(Reuters) -Kroger ( KR ) on Thursday forecast annual same-store sales largely above Wall Street estimates, fueled by steady grocery demand as value-conscious shoppers prioritize staples such as fresh fruits and vegetables.

The results follow an abrupt ouster of long-time chief Rodney McMullen earlier this week, after a board investigation found that his personal conduct was "inconsistent" with certain company policies. The board has appointed lead director Ronald Sargent as interim CEO.

The supermarket chain posted a 2.4% rise in fourth-quarter identical sales, excluding fuel, helped by stronger demand during the holiday season. Analysts had estimates a 1.96% rise, according to data compiled by LSEG.

The company expects growth in full-year identical sales, excluding fuel, in the range of 2% to 3%, compared with analysts' average estimate of a 1.96% rise, according to data compiled by LSEG.

It projected adjusted earnings of $4.60 to $4.80 per share, compared with estimates of $4.79 per share.

(Reporting by Savyata Mishra in Bengaluru; Editing by Shinjini Ganguli)