Publix, Kroger, Fresh Market and Albertsons among ‘Most Trustworthy Companies in America'

In total, 3,100 U.S. companies were studied, with the 700 best-rated ones in all trust dimensions recognized as “most trustworthy.  (For details on the methodology, see end of article.)

“As an employer, food processor, retailer, healthcare provider and more, Kroger has a unique responsibility to lead with purpose and create positive change,” said Rodney McMullen, Kroger’s chairman and CEO. “Being named one of the Most Trustworthy Companies is an honor we do not take for granted, and we will continue to work to earn our customers’ trust every.”

The grocers and c-store operators earning the top marks for trustworthiness include the following, ranked in descending order:

• Publix Super Markets
• WinCo Foods
• The Kroger Co.
• Harris Teeter Supermarkets
• QuickTrip
• H-E-B
• Wawa
• Sheetz
• Brookshire’s Floral and Pharmacy
• The Fresh Market
• Hy-Vee
• Sprouts Farmers Market
• Wakefern Food Corp.
• Albertsons Cos.
• Southeastern Grocers

Amazon and Chewy took the two spots in the retail category, followed by Barnes & Noble Education, United Foods International and Costco.  Ace Hardware came in sixth, followed by PetSmart, Petco, Harbor Freight and Tractor Supply. Target came in at No.14, and Walmart was No. 25.  (The retail category had the largest number of winners with 61 companies making the list.)

According to Newsweek  global editor Nancy Cooper, trust can be tough to attain, which was especially true during the last few challenging years. She cited a PwC survey showing that 87% of company leaders believe that people place a high level of trust in their companies, while polling of the actual consumer base found that figure is only 30%

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