March 6 (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.