Kroger ain't the only game in town. In Atlanta, where Kroger & Publix go head to head for top market share, Publix advertises that they DON'T require a card to get discounted prices.
Result? Kroger continues to lose market share to Publix here. Kroger's been the market leader for many years; Publix entered in the mid 90's. Publix is on track to become number one within the year.