KROGER TO PROVIDE SIX MONTHS OF HEALTH CARE BENEFITS AND WAGE DIFFERENTIALS TO RESERVISTS CALLED TO ACTIVE MILITARY DUTY
New Policy Doubles Previous Coverage Period

CINCINNATI, OH, January 31, 2003 -- The Kroger Co. (NYSE: KR) today announced it will offer enhanced military leave for employees called to active duty as America prepares for a possible war.

The Company said it would make up the difference between Kroger pay and military pay for six months to reservists who are called to active military service. The Company also said it will extend medical and prescription coverage to those reservists for six months. Kroger previously offered reservists three months of benefits and wage differentials.

All Company reservists who are currently serving, or who are called to serve by December 31, 2003, are eligible for these enhanced benefits. More than 300 employees are currently on active duty.

"Military reservists play an important role in safeguarding America, and we are proud of our associates who have been called to duty," said Joseph A. Pichler, Kroger chairman and chief executive officer. "By extending pay, medical and prescription benefits for six months, Kroger can provide financial stability to their families during a difficult period."

Headquartered in Cincinnati, Ohio, Kroger is one of the nation's largest retail grocery chains. At the end of the third quarter of fiscal 2002, the Company operated (either directly or through its subsidiaries) 2,461 supermarkets and multi-department stores in 32 states under approximately two dozen banners including Kroger, Ralphs, Fred Meyer, Food 4 Less, King Soopers, Smith's, Fry's and Fry's Marketplace, Dillons, QFC and City Market. Kroger also operates (either directly or through its subsidiaries) 783 convenience stores, 441 fine jewelry stores, 341 supermarket fuel centers and 41 food processing plants. For more information about Kroger, please visit our web site at www.kroger.com.

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