I got hit with a computer virus. Could be that I've got it nicked. Not sure yet.
You've got an amazing metabolism Ray. I've got to work hard to be able to enjoy eating whatever I want.
Congrtulations to Ken on ALAN. Looks like its starting to run. Nice volume.
For your wife Ray:
Wednesday, March 16, 2005
WEEKDAY TRADER |
<Kroger Shares May Be Worth Checking Out
By DIMITRA DEFOTIS
KROGER, ONE OF AMERICA'S largest grocery chains, has been busy cleaning up its aisles.
The company's shares took a spill earlier this month when, citing continued fallout from a prolonged 2003-2004 strike in Southern California, the company missed Wall Street's earnings estimates for the fourth quarter. The stock is 17% below its 52-week high.
But despite the transformation going on in the low-margin business of selling food, Kroger held onto market share overall in 2004 and even gained ground in the Southeast and Midwest, including its Ohio backyard.
And competition from Wal-Mart superstores may be exaggerated. Shoppers still head to their local supermarkets for fresh essentials, and Kroger is improving the shopping experience with better stores, service and selection.
Finally, Kroger should be able to raise prices on its own store brands, improving sales and earnings, as creeping inflation gives providers more pricing power in the years ahead.>
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