixie, it has indicated a willingness to make a big purchase, the Tampa Bay Times reported. Add to this the fact that Kroger’s CEO has stated the company intends to enter a new geographic area and the rumor mill is working overtime, the paper noted.

The Tampa Bay Business Journal acknowledges that Florida isn’t the only potential expansion area for the chain, but says it’s an important one.

“Florida is a market that can’t be ignored for a grocery with major growth aspirations,” its piece on the rumor stated.

What are your thoughts on this? Would Kroger be a welcomed addition to the Florida market? Share your opinions by commenting below.

Patch file photo