KROGER ITEM SETUP • KIA • 1WORLDSYNC
Kroger Item API (KIA) Setup & Publishing Guide
Moving from Kroger VIP to the new API process? Here's what CPG brands need to know.
Kroger has transitioned item-data submission from the legacy Vendor Item Portal (VIP) to the Kroger Item API (KIA). This guide explains what changed, what's replacing VIP, how the new process works through providers like 1WorldSync, Syndigo and Salsify, and how to get your products successfully published.
SUPPORTED PROVIDERS FOR KROGER ITEM API
FROM KROGER VIP TO ITEM API
What Is the Kroger Item API (KIA)?
Kroger item setup has changed.
For years, suppliers used the Kroger Vendor Item Portal (VIP) as part of the process for setting up and maintaining products with Kroger. Kroger is now transitioning item-data submission toward the Kroger Item API (KIA), with product information syndicated through supported providers including 1WorldSync, Syndigo and Salsify.
If you're looking for information about Kroger VIP item setup, this guide explains what has changed, what is replacing the legacy VIP workflow, and how the new Kroger API process works.
We'll walk through product setup, Kroger-specific requirements, validation, certification, publishing and some of the common issues suppliers are encountering during the transition.
IN SIMPLE TERMS
The same product information, a new way to get it to Kroger.
OLD PROCESS
KROGER VIP FLOW
Your Product Data
1WorldSync
Kroger VIP
Kroger
Product data flows through WorldSync into the legacy VIP process.
NEW PROCESS
KROGER ITEM API (KIA)
Your Product Data
1WorldSync
(Validate &
Certify)
Kroger Item API (KIA)
Kroger
Product data is prepared and validated in WorldSync, then transmitted through the Kroger Item API.
FROM KROGER VIP TO ITEM API
Why is Kroger Moving Away from VIP?
Kroger is moving toward the Item API to create a more unified and efficient way to receive and manage product information.
By centralizing item-data ingestion through approved providers, Kroger aims to improve data quality, speed and overall efficiency across its product catalog.
More Unified Data Ingestion
A single, standardized way to receive item data.
Higher Data Quality
More complete and accurate item information.
Faster Time
to Market
Streamlined workflows and validation.
Greater Efficiency
Supports long-term growth and scalability.
STILL HAVE VIP ACCESS?
What If I Still Have Access to Kroger VIP?
Some suppliers may still have access to the Kroger Vendor Item Portal (VIP), including read-only access or items already in the legacy process. Here's what to know and what to do next.
New items or updates
Kroger directs suppliers to use an approved KIA provider (WorldSync, Syndigo or Salsify) to create or update items.
In-progress VIP submissions
If an Item Maintenance Form (IMF) is already submitted, wait for approval or rejection before taking additional action.
Export existing records
Kroger allows item records to be exported from VIP when needed during the transition.
Not sure where your item stands?
We can review your current status and help you determine the best next step, whether it's completing an existing VIP process or moving to KIA.
EXISTING ITEMS
Do Existing Kroger Items Have to Move to KIA?
The Kroger Item API can be used for both new item submissions and updates to existing item data. Even if your items are already in Kroger, future updates, packaging changes, or new sizes may require the KIA process through an approved provider.
Existing Items
Supported providers can be used to update existing item data.
Examples:
-
Packaging changes
-
Attribute updates
-
Content updates
-
Hierarchy changes
Future Product Launches
All new SKUs should be set up through a supported provider using the KIA process.
Examples:
-
New sizes or variants
-
New pack configurations
-
New product lines
-
Seasonal items
Ongoing Maintenance
Keep your product information accurate and up to date to avoid errors, rejections and delays.
Examples:
-
Item changes
-
Content updates
-
Discontinuations
-
Retailer requirements
STEP BY STEP PROCESS
How the Kroger API Process Works Through 1WorldSync
From product setup to publishing, here's a step-by-step overview of the Kroger Item API (KIA) process using WorldSync. The exact requirements can vary by product category, but the core workflow follows these steps.
ITEM MANAGEMENT
Set up your items in WorldSync
CERTIFICATION QUEUE GLN
Submit your items for Kroger APl certification
GLN: 0838016000123
CIC REVIEW & APPROVAL
CERTIFIED ITEMS GLN
Kroger reviews your item data and provides feedback
Once approved items will publish to Kroger API Certified Items GLN.
GLN: 0838016000116
✓ PUBLISHED TO KROGER
Your items are live in the Kroger Item API.
THE PROCESS
From Setup to Publishing
We help you prepare, validate and publish your product data to the Kroger Item API through 1WorldSync.
1
SET UP
1. Prepare in 1WorldSync
Create or review your product hierarchy (each, inner pack, case, pallet), GTINs and core product data.
2. Complete Kroger Requirements
Apply the Kroger Playlist and complete all required attributes, content and digital assets (images, marketing copy, nutrition, etc.).
• Complete, accurate item data
• Kroger-specific attributes applied
Key Output
2
CERTIFY
3. Validate
Check for missing fields, format errors and recipient-specific requirements.
4. Submit to Kroger API Certification Queue
Send your item to the Kroger API Certification Queue in 1WorldSync.
5. Review CIC Response
Review Kroger's certification results and resolve any errors or rejections.
Update and resubmit if needed.
• Item passes Kroger certification
• CIC response shows approved status
Key Output
3
PUBLISH
6. Automatic Publication
Once your item passes Kroger API certification and receives a Synchronized CIC, 1WorldSync automatically publishes it to the Certified Items for Kroger API recipient.
7. ✓ LIVE / Downstream Processing
Monitor Sync Status and confirm Kroger processing/IMF.
• Item published to Kroger
• Available for retailer use
Key Output
NEED HELP?
Already in the Process?
We can pick up from your current 1WorldSync and Kroger status. Whether you're starting from scratch, resolving validation errors or need help getting certified and published, our team can handle the technical work so you can stay focused on growing your business.
Save Time
Skip the learning curve
Resolve Errors
Address setup roadblocks
Keep Moving
From certification onward
COMMON CHALLENGES
Common Issues During the VIP → KIA Transition
Many suppliers are running into similar challenges as Kroger moves from the legacy VIP process to the Kroger Item API. Here are some of the most common issues and how to approach them.
Seeing errors in validation?
We can help you identify the issue and get your items back on track.
My item was already in Kroger VIP.
Existing item data doesn't necessarily mean all the information required for the KIA workflow is complete. Determine the item's current status before deciding whether it needs to be updated or resubmitted.
My item is already in 1WorldSync.
That doesn't necessarily mean it's Kroger-ready. Kroger has recipient-specific attributes, content requirements and validation rules that go beyond general GDSN data.
Everything is filled out, but I'm still getting errors.
Look for conditional requirements and make sure every applicable level of the hierarchy is complete. A response in one field can cause additional fields to become required
My item passed validation but isn't in Kroger.
Validation is only one part of the process.
Review certification, CIC responses and downstream status to confirm where the item is in the workflow.
My VIP submission was already in progress.
Don't automatically start over. If an Item Maintenance Form (IMF) is still being processed, Kroger's guidance indicates you should wait for the approval or rejection before taking further action.
Our team knew VIP.
We don't know KIA.
The new workflow and requirements can be confusing, even for experienced CPG teams. We help brands transition from VIP to KIA and get their items successfully set up and published.
FREE RESOURCE
Download the Kroger Item API Setup Checklist
A step-by-step checklist to help you prepare, validate and publish your product data to the Kroger Item API (KIA) using WorldSync. Use this checklist to stay organized, meet Kroger's requirements and avoid common issues.
No Email Required • PDF • Updated Oct 2026
WHAT'S INSIDE
Preparation
Gather required information, documents and access.
Hierarchy
Set up your item hierarchy (e.g. each, inner pack, case).
Kroger Playlist
Complete Kroger-specific requirements and attributes.
Attributes
Product, ingredient, nutrition, packaging and marketing content.
Validate & Certify
Review results and resolve errors.
CIC Response
Confirm status and address Kroger feedback.
Publishing
Get your items live in the Kroger Item API (KIA).
Troubleshooting
Common issues and how to fix them.
FAQ
Ready for help?
Fill out & submit this form to get in contact.