Weekly Kroger paper insert going digital

Kroger, the nation’s largest supermarket chain, is ceasing publication of its weekly newspaper inserts effective next month.

“Beginning May 28, we will no longer deliver printed weekly ads to your home,” read a statement from Kroger. The chain is not alone in ending printed advertising circulars. Target, Walgreens and CVS all ended their print circulars in late 2021, citing paper shortages and the effects of the pandemic on stock and pricing. Printed circulars must be sent to press six weeks in advance of the publication date, making it difficult to work around supply-chain issues in a timely fashion.

“Even though many of us learned to use online shopping for pickup and delivery during the pandemic, the discontinuation of the Kroger circulars is a loss for both our member newspapers and their readers,” said APA Executive Director Ashley Kemp Wimberley “Newspaper subscribers literally pay for the privilege of having news and advertising delivered to their doorsteps and mailboxes, and the weekly circulars keep the store’s offerings top of mind.”

Kroger is encouraging its clientele to create accounts for digital coupons, view weekly specials online and sign up for personalized marketing emails.

Founded by Bernard Kroger in 1883 in Cincinnati, Ohio, Kroger operates 2,720 grocery retail stores under its various banners and divisions in 35 states and the District of Columbia, including 26 stores across 13 cities in Arkansas.