Executives break down strategic game plan in Investor Day event The Kroger Co. detailed this year’s strategic growth plan — led by fresh foods and digital — at its virtual 2021 Investor Day conference. Chairman and CEO Rodney McMullen told analysts and investors yesterday that Cincinnati-based Kroger aims to deliver a total shareholder return of 8% to 11% annually, backed by a financial model that now includes a higher operating profit base and a “clear path” to earnings growth of 3% to 5%. In fiscal 2020, ended Jan. 30, Kroger added $10 billion to its top line. Sales totaled $132.5 billion, up 8.4% from 2019. That growth was 14.2% excluding fuel sales and dispositions. Identical sales excluding gas and adjustments surged 14.1% year over year.