KR: Leadership change

Item 5.02 Departure of Directors or Certain Officers; Election of Directors; Appointment of Certain Officers; Compensatory Arrangements of Certain Officers. On May 22, 2026, Timothy A. Massa, the Executive Vice President and Associate Experience Officer of The Kroger Co. (the “Company”), provided notice to the Company of his intention to retire in the fall of 2026. Mr. Massa will continue in his role until September 2026 and is expected to remain an employee of the Company through July 1, 2027 to facilitate an orderly transition and assist the Company with key strategic projects. There will be no change to his compensation and he will not be eligible for future annual equity grants. His successor will be named at a later date. SIGNATURES Pursuant to the requirements of the Securities Exchange Act of 1934, the registrant has duly caused this report to be signed on its behalf by the undersigned hereunto duly authorized. THE KROGER CO. By: /s/ George H. Vincent Name: George H. Vincent Title: Executive Vice President, General Counsel and Secretary Dated: May 27, 2026