Ohio-based Kroger has announced a $1.65 billion agreement to acquire grocery chain Giant Eagle, according to a company statement released Wednesday morning. The deal includes 197 supermarkets and 11 standalone pharmacies located across western Pennsylvania, West Virginia, Maryland, Ohio, and Indiana.

Expansion of Midwest Grocery Footprint

Kroger officials say the acquisition expands the company’s footprint into adjacent regional markets and strengthens its position in the Midwest grocery sector. Kroger CEO Greg Foran said the company carefully evaluated the transaction before moving forward.

“We evaluated the opportunity carefully, and the strategic fit is clear. Giant Eagle expands our reach into attractive adjacent markets, allowing us to do what we do best,” Foran said. Giant Eagle leadership said the merger is expected to support growth and improve services for customers and employees.

Giant Eagle CEO Bill Artman said the partnership will enhance long-term business strategy. “Together with Kroger, we will be well-positioned to advance our strategy and deliver better quality and service, better everyday value, and a better shopping experience for our customers, while providing greater growth opportunities for our dedicated Team Members,” Artman said.

Kroger currently operates 22 stores in the Columbus area and nearly 200 stores across Ohio, according to company data. Giant Eagle has operated in central Ohio since 2004. Together, Kroger and Giant Eagle represent a significant share of the grocery market in Ohio and surrounding states.

The companies say the transaction is expected to be finalized in 2027, pending regulatory review and approval. The proposed acquisition will undergo regulatory review before it can be finalized.

Original reporting: WOWO News/Talk (Fort Wayne) — read the source article.