SECURITIES AND EXCHANGE COMMISSION Washington, DC 20549 FORM 8-K CURRENT REPORT Pursuant to Section 13 or 15(d) of the Securities Exchange Act of 1934 Date of Report: July 9, 1996 THE KROGER CO. (Exact name of registrant as specified in its charter) An Ohio Corporation No. 1-303 31-0345740 (State or other jurisdiction (Commission File (IRS Employer of incorporation) Number) Number) 1014 Vine Street Cincinnati, OH 45201 (Address of principal executive offices) Registrant's telephone number: (513) 762-4000 Item 5. Other Events - ------- ------------ On July 9, 1996, the Company released its press release regarding second quarter 1996 performance in the form attached hereto as Exhibit 99.1. Item 7. Financial Statements and Exhibits - ------- --------------------------------- (c) Exhibits 99.1 Other Exhibits--Press Release Regarding Second Quarter 1996 Performance SIGNATURE --------- 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 hereto duly authorized. THE KROGER CO. July 9, 1996 By (Paul W. Heldman) Paul W. Heldman Vice President, Secretary and General Counsel EXHIBIT INDEX -------------- Exhibit - -------- 99.1 Other Exhibits--Press Release Regarding Second Quarter 1996 Performance