While wealthier consumers benefit from higher stock and real estate valuations, lower-wage Americans are crushed by high prices, and many fall behind in credit card debt. Meanwhile, the Fed has been telegraphing that inflation may be much stickier than initially expected. Still, consumers have to shop for basic staples, like groceries. If inflation persists, investing in staples makes sense. But large retailers that are also go-tos for “grocery” items are uniquely diversified, and their operations are differentiated and complex. When considering major Consumer Staples sector companies such as Walmart (WMT), Costco (COST), Sprouts Farmers Market (SFM), and Kroger (KR), it’s important to note that Walmart and Costco are generally categorized under “General Merchandise Stores” or “Discount Stores.” In contrast, Sprouts and Kroger are categorized specifically under “Food Retailers.” However, all four companies compete in the grocery space—a vital arena considering today’s inflationary climate. So, in light of this common ground…
