CINCINNATI (AP) - The Kroger Co. has opened its biggest "Fresh
Fare" store yet and plans more of the stores aimed at luring
eat-at-home and natural foods shoppers.

The store features high-end meats and seafood, gourmet cheeses
and natural and organic foods, as well as chef-prepared meals to
take home, besides the usual array of grocery items.

The 82,000-square-foot store that opened in the suburban Kenwood area Tuesday is the first of its kind in Kroger's home region.
Kroger expects to open one in Dayton early next year with others
being planned. The concept began with Kroger's Ralphs stores in
California, and has grown to 83 such stores.

Kroger officials think the stores will do well because people
are cutting back on restaurants and on spending in specialty food
chains.

(Copyright 2008 by The Associated Press. All Rights Reserved.)