Statement from NYC Comptroller Scott M. Stringer on Kroger’s Announcement to Cease Selling Firearms

(New York, NY) – New York City Comptroller Scott M. Stringer released the following statement on Kroger’s decision to cease selling firearms in Fred Meyer stores, following NYC Pension Fund engagement over the last year:

“Weapons of war on our streets have taken countless American lives in our classrooms, concerts, and churches. Our gun crisis is a national emergency that requires an all hands on deck approach. Everyone must do all that they can to stop the violence and save lives. That’s why last year, as long-term shareowners in Kroger, we called for the company to cease selling firearms – the reputational risks were too high and the human costs that could result from these sales, which are unrelated to the company’s overall business, were too much to bare.

“Today, Kroger heeded our request and announced they will stop selling firearms in Fred Meyer stores. This is a victory for communities and for common sense. And it’s a positive step for our pension fund beneficiaries and for public safety. Military-style weapons serve no good purpose in our neighborhoods, and we used our voice as investors to advocate for and induce change. I commend Kroger for doing the right thing. As the father of two young boys, I don’t want them – or any child – growing up in a world where there’s a semi-automatic weapon on every street corner and a silencer in every store. Today’s announcement is no doubt a welcome and important development that once again demonstrates we are not powerless – we can all do our part to fight America’s gun epidemic.”

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