First Place: Kroger

Multiple locations.
kroger.com

Second Place: Whole Foods Market

Third Place: Martin’s

As the world’s fifth largest retailer with annual revenues exceeding an eye-popping $108 billion, the Kroger Co. is well positioned to be a solid player in any market, including Richmond. Its 18 regional stores should be able to weather the grocery market cyclone hitting the area now that well-heeled Wegmans is about to open two local stores and other newcomers are rounding out the market. Add to the fray the planned merger of the parent firms of Martin’s and Food Lion, which has led to speculation that Martin’s might shutter its 19 stores in the area. But voters still appreciate what Martin’s has to offer. Austin, Texas-based Whole Foods, featuring specialty items, is adding a Fan District store to its one in Short Pump.