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Ghost kitchens depart Kroger

kitchen united kroger
Kroger and Kitchen United launched ghost kitchens in select Kroger locations in 2021.

Just a year after raising $100 million in funding, Pasadena, CA-based Kitchen United is converting its business to software in lieu of physical locations.

In that move comes the end of its relationship with Cincinnati-based Kroger Co. All Kitchen United ghost kitchens housed in Kroger stores have closed, according to media reports.

Kroger and Kitchen United launched in 2021.

Kroger’s statement to media suggested the retailer is keen on promoting its own take-home foodservice options.  

“Unfortunately, Kitchen United will no longer operate in our stores. We apologize for any inconvenience this may create and encourage customers to explore delicious ready-to-eat items in our deli departments.”

Kroger statement

Kitchen United had deals with mall operator Simon Properties and Chipotle, but now says the company is “currently looking to pivot back into a software business.”

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Pamela Riemenschneider is the Retail Editor for Blue Book Services.