Kroger Extends Visa Credit Card Ban To Smith's Stores

By Matt Kling
Published: Monday, March 4, 2019 - 10:02am

One of the nation’s largest grocers is expanding its ban on Visa credit cards in some of its stores, including a few in Arizona.

In 2018, Kroger Co. stopped accepting Visa in its Foods Co. stores, and next month, the ban is expanding to its 142 Smith’s Food and Drug Stores across seven states, including four stores in northern Arizona.

In a press release, Kroger Co. cites excessive bank fees, stating Visa’s surcharges are the highest among major credit card brands. Visa debit cards will continue to be accepted.

Kroger also owns Fry’s, one of Arizona’s largest supermarket chains.

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