Grocery giant invests in exit signs that put high-tech spin on glow in the dark

The Kroger Co. is installing cutting-edge exit signs as part of a $4 billion store- investment program.



The chain is deploying photoluminescent exit signs developed by Cincinnati start-up MN8 at all new and renovated stores nationwide. The LumAware signs differ from standard glow-in-the-dark products in that they also emanate light. The signs, which consumer no energy, eliminate the need for batteries, light bulbs, electricity or maintenance.



"It is estimated that Kroger will save over $6 million and reduce its carbon footprint by over 50 million pounds over the next 15 years by transitioning to LumAware EXIT signs," said Keith Oliver, VP of facility engineering at Kroger, which operates 2,778 supermarkets under a variety of banners.



The new signs are part of Kroger’s recently announced plan $4 billion investment to open new stores and expand or renovate older ones.



The LUMAware signs are being manufactured by people with severe vision loss at the Cincinnati Association for the Blind & Visually Impaired (CABVI).



"We use LumAware technology in our retail store locations because it aligns with our core value of safety and reinforces our commitment to give back to the communities we serve by providing job opportunities for people, especially those with disabilities," said Reuben Shaffer, chief diversity officer at Kroger.