Kroger and Lucky's Market announce strategic partnership

CINCINNATI and BOULDER, Colo. -- Kroger is forming a new partnership with Lucky's Market that aims to accelerate growth in new and existing markets.

Kroger announced that it has made a meaningful investment in Lucky's, a specialty grocery store chain focused on natural, organic and locally-grown products.  The financial terms of the transaction, which closed Friday, were not disclosed.

Founded in 2003 and based near Boulder, Colo., Lucky's Market and its affiliates employ more than 1,800 associates and operate 17 stores in 13 states throughout the Midwest and Southeast United States.  With stores averaging approximately 30,000 square feet, Lucky's layout resembles an indoor farmers market, with "garage door" entrances, field bins, barrels and wooden crates.  

Kroger's affiliate Main & Vine also recently launched a community-focused grocery store concept in Gig Harbor, Wash., that mixes local, specialty and everyday products, all at affordable prices.

Kroger operates 2,778 retail food stores under a variety of local banner names in 35 states and the District of Columbia.