Oppenheimer analysts provided their views on The Kroger Co. (NYSE:KR) ahead of the company’s upcoming Q1 earnings, expected to be reported on June 16.
The analysts anticipate Q1 EPS of $1.26 (up 5.2%), compared to the company’s guidance for EPS growth to be above the annual growth rate of 2—5%. The analysts believe a stronger revenue driven by inflation benefits could more than offset higher LIFO charges and increased supply chain expenses.
The analysts also think management still has the ability to reaffirm full-year guidance. However, they believe management could be forced to identify more productivity opportunities to offset inflationary headwinds as the year progresses.