Fry's Food Stores names new president

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Fry's Food Stores, the largest grocer in Arizona, has named Ken DeLuca as its new president. DeLuca, who has worked with Kroger for nearly four decades, succeeds Monica Garnes, who recently moved to lead Kroger's Atlanta division. Fry's is one of the most competitive grocery markets in the country, but the chain has been able to grow its market share to around 28% by strategically locating new stores in the Phoenix area and increasing sales.

Why it matters

Fry's is a major player in the highly competitive Arizona grocery market, and this leadership change comes at a critical time as the company looks to maintain and grow its market position against national and regional rivals.

The details

Ken DeLuca, who has worked with Kroger for 38 years, has assumed the role of president of Fry's Food Stores. He succeeds Monica Garnes, who served in the role since 2018 but recently moved to Georgia to lead Kroger's Atlanta division. DeLuca began his career with Kroger in 1988 as a clerk in the Michigan division, and over the years held various roles including manager, labor relations manager, operations district manager, and vice president of merchandising and operations.

• Ken DeLuca assumed the role of Fry's president on February 9, 2026.
• Monica Garnes served as Fry's president since 2018 before moving to lead Kroger's Atlanta division.

What’s next

Fry's will look to maintain and grow its market share in the highly competitive Arizona grocery market under the leadership of new president Ken DeLuca.