Kroger tests clothing sales at its Mansfield Marketplace location

MANSFIELD, Ohio - Add a pair of blue jeans to the grocery list.

Starting Friday, shoppers at a remodeled Kroger store in Mansfield, Ohio will be able to buy clothing in addition to food, gas and furniture. The nation's largest traditional supermarket chain says it will be the first time one of its namesake stores sells clothing.

"It's a one-store test. We'll see how that goes and make decisions based on customer feedback," said Keith Dailey, a spokesman for The Kroger Co.

The test comes as traditional supermarkets struggle to compete with big-box retailers such as Target Corp. and Wal-Mart Stores Inc., which have expanded their food sections and draw shoppers with low prices. Traditional supermarkets now account for 51 percent of grocery sales, down from 66 percent in 2000, according to UBS Investment Research.

To hang onto customers, Kroger has been working to improve the shopping experience and differentiate itself from the pack. For example, the company has cut down on checkout wait times and offers a loyalty program that offers customers discounts base on their past purchases.

In select locations, it also has "cheese masters," or associates who wear red jackets and offer customers expertise on cheese selections.

The clothing section at the Kroger Marketplace in Mansfield will have shoes, jewelry and undergarments, including brands such as Skechers, Hanes and Levi's.

Kroger's "Marketplace" locations are larger than its typical grocery stores, and sell car parts and furniture in addition to groceries. Dailey said the development of Kroger Marketplace has been helped by the company's acquisition of Fred Meyer in 1999. Those stores already sell shoes and clothing.

Kroger, based in Cincinnati, also operates Ralphs, Fry's, Food 4 Less.