Brent Stewart is now the president of Quality Food Centers (QFC), the Bellevue-based grocery chain owned by The Kroger Co., according to an announcement made on Twitter. His promotion follows the collapse of Kroger’s $24.6 billion merger with Albertsons Cos., which had left QFC’s future uncertain for two years.
Stewart has worked at QFC for 35 years and was previously the vice president of merchandising. He stepped into his new role in December 2024, focusing on improving customer experience, following market trends, and upgrading stores.
How the Failed Merger Affected Bellevue
Kroger and Albertsons announced their merger plans in 2022, which included selling some stores to avoid antitrust concerns. Five QFC locations in Bellevue were set to be sold:
- 10116 NE 8th Street (Downtown Bellevue)
- 2636 Bellevue Way NE (Downtown Bellevue)
- 3550 Factoria Blvd SE
- 15600 NE 8th St
- 1510 145th Pl SE
However, in December 2024, federal and Washington state courts blocked the merger, arguing it would reduce competition. With the deal off, QFC remains under Kroger’s ownership, and the future of the planned store sales is uncertain.
Stewart’s Plans for QFC
In an interview with Progressive Grocer, Stewart shared his focus on customer service and store conditions. He conducts surprise evening store visits to see operations firsthand.
“We pick a couple of stores and go out unannounced,” Stewart said. “It gives me a chance to work with the closing manager, understand their needs, and see how our stores are running. We want to provide a great experience for our customers from open to close.”
QFC is also moving ahead with store remodels. Nine stores will be renovated in 2025, with another nine planned for 2026. The company had these plans in place even while the merger was under discussion.
Stewart also wants to expand healthier food options, including ready-to-eat meals. “Whole meal replacement is a big one—restaurant-quality food that you can pick up at a grocery store is a big focus,” he said.
QFC’s Role in the Kroger Network
QFC has been part of Kroger since 1998, when the company acquired Fred Meyer, which had previously purchased QFC. Today, Kroger operates over 2,200 stores in 31 states, with QFC remaining a key brand in the Pacific Northwest.
Maybe hire security to stop the constant theft. That is off-putting as a shopper.
Couldn’t tell by the article if you have any control over the QFC in Pine Lake Village in Sammamish. If you don’t, just disregard, but if you do, please remodel the Sammamish QFC store. When they first opened, eons ago, it was wonderful. It has steadily progress downward as to selection of products etc. There are many wealthy people who live in Sammamish and I think you could improve your market share with a remodel…also, maybe pay the employees more so they can enjoy their jobs?
Good luck!
I have always been a loyal QFC customer ever since the Korkemelous (spelling I’m sure is incorrect) family owned them. Since Kroger took over, my two favorite stores, are frequently out of favorite brands, continually moving products from aisle to aisle so one can’t dash in after work and buy what they need. Staff is less helpful. Staff is also always stocking shelves at all times of the day. Well, I’m sure Kroger is trying to push their own brands, if one grew up for example using hunts tomato sauce, Kroger tomato sauce just isn’t the same. I wish the same customer service that QFC had before the Kroger merger would return. Thank you.
I worked for this store previously while I was pregnant. The time that I did work there I can honestly say they strive for the absolute best. They put forth ALL of their best efforts in supporting EVERY customers needs and work together to ensure those needs are fulfilled. They have team meetings every morning so everyone knows where sales are at and what department needs to step up a bit more so the entire store is successful. They are extremely team oriented and very personable! Hope the best for this store and all of it’s dedicated hard working employees!
Please return the Bellevue Village store to its previous supreme status. It used to have the best, freshest and most expanded selection of produce. Now Safeway far exceeds QFC in nearly every department except Seafood.
The check out system is terrible and should be upgraded. Today when we tried to use the self-checking system one of the employees had to help most of the 10 or so stations. He finally said that it happens all the time. The clerk/check out section had one employee as the others were all closed.
Also the Kroger weekly specials on line system is also terrible…….buy 5 to get the special; 2 for 1; buy multiple different items (one of each) to get the $1 off each item; digital coupons; it goes on and on…..why not just give us a good deal and not us go thru so many hoops! It is my primary local store so help all of us who use it locally
Bellevue Village QFC has declined severely in recent years, since Kroger took over. No
checkout clerks, most of the best brands have been dropped, and either low or no stock
on most all items. It used to be a great store, very sad to see.