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.