Kroger’s acceptance of Apple Pay has been a rollercoaster ride for customers. After years of holding out, they finally began a limited rollout in 2023. But with 2024 here, the question remains: can you use Apple Pay at your local Kroger?
Kroger’s Shift Towards Apple Pay
For a long time, Kroger prioritized its own mobile wallet solution, Kroger Pay, integrated with their loyalty program. However, in response to customer demand for wider contactless payment options, they started accepting Apple Pay in select locations in 2023. This initial rollout primarily focused on stores in Kentucky and Ohio.
National Availability Still Unclear
As of July 2024, there’s no official confirmation from Kroger regarding nationwide availability of Apple Pay. The information online suggests the rollout is still ongoing.
What You Can Do
Here’s how you can find out if your Kroger accepts Apple Pay:
- Check online forums and social media discussions about your local Kroger store.
- Look for contactless payment terminals at the checkout. These will typically display logos for accepted contactless payment methods, including Apple Pay.
- Download the Kroger app and see if Apple Pay is listed as a payment option.
Alternatives to Apple Pay at Kroger
While Apple Pay acceptance might still be limited, Kroger offers other contactless payment options:
- Kroger Pay: This remains the most widely accepted contactless payment method at Kroger stores.
- Google Pay
- Samsung Pay
The Future of Apple Pay at Kroger
With the growing popularity of contactless payments, it’s likely that Kroger will expand Apple Pay acceptance across all their stores eventually. Stay tuned for official announcements from Kroger for a clearer picture.