date:Jan 17, 2014
d discount and convenience chains.
Kroger Co, the biggest U.S. supermarket operator, last month took a cautious stance on business at the close of 2013, with a cut in food stamps for lower-income families taking effect and reduced spending on discretionary items.
Ahold said the U.S. food market overall had contracted, without elaborating. Analysts say more cash-conscious consumers are keen to cut waste by buying only what they need and stocking up less.
A series of U.S. retailers have reporte