Kroger (KR) 3Q17 Results: Beats on Revenue and EPS; Digital Sales Fuel Growth

Executive Summary

• Kroger reported 3Q17 total sales of $27.75 billion, up 4.5% year over year and above the $27.48 billion consensus estimate. Excluding fuel, sales were up 1.1% during the quarter. EPS was $0.44, beating the $0.40 consensus estimate.
• Comp sales grew by 1.1% for the quarter, reflecting strong results in both the core business and the fuel business.
• For FY17, the company expects comp sales growth of flat–1%, adjusted EPS of $2.00–$2.05 and GAAP EPS of $1.75–$1.79. For 4Q17, the company expects comp sales growth of greater than 1.1% and for the fuel margin to moderate.