Kroger Co. is cutting nearly 1,000 corporate jobs as part of a cost-reduction and business restructuring effort following its failed merger with Albertsons. The layoffs are focused on corporate employees and will not affect store, manufacturing, or distribution center staff. This marks the third round of cuts Kroger has implemented this year, which also includes plans to close around 60 stores. The company aims to streamline operations and refocus on its core business amid challenging market conditions and rising food prices. Interim CEO Ron Sargent communicated the layoffs to staff, emphasizing the need to reduce costs and improve efficiency.