Kroger, one of America’s largest grocery chains, does not accept Apple Pay at most of its stores. The company instead promotes its own mobile payment system called “Kroger Pay,” which offers a secure and convenient checkout experience directly through the Kroger app.
While many shoppers expected Kroger to adopt Apple Pay due to its popularity and ease of use, the supermarket giant has chosen to focus on its in-house contactless payment solution.
Why Kroger Doesn’t Accept Apple Pay
Kroger introduced Kroger Pay in 2019 as part of its strategy to streamline payments, track loyalty points, and keep customer data within its ecosystem. Unlike Apple Pay, Kroger Pay directly integrates with:
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The Kroger Plus loyalty program
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Digital coupons and personalized offers
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Payment from linked debit or credit cards
This integration allows shoppers to earn rewards and enjoy a seamless checkout process without needing multiple apps.
How Kroger Pay Works
Kroger Pay is a QR-code-based payment system available through the Kroger app. Here’s how it works step-by-step:
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Download the Kroger app from the App Store or Google Play.
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Sign in with your Kroger account.
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Add a payment method (debit, credit, or prepaid card).
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At checkout, open Kroger Pay and scan the QR code displayed on the terminal.
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The payment processes instantly, and you’ll receive your receipt in the app.
This method works both in-store and at self-checkout kiosks.
Can You Use Apple Pay at Kroger Fuel Centers?
Most Kroger Fuel Centers do not support Apple Pay either. The payment terminals are set up for Kroger Pay, debit, and credit cards.
However, some affiliated stores or independent Kroger-owned brands (like Ralphs, Fred Meyer, or King Soopers) may test Apple Pay in certain regions. It’s always best to check with your local store’s customer service counter.
Stores That Accept Apple Pay Instead
If you prefer using Apple Pay, here are some major grocery stores that currently accept it:
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Whole Foods Market
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Target
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Trader Joe’s
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Safeway
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Aldi
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Walmart (limited use via third-party apps like Tap to Pay)
These stores use NFC-enabled terminals, allowing for quick tap-and-go transactions with your iPhone or Apple Watch.
Alternative Contactless Payment Options at Kroger
Even though Apple Pay isn’t supported, Kroger provides various digital payment alternatives:
| Payment Method | Available at Kroger? | Notes |
|---|---|---|
| Apple Pay | ❌ No | Use Kroger Pay instead |
| Kroger Pay | ✅ Yes | QR-based mobile payment |
| Samsung Pay (NFC) | ❌ No | Not supported |
| Google Pay (NFC) | ❌ No | Not supported |
| Credit/Debit Cards | ✅ Yes | All major cards accepted |
| Kroger Gift Cards | ✅ Yes | Available online and in-store |
| EBT / SNAP | ✅ Yes | For eligible items only |
| PayPal (Online Orders) | ✅ Yes | For Kroger.com orders |
Benefits of Using Kroger Pay Instead of Apple Pay
While Apple Pay is convenient, Kroger Pay offers a few benefits for loyal customers:
- Integrated Rewards: Every transaction automatically earns fuel points and digital discounts.
- Faster Checkout: Scan once for both payment and rewards.
- Secure: Uses a unique QR code token for every transaction.
- No Extra App Needed: Everything is managed within the Kroger app.
Can You Use Apple Pay for Online Orders on Kroger.com?
At present, Kroger.com does not support Apple Pay for online orders. Customers can instead use:
- Debit/Credit Cards
- PayPal
- EBT (for pickup orders in select states)
However, Kroger may consider adding Apple Pay or other digital wallets in the future as customer demand grows.
Future Possibility: Will Kroger Ever Accept Apple Pay?
Industry experts suggest that Kroger might adopt Apple Pay in the future, especially as NFC payments become standard nationwide. The company has already tested Apple Pay in some divisions, showing that it’s not completely opposed to the idea.
Still, for now, Kroger encourages customers to stick with Kroger Pay for the best integrated experience.
As of 2025, Kroger does not take Apple Pay at most of its stores or fuel stations. Instead, the chain promotes Kroger Pay, a mobile payment system built for speed, security, and reward integration.
If you’re a regular Kroger shopper, linking your Kroger Pay to your loyalty account ensures smooth transactions, automatic discounts, and exclusive fuel rewards, all in one app.
