Kitchen United ends partnership with Kroger to shift focus to software business
Kitchen United Mix, a ghost kitchen that has gained attention in recent years, opened about 200 stores in partnership with Kroger, but has now closed all of its physical stores. The opening of a showcase restaurant space on Third Street Promenade in 2023 was also a well-publicized event in the local area, but its quiet closure was announced on February 1st by Mr. Todrikarren, who announced that the Promenade location was unknown. The store came to light after posting that it would be closed for a period of time.
It turns out that the announcement of the closure was made at the end of November.
National restaurant news. The article quotes a Kitchen United spokesperson as saying, “We have closed all Kitchen United stores operating within Kroger locations. We thank them for their partnership and support over the years. We are currently considering returning to the software business.”
There’s still no reason to close any of the company’s physical stores, but not only has the Third Street Promenade been vacated, but the store at Ralph’s in Westwood has actually closed as well. All of the signage is gone, but the Wingstop that used to be inside Ralph’s is still open.
Even Kroger, part of the investment group that invested $100 million in ghost kitchens, has remained mum on the subject. “Unfortunately, Kitchen United will no longer operate in our stores,” a Kroger spokesperson told Restaurant Business. We apologize for any inconvenience this may cause and encourage you to explore our delicious ready-to-eat meals in our deli department. ”
