Founded in 1883, The Kroger Company is one of the largest retailers throughout the United States. The company operates more than 2,400 stores under various banners, including Bell, Food 4 Less, Cala, Fred Meyer, Hilander, Smith s, Dillons, City Market and Kroger Marketplace. It operates retail food and drug stores, multidepartment stores, jewelry stores, supermarket fuel centers and convenience stores, as well as over 40 food processing and manufacturing facilities that produce private-label products. The company employs approximately 300,000 full-time and part-time associates. It also operates various dairies, bakeries and ice cream plants. The company supports various educational institutions and social organizations and makes donations for breast cancer awareness and hunger relief initiatives. Headquartered in Cincinnati, The Kroger Company has one of its stores located in Southgate, Mich.