Kroger outlines AI strategy at GroceryShop 2026 conference

The Kroger Co. (NYSE: KR) presented its artificial intelligence strategy at the GroceryShop 2026 conference in Las Vegas on Sept. 22, detailing current applications and a longer-term vision for AI-assisted grocery shopping.

Yael Cosset, executive vice president and Chief Digital Officer, described a three-stage framework for AI adoption: assisted, augmented, and autonomous. Cosset said the company does not aim for full autonomy across all operations, stating that governance and human oversight remain central to its approach.

Kroger said its AI applications currently include an AI Shopping Assistant that helps customers plan meals, find recipes, and build shopping carts based on budget and dietary preferences. The company is also developing AI tools for store associates to filter daily notifications and surface priority tasks.

The company said it is making AI literacy training available to more than 400,000 associates across its enterprise. Kroger's AI infrastructure combines proprietary and third-party models with shared data services, agentic capabilities, and governance controls.

Cosset described a future model in which grocery shopping becomes an outcome-based experience, where customers may share preferences and allow AI agents to handle planning, shopping, and fulfillment on their behalf.

According to a company press release, Kroger's AI initiatives are supported by privacy, security, and responsible AI governance processes intended to ensure appropriate data use and human oversight.

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