The U.S. supermarket chain, which is in the process of buying smaller rival Albertsons Cos Inc ACI.N in a $25 billion deal, forecast adjusted same-store sales growth of 5.1% to 5.3% in fiscal 2022, compared with its prior outlook of a 4% to 4.5% rise. Grocery retailers have largely been insulated from the impact of decades-high inflation, which has forced consumers to prioritize spending on food and other essentials over discretionary products. Kroger has also benefited from demand for its store-brand cheese, meats and other groceries as rampant inflation pushes more Americans toward cheaper alternatives.